Off the Beaten Path Belize

Maya Ruins and Coral Reefs

Trip Details

Itinerary

Days 1-4: Fly into Belize City, transfer to jungle lodge

Your lodge in the Orange Walk District is less than a mile from the spectacular Maya ruins of Lamanai, which are accessible by boat or dirt road. Lamanai (the accurate, original name translates as “submerged crocodile”) had an exceptionally long occupation, from about 1500 BC to 1680 AD. Spread across 950 acres, this is the one of the largest Maya ceremonial sites in Belize, with stunning buildings and carvings. Speaking of crocodiles, don’t miss the sunset croc-spotting cocktail cruise on the New River. 

Days 5-7: Transfer by riverboat and vehicle to your next jungle lodge

Settle into your next perfectly situated jungle ecolodge, this time in the Cayo District along the remote Macal River near the Guatemala border. Each day brings unique adventure. On your first day, explore a Maya ceremonial cave by canoe with a private guide. The next day brings exploration of another incredible Maya site, Actun Tunichil Muknal, which means “Cave of the Crystal Sepulcher.” The cave cradles a calcified human skeleton containing minerals that sparkle, leading to the name. Your guide will explain the significance of the site. On your last day in the area, cross the border into Guatemala for a private guided tour of the most famous Mayan ruins of all, Tikal. This ceremonial center in the heart of the jungle contains superb temples and palaces. 

Days 8-11: Fly to Ambergris Caye

Time to leave the jungle behind and soak up some sun on the Caribbean coast! Your luxury boutique hotel is set on the largest island in Belize’s extensive barrier reef, second largest in the world after Australia’s Great Barrier Reef. You’re perfectly positioned for snorkeling, diving (the Great Blue Hole!), and fishing in these clear blue waters—and for relaxing on the beach and wandering the gardens. One of the best snorkeling sites in the world, renowned for its visibility and abundance of sea life, is a 10-minute boat ride away. You might see turtles, rays, nurse sharks, lobster, eels, corals, marine mammals, and lots of colorful fish!

Day 12: Belize City for departures home

Transfer to the regional airport for the 15-minute flight to Belize City for your international connections.  

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