Belize and Tikal Private Journey

Snorkel the amazing turquoise waters of the largest Barrier Reef in the Western Hemisphere, explore the astonishing temples of Tikal, and, on an optional extension, head to Chaa Creek in Belize’s forested foothills to hike jungle trails, canoe a tropical river, and explore ancient ceremonial caves of the Maya.

Itinerary at a Glance

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Day 1
Belize’s Barrier Reef

The 200-mile-long Belize Barrier Reef, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the natural wonders of the planet, its warm (80°!) waters teeming with intriguing marine life, including fascinating coral formations and hundreds of species of exotic fish. Instead of staying on the coast (with long boat rides to snorkeling sites), we’ve chosen wonderful accommodations on an idyllic private coral atoll right on the reef, where unbelievably rich snorkeling is just a 10-minute boat ride from the white-sand beaches. In these sheltered waters, many sites are perfect for novice and experienced snorkelers alike.

Days 2-4
Barrier Reef Snorkeling

From an intimate lodge—the sole accommodation on the entire island—you’ll venture out to snorkel among eagle rays, rainbow-hued parrotfish, black-and-yellow striped angelfish, sergeant majors, and a host of other jewel-bright fish. There’s also a chance of seeing hawksbill, loggerhead, or green sea turtles, playful dolphins, and flying fish. The waters are so extraordinarily clear that a look through your mask reveals a kaleidoscopic world of flamboyant corals in shades from deep purple to brilliant red. (A stay at the Turneffe Island Resort also offers the opportunity to visit the legendary Blue Hole, a dive site discovered by Jacques Cousteau that’s an amazing marvel of nature with its incredible walls and drop-offs.) Back at the lodge, additional activities include sea kayaking, a wonderful way to explore the shallow turquoise waters (with no previous experience required), bone fishing, or beachcombing along the pristine beaches. At night you’ll dine with other guests on local Caribbean culinary delights like conch, fresh fish, and tropical fruits, then kick back to gaze at the brilliant star-filled sky and the moonlight reflecting on these magical waters.

Days 5-6
Tikal

Returning to the coast, head inland to Guatemala for a guided exploration of unforgettable Tikal, one of Central America’s most magnificent archaeological sites. (Our optional mid-trip extension to Chaa Creek in Belize’s Maya Mountains begins on Day 5 and is followed by the excursion to Tikal.) In this classic Maya city, probably settled around 700 BC and mysteriously abandoned in 705 AD, ancient temple pyramids soar out of the lush rainforest canopy of an immense jungle reserve. You’ll feast your eyes on towering steep-sided limestone structures including the famous 144-foot-tall Temple of the Giant Jaguar, with its nine stories representing the nine layers of the Maya underworld, walk the steep central stairways of the pyramids, explore the ball courts and great plazas, listen to the howler monkeys and calls of birds (there are some 400 resident bird species in unbridled abundance), and marvel at the sheer scale of the setting. Today this site is protected within Parque Nacional Tikal, set on the edge of the huge Maya Biosphere Reserve, the largest tropical reserve in Central America. The vastness of this lost city is amazing, with hundreds of vine-draped structures still unexcavated by archaeologists. Scholars have yet to discover the mystery that caused Tikal’s eventual abandonment, and this awesome site will no doubt provoke some intense speculation of your own.

Day 7
Depart

Transfer to Flores then fly to Guatemala City and depart.

For a more complete description, Download Full Trip Brochure

Optional Extensions

If you would like to continue your adventure, we offer the following extension:

• Guatemala Highlands Extension (5 days)

What the Trip is Like

This trip is rated Level 2, Easy to Moderate, according to our trip rating system. Although the overall pace of this trip is relaxed and you are free to choose the activities you like, this is an active vacation. The shape you’re in is an important factor in your enjoyment of various activities.

Explanation of Trip Levels