en
- Boutique
- 15-day trip
- From €7,850 p.p.
Belize trip | Discover Belize from jungle to Caribbean coast
This trip takes you to the diverse country of Belize, where you’ll experience both the tropical jungle and the Caribbean reef. You’ll start in the charming coastal town of Placencia, from where you’ll take a boat trip to the Monkey River. Here, you’ll explore the mangroves, listen to the howler monkeys in the treetops and go in search of the gentle manatees (sea cows). A visit is also planned to the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, the world’s very first jaguar reserve. Walk through the tropical jungle, spot colourful birds and butterflies, and round off the adventure with some refreshing river tubing.
You will then travel north, where you’ll stay at the exclusive Chan Chich Lodge, deep in the rainforest of La Selva Maya. Here you’ll enjoy a full-board stay, which also includes an extensive range of activities. Accompanied by expert guides, you’ll discover the unique flora and fauna on foot or on organised excursions, and explore the ancient history of the Maya. Round off your trip in style on the tropical island of Caye Ambergris. This is the ideal place to relax on the beach or by the pool, but also to discover Belize’s impressive underwater world. On snorkelling trips, you’ll explore the Hol Chan Marine Reserve and the famous Shark Ray Alley, where you’ll swim amongst colourful coral and tropical fish and come face to face with nurse sharks and stingrays.
Travel programme
Travel overview
- Day 1 Flight to Belize
- Day 2 Arrival in Belize, stay in Placencia
- Day 3 – 4 Monkey River and manatee spotting
- Day 5 – 6 Cockscomb Wildlife Sanctuary and river tubing
- Day 7 – 10 Stay at La Selva Maya
- Day 11–14 Relaxing and snorkelling on Caye Ambergris
- Day 15 Departure from Belize
- Day 16 Arrival
Arrival in Belize, stay Placencia
Welcome to Belize! Upon arrival at the airport, you will be transferred by private transfer to the first destination of the trip, the beautiful Placencia Peninsula. Placencia boasts pristine tranquil beaches, a beautiful lagoon, many activities and exotic wildlife. There is a lively harbour, an array of charming houses and a number of local cafes and restaurants. Over the next few days, you will explore this delightful destination on your own and through various activities. Belize's coastal lagoons are the habitat of many protected marine animals.
Included:
• Private transfer to your accommodation
• Overnight stay including breakfast
Monkey river and manatee spotting
During your stay, we have included the Monkey River excursion, a varied boat ride along the coastline and through a tangle of mangroves. As you glide across the calm waters, the guide will tell you about the area's rich flora and fauna. With any luck, you will spot manatees, friendly and gentle manatees that live in the shallow waters. You will then sail up the Monkey River, where you have a chance to hear and see howler monkeys in the treetops, and spot numerous bird species, iguanas and maybe even crocodiles. Along the way, you will learn more about the importance of this ecosystem for the local community and for the conservation of endangered species.
Includes:
• Monkey River tour, including manatee spotting, with an English-speaking guide as part of a group
• Accommodation including breakfast
Cockscomb Wildlife Sanctuary and river tubing
From Placencia, the programme includes a special excursion to the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, the world's first jaguar sanctuary. This vast tropical rainforest was established specifically to protect the jaguar and today is a true paradise for nature lovers. Although spotting this shy feline is rare, you will have plenty of chances to see other animals along the way, such as ocelots, howler monkeys, otters, toucans, macaws and colourful butterflies. During a walk through the jungle, your guide will tell you more about the unique flora and fauna of this protected area. For refreshment, you will end the day with an adventurous river tubing activity: floating on a large tyre, you will let yourself be carried along the river while enjoying the tranquillity, tropical vegetation and sounds of the rainforest around you.
Includes:
• A visit to Jaguar Cockscomb National Park, including group river tubing
• Accommodation including breakfast
Accommodation La Selva Maya
Your next destination is the Chan Chich lodge which is located in northwestern Belize, in the heart of La Selva Maya. For the next few days you will stay here on a full board basis and benefit from the Explorer Package, which includes several guided jungle activities. Led by an experienced English-speaking guide, you can choose from a variety of adventures: from early morning walks to spot hundreds of bird species, to treks where you learn more about medicinal plants, archaeological remains and the jungle's rich biodiversity. There are also excursions to impressive places like Laguna Seca, Laguna Verde, The Escarpment, or a visit to the Gallon Jug farm, the local coffee plantation or nearby Sylvester Village. You will not be bored for a moment in one of the best jungle lodges in Belize, a unique experience!
Includes:
• Shuttle transfer to Placencia Airstrip
• Local flight from Placencia – Belize City – Chan Chich Airstrip
• Accommodation on a full-board basis, including activities organised by the lodge
Relaxing and snorkelling on Caye Ambergris
After your multi-day adventure in the jungles of Belize, you’ll travel by charter flight to your next destination: ‘La isla bonita’, Caye Ambergris – a stunning Caribbean island. Upon arrival, a chauffeur will once again be waiting to take you to the final hotel of this wonderful trip.
During your stay on the snow-white beach by the azure-blue sea of Caye Ambergris, you can book snorkelling excursions, go on wonderful dives, or try other water sports such as sailing or kayaking. If you’d like to simply relax for a few days and not do too much, this destination is also ideal for that. As well as being situated right by the sea, the hotel boasts a beautiful swimming pool.
During your stay, we have arranged a snorkelling excursion to Hol Chan and Shark Ray Alley. In Shark Ray Alley, you’ll not only experience the thrill and novelty of swimming amongst large numbers of sharks and stingrays, but you’ll also swim amongst schools of fish that gather there to feed.
Included:
• Transfer to Belize City Airport
• Domestic flight from Belize City to San Pedro
• Private transfer to your accommodation
• Snorkelling at Hol Chan and Shark Ray Alley, including an English-speaking guide, entrance fees and snorkelling equipment (group activity)
• Overnight stays including breakfast
Accommodations
Naia Resort And Spa
Naïa Resort And Spa encompasses 19 acres of secluded beach and lush landscapes in the private Cocoplum community on Belize's Placencia Peninsula. The property stretches along a nearly kilometre-and-a-half-long palm-studded beach, where 35 beautifully appointed beach houses envelop guests with...
Naïa Resort And Spa encompasses 19 acres of secluded beach and lush landscapes in the private Cocoplum community on Belize's Placencia Peninsula. The property stretches along a nearly kilometre-and-a-half-long palm-studded beach, where 35 beautifully appointed beach houses envelop guests in informal residential-style luxury. At the heart of the resort is Naïa Spa, so named to reflect the free-spirited nature of the resort and the ever-present connection between land and water. This breathtaking retreat is spread over a collection of small islands in an enchanting freshwater lagoon where the skilled and experienced therapists work their restorative magic. The spa also features a fully equipped fitness centre, plus a yoga and exercise studio overlooking the tranquil lagoon.
Pack for a Purpose
Naia Resort And Spa is affiliated with Pack for a Purpose.Pack for a Purpose is a charitable organisation that allows travellers to spend several kilos of their luggage weight to help local residents. Think school supplies, clothes, medical equipment and other necessities donated to the local project through the lodge. To make sure you bring what is actually needed locally, the lodge explains the project.
Click here for information about the project at the Naia Resort And Spa: https://www.packforapurpose.org/destinations/central-america/belize/naia-resort-and-spa/
Your stay: 5 nights
Chan Chich Lodge
Chan Chich Lodge is located in a private nature reserve in northwestern Belize, in the heart of the Mayan jungle. The lodge is located in the plaza of an ancient Maya city and is surrounded by pristine forests.
The area is second to none, with an abundance of wildlife and the best chance of seeing the elusive jaguar...
Chan Chich Lodge is located in a private nature reserve in northwestern Belize, in the heart of the Mayan jungle. The lodge is located in the plaza of an ancient Maya city and is surrounded by pristine forests.
The area is second to none, with abundant wildlife and the best chance to see the elusive jaguar in its natural habitat. Chan Chich is an extraordinary destination for nature lovers, bird lovers and for those seeking an authentic place in the jungle.
The lodge consists of 23 thatched-roof casitas, 12 single thatched-roof beach tents and one two-bedroom villa.
Your stay: 4 nights
Victoria House Resort & Spa
Victoria House is a luxury resort for a relaxing luxury beach holiday in Belize. The resort is located on the island of Ambergris Caye and close to San Pedro and the world's second largest barrier reef. Ambergris Caye is the largest island in Belize and has much to offer, including enticing...
Victoria House is a luxury resort for a relaxing luxury beach holiday in Belize. The resort is located on the island of Ambergris Caye and close to San Pedro and the world's second largest barrier reef. Ambergris Caye is the largest island in Belize and has much to offer, including tempting restaurants and nightlife, adventurous excursions or just relaxing on the beach.
Your stay: 4 nights
Experiences
Monkey River Tour
During this excursion, you will sail by boat along the coast and mangroves while spotting wildlife, birds and, with a bit of luck, even manatees. You will then take a jungle walk where, led by a guide, you will have the opportunity to learn something about the medicinal effects of certain jungle...
During this excursion, you will sail by boat along the coast and mangroves while spotting wildlife, birds and, with a bit of luck, even manatees. Next, you will go on a jungle hike where, led by a guide, you will have the opportunity to learn about the medicinal properties of certain jungle plants but also be guaranteed to see howler monkeys. Finally, you will visit a village where you can eat something or buy souvenirs.
Excursion Cocksbomb Jaguar reserve including river tubing
Take an excursion to Cockscomb Jaguar reserve, a suptropical rainforest home to abundant wildlife. It has become a reserve thanks to the amount of jaguars living in this 150-mile terrain. With very good luck, you can catch a glimpse of this shy species, but you might encounter footprints. It could be in...
Take an excursion to Cockscomb Jaguar reserve, a suptropical rainforest home to abundant wildlife. It has become a reserve thanks to the amount of jaguars living in this 150-mile terrain. With very good luck, you might catch a glimpse of this shy species, but you might encounter footprints. In any case, it is almost inevitable that you will have special encounters with the jungle animals in this area! During the day, you will also take a refreshing dip at a waterfall and go on a relaxing 'rivertubing' trip where you float down the river in tyres.
Snorkelling excursion Hol Chan & Shark Ray Alley
Many say that snorkelling in Hol Chan is as impressive as snorkelling in the best places in the world. For this reason, Hol Chan is considered the most popular snorkelling location in Belize.
Just a short boat ride from San Pedro Town, Hol Chan is located. And is home to more than 160 species of...
Many say that snorkelling in Hol Chan is as impressive as snorkelling in the best places in the world. For this reason, Hol Chan is considered the most popular snorkelling location in Belize.
Just a short boat ride from San Pedro Town, Hol Chan is located. And is home to over 160 species of fish and nearly 40 species of corals, 5 species of sponges, 2 species of sea grasses, 3 marine mammals and 3 species of sea turtles. Here you can snorkel to explore this underwater world extensively.
After this, you will proceed to Shark Ray Alley, just 3 minutes from Hol Chan. Upon arrival, you will be greeted by nurse sharks and stingrays. Also, you can swim with large schools of fish that congregate here to feed.
This excursion offers you all the splendour of the Caribbean such as the white sandy beaches and clear waters where you have good visibility.
Destinations
Ambergris Caye
Ambergris Caye is the largest island in Belize and the country's undisputed superstar, known locally as 'La Isla Bonita' (where Madonna got her inspiration for the song Isla Bonita). The islet is known for its good snorkelling and diving opportunities (including in the Hol Chan Marine reserve and at Shark ray alley). You may also want to take a boat trip in search of manatees.
Placencia
Once a sleepy fishing village in the Caribbean, Placencia has developed into one of the country’s leading tourist destinations. This beautiful peninsula boasts unspoilt, tranquil beaches, a stunning lagoon, a wealth of activities and exotic wildlife. There is a lively harbour, a range of charming houses and a number of local cafés and restaurants. You can hike through mountainous rainforests, snorkel or dive in the crystal-clear Caribbean waters, explore the Mayan ruins or simply unwind on the beautiful golden sandy beach.
You can also learn about Garifuna culture, which is very much present in this region. The Garifuna people are descended from former African slaves who escaped and intermingled with the indigenous peoples of the Caribbean. They are a people with an interesting history and a language and culture all of their own.
Belize
Belize District
Dominating the centre of Belize, Belize District showcases a diverse landscape. Dense rainforest transitions to fertile agricultural plains, all bordering the country's longest coastline. Belize City, the former capital, pulsates as the district's heart. Historic landmarks include the Baron Bliss Lighthouse and St. John's Cathedral, the oldest Anglican church in Central America. Interesting towns such as Ladyville and San Pedro on Ambergris Caye offer a blend of local culture and modern amenities. Attractions range from the Belize Barrier Reef, a UNESCO World Heritage site ideal for diving and snorkelling, to the ancient Maya site of Altun Ha. Activities include exploring the Belize Zoo, river rafting, and bird watching, making Belize District a vibrant destination for adventure and relaxation.
San Pedro
San Pedro lies on the southern coast of the Caribbean island of Ambergris Caye and was the inspiration for Madonna's hit song, La Isla Bonita. It is easy to see why; days here pass in a blissful sun and sea atmosphere with relaxing on idyllic beaches, taking boat trips or exploring the region's rich marine environment on a snorkelling or diving trip. Outstanding dive sites include the Hol Chan Marine Reserve, with its beautiful corals, brightly coloured fish, sea turtles and nurse sharks, and Mexico Rocks, an excellent snorkelling spot where you can see exotic species such as moray eels, lionfish and stingrays.
Orange Walk District
The Orange Walk District, located in northwestern Belize, is home to the district capital of Orange Walk Town, the fourth largest city in the country. The Orange Walk District is the second largest in Belize, covering more than 4,500 square kilometres. Visitors can look forward to discovering a collection of local villages in the district, including August Pine Ridge, Blue Creek, Douglas, Indian Church, San Carlos, San Felipe, Nuevo San Juan, San Lazaro, San Luis, Santa Martha and Trinidad, to name a few. History lovers can explore a number of ancient Mayan archaeological sites, such as Cuello, Lamanai, Noh Mul and Chan Chich. Don't miss the chance to visit the Rio Bravo Conservation and Management Area, home to several habitats that support a variety of birds and wildlife.
Gallon Jug Estate
Deep in the jungle of north-west Belize lies a 35,000-acre haven known as Gallon Jug Estate. Owned by eighth-generation Belizeans, the estate boasts a rich history. Brushing land for agriculture, they stumbled upon an undocumented Mayan archaeological site. This discovery fuelled a passion for conservation, leading to the Gallon Jug Agroindustry. Today, visitors can explore this historic site while staying at the Chan Chich Lodge. The lodge, named after the local creek meaning "little bird" in Mayan, is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Hike through the jungle canopy, teeming with hundreds of bird species like the crested guan and great curassow, or hope to catch a glimpse of the elusive jaguar. The dense flora provides refuge for a wealth of creatures, from tapirs and peccaries to coatimundis and kinkajous. The estate also cultivates shade-grown coffee and grass-fed cattle, all while protecting the surrounding rainforest's precious biodiversity.
Belize trip | Discover Belize from jungle to Caribbean coast
We offer this trip from €7,850 per person.
The price is indicative and is subject to factors including availability and travel dates.
Included
• Domestic flights as specified in the itinerary, including hold luggage
• Accommodation in excellent and distinctive properties
• All meals as specified in the ‘itinerary’
• All necessary transfers mentioned (private transfers and boat transfer)
• All excursions as mentioned in the ‘programme’, including a Monkey River excursion, a visit to the Jaguar Cockscomb Wildlife Sanctuary and snorkelling at the Hol Chan Marine Reserve
• Entrance fees to national parks during the land programme
• National Geographic or similar travel guide
• Meet and greet on arrival
• Booking fees (worth €50)
Positive impact of your trip:
• Contribution of €50 per person towards a positive impact via the Avila Foundation
• Accommodation at the Naia Resort and Spa and the Chan Chich Lodge
• Visit to the Jaguar Cockscomb Wildlife Sanctuary
Not included
• Intercontinental flights
• Overnight stopover on the outward journey
• Travel and/or cancellation insurance
• Seat reservations on flights
• Meals not specified and optional excursions
• Personal expenses/tips
• Contribution to the Calamity Fund (€2.50 per booking)
• SGR contribution (€5 per person)