Belize Highlands, Islands & Tikal Ruins By World Journeys

Belize Highlands, Islands & Tikal Ruins By World Journeys

8 Days / 7 Nights from $7,990 Price Per Person

Sales from 01 January 2024 to 31 December 2024

**Day 1 : Belize City > San Ignacio**

On arrival in Belize City, you will be met and transferred approximately three hours to The Lodge at Chaa Creek in San Ignacio where you will stay in a Garden Suite for four nights.

**Day 2 : San Ignacio**

Today explore Xunantunich, meaning “The Stone Maiden” in Maya which is reached by a hand-cranked ferry across the Mopan River. It’s among Belize’s most renowned Maya sites, offering panoramic views from atop the largest pyramid, El Castillo. Afterwards enjoy lunch before stopping at Barton Creek Cave, an ancient Maya burial site, that requires a canoe journey to explore its stunning stalactite and stalagmite formations. As you paddle, you will pass through the scenic Barton Creek Mennonite community, offering glimpses of their daily life. After the cave excursion, cool off with a swim in the crystalline waters of Barton Creek, completing a memorable adventure through Belize’s rich cultural and natural heritage.

**Day 3 : San Ignacio**

Journey to Caracol which was discovered in 1938 and initially considered a ceremonial centre until extensive excavations in the 1980s revealed its true significance. In 1986, an elaborately carved altar stone depicted Caracol’s victory over Tikal, filling a crucial gap in Maya history and establishing Caracol as the “Supreme” Maya city. The Canaa pyramid, which rises 42 metres, is Belize’s tallest man-made structure. Located south of San Ignacio in the Maya Mountains, Caracol offers over 2590 square kilometres of scenic landscapes, including pine forests, river valleys, and waterfalls. Hidden Valley Falls, cascading 457 metres, and the Rio Frio Cave are notable attractions. During your excursion, you will enjoy lunch and finish off your day with a refreshing swim in the Rio On Pools.

**Day 4 : San Ignacio > Tikal National Park > San Ignacio**

Today your adventure will take you to Tikal, nestled in bordering Guatemala’s lush Peten region, which reigns as the grandest of all Mayan sites in Mesoamerica. Surrounded by dense, high-canopy jungle, it boasts a rich biodiversity that parallels the awe-inspiring splendour of its temples. Despite decades of exploration since the 1930s, experts believe there’s still a century’s worth of excavation and discovery within its expansive 90 square kilometres. This archaeological treasure trove continues to captivate with its hidden secrets, inviting adventurers to delve into its mysteries and uncover the ancient wonders that lie beneath the verdant canopy. As one of the most significant remnants of Mayan civilization, Tikal stands as a testament to the ingenuity and sophistication of its builders, drawing visitors from around the globe to marvel at its monumental architecture and immerse themselves in its timeless allure.

**Day 5 : San Ignacio > Belize City > Ambergris Caye**

This morning travel back to Belize City and then board your domestic flight to San Pedro on Ambergris Caye. Upon arrival, you will transfer to Grand Caribe Resort where you will stay in a One Bedroom Oceanview Condo for three nights. This charming Caribbean island has a 40-kilometre shoreline with sun-drenched beaches which run almost parallel to the famous Barrier Reef, less than 80 metres offshore.

**Day 6 : Hol Chan Marine Reserve & Shark Ray Alley**

This half-day tour explores the wonders of Hol Chan, Belize’s second most popular snorkel site and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This underwater National Park teems with thousands of fish, from large to small, amid breathtaking coral formations. Hol Chan, meaning “Little Channel,” offers safe snorkelling for beginners and exhilarating dives for advanced adventurers. Its well-preserved marine ecosystem boasts a diverse array of species, making it a must-see destination for snorkelers and divers alike. Marvel at the incredible stories of this marine wonderland, where the magnificence of the Marine Reserve is celebrated and guarded with care. Dive into Hol Chan to witness firsthand the vibrant underwater life and stunning coral reefs that make it one of the world’s best dive sites.

**Day 7 : Ambergris Caye**

Today is at your leisure to explore Ambergris Caye and San Pedro. Optional activities can include snorkelling at Mexico Rocks Marine Reserve, scuba diving, and reef fishing.

**Day 8 : Ambergris Caye > Belize City**

This morning transfer back to the airport for your short domestic flight back to Belize City where your arrangements end.

Inclusions

• • Tailor-made journey
  • 7 nights’ accommodation
  • 7 breakfasts and 3 lunches
  • Meet & Greet at airports
  • Private transfers as per the itinerary
  • Fixed-wing flights Belize City > San Pedro > Belize City
  • Shared sightseeing as per the itinerary
  • English-speaking local guides
  • Entrance and park fees as per the itinerary