Belize and Tikal Private Expedition

The pristine nation of Belize is characterised by vibrant coral reefs that lie within the Caribbean Sea, lush jungles of Central America and a mélange of Caribbean and Latin American cultures. This 9-day private expedition will take you to the country’s remote southern reaches to discover coastal forests teeming with rare marine and birdlife, and sleepy villages where the culture of the modern-day Maya thrives. Journey to Guatemala and wander the ancient passageways of Tikal’s temples; and descend into the Maya underworld on a caving excursion. Then set out to explore the magical undersea of the Belize barrier reef that is teeming with magnificent wildlife.

Trip highlights

Canoe past calcite crystal formations in the Barton Creek Cave, and learn how the ancient Maya used this underworld for ceremonial purposes.

Delve into Maya culture at Copal Tree Lodge nestled among the remote villages and coastal jungles of southern Belize.

Take a private tour of the ancient Maya ruins of Tikal, Guatemala, located in the heart of a jungle brimming with tropical birds and animals.

Swim and snorkel among sea turtles, sharks, stingrays, and colourful coral reefs at the Hol Chan Marine Reserve and Shark Ray Alley; and opt to scuba dive in the sapphire depths of the Great Blue Hole.

Itinerary - 9 Days

1 Belize City/Punta Gorda, Belize

Arrive in Belize City, then fly to Punta Gorda. Transfer to Copal Tree Lodge nestled in the lush coastal jungles of southern Belize.
Copal Tree Lodge

2 Punta Gorda

Get your sea legs today: Visit the Rio Grande estuary, and then head to the Port Honduras Marine Reserve to watch for the endangered West Indian manatee at Frenchman Lagoon. Snorkel the Snake Cayes, teeming with a colourful array of fish and coral; and picnic along a white-sand beach on a tiny isle. Meet park rangers at Abalone Caye and learn about their efforts to stop poaching in this pristine marine sanctuary.
Copal Tree Lodge (B/L)

3 Punta Gorda

Travel to the Kek’chi Maya village and visit the home of a local family to learn about their culture. Roast and grind cacao beans for a Mayan-style cocoa drink, fry up tortillas, and sit down with your hosts to share a traditional Maya meal. Try your hand at weaving baskets and fabrics, and head outside for a guided walk to discover traditional uses of regional plants, herbs, and spices.
Copal Tree Lodge (B/L)

4 Punta Gorda/Belize City/Cayo District

Today, transfer to the Punta Gorda airport and fly to Belize City. Stop at the Belize Zoo, a rehabilitation sanctuary home to more than 170 animals native to the area. Learn about the animals and the different measures being taken to preserve their habitats before continuing to the Cayo District.
Chaa Creek (B/L)

5 Tikal, Guatemala

Cross the border into Guatemala for a full-day visit to the famous Maya ruins at Tikal. Take a private tour of this UNESCO World Heritage site, including the Great Plaza and its iconic Temple of the Jaguar, the Temple of the Mask, and Acropolis. As you explore the ancient city, keep your eyes peeled for the tropical animals and birds that inhabit the surrounding jungle.
Chaa Creek (B/L)

6 Cayo District/Ambergris Caye

This morning visit Barton Creek Cave and learn about how the cave served as a gateway to the underworld for the ancient Maya, and paddle a canoe along its aqueous passageways, studded with sparkling calcite crystals. Then fly to Ambergris Caye, the country’s largest island, and transfer to your hotel overlooking the Belize barrier reef. Spend the rest of the day at leisure in this tropical paradise.
Victoria House Resort & Spa (B/L)

7 Ambergris Caye

Embark on a half-day private snorkelling adventure in the deep blue waters of Belize. Swim among sea turtles, sharks, stingrays, and coral reefs at the Hol Chan Marine Reserve and Shark Ray Alley. Enjoy the rest of the day to explore on your own. Relax at your hotel’s private beach, or stroll the sandy streets of colourful San Pedro town.
Victoria House Resort & Spa (B)

8 Ambergris Caye

Explore the peninsula at your own pace today. Relax at the pool or retreat to the spa. Or opt to book your own excursion: Go scuba diving in Belize’s beguiling Great Blue Hole, get a bird’s eye view of the coast on a helicopter tour, head out on a guided boat tour in pursuit of indigenous birds, or charter a sunset cruise.
Victoria House Resort & Spa (B)