BELIZE HIGHLANDS, ISLANDS & TIKAL RUINS
From NZD $7,990 / per person
Tour Description
Discover two of the main highlights of Belize and visit the famous ruins of Tikal in Guatemala.
Uncover lush rainforests, ancient Mayan civilisations, and explore picturesque coral islands.
Formerly called British Honduras, Belize has a rich history starting with the great Maya civilization through pirates, buccaneers and slavery, to modern day independence and democracy. Explore two countries in one where you can find the unique Caribbean which is a blue-green world of picturesque mangrove and coral islands, reefs with a multitude of pristine islands with beautiful beaches as far as the eye can see. Within the jungle interior, encounter many of the ancient Maya civilization with pine-clad mountains, rivers and majestic waterfalls.
HIGHLIGHTS AND INCLUSIONS
Day 1 : Belize City > San Ignacio
Day 2 : San Ignacio
Day 3 : San Ignacio
Day 4 : San Ignacio > Tikal National Park > San Ignacio
Day 5 : San Ignacio > Belize City > Ambergris Caye
Day 6 : Hol Chan Marine Reserve & Shark Ray Alley
Day 7 : Ambergris Caye
Day 8 : Ambergris Caye > Belize City
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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.
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Departs
Daily, year-round
Included
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
Not Included
Belize and Guatemala border crossing fees
Gratuities
Important Notes
Please enquire for pricing to add a pre or post-stay in Belize City
Surcharges apply for the Christmas & New Year’s period
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Booking and Payments
Deposit: A non-refundable deposit of 30% of the total tour cost is required to confirm your booking.
Final Payment: The balance must be paid in full 90 days before the departure date. Failure to do so may result in the cancellation of your booking.
Cancellations and Refunds
Cancellation by Client:
More than 90 days before departure: Loss of deposit.
30-90 days before departure: 65% of the total tour cost.
Less than 30 days before departure: 100% of the total tour cost.
Cancellation by Company: We reserve the right to cancel the tour due to unforeseen circumstances. In such cases, a full refund will be provided.
Changes to Itinerary
Flexibility Required: Weather and road conditions may necessitate changes to the planned route and itinerary. Flexibility is essential.
Substitutions: We reserve the right to substitute accommodations and services of similar standard when necessary.
Travel Insurance
Mandatory: Comprehensive travel insurance covering medical expenses, personal injury, and emergency evacuation is mandatory for all participants.
Proof Required: Proof of insurance must be provided before the tour begins.
Health and Safety
Fitness Level: A reasonable level of fitness is required for participation in the activities outlined in the tour itinerary.
Medical Conditions: Participants must disclose any pre-existing medical conditions at the time of booking.
Liability
Responsibility: The company will not be held liable for any injury, loss, or damage to personal property that occurs during the tour.
Third-Party Services: The company is not responsible for the actions or omissions of third-party providers, such as airlines or accommodation services.
Visas and Documentation
Passport Validity: Passports must be valid for at least six months beyond the return date.
Visas: Obtaining necessary visas and travel documents is the responsibility of the participant.
Conduct
Respect for Culture: Participants are expected to respect local customs and cultures.
Behavior: Disruptive or harmful behavior may result in the participant being asked to leave the tour, with no refund provided.
Complaints
Immediate Reporting: Any complaints should be reported immediately to the tour leader to allow for a timely resolution.
Post-Tour Complaints: Complaints must be submitted in writing within 30 days of the tour's conclusion.
By booking this tour, you agree to adhere to these terms and conditions.