Land of Belize
Experience Overview
Jump into Belize's natural wonders, picturesque coastlines and rich cultural history on this 8-day adventure in Central America. This often-overlooked paradise is full of lush jungle, spectacular Maya ruins, long sandy beaches and first-class underwater attractions. You’ll get the chance to sample them all! From the buzz of Belize City, travel through the Lamanai Archaeological Site and to the island paradise of Caye Caulker. Take a day trip to Guatemala to discover the history of the UNESCO Maya ruins of Tikal. Explore this little-visited gem and get off the beaten track, sitting back and relaxing into the Bel-easy-an way of life.
Highlights
- Laze on the sandy shores of Caye Caulker off the coast of Belize. Swim in the warm waters of the Caribbean and snorkel through shallow reefs and atolls surrounding the cayes.
- Join a group of local women at a co-operative in San Ignacio, where they’ll show you how to cook up some traditional recipes and talk about the organisation they founded.
- Discover the remains of a once thriving Mayan city at the Lamanai Archaeological Site, reached by a boat trip that reveals some of Belize’s most colourful birdlife.
- Take a day trip to the impressive Tikal National Park, just a hop, skip and a jump across the border into Guatemala. These Maya ruins have become one of the most important archaeological sites in Maya history.
- Uncover the secrets of crystallised skeletons and crumbling palaces near San Ignacio that have been preserved in their natural glory.
- By travelling on this trip, you’ll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, Eden Reforestation Projects. Donations help them provide local employment opportunities and tackle climate change one tree at a time as they restore forests across 10 different countries.
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 $2,338 ($292 /day)
Itinerary
Welcome to Belize! Your adventure begins in Belize City – located where the Belize River meets the Caribbean Sea, this bustling former capital is full of history and culture. You’ll have a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight, where you'll meet your trip leader and fellow travellers. If you arrive with time to spare, Belize City has plenty to discover. The coastal and maritime museum is on the north side, housed in the beautifully restored former fire station. Also in the north is the Image Factory, displaying contemporary Belizean artists, the National Handicraft Centre and the oldest Anglican church in Central America – St John Cathedral, built in 1812. Tonight, why not head out on a group welcome dinner, recommended by your leader?
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
This morning, you’ll take a private vehicle to Carmelita, then hop on a boat towards the Lamanai Archaeological site. The boat ride is an adventure in itself, and your leader will help you spot all the colourful birds along the river. Arrive at the archaeological site and take some time to explore the remains of the ancient Mayan civilisation and its unearthed temples. After, head back up the river by 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 San Ignacio area, stopping along the way at the San Antonio Women’s Co-op – an organisation formed by local Mayan women as a way to share skills and traditional knowledge while earning an income. Join the local women for a cooking demonstration designed to preserve their culinary heritage, then sit down together for lunch. The rest of the afternoon is yours to spend as you please.
Included Activities:
- San Ignacio - Cooking Class
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Today, you’ll take a day trip to the UNESCO site and Mayan ruins in Tikal National Park – located just across the border in Guatemala. Among the thick, evergreen jungle are some of the most significant remnants of the ancient Maya civilisation – plus an array of local wildlife, including coatis and howler monkeys. Take in the towering limestone temples and other monuments while pondering the mystery of the ancient city's demise. After, enjoy an included group lunch and then make your way back to San Ignacio. Tonight is 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 is yours to take on any of the many optional activities available in San Ignacio. Maybe take a day trip to Xunantunich – an impressive Mayan ceremonial centre with panoramic views over the countryside. The east side of one of the temples has a unique moulded wall surface, and the central plaza has three carved stelae (stone slabs). Getting to the site is half the fun as you'll need to take a hand-cranked ferry to cross the river. Maybe head to the caves of Actun Tunichil Muknal – a living museum of Maya relics. Wade through the water until you reach the ceremonial site, where you’ll find ceramic pots and crystallised skeletons preserved by the natural processes of the cave for over 1400 years. If Maya ruins aren’t your thing, consider a trip to the Mountain Pine Ridge area to visit waterfalls and warm swimming holes, check out the butterfly garden, or canoe down the Barton Creek cave reserve.
Optional Activities:
- San Ignacio - Xunantunich Ruins entry (11 BZD)
- San Ignacio - Barton Creek canoe trip (200 BZD)
- San Ignacio - Actun Tunichil Muknal Caves (Incl. entry, guide, transport & lunch) (263 BZD)
- San Ignacio - Caracol Ruins (Incl. entry, guide & transport) (263 BZD)
- San Ignacio - Mountain Pine Ridge day trip (Incl. guide & transport) (200 BZD)
- San Ignacio - Cave tubing (incl. entrance, guide & transport) (200 BZD)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Today, take a private transfer to Belize City, where you’ll board a water taxi to the island of Caye Caulker. While there are a number of islands off the coast of the mainland, Caye Caulker is certainly the most famous (and arguably the most beautiful). Once you’ve arrived on Caye Caulker, take a golf cart to your hotel, then join your leader on an orientation walk to get to know this tiny and laidback island. You’ll notice no cars here, making it a real pleasure to explore. If you fancy, it’s possible to arrange day trips to the other islands or to some spectacular reefs for snorkelling – just chat with your leader about your options. Each island has its own character, but they all have the unmistakable Caribbean pace and charm. This evening, why not get your hands on some freshly caught seafood, often served in causal and colourful restaurants, to a soundtrack of reggae music.
Included Activities:
- Caye Caulker - Leader-led orientation walk
Optional Activities:
- Caye Caulker - Stand-up paddleboard hire (per hour) (44 BZD)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Your time in Caye Caulker is about taking it easy, so do as much (or as little) as you want with another free day here. If you're interested in sampling some local cuisine, Belize is famous for its barbequed food and some of the best meals are cooked on the roadside! Caye Caulker is also famous for its lobster – not the cheapest meal, but so (so) good. Always make sure that you respect the season – the lobsters can only be caught between June and February. If you’re out of season, how about some grilled shrimp and a lovely rum and coke made with the local firewater?
Optional Activities:
- Caye Caulker - Bicycle Rental (per day) (8 USD)
- Caye Caulker - Sunset Sailing (126 BZD)
- Caye Caulker - Full day Catamaran snorkeling tour in Hol Chan Marine Reserve-(gear, guide and transport included) (242 BZD)
- Caye Caulker - Full day speed boat-(gear, guide and transport included) (242 BZD)
- Caye Caulker - Stand-up paddleboard hire (per hour) (44 BZD)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
There are no activities planned today, and you can depart the accommodation at any time following checkout. If you would 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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