Belize, Islands & Maya Adventure

Day 1 Belize City / Cayo

Meeting and assistance upon arrival in Belize City and transfer to the Cayo District and the Blancaneaux Hotel. Tucked into the remote mountains of western Belize, amid pristine rainforest, Francis Ford Coppola's Blancaneaux Lodge overlooks the gentle rapids and shimmering waterfalls of the Privassion River where the flora of both the jungle and pine forest intertwine in the stunning landscape. Adventures abound in the surrounding 300-square-mile Mountain Pine Ridge Reserve. Some of the most extensive Mayan ruins in Central America are a short drive away. Walk in the steps of the ancient Mayans or explore pristine rivers in a canoe. Cool off in the Lodge's river cascades. Explore the rainforest on horseback or mountain bike. Spot iguanas, rare howler monkeys and brilliant butterflies – all with the region’s most trusted and knowledgeable guides.

Day 2 Cayo (Mountain Pine Ridge & Caracol)

After breakfast, we depart for our full day tour of Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve where you will marvel at the natural beauty of 1,000-foot Hidden Valley Falls; the Rio Frio Caves; the Rio on Caves and an opportunity to cool off in the refreshing waters of Rio on Pools. Bring along your binoculars for there is bountiful exotic flora and fauna, endemic to this extremely rugged and beautiful part of the country. Continue to the magnificent Maya site of Caracol (Mayan for snail), one of Belize’s most valued treasures. Picnic lunch included. Return to your Cayo hotel for overnight. (B,L)

Day 3 Cayo

Day is your to relax enjoy the hotel and its surroundings or opt for one of many optional tours. OPTIONAL 1: CARACOL (off-road driving): Accessible only by 4 wheel drive vehicle and located deep in the Chiquibul Forest, Caracol is the most extensive Mayan Center in the country. On the way, drive through pine forest and into rainforest. The high canopy rainforest is home to several species of cats, as well as such rare birds as the keel-billed Motmot, Toucan and Aracari. OPTIONAL 2: XUNANTUNICH: Once a ceremonial center in the Mayan classical period, with a spectacular view from the top of El Castillo; the main pyramid. The frieze on the eastern wall of the pyramid is one of the finest Mayan sculptures in Belize. This tour can also be combined with a tour of Ix-Chel, a research facility specializing in the rain forest medicine plants. OPTIONAL 3: TIKAL: After breakfast, we depart toward the Guatemala / Belize border to Benque Viejo on the Belize side and Melchor Village on the Guatemala side. After some customs formalities, you continue to Flores in the Peten Region to begin our tour of the majestic Tikal Maya Site (Mayan for places of voices) nestled in the dense jungles of Peten. Visit the main pyramid for a breathtaking view of the surrounding jungle including the Palace of the Nobles and the Lost World Complex, a recently discovered structure from the Pre-Classic Period, more ancient than Tikal itself. The entire site has been extensively excavated and is the most recognized of all the Maya sites. Return to Belize and our hotel in Cayo for overnight. (B)

Day 4 Cayo / Ambergris Caye

After breakfast, transfer to the airport in Belize for a short commuter-like flight to one of Belize's coastal islands, Ambergris Caye. Meeting and assistance upon arrival and transfer to Victoria House your Ambergris Caye hotel. Located on the picturesque island of Ambergris Caye, just two miles south of the town of San Pedro is Victoria House, luxury hotel and resort. The Victoria House doesn't merely have the feel of a resort as you soon realize that it is a complete and total retreat, free from the boundaries and pressures of day-to-day life and renowned as one of the best bare-foot resorts in the region. Nestled among tall swaying palms on white sand beaches with an ambiance of relaxation, privacy and casual elegance the resort offers all the services of a luxury hotel without the formalities. The accommodations are varied here and sure to please you. Surrounded by ten acres of tropical flowers and fauna are Plantation rooms and suites, charming Palapa Casitas and three private Villa's, all fully air-conditioned and most with beach views. A lovely beachfront swimming pool is the perfect gathering place to relax, indulge in a fresh seafood lunch and soak up some island sunshine. On the hotel's pier is Fantasea Dive Center where Javier Williams, Victoria House Activities Coordinator, is ready to facilitate your day trips, arrange your reef and fly-fishing guides and incredible Belize diving and snorkeling experiences. (B)

Day 5 Ambergris Caye

After breakfast, day at leisure to enjoy the beach or take an optional diving/snorkeling tour to visit the Blue Hole, one of the largest living barrier reefs in the world, second to only the Great Barrier Reef in Australia. Overnight at your hotel. (B)

Day 6 Ambergris Caye

After breakfast, day at leisure to bask in the sun or for shopping. (B)

Day 7 Ambergris Caye

Another day free in Paradise to partake in many activities offered at the hotel. (B)

Day 8 Ambergris Caye / Belize City

After breakfast, transfer back to the airport for your short flight back to Belize City. (B)

Remarks

Not included:
International airfare; gratuities of any kind; airport departure taxes; meals unless included in the itinerary; beverages; incidental charges; optional tours.

Departing from another city? Ask about our special airfares on American Airlines for this program.