en
- Adventure
- 16-day trip
- From €3,890 p.p.
Belize trip | Round trip highlights of Belize
Discover the highlights of Belize! The trip starts in the Cayo district, at the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve. As the name suggests, this vast landscape is dotted with pine forests, as well as deep canyons, limestone peaks and waterfalls. Spend the first nights in this special ecosystem visiting the Mayan site Caracol as well as the ATM cave excursion, a true Indiana Jones experience! Then explore Punta Gorda, a picturesque fishing village stretching along the Gulf of Honduras, as well as Placencia. A dream location for snorkelling and diving enthusiasts, but there is also plenty to do for culture and nature lovers! During your stay, we have included the Monkey River excursion. Next, you will travel to Hopkins known for its Garifuna culture. You will finally conclude the trip on paradise-like Caye Caulker.
Travel programme
Travel overview
- Day 1 Flight to Belize
- Day 2 Arrival in Belize
- Day 3 – 4 Stay in the Cayo District
- Day 5 - 7 Stay Tanager Rainforest lodge
- Days 8–10 Relaxing on Placencia Beach
- Day 11 – 12 Stay in Hopkins
- Days 13–15 Tropical relaxation on Caye Caulker
- Day 16 Departure from Belize
- Day 17 Arrival
Arrival in Belize
After an overnight stay in the US or Panama City, you will fly on to Belize City. Here, a private transfer will pick you up and you will travel to the Cayo district. The Cayo district is a jungle-hidden province about 2.5 to 3 hours' drive from Belize City. You will stay here for the next few nights so you have plenty of time to get to know this region extensively!
Includes:
- Private transfer to your hotel
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
Exclusive:
- Flight to Belize
Accommodation Cayo district
Over the next few days, you will undertake various activities. For example, during your stay we have included a group excursion to the ATM (Actun Tunichil Muknal) cave; a real Indiana Jones experience! Your guide will lead you through jungle and river (some of which you will walk and swim through) to and through this fascinating cave. Deep inside the cave, you will find some mummies left intact by the explorers. It is an adventurous excursion, but with good guidance and therefore an unforgettable experience during your trip through Belize.
The following day, you take an excursion to the impressive Caracol Mayan ruins, where you learn more about the culture and way of life of the Mayans. Few visitors come here now and you really get the explorer feeling. The highlight is climbing the pyramid from where the view is breathtaking.
Includes:
- Group excursion ATM cave
- Private excursion to Caracol Mayan ruins
- Overnight stays including breakfast
Accommodation Tanager Rainforest lodge
Today, you will travel to southern Belize. You will be picked up by a transfer and taken to Toledo province. This district is a pristine destination with beautiful nature, diverse cultures and Mayan ruins. Despite these attractions, the area is still skipped by many people. However, this makes it even more fun to visit the place. Also highly recommended is a visit to the fishing village of Punta Gorda that stretches along the Gulf of Honduras which is a fantastic destination for both nature and culture lovers.
Included:
• Private transfer to your hotel
• Accommodation including breakfast
Enjoying the beach in Placencia
You board a private transfer and travel to your next destination: Placencia. Placencia is a dream location for snorkelling and diving enthusiasts. It also boasts pristine quiet beaches, a beautiful lagoon, many activities and exotic wildlife. There is a lively harbour, an array of charming houses and a number of local cafés and restaurants.
We have included the Monkey River excursion during your stay, which takes you by boat along the coast and mangroves. During the excursion you can also spot manatees (manatees), which are large mammals that live in the water and belong to the manatees.
In addition, a visit to the Jaguars Cockscombs is also very interesting. This huge tropical jungle is the world's first jaguar sanctuary. Although it is difficult to catch a glimpse of these shy animals, you have great chances of spotting other wildlife, such as ocelots, otters, Macaws, toucans, howler monkeys and beautiful butterflies.
Includes:
- Private transfer to your hotel
- Group excursion Monkey River with English-speaking guide
- Overnight stays including breakfast
Accommodation Hopkins
The trip continues to Hopkins where the influences of the Garifuna Indians are still clearly felt. Hopkins has only a small community known for being very friendly people. If you are interested in learning about new cultures, this is Belize's number one cultural destination. The drumming of the Garifunas and other cultural activities in the town will take you deep into this special culture.
Included:
• Private transfer to your hotel
• Accommodation including breakfast
Tropical afterglow on Caye Caulker
After staying in Hopkins, you will travel to the port of Belize City where you will take the water taxi to Caye Caulker. You will spend the last nights of the trip on this island paradise. From here, you can organise snorkelling and diving trips, enjoy the laid-back atmosphere or take a water taxi to Caye Ambergris to have a look around.
Caye Caulker is an extremely relaxed and small Caribbean island. The island has a few small beaches and it is very pleasant to be there with its many eateries and bars. With an obligatory drink at the Lazy Lizard at the end of the island near the Split (this is where the island was split in two by one of the many hurricanes). This is the ultimate happy hour feeling.
Includes:
- Private transfer to Belize City pier
- Water taxi to Caye Caulker
- Transfer to your hotel
- Overnight stays including breakfast
Accommodations
Black Rock Lodge
The Black Rock Lodge is a fun eco-lodge tucked away in Belize's dense rainforest. The lodge offers a plethora of opportunities for exploration and adventure. From canoeing on the Macal River and horseback riding to visiting the Flour Camp caves or hiking through the beautiful area full of flora and fauna.
The...
The Black Rock Lodge is a fun eco-lodge tucked away in Belize's dense rainforest. The lodge offers a plethora of opportunities for exploration and adventure. From canoeing on the Macal River and horseback riding to visiting the Flour Camp caves or hiking through the beautiful area full of flora and fauna.
The Lodge's 20 cabins offer stunning views of Black Rock Canyon, the Macal River, and the surrounding rainforest with wildlife. The cabins are built to take advantage of fresh breezes. All cabins have private bathrooms and wardrobes. The recent addition of 2 river front suites is a modern addition to the accommodation in a beautiful, private setting perfect for a honeymoon.
Pack for a Purpose
The Black Rock Lodge 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 Black Rock Lodge: https://www.packforapurpose.org/destinations/central-america/belize/black-rock-lodge/
Your stay: 3 nights
Tanager Rainforest Lodge
Tanager Rainforest Lodge is located close to Punta Gorda, in southern Belize. It offers guests easy access to natural wonders, archaeological treasures and an array of adventures. The lodge features guided tours that explore the local Maya people, culture, archaeology, and natural...
Tanager Rainforest Lodge is located close to Punta Gorda, in southern Belize. It offers guests easy access to natural wonders, archaeological treasures and an array of adventures. The lodge features guided tours that introduce the local Maya people, culture, archaeology, and natural history of the area. Adventure activities available here include; jungle trekking, caving, river kayaking, snorkelling and fishing.
The lodge also offers elegant accommodation, delicious meals and relaxation in a peaceful riverside setting.
Your stay: 3 nights
Azure del Mar
Offering an outdoor pool and restaurant, the beachfront Azure Del Mar is located in Maya Beach, where you can enjoy white sand beaches, colourful coral reefs and relaxing sun. Free Wi-Fi is available.
Each room here offers a patio and a seating area. The private bathroom also features...
Offering an outdoor pool and restaurant, the beachfront Azure Del Mar is located in Maya Beach, where you can enjoy white sand beaches, colourful coral reefs and relaxing sun. Free Wi-Fi is available.
Each room here offers a patio and a seating area. The private bathroom also comes with a shower, a bath or a shower and free toiletries. Extras include an outdoor seating area, bedding and a fan.
At Azure Del Mar, you will find a private beach area and free bicycles. Other facilities at the accommodation include a shared lounge, a tour desk and shops (on site). You can enjoy a range of activities on site or in the surroundings, including fishing and snorkelling. The accommodation offers free parking.
Your stay: 3 nights
Parrot Cove Lodge
Located on the beach along the pristine Caribbean coast, Parrot Cove Lodge is an adventure spot in Hopkins Belize. It is centrally located between the reef and the rainforest. Parrot Cove Lodge is the perfect location, whether you are looking for coastal and inland adventures or just looking for peace and...
Located on the beach along the pristine Caribbean coast, Parrot Cove Lodge is an adventure spot in Hopkins Belize. It is centrally located between the reef and the rainforest. Parrot Cove Lodge is the perfect location whether you are looking for coastal and inland adventures or just looking for rest and relaxation. Come enjoy the Caribbean breeze under the open-air thatched roof of our pier or let your adventure begin as you explore the many wonders of Belize!
Your stay: 2 nights
Iguana Reef Inn
Iguana Reef Inn is located on the small island of Caye Caulker, near Belize's barrier reef. The accommodation consists of a variety of rooms and flats, each equipped with air conditioning, a ceiling fan, a safe, internet access and a fridge. A continental breakfast is served every morning and...
Iguana Reef Inn is located on the small island of Caye Caulker, near Belize's barrier reef. The accommodation consists of a variety of rooms and flats, each equipped with air conditioning, a ceiling fan, a safe, internet access and a fridge. A continental breakfast is offered every morning. Other amenities include a freshwater pool, a bar and nearby beach access.
Your stay: 3 nights
Experiences
Excursion Caracol
You will take a morning excursion to the Maya site Caracol. A fascinating ancient Mayan ruin where few visitors still come and you will actually get an explorer's feeling. The highlight is climbing the pyramid from which the view is breathtaking.
Excursion Cockscomb Jaguar Reserve
The Cockscomb Reserve is a suptropical rainforest with 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...
The Cockscomb Reserve is a suptropical rainforest with 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! You can also take a refreshing dip at a waterfall here.
Destinations
Placencia
Once a slacker fishing village in the Caribbean, Placencia has developed into one of the country's premier tourist destinations. This beautiful peninsula boasts pristine quiet 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. You can hike through mountainous rainforests, snorkel or dive the crystal-clear Caribbean waters, explore the Mayan ruins or just unwind on the beautiful golden sandy beach.
Furthermore, you can also get to know the Garifuna culture, which are common in this region. The garifunas are descended from former African slaves who escaped the and mixed with the indigenous inhabitants of the Caribbean. A people with an interesting history and a language and culture all their own.
Belize
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.
Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve
The Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve is Belize's oldest and largest protected natural area, with an impressive 777-square-kilometre expanse just south of San Ignacio. While most of Belize's landscapes feature tropical vegetation, this exceptionally beautiful reserve is different because of its stunning Honduras pine forests, deep canyons, limestone sharp peaks, massive granite, breathtaking riviever and waterfalls. This remarkably diverse ecosystem provides a wonderful oasis for a wide range of fascinating wildlife such as pumas, jaguars, ocelots, endemic crocodiles and an abundance of bird species. Don't miss the spectacular viewpoint that offers a view of Thousand Foot Falls, the highest waterfall in Central America, and the Rio On Pools, a series of small waterfalls through large granite rocks.
Hopkins
Hopkins is a Garifuna Indian village and thus a unique cultural destination. You are only a short distance from Belize's main highlights. Hopkins is a small community with only about 1,500 inhabitants and are known as very friendly people. If you are interested in learning about new cultures, this is Belize's number one cultural destination. The drumming of the Garifunas and other cultural activities in the town will take you deep into this special culture. From Hopkins, you can take tours to the Mayflower Bocawina Park as well as snorkelling, fishing and sailing.
Toledo
Toledo is the southernmost district in beautiful Belize, known for its rich cultural heritage, Mayan-era archaeological sites and remote charm. Toledo's spectacularly scenic landscape features rugged mountains, waterfalls, pristine rainforests, coastal areas and caves. The region is home to a mix of varied indigenous cultures, including: Mopanand Kekchi Maya, Creole, East Indian and even descendants of settlers from the US. Visitors can look forward to exploring the fascinating archaeological sites of Nim Li Punit, Pusilha and Lubaantun. Other popular activities include: tasting Toledo's famous chocolate, as well as diving and snorkelling in the beautiful Sapodilla Cayes marine reserve.
Caye Caulker
Caye Caulker is a small Caribbean island located off the coast of Belize. This idyllic island features white-sand beaches situated on crystal clear waters and mangrove forests teeming with bird life. It is the perfect destination for underwater adventure, such as snorkelling with sharks at the Hi Chan Marine Reserve and diving at the famous Blue Hole. The Caye Caulker Marine Reserve offers beautiful dive sites on the magical Belize barrier reef, the second largest in the world. The island is entirely pedestrianised, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and laid-back 'island vibe' that prevails on the island. Stroll through the charming, colourful village streets, cycle along the rural island roads, or hop on a golf cart and enjoy the beautiful sea views. Don't miss opportunities to sample fresh seafood and/or shellfish, swim in the azure blue waters, or learn about the island's Creole culture.
Cayo District
In western Belize, the adventure heart of the Cayo District awaits thrill-seekers, with its forests, wild rivers, gorges, streams and caves. The ideal setting for adrenaline-packed activities. Rich in history, the area is home to important Mayan archaeological sites such as Xunantunich and Caracol, which offer insights into ancient civilisations. Historical sites such as the Cahal Pech ruins and the breathtaking Barton Creek cave add to its appeal. The bustling city of San Ignacio serves as a gateway to exciting experiences such as cave tubing, ziplining and exploring the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve. Paddle a kayak across turquoise streams, whose waters sparkle in the sunlight filtering through the jungle canopy. Walk through lush gorges, where the air is permeated with the calls of exotic birds. The district's landscape is graced by impressive waterfalls, wildlife sanctuaries and lush botanical gardens, a true paradise for nature lovers.
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.
Belize trip | Round trip highlights of Belize
We offer this tour from €3,890 per person.
The tour price is an estimate and is subject to availability and travel dates, amongst other factors.
Included
- Overnight stays in good and atmospheric accommodation
- All meals as mentioned in 'the programme
- All mentioned, required (private) transfers and water taxis
- All excursions as mentioned in 'programme', including the Monkey river tour and Mayasite Caracol
- Entrance fees to national parks during the land programme
- National Geographic travel guide or similar
- Meet & greet on arrival
- Reservation fee (worth €50)
Positive impact of your trip:
- Positive impact contribution of €50 per person through the Avila Foundation
Not included
- Intercontinental flights
- Stop-over overnight on outbound journey
- Travel and/or cancellation insurance
- Seat reservation flights
- Unlisted meals and optional excursions
- Personal expenses/trophies
- Contribution Calamity Fund (€2,50 per booking)
- SGR contribution (€5 per person)