Land of Belize
Experience Overview
Experience the natural wonders, delicious cuisine and rich cultural history of Belize on this eight-day adventure. This often-overlooked country is full of lush jungle, ancient ruins and vibrant coral reefs – and you’ll experience it all! Kicking off in Belize City, travel to the Lamanai Archaeological Site to explore the remains of the Maya civilisation, learn traditional recipes at a cooking class with local women in San Ignacio and spot howler monkeys in Tikal National Park. Finish your adventure in the island paradise of Caye Caulker to relax into the Bel-easy-an way of life.
Highlights
- Unwind on the paradisical island of Caye Caulker. Swim in the warm Caribbean waters, snorkel over shallow reefs and feast on freshly caught seafood and street barbeque.
- Meet a group of Maya women at a co-operative in San Ignacio to cook up traditional dishes and learn about how the organisation empowers local women.
- Spot colourful birds on a boat ride along the New River to the Lamanai Archaeological Site. Dating back to 1500 BC, the ruins are a fascinating insight into a once-thriving Maya city.
- Hop across the Guatemalan border to explore Maya ruins in Tikal National Park. Explore towering temples and pyramids surrounded by thick rainforest home to coatis, monkeys and parrots.
- Hike and wade through shallow river waters to Actun Tunichil Muknal, where crystallised skeletons and ancient Maya relics have been preserved for over 1000 years.
Trip Details
Product Code: 2511
Tour Type: Small Group
Accommodation: Moderate
Transport: Private vehicle,Ferry,River boat
Guide Language: English
Tour Operator:
Intrepid Travel
Supplier Code: QVSE
Starts: Belize City, Belize
Finishes: Caye Caulker, Belize
Duration: 8 days
Departures: Guaranteed
Physical Rating:
Light
Includes
Meals: Breakfasts (1), Lunch (3), Dinner (1)Accommodation: Hotel (6 nights),Lodge (1 night)
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD $2,052 ($256 /day)
Itinerary
Hola! Welcome to Belize. Your adventure begins in Belize City – the bustling former capital where the Belize River meets the Caribbean Sea – with a welcome meeting at 6 pm. After meeting your local leader and fellow travellers, maybe go for a group dinner to taste some local fare. If you arrive early, Belize City has plenty to discover. Check out the coastal and maritime museum housed in a beautifully restored fire station, dive into contemporary Belizean art at the Image Factory or visit Central America’s oldest Anglican church – St John Cathedral.
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
This morning, take a private vehicle to Carmelita where you'll board a boat along the New River to the Lamanai Archaeological site – this is an adventure in itself, and your leader will help you spot colourful birds along the banks. Take some time to explore the remains of unearthed temples, plazas and homes of this ancient Maya civilisation. Then, hop back on the boat to the town of Orange Walk where you’ll spend the night. Tonight, settle into your lodge and enjoy an included group dinner.
Included Activities:
- Lamanai Archaeological Site & Boat Tour
Accommodation:
- Lodge (Number of Nights: 1)
This morning, drive to the town of San Ignacio, stopping off at the San Antonio Women’s Co-op – an organisation formed by local Maya women to share skills and traditional knowledge while earning an income. Join the women for a cooking demonstration designed to preserve Maya culinary heritage before sitting down together to feast on the fruits of your labour. The rest of the afternoon is yours to spend as you like.
Included Activities:
- San Ignacio - Cooking Class
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Today, you’ll take a daytrip to the UNESCO World Heritage site and Maya ruins in Tikal National Park just across the Guatemalan border. Hidden among the thick rainforest are some of the most significant remnants of the Maya civilisation – plus an array of local wildlife, including coatis, howler monkeys and big cats. Take in the towering limestone temples while learning about the ancient city's demise. Afterwards, enjoy an included group lunch before returning to San Ignacio. Tonight, you’re free to relax at your accommodation or explore at your own pace.
Included Activities:
- Tikal National Park - Archaeological site (Entrance fee, Guide & Transport)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Today, you have free time to explore. There are many optional activities in San Ignacio. Maybe take a hand-cranked ferry to Xunantunich – an impressive Maya ceremonial centre with intricately carved walls and panoramic views over the countryside. Perhaps take on the challenge of hiking and wading to the caves of Actun Tunichil Muknal – a living museum of Maya relics, including crystallised skeletons naturally preserved by the cave for over 1400 years. Or consider a trip to the Mountain Pine Ridge area to explore waterfalls, cool down in swimming holes, wander through a butterfly garden or canoe through the Barton Creek cave reserve.
Optional Activities:
- San Ignacio - Xunantunich Ruins entry (20 BZD)
- San Ignacio - Mountain Pine Ridge day trip (Incl. guide & transport) (100 USD)
- San Ignacio - Actun Tunichil Muknal Caves (Incl. entry, guide, transport & lunch) (135 USD)
- San Ignacio - Barton Creek canoe trip (100 USD)
- San Ignacio - Caracol Ruins (Incl. entry, guide & transport) (125 USD)
- San Ignacio - Cave tubing (incl. entrance, guide & transport) (100 USD)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Today, take a private transfer to Belize City where you’ll board a water taxi to Caye Caulker. While there are a number of islands off the mainland, Caye Caulker is the most famous (and arguably the most beautiful). When you arrive, take a golf cart to your hotel, then join your leader on an orientation walk around the island. With no cars, the vibe is as laidback as it gets. If you fancy, it’s possible to arrange daytrips to other islands and reefs for snorkelling – just chat with your leader. Each island has its own character, but they all have the unmistakable Caribbean pace and charm. This evening, maybe tuck into freshly caught seafood or listen to reggae with a local rum cocktail.
Included Activities:
- Caye Caulker - Leader-led orientation walk
Optional Activities:
- Caye Caulker - Stand-up paddleboard hire (per hour) (55 BZD)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Caye Caulker is all about taking it easy, so do as much (or as little) as you want with another free day here. Perhaps cycle around the island or explore the coast on a stand-up paddle board. If you're interested in sampling the local cuisine, Caye Caulker is known for its barbequed food – and some of the best meals are cooked on the roadside! It’s also famous for lobster – not the cheapest meal, but so (so) good. Always make sure you respect the season – lobsters can only be caught between June and February. If it's out of season, grilled shrimp is just as tasty.
Optional Activities:
- Caye Caulker - Bicycle Rental (per day) (12 USD)
- Caye Caulker - Sunset Sailing (126 BZD)
- Caye Caulker - Stand-up paddleboard hire (per hour) (55 BZD)
- Caye Caulker - Full day Catamaran snorkeling tour in Hol Chan Marine Reserve-(gear, guide and transport included) (120 USD)
- Caye Caulker - Full day speed boat - (gear, guide and transport included) (120 USD)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Your Belize adventure comes to an end today. With no activities planned, you can depart the accommodation at any time after checkout. If you'd like to spend more time in Caye Caulker, just speak to your booking agent.
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Tour Operator
Intrepid Travel
Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.
In Business Since 1989
Reviews
Katherine - Traveled, April 2024
Excellent trip to the see the sights of Belize. From the jungle to the Caribbean, this trip has got something for everyone.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/20/2024
Sylvina - Traveled, April 2024
Dieser Trip beinhaltet die richtige Balance zwischen Natur, Kultur und Aktivitäten. Belize lässt sich wunderbar erleben. Speziell die Bootsfahrt nach Lamanai und der Ausflug nach Tikal in Guatemala sind ein Highlight. Ich empfehle die ATM Caves als einzigartigen Ausflug dazuzubuchen (Schwimmen und keine Platzangst ist vorausgesetzt). Das Schnorcheln auf Caye Caulker bildet den perfekten Abschluss. Wir sahen Haie, Schildkröten, Delphine und Barracudas. Dieser Trip hat sich definitiv gelohnt.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/25/2024
Anastasia-Maria - Traveled, April 2024
This was my first time doing a solo group travel (woman/30s) and it did not disappoint. Trip was well organized, informative and very fun. Good balance between included activities/food and free time. Fidelio was an amazing trip leader and our local day guides were all friendly and knowledgeable. A great way to explore Belize and Tikal! Would definitely recommend taking this trip!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/09/2024
Kara - Traveled, April 2024
A truly lovely trip with a good mix of a Mayan cultural history, adventure, and relaxing beach time. Fidelio was an amazing guide!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/09/2024
Sarah - Traveled, March 2024
This is a great trip, particularly if your time is limited. Mayan history and culture, lovely food, time in Caye Caulker and some excellent excursions, including into Guatemala, make for a great journey through Belize. For an optional excursion, the ATM caves can't be beaten......Belize me! Our tour leader Shaq was great and I only wish I'd stayed an extra day or two on Caye Caulker. Overall, highly recommend this trip.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/02/2024
Laura - Traveled, February 2024
This was an amazing way to see Belize (and a little bit of Guatemala). I enjoyed every bit of the trip! There were great food options for vegetarians. Tikal and the ATM caves were astounding!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/08/2024
Todd - Traveled, February 2024
Seeing wildlife on Lamanai ride/ruins was incredible!! A few accommodations were jaw-dropping. Simple travel days. Special experience making tortillas with women. Some optional experiences are must-dos. Unforgettable time exploring Tikal. Just relaxed on Caye Caulker. All sailing opportunities are environmentally-friendly. Lucky enough to find and swim with turtle out snorkeling. Recommend sunset cruise and flyover blue hole (extra costs).
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/12/2024
Kristina - Traveled, February 2024
Don’t hesitate, book this trip! What an incredible way to explore Belize and the bite sized introduction to Guatemala was absolutely perfect. The itinerary was well organized to ensure all the highlights of the country were well covered, and if you’re lucky enough to have Shaq as your guide you’re in for a real treat. ATM caves and Caye Caulker were the highlights but every stop was beautiful. I left this trip with such a full heart, and Belize will forever be one of my favourite places on earth.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/28/2024
Nneka - Traveled, February 2024
Excellent tour guide (Reyes), great knowledge after visiting both Guatemala and Belize. Could another country be added to this trip? Would like street food to complement the restaurant food.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/19/2024
Lesley - Traveled, February 2024
Our Land of Belize trip was amazing! We learned so much. All of our guides for excursions were very knowledgeable and we could not have asked for a better group leader then Reyes!! He was amazing!! As were our fellow travelers. Loved every minute.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/21/2024
Emake - Traveled, February 2024
This was my first trip with intrepid. Exploring the Land of Belize with Tikal add-on with intrepid was a blast. The itinerary from the jungle to the islands was superb. Our host Reyes was simply the best! His love for his job was infectious. I can't wait to book another trip in the nearest future
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/20/2024
Jason - Traveled, February 2024
Excellent guided tour of Belize with just the right amount of free time and excursions. Our leader Reyes is an excellent guide and a lovely person. The trip to Tikal national park and the ATM caves were just 2 of the many highlights
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/26/2024
Victoria - Traveled, February 2024
This was an amazing trip from start to finish. Good combination of adventure and leisure. Highly recommended
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/17/2024
Lesley - Traveled, February 2024
This was my first intrepid experience and I will definitely be booking another one. Belize was beautiful and I loved learning about the history of this country. Our tour leader Reyes was the best! He took great care of our group and really made the experience special.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/17/2024
Charles - Traveled, February 2024
Belize and the Mayan people came alive on this active adventure through the historic sites. The highlight was the ATM caves and our guide who was unBelizeable. Check this trip off your bucket list.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/10/2024
Cora - Traveled, January 2024
This was a fabulous trip with a wonderful tour guide. It truly was the perfect introduction to the land of Belize. Highly recommend planning ahead to include additional optional full day activities.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/09/2024
Patricia - Traveled, January 2024
Our experience on the Land of Belize trip was incredible- we highly recommend! We were able to learn, see, and do so much in a week from exploring caves and Mayan ruins to sailing and snorkeling in the beautiful waters of Caye Caulker! Our tour guide Fivelio was incredible - very knowledgeable and friendly and made the trip what it was!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/09/2024
Elizabeth - Traveled, January 2024
Our trip to Belize was absolutely wonderful! Everything from the Maya structures, Women’s Coop, exploration of historic and current cultures to island activities were excellent! Our guide was terrific- very knowledgeable, helpful and enthusiastic. I would highly recommend this trip.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/09/2024
Sandy - Traveled, December 2023
What an amazing adventure in Belize! It was a great group and we got to see so many things including swimming with a manatee! I enjoyed all of the different activities from the caves, snorkeling, Mayan ruins and cuisine.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/15/2024
Susanne - Traveled, December 2024
I had done several solo adventure tours with other travel companies, this was my first with Intrepid, they did not disappoint. Everything about this trip was fantastic! The ease of booking, showing up, welcome meeting etc was explained. Then the brilliant trip itself in beautiful Belize with a local Intrepid Tour guide ...I can't wait to book my next Intrepid trip.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/06/2024
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