Full Belize

Day 1: Arrive Belize City

Arrive in Belize City at any time. Since there are no planned activities, check into the hotel and enjoy the city. For many years Belize has been a relatively unknown destination, and tourists have only recently begun to explore this fascinating country. Mention “Belize” and conjure up visions of unbelievably clear blue waters, diving and snorkelling along the barrier reef and remarkable marine life. Belize consists of massive amounts of jungle vegetation, ancient Mayan ruins, and above all, friendly, easygoing people. Belize is this and much more!
In many ways, Belize has more in common with its Caribbean rather than its Latin neighbours, although it has plenty of distinctively Central American features as well. It exhibits a unique blend of cultures that include Maya, Mestizo, African, European, Arabic and Asian. English is the first official language (as a former British Colony) and Spanish runs a close second, though the locals speak Creole the majority of the time. Please note: the heat and humidity of Belize may affect you upon arrival, with a general sense of lethargy and/or loss of appetite. This is no cause for alarm, it is simply your body’s reaction to the heat. Be sure to drink plenty of water (cold bottled water is available everywhere) and do not attempt too much in any given day. We prefer fan-cooled rather than air conditioned rooms to avoid having to acclimatize to the heat and humidity every time you go outside.

Day 2-4: Flores, Tikal, Guatemala

Depart Belize City by bus after breakfast, and cross the border into Guatemala. Immediately notice the difference in culture, with the heavy Mayan influence and Spanish language. Here we have entered Guatemala’s northeast jungle Petén region. The descendants of the Maya of Chichén Itzá migrated to the Petén area several centuries after the collapse of the great Mayan cities in the Yucatán. Visit the mysterious lost city of Tikal, buried deep in the rainforest. Tikal is probably the most impressive of all sites in the Mayan world, intensified by its secluded setting. It boasts a dense concentration of wildlife and the highest pyramids of the Mayan Civilization. A local bilingual guide will accompany us through the site during our foray into Tikal. The city of Tayasal was transformed into the city of Flores, officially founded by the Spanish in 1700. It remained an isolated area, relying on the subsistence farming of corn and beans and the gathering of chicle (gummy rubber obtained from trees). Despite the recent growth in the Petén, Flores remains a small island town, with narrow, cobble-stoned streets, small, brightly painted houses and friendly people. Few modern conveniences are embraced here, and though the island is now attached to the mainland by a causeway, many of the locals still get around by cayuco (dug-out canoe). All in all, Flores remains one of the most scenic and charming towns in the Petén. In order to gain an appreciation for this area of Guatemala, enjoy a day excursion to San José located on the shores of Lake Petén Itzá. Arrive at the local school where we receive a group Spanish lesson. The rainy season in the Petén is generally from mid-May until early January. Be prepared to get wet. Make sure you have plastic bags to wrap around the items in your daypack while hiking, and bring a good (light) waterproof jacket. Also make sure that you have strong insect repellent. The dry season runs January until mid-May. During this time you need to make sure you have adequate sunscreen.

Day 5-6: San Ignacio

Return to Belize and the town of San Ignacio, situated on the banks of the Macal River. San Ignacio is perfectly situated to visit the sites of the surrounding countryside. All activities here are optional, so the choice is yours: explore the Mayan cave of Tunichil Muknal, containing relics dating back 1400 years, visit the butterfly gardens or go tubing or canoeing through the natural limestone caves of the region.
The San Ignacio/ Mountain Pine Ridge area is the highlight of the trip for some travellers to Belize. The Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve covers almost 500 square kms (310 square miles) and only controlled logging is allowed. Interesting stops include Hidden Valley Falls, spectacular waterfalls dropping more than a 300 m (984 ft) over the granite edge of the jungle. Also well worth a visit, the Cave of the Stone Scepter, Actun Tunichil Muknal involves a 45-minute jungle hike to the opening of the cave, wading across a river three times before the adventure begins! Inside the cave, you’ll find a Mayan cermonial site. There you will be amazed by the natural museum of Mayan relics left just as it was by the Maya 1400 years ago. Ceramic pots, skulls, and calcified skeletons will enthrall even the most experienced speleologist.
Days trips can also be arranged to Xunantunich,an impressive Maya ceremonial centre located on a natural limestone ridge providing a grand view of the entire Cayo District and Guatemalan countryside. You can get a group together and hire a taxi to take you to the site. Getting there includes crossing a narrow river by a hand-cranked ferry which shuttles you across! There is a small fee to enter the grounds and a guide can give you the lowdown on the site.

Day 7-10: Belize River, San Ignacio

Enjoy the slow pace of the river as our local crew expertly guides you on the many twists and turns of the Belize River. Previous canoe experience is not required as the local expert guides know the rivers well and are happy to share their knowledge of the flora, fauna and history of the area. Depending on the season, either canoe upstream or downstream, visiting either Vaca Falls or paddling through the Community Baboon Sanctuary. Spend at least half of each day canoeing, with plenty of time for swimming and enjoying the scenery. Note that we camp for the nights we are on the river. Make sure you bring waterproof bags to help keep your things dry. Please note that for the 2 nights of camping, no bathroom facilities are provided. The guides will brief you on environmentally safe practices in this regard.
After three days and two nights on the river, you will return to San Ignacio for two more nights. Anything you were not able to fit in the first time you were here? Now is your chance!
Includes 2 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners

Day 11-14: Caye Caulker

After the jungle jaunt, approach life in the slow lane for some serious R&R. All thoughts of the jungle are replaced with sun, sand and fantastic snorkelling and diving opportunities. Snorkel on a full day trip out to the barrier reef where you may have the chance to view nurse sharks, stingrays, barracuda, and other marine life. Caye Caulker is a relaxed and easy-going island with friendly and welcoming local residents. The main street is a sandy pathway through the centre of town surrounded by small bakeshops and seafood stands. There is not much to do on the island except relax and explore the reef. Snorkel and dive boats leave daily for full or half-day outings to the reef, Hol Chan Marine Reserve, the Blue Hole and manatee spotting tours at Swallow Caye. These animals are gentle giants but sadly are one of the most endangered marine mammals on the planet. The barrier reef is the world's second longest (after Australia’s) and offers some truly amazing sights including coral canyons and an astonishing range of tropical fish, Manta Rays, sharks and barracudas, as well as the more mundane, edible varieties of fish. The night of day 14 may be in either Belize City or on the island. Transfer by water taxi back to Belize City to meet people who may be joining the tour.

Day 15: Belize City

Day 15 is both the departure day for the Hummingbird Highway and the arrival day for Kayak Belize tour. No activities have been planned, however there will be a briefing in the evening regarding the upcoming segment of the tour.

Day 16: Placencia

Depart Belize City by van for the small coastal town of Placencia. Spend the first afternoon getting acquainted with this charming town and its golden beach. Enjoy fresh seafood for dinner at one of the delightful restaurants in town. Most Belizeans agree that Placencia is one of the nicest places in the country to visit. One of the oldest villages in the country, Placencia hasn't been spoiled by high-rise hotels or huge tour groups which have transformed many other once-placid Caribbean locations. There is an informality that's very special and highly contagious. After spending a day getting used to the laid back Belizean lifestyle, grab your paddle and prepare for your adventure.

Day 17-20: Island Hopping

Travel by motorboat to the jumping off point for our kayaking adventure. Exact starting point and route vary depending on local weather and other conditions—we try to stay one step ahead of everyone else! Spend the next 4 days kayaking between islands and we may stop in a variety of cayes near the Gladden Split Marine Reserve. Paddle for approximately 2 to 4 hours per day, which will leave you with plenty of free time to snorkel, relax on the beach, explore, read or do more paddling around the islands. Sleep on the islands in tents, or, if you prefer, under the stars. Beach picnics will occur everyday and food will consist of fresh fish, fruit and vegetables. In April you have the chance to spot Whale Sharks, a gentle giant that is the world’s largest fish and harmless to humans. The reef is the world's second longest (after Australia) and offers some truly amazing sights including coral canyons and an astonishing range of tropical fish, manta rays, sharks and barracudas, as well as the more mundane and edible varieties of fish.
We have found that a kayak offers an unmatched first-hand, natural experience off the Belize coast. We use single and two-person sea kayaks on our expedition, which are fully equipped with everything you need to make your trip safe and enjoyable. Your local guide has over 25 years experience kayaking in the Belizean Cayes and will have you feeling at home in your kayak before you know it. Remember, NO PREVIOUS KAYAKING EXPERIENCE IS NECESSARY.

Day 21: Placencia

Return to Placencia after a morning paddle or snorkel, and enjoy a well-deserved fresh water shower, dinner and a real bed at our comfortable seaside hotel.

Day 22: Depart Belize City

Early morning flight to Belize City to connect with your international flight