Belize and Tikal

Our active journey in Belize showcases a bounty of natural history adventures: we explore the rainforests of legendary Chan Chich, haunt of the elusive jaguar, hike, wade, and climb through an ancient ceremonial cave in the Maya Mountains, and experience the wonder of spectacular Tikal, where giant pyramids soar out of a vast jungle reserve alive with the calls of birds and monkeys. Hand-selected lodges place us in incredible settings within walking distance of Mayan ruins and deep in the midst of an utter abundance of rare birds and tropical wildlife. Our trip extensions include the chance to experience unbelievably rich snorkeling in the wondrous underwater universe of Belize’s famed Barrier Reef and explorations in the Guatemala Highlands, including the lovely colonial town of Antigua.

Itinerary at a Glance

For a more complete description, Download Full Trip Brochure

Days 1-2
Lamanai / Chan Chich

After an overnight in Belize City, we boat along the New River to Lamanai Archaeological Reserve, with its “lost city” atmosphere. Lamanai’s massive Late Pre-Classic temple, the tallest known Pre-Classic structure, rises ten stories out of the forest, offering phenomenal views across the ancient Maya world. In the afternoon, we head to Chan Chich, one of the most delightful rainforest retreats in the world, encircled by 130,000 private acres of prime forest.

Days 3-4
Chan Chich

A famed birding location, Chan Chich has an avian list that tops 350 species. All five species of jungle cat—jaguar, puma, ocelot, margay, and jaguarundi—are here, with jaguars seen at the rate of about one per week, a record unmatched anywhere else. We explore on foot and by 4WD vehicle, with evening walks to look for nocturnal animals.

Days 5-6
Maya Mountains / Actun Tunichil Muknal

We head to our lodge in the subtropical forests of the Maya Mountains for nature walks, swimming, and tubing in the Roaring River. At nearby Actun Tunichil Muknal, we hike, swim, and wade as we follow a clear turquoise stream deep into a mystical cavern used for centuries by the Maya for ceremonies.

Days 7-8
Tikal / Guatemala City

The sheer scale of Tikal is extraordinary, its steep-sided pyramids towering 20 stories above a vast jungle reserve. We climb the central stairways of the pyramids, explore the ball courts and great plazas, and search for toucans and monkeys in the treetops. Our bungalows adjacent to the ruins allow us to savor the dusk and dawn serenade of the Petén rainforest surrounding us. Depart on Day 8 via Guatemala City, or join one of our extensions.

For a more complete description, Download Full Trip Brochure

Optional Extensions

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

• Turneffe Island Resort Extension (5 days)
• Guatemala Highlands Extension (5 days)

What the Trip is Like

The trip is rated Level 2, Easy to Moderate. We enjoy moderate nature hikes of two to three hours on several days. On the Barrier Reef extension, both novice and experienced snorkelers will enjoy the snorkeling excursions, and there is plenty of time for swimming and relaxing.

Explanation of Trip Levels