- Join a small group of like-minded adventurers to discover the best of Belize
- Stay within the Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary, home to birds, crocs and monkeys
- Travel into Guatemala for a sunrise tour around the jungle ruins of Tikal
- Float along the Caves Branch River in an inflatable tube to see the Mayan underworld
- Enjoy the laid-back island life of Caye Caulker and the Belize Barrier Reef - the largest coral reef in the Northern Hemisphere
- Snorkel in Hol Chan Marine Reserve, a vital habitat for sea turtles, manatees and dolphins
Belize Reef & Ruins
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12 Days
Excluding Flights From
14 Days
from
Culture
Activity Level
Easy & Moderate
See our Activity Level Guidelines to check if this holiday is right for you.
Comfort Level
Classic
Itinerary
Belize City Belize City London London
Depart London
The group flight overnights in the USA before connecting tomorrow morning with a flight to Belize City. Hotel accommodation will be organised in Houston or Miami near the airport for convenience. Note – your trip Tour Leader will not be present with the group during USA overnight stays and will be meeting the group upon arrival to Belize City.
Accommodation: Hampton Inn: Houston North IAH or Miami Airport – South Blue Lagoon (or similar)
Journey to Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary
Arrive in Belize and travel to the Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary, named for the ‘crooked’ cashew trees that grow around the lagoon. Wetland areas weave throughout, providing a habitat for some 286 bird species, the migratory jabiru stork being the most famous. Crocodiles, monkeys, otters and freshwater turtles also reside here. It’s a peaceful destination with an interesting community and history; the village of Crooked Tree is thought to be the earliest European settlement in Belize. Tonight, we enjoy a welcome dinner at the hotel.
Accommodation: Bird’s Eye View Lodge (or similar)
Fly to Belize City; to Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary
Clients on the group flight will arrive in Belize City today. We transfer (approximately one hour) to the Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary, our base for the next two nights. Known for being a great destination for birds, the wildlife sanctuary gets its name from the ‘crooked’ cashew trees that grow around the lagoon. Wetland areas weave throughout, providing a habitat for some 286 bird species, the migratory jabiru stork being the most famous. Crocodiles, monkeys, otters and freshwater turtles also reside here. It’s a peaceful destination with an interesting community and history; the village of Crooked Tree is thought to be the earliest European settlement in Belize.
Accommodation: Bird’s Eye View Lodge (or similar)
Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary hike and sunset cruise
Wake up fresh to beautiful bird songs. In the morning, we join our guide to explore the on-site hiking trails, looking for the birds and other amazing animals that live here. Back at the lodge, we have lunch and relax.
Later this afternoon, our wildlife tour continues with a three-hour guided sunset boat trip on the lagoon. Migratory birds tend to visit between December and May, but plenty of resident species are seen throughout the year. From our small boat, it’s easy to appreciate the tranquillity of the sanctuary.
Accommodation: Bird’s Eye View Lodge (or similar)
Boat ride to Lamanai Mayan temple
This morning, we venture by boat to the Mayan temple of Lamanai (meaning Submerged Crocodile) on the shores of the New River Lagoon. It is thought to be the largest Mayan ceremonial site in the region with more than 800 structures deep in the jungle. As we cruise, our guide points out the resident bird species and wildlife, including spider monkeys and crocodiles.
We then explore the glories of the site, including the High Temple, where we can ascend 125ft (38m) to the top and take in breath-taking views of the complex.
Accommodation: Bird’s Eye View Lodge (or similar)
Visit howler monkey sanctuary and float down the Caves Branch River
This morning, we head west to the town of San Ignacio. Along the way, we visit the Community Baboon Sanctuary, a grassroots conservation project that protects the endangered black howler monkey (there are no baboons in Belize, but this is the name used in the local Creole dialect). The reserve provides 20sqmi (52sqkm) of forest for the estimated 4,000 to 5,000 resident black howler monkeys – you’ll certainly hear their calls as you enter the sanctuary!
Our adventure continues when, following a short river ford and hike, we each sit in an inflatable tube and float down the Caves Branch River. Our gentle journey takes us through a series of caves once thought to be Xibalba, the Mayan underworld. As we go, our local guide reveals the mysteries of life after death in the religion of the ancient Maya.
After, we continue to San Ignacio, a laid-back town with a mixed population of Mestizo, Creole, Lebanese, Chinese and Mennonites. A great example of multicultural Belize.
Accommodation: Cahal Pech Resort (or similar)
Tour Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve
Today we take a break from the jungle and explore the scenic beauty of Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve. It was established in 1944 to protect and manage this unique Caribbean pine forest habitat and noticeably contrasts to the rest of the tropical country. We will take a nature walk on our way to explore the spectacular Rio Frio Cave – whose entrance alone is 65ft (20m) tall and opens into an immense cave chamber. Afterwards we enjoy a picnic lunch overlooking the scenic “Rio on Pools”, where a series of mini-waterfalls has worn the granite into inviting pools. Lunch will be followed by an opportunity to visit the pools (a great spot to cool off from the heat).
The reserve is also home to a variety of wildlife, including white-nosed coatis, tapirs, ocelots, cougars and jaguars. Resident birds include native stygian owls, blue-crowned motmots, king vultures, keel-billed toucans, parrots, bluebirds and woodpeckers, which are joined by visiting orange-breasted falcons and tanagers.
We end the day with 2 unique experiences on our way back to San Ignacio. First, we visit a Butterfly Farm that supports a local conservation project and is abuzz with hummingbirds. Secondly, we will learn about and enjoy a craft coffee experience that incorporates Mayan harvesting and preparation techniques.
Accommodation: Cahal Pech Resort (or similar)
Free day for San Ignacio optional excursions
We have a free day to enjoy San Ignacio and the surrounding area. There is a range of optional activities, including a visit to the Actun Tunichil Muknal cave (ATM for short). This popular full-day cave tour starts with a short swim into the Mayan underworld to view the Crystal Maiden, the crystalised skeleton of a young woman whose bones have calcified and now sparkle. San Ignacio is lovely to explore and there are short excursions available from town, including a chocolate tour or a walk amid the Mayan ruins at Cahal Pech – see the Extra Expenses & Spending Money section of the Trip Notes for more.
Accommodation: Cahal Pech Resort (or similar)
Cross to Guatemala with Xunantunich exploration en route
On our way to the Guatemalan border, we visit Xunantunich, one of the most important Maya sites in Belize. The centre is composed of six major plazas surrounded by more than 25 temples and palaces. The largest pyramid here, El Castillo, rises 130ft (40m) above the main plaza and offers an impressive panorama over the Mopan River valley and into Guatemala.
After exploring, we cross into Guatemala where we meet an additional local guide, driver and vehicle to transfer us to the Tikal Jungle Lodge, where we spend the next two nights.
Accommodation: Tikal Jungle Lodge (or similar)
Tour the Mayan ruins of Tikal
We rise early to enjoy a sunrise tour of Unesco-listed Tikal, nearly 20sqmi (52sqkm) of classic ruins surrounded by the dense jungle of Petén. We take a tour of the city, visiting the main temples, palaces, squares, tombs, residences and religious monuments. The area was thought to support a population of 90,000 Mayans at its peak and there are some 3,000 separate buildings to explore. Tikal is also a superb area for observing jungle wildlife and visitors regularly see howler monkeys, spider monkeys, toucans, weaver birds, coatimundis and even tarantulas (if you know where to look and wish to find one!). After a full morning touring Tikal with our guide, we have lunch and return to the lodge to enjoy an evening soundtracked by the jungle.
Accommodation: Tikal Jungle Lodge (or similar)
Return to Belize; rum tour and Caye Caulker
We leave Guatemala this morning and journey back to Belize City. Here, we visit Travellers Liquors (home of the much-loved One Barrel Rum) for a history lesson in rum-making at their heritage centre. This features the bottling process, product sampling, Belizean cocktail-making tips, and opportunities to sample and purchase vintage-edition rum.
We then head to the Belize City water taxi station where we take a boat to the Caribbean island paradise of Caye Caulker. Here lies the delicate coral of the Belize Barrier Reef, which provides food and shelter to a dizzying number of tropical fish, with manatees, nurse sharks, stingrays and turtles sharing the warm turquoise waters.
Accommodation: La Isla Resort (or similar)
Full day of snorkelling in Hol Chan Marine Reserve
Just off the southern part of Ambergris Caye, the largest island in Belize and a few minutes’ boat ride from Caye Caulker, is the Hol Chan Marine Reserve (the name means Little Channel in Mayan and is named for the natural break in the reef here).
This area is an important marine habitat, providing refuge for a huge number of fish, coral, several sea turtle species, West Indian manatees and two dolphin species. Nurse sharks also congregate in Shark Ray Alley, a popular dive site. Bring your waterproof camera, today we join a full-day snorkelling tour in the reserve to see a wide selection of the marine life in these tropical waters.
Accommodation: La Isla Resort (or similar)
Free day to enjoy Caye Caulker
Today has been left free to enjoy the laid-back spirit of Caye Caulker. Spend your day relaxing by the pool, the beach or take a stroll to explore this charming island town atop the reef. Paddleboards and kayaks are also available free of charge from the hotel. Don’t forget to grab a cold beverage as you watch the sun set on your Belizean adventure.
Accommodation: La Isla Resort (or similar)
Transfer to Belize City; end
This morning, we wave goodbye to our island paradise and return to Belize City by water taxi and begin our return journeys home. If you’d like to spend more time in or Caye Caulker, speak to your sales representative about extending your stay.
Transfer to Belize City; depart
This morning, we wave goodbye to our island paradise and return to Belize City by water taxi. Those on the group flights will be transferred to the airport in time for their return flight.
Arrive London
Hotels and lodges
We stay six nights in hotels and five nights in destination lodges. (Those on the group flights will have an extra hotel night in Houston en route)
In Crooked Tree and Tikal, we stay in lodges surrounded by tropical forest and the sounds of the jungle. In San Ignacio, we can enjoy the pool and view from our hotel perched on a hill overlooking the river valley. While in Caye Caulker our 3 star hotel has island flair and comes with a pool, private beach and rooftop lounge.
Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary: Bird’s Eye View Lodge (nights 1-3)
Bird’s Eye View Lodge is located in the heart of the Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary. The sanctuary is known as the top neotropical birding site in Belize. The lodge offers modest rooms, air-conditioned rooms, a bar and full restaurant serving delicious local and international cuisine.
San Ignacio: Cahal Pech Resort (nights 4-6)
Cahal Pech Village Resort is perched on a hill overlook the town of San Ignacio. The in addition air-conditioned rooms, this relaxed resort also has two pools, a bar, restaurant and is a stone’s throw from the Mayan site of Cahal Pech.
Tikal: Tikal Jungle Lodge (nights 7, 8)
Tikal Jungle Lodge is in the heart of Tikal National Park and a short walk from the ruins. The rooms feature architectural decorative details and amenities designed to deliver a relaxing experience in the middle of the jungle. The restaurant serves international cuisine, and the bar offers a variety of cocktails to enjoy at the bar or poolside after a day of exploring Tikal. Note – in accordance with park regulations, power generators run with limited service in rooms from 10pm-6am (powering ceiling fan, one nightlight and one outlet).
Caye Caulker: La Isla Resort (nights 9-11)
After all our exploring the Mayan world, it’s time to relax a bit. La Isla Resort is a beachfront hotel centrally located in Caye Caulker and a short walk to everything. The rooms are bright and functional with air-conditioning. The resort has a relaxing pool, free to use kayaks and paddleboards, as well as rooftop lounge area to watch the sunset.
Worth knowing
- Single rooms can be booked for an optional single supplement, subject to availability at the time of booking.
Reviews
Add your own reviewBelize Reef and Ruins
Spending a few days in Belize (Caye Caulker specifically) before the tour began allowed time to rest after the flights as well as time to acclimatize to the heat and humidity. Before this trip, Belize was a place on the map where I had never been. By the end of the trip, I came away with the feeling that “Belize was now in my blood and would always have a very special place in my heart”. Every day and every place was absolutely alive with new learning opportunities. I would say this trip is very good value for money and would highly recommend.
Most Inspirational Moment
Birdwatching (particularly at Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary) was phenomenal. Not only was Jorge able to identify all the fauna and flora, he provided a wealth of information about each. He imparted a poignant reminder of how inextricably linked we are to nature, that nature has so much to teach us, and that we have a responsibility to care for all manner of life. The visits to the archaeological site at Lamanai and the stunning Mayan ruins at Tikal, and learning about the history of the Mayan civilization, was incredibly interesting and humbling. The experience of being in inner tubes in the pitch dark caves (Caves Branch River) and listening to all of the sounds, and then turning our headlamps back on to see the interior with its stalactites and stalagmites and all the various patterns, was pure magic! Another of my most memorable experiences came early on during a visit to a little museum at Crooked Tree. I said to the local guide who escorted us through the museum that "if only all of my teachers had been like you, I'd probably be pretty smart today"! Like our guide Jorge, and all the other guides throughout the tour, he was an engaging storyteller and very proud of his country, such that his passion was truly infectious. Really appreciated that our last few days were in Caye Caulker and that the last day was a "free" day. That being said, it was election day and no alcohol was being served which meant that some of the places were closed. The size and the camaraderie of the whole group added a whole extra element of enjoyment for me. Though I haven't mentioned other experiences and places, all were extremely worthy of note.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Jorge was, without exception, the best tour leader I have ever experienced. Not only was he knowledgeable, about the history and culture of Belize, the history of the Mayan civilization, and all the fauna and flora, he never tired of sharing his vast array of knowledge. He was engaging, enthusiastic, fun and was forever watching out for the safety of the group. But for his excellent leadership, it's difficult to imagine I would have enjoyed this trip as much as I did. Definitely a 10/10. His amazing organizational skills and incredible rapport with all of the drivers and other local guides who were part of this tour (both in Belize and Guatemala) ensured that everything ran smoothly and in a timely fashion. In short, Jorge is worth his weight in gold and Exodus should be very proud to have him as a tour guide. • Two other experiences I will mention both relate to the need for medical attention while in Belize and the way it was handled. A few days into the tour, I became quite unwell as a result of infected mosquito bites. Jorge called ahead to the medical facility. From beginning to end, I felt supported and safe in every way possible and will be forever grateful both for Jorge's involvement and the excellent care received by the clinic in San Ignacio. The second experience involved one of my friends who was also part of the tour. It became necessary for her to deboard the plane (going home) because she was not well enough to fly. I immediately contacted Exodus and they arranged for an appointment at a medical facility, organized all related transportation while we remained in Belize City over the next few days, and found us a hotel, all the while checking on the status of my friend. I can't say enough about Exodus and look forward to exploring other trips with them.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Really important (as stressed in trip notes) to drink lots of water. Sunscreen and bug repellant - a must! Accommodation ranged from good to excellent (as accurately reflected in the trip notes). The food overall was very tasty and varied and seafood was always fresh. There was always a good selection and I particularly enjoyed trying the Belizean dishes. As travelling was primarily by mini-bus, and many of the roads were dirt and gravel, it made for slow-going. However, as our group was small (7 plus guide), each of us were able to have our own window seat and there were ample opportunities provided for bathroom stops along the way.
Recommend Belize Reef & Ruins
Joined a group of six, delightful Brits and our extremely capable, watchful and kind guide Jorge for our adventure in Belize. Culturally this was a tour that gave us daily opportunities to enjoy and experience Belizian and Guatamalean history, Mayan civilization , natural beauty and current social/political/environmental environments. Our trip was 1/19-1/30. Just about perfect amount of time to explore with 3 home bases that lent well to the itinerary and our comfort. As a fit 69 and 78 year old couple we found the daily pace comfortable. Though speaking of comfort know that the daily transportation, across pot hole filled roads, is a 10 passenger van which is ok if you are slight of build but if you are over weight or taller than 5′ 9″ you will not be comfortable on the 2 to 3 hour drives.
Climate Change – its here and its real both in the USA and Belize. Our trip was 1/19-1/30/25 and we had a lot of rain. Ones experience is best if you have packed for that wet weather and we did. Disappointed with lack of waste water treatment facilities at Caye Caulker. Several times during our visit we heard local references to the use of the Caribbean as one huge toilet. Snorkeling revealed strain on the coral.
Due to flooding at Birds Eye View Lodge was closed to our group and instead we had accommodations at the Black Orchid which was lovely. Cahal Pech Location atop a hill overlooking San Ignacio makes for fantastic views. Walks to town never happened due to all day downpour on our free day.
Most Inspirational Moment
4 a.m., jungle walk to see Sunrise at Tikal even though fog rolled in and we didn't actually see sun rise. Most Surprising Experience: Cahal Pech Archeological Preserve. Amazing! Even in the rain. Have to add much admiration for Community Baboon Sanctuary and all they achieve with so little. Walk to Rio Frio Cave, Butterfly and Hummingbird Farm & Coffee Farm - wonderful experiences.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Our guide, Jorge Estrella, took excellent care of us and his knowledge of all things about Belize and Guatemala contributed so much to the enjoyment of our experience. Thoroughly enjoyed getting to know our guide Jorge, witnessed his relationships with staff everywhere we went, and knew we were in good hands throughout the entire trip. Appreciated his constant safety guidance. I'll add that all the local guides were very knowledgeable, helpful and appreciated that we could get them to take a few nice group pictures.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Check forecast before you go. Pack for wet conditions. Tubing, ATM, and snorkeling are so much more enjoyable if you have a wet pack to keep stuff dry. If you use a pack w/o protection from water you can be miserable for 2-4 hours. Waterproof packs for your cell phones. If your back pack isn't waterproof pack towels and dry clothes in large zip bags. Towels not always provided (should be) and some resorts do not loan them out. Boat ride on the lagoon to Lamanai Mayan temple in pouring down rain was miserable, cold and wet due to driving rain and open boats used for tours. Don't let this discourage you. Our group got great photos of the experience, had many laughs afterward and came home with great memoroes. Comfort needs went up a few notches for this group due to lots of rain & cool (low 60's/nite) temps. Resorts do not have heat and limited blankets. Some only have tile floors in rooms which became slippery, Mini fridge & microwave not assured nor are coat hangers. Suitcases on the floor due to minimal furnishings in rooms. Tikal best lodging experience. 4 a.m., hike to watch sun rise at Tikal best experienced if you are prepared to recover from a sweaty, demanding hike to viewing area where you proceed to sit on ancient, cold (suns not up yet) temple steps for 90 minutes. Was windy which made it colder. We were prepared. Experience was awesome. Laundry services at Cahal Pech. Boat for ride to Lamanai and Caye Caulker snorkeling have little cover against sun, no seat cushions, no restroom and no dry storage. Plan accordingly. Deck gets really slippery. When you move you do so by holding hands of your friends. If flying from the USA try to avoid Miami Int'l airport at all costs. If you do route through MIA be prepared for long customs, confusion at baggage pickup after customs, hasty transfer of bags to connecting flight, no time to grab food for flight, barely making flight. The entire experience was memorable and we look forward to more trips with Exodus. This was our 3rd. fyi.
Always listen to George
A most enjoyable trip made excellent by our guide George (Jorge). I was not sure what to expect of Belize so everything was new and interesting. A good balance of nature, culture, history and tropic island. The people of Belize were very warm and friendly and helpful so nice to travel amongst them.
Most Inspirational Moment
Cave tubing. Tikal, Snorkelling with nurse sharks, Crooked Tree boat trip.
Thoughts on Group Leader
10/10. Knowledgeable, pragmatic, experienced, caring, engaged. I cannot speak more highly of him.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Always listen to George.
Great mix of culture and wildlife
This trip is great if you don’t want full-on culture. It covers three Mayan archaeological sites which enabled us to slowly build a picture of the ancient Mayans, how their civilisation grew and why they abandoned their cities. Alongside other aspects of Belizean culture, there’s a lot of wildlife on show, mainly birds, but also bats, spider monkeys, howler monkeys, coatimundi, and of course an array of sealife at Caye Caulker. We saw lots of new bird species with the invaluable help of our guide, Jorge Estrella.
Most Inspirational Moment
The work of the baboon (howler monkey) sanctuary. There are no enclosures, so the animals effectively live wild. The sanctuary works with the local community to protect the monkeys, which in turn is beneficial for other animal species in the area. We were shown around the sanctuary by the son of the founder, who is clearly passionate about his father's legacy. And of course, Tikal. It is an impressive city in an amazing jungle setting.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Jorge Estrella looked after us very well. He was up every morning at 6am to go birding before breakfast for those who wanted to join him. And throughout the day he made sure everything ran smoothly, adjusting plans on the odd occasion when required. His knowledge of Mayan culture helped to bring everything to life and and what it would have been like to live in an ancient Mayan city. He has an encyclopedic knowledge of birds, their songs and behaviours, as well as plants and other animals. Jorge is one of the best guides we've had and Exodus is lucky to have him.
Advice for Potential Travellers
If you're travelling via Miami, the airport is a little chaotic, particularly on the outbound leg. Queueing for the hotel airport shuttle bus is a free for all, including at the hotel the next morning. There were multiple pick up points at the airport. The shuttles drive along slowly and pick up people as they go. So it's best to turn left out of the airport building to be at the beginning of the pick up run. The pick up area is one level above the taxi tanks. However, the shuttles did seem to be a little bit more frequent than the advertised every 30 minutes. Belize is introducing online immigration forms which all visitors must complete. They're currently in transition, so paper forms are available, either on the plane or on arrival at Belize airport. See the Foreign and Commonwealth Office travel advice online. If you fly American American airlines, they give out the immigration forms on the plane stating that only one form per family is required. This is incorrect. It is one form per person.
Accurate
Mayan ruins and the reef off the coast of Belize
Most Inspirational Moment
Tikal
Thoughts on Group Leader
Excellent. The night before we returned to Belize from Guatemala, our guide, Jorge, suggested an early start to make sure we could get to the crossing point early and not join a huge queue (we'd seen it on the way in). We duly got up for an early start with our packed breakfasts provided by the hotel and made it to the crossing point for it to open. By the time we got to the front the queue was well over double the length and the day already starting to get hot. A brilliant move on our guides part. Additionally, very knowledgeable on the bird life and generally keen to show us his country.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Beware the humidity, take very lightweight clothing, including some with long sleeves. Keep drinking the water. You will need more than you realize.
Belize
It didn’t get off to a good start as the prearranged taxi that I paid £114 for wasn’t at the airport I waited for about 20mins then thought I should get a local taxi which quoted me $50 for the ride to Crooked Tree which was about 20km So I think Exodus ripped me off charging so much for a poor service The arranged taxi did eventually turn up and said he’d been there all the time which was a lie as it’s a v small airport and I would have seen him
The trip itself was great with a lot packed in and an excellent guide Jorge who was unfailingly good humoured and v helpful and kind He even offered to lend me his glasses when I lost mine! The accommodations and food were all good The Jungle Lodge in Guatemala didn’t offer any drinking water except in plastic bottles which rather goes against Exodus policy The ATM caves were interested but I felt were a health and safety hazard as there would have been limited access for rescue services or evacuation Also the ancient artefacts were on the ground just taped off so could easily have been damaged by visitors and some already have been. I felt the administering authority should have taken better care eg providing walkways,emergency exits etc Finally I felt Caye Caulker was marred by a lot of plastic pollution bottles etc along the shoreline and the corals out at the reef were bleached I know that’s not an Exodus issue but maybe you feed back to the resort how to improve the tourist experience
Most Inspirational Moment
Dawn at East temple Tikal
Thoughts on Group Leader
Excellent Really considerate to improve the tourist experience eg setting off early to avoid the queue at the Guatemala border
Advice for Potential Travellers
Don’t go with Exodus taxi if you’re not in the group transfer
Reply from Exodus
We would like to thank Kim for her feedback. We were pleased to learn that she enjoyed her holiday and felt that her tour leader, Jorge, added value to the trip, but we’re sorry that she had difficulty at the start regards to her arrival transfer.
We request that our drivers are at the airport 15 – 30 minutes before the customers arrival time as we don’t want our customers worrying that they have no-one waiting for them in a new country. There are 2 exits at the airport, one of which leads outside where all drivers wait with their respective signs. The driver mentioned that he walked around with his sign looking for Kim until he eventually reached her, so this may possibly be the reason she was unable to locate him at first.
We’re regret that Kim feels overcharged regarding her transfer costs, however, it is possible that the taxi thought she wanted to visit the Bird’s Isle Restaurant in Belize City instead, as this is about 18km away from the airport and correlates more with the price that she was quoted. The distance to Bird’s Eye View lodge is 46.3km from the airport and we believe that this would have reflected closely to what she was initially charged.
We appreciate Kim’s comments regarding safety at the ATM caves. The guides undergo specialized training before being granted their license to the ATM cave, including rescue training. They are required to carry a backpack with all the necessary rescue equipment and the cave management has a set procedure for emergency rescues. Due to the mineral formations of the cave it’s not possible to create another entrance or build additional walkways as the idea is to preserve the natural integrity of the cave. A lot of the artifacts are within guests’ reach and the tape is meant to serve as a buffer between the artifact and guests, as well as a marker to guide guests on where to walk. To further protect the artifacts, cameras and phones are not allowed as the guide would have explained before entering the cave and generally visitors are respectful and abide by the rules.
Regarding her comments on the use of plastic bottles, we do request that customers bring along a refillable bottle as outlined in our trip notes. We also offer them a reusable bottle at the beginning of the trip. We will pass on her comment to the hotel; however, this is how they serve water at the restaurant. Whilst we appreciate that we are not going to be able to dramatically change local circumstances through tourism, we assure Kim that we continuously engage with our supplier partners, sharing best practices on environmental initiatives such as eliminating sing-use plastics.
We’re grateful for the time she took to leave a review and hope that we can welcome her on future trips with us!
– Emma Cambers, Product Manager
Daily delights
A new trip that exceeded expectations. Early starts for birds and sunrises and fascinating insights ( and climbs!) into Mayan culture, finishing with Caribbean laid back vibe and a day swimming with nurse sharks and rays!
Most Inspirational Moment
Every day brought memorable moments, from sunset boat trip at Bird's Eye View, listening to and watching Howler Monkeys, the sunrise from Temple IV at Tikal and snorkeling with nurse sharks and rays, and seeing a manatee.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Jorge was great. Shared his knowledge and passion for Belize, history, culture, and his expert knowledge of birds and the flora and fauna of Belize. We loved his sunrise birding walks. He also gave us a guided tour of Cathal Pech and a market tour on our free day. You couldn't ask for a more helpful, supportive, knowledgeable guide. Luis Fillippe, our guide in Tikal was superb, bringing Mayan culture to life and a great bird spotter too. Keldon, our driver was careful and we felt relaxed on the bus.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Read the trip notes which were helpful. If on the group flight to Houston be careful boarding the correct Hotel bus...there is a North and South Hotel and the bus is not clearly marked..we ended up at the wrong hotel late at night! United Airlines include Belize departure tax in the ticket. Purified Water was available on the minibus and hotels to refill water bottles, no problem. Our 'Keen' closed toe sandals ideal for walking to Caves Branch Rover tubing and Rio waterfalls wading through rivers. Sunscreen ( reef safe) and insect repellent a must. US dollars accepted everywhere in Belize and we used our credit card in hotels. Credit card also in Guatemala although money changers came onto bus at the border to change dollars to Quetzales if needed.
Start
Finish
Availability
Land Only Trip Price
Optional Single Supplement
Sunday Saturday
09 Nov 2025 08 Nov 2025
Thursday Friday
20 Nov 2025 21 Nov 2025
Availability Available
Land Only Trip Price £ 3849 £ 3849 Book with £ 962 deposit Book with £ 962 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +£ 775
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSunday Saturday
23 Nov 2025 22 Nov 2025
Thursday Friday
04 Dec 2025 05 Dec 2025
Availability Guaranteed (Available)
Land Only Trip Price £ 3799 £ 3799 Book with £ 949 deposit Book with £ 949 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +£ 775
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSunday Saturday
07 Dec 2025 06 Dec 2025
Thursday Friday
18 Dec 2025 19 Dec 2025
Availability Guaranteed (Available)
Land Only Trip Price £ 3749 £ 3749 Book with £ 937 deposit Book with £ 937 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +£ 775
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSunday Saturday
04 Jan 2026 03 Jan 2026
Thursday Friday
15 Jan 2026 16 Jan 2026
Availability Available
Land Only Trip Price £ 3899 £ 3899 Book with £ 974 deposit Book with £ 974 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +£ 850
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSunday Saturday
18 Jan 2026 17 Jan 2026
Thursday Friday
29 Jan 2026 30 Jan 2026
Availability Guaranteed (Available)
Land Only Trip Price £ 3899 £ 3899 Book with £ 974 deposit Book with £ 974 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +£ 850
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSunday Saturday
01 Feb 2026 31 Jan 2026
Thursday Friday
12 Feb 2026 13 Feb 2026
Availability Available
Land Only Trip Price £ 3929 £ 3929 Book with £ 982 deposit Book with £ 982 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +£ 850
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSunday Saturday
15 Feb 2026 14 Feb 2026
Thursday Friday
26 Feb 2026 27 Feb 2026
Availability Guaranteed (Available)
Land Only Trip Price £ 3949 £ 3949 Book with £ 987 deposit Book with £ 987 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +£ 850
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSunday Saturday
01 Mar 2026 28 Feb 2026
Thursday Friday
12 Mar 2026 13 Mar 2026
Availability Guaranteed (Available)
Land Only Trip Price £ 3949 £ 3949 Book with £ 987 deposit Book with £ 987 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +£ 850
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSunday Saturday
08 Nov 2026 07 Nov 2026
Thursday Friday
19 Nov 2026 20 Nov 2026
Availability Available
Land Only Trip Price £ 3999 £ 3999 Book with £ 999 deposit Book with £ 999 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +£ 850
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSunday Saturday
22 Nov 2026 21 Nov 2026
Thursday Friday
03 Dec 2026 04 Dec 2026
Availability Available
Land Only Trip Price £ 4049 £ 4049 Book with £ 1012 deposit Book with £ 1012 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +£ 850
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSunday Saturday
06 Dec 2026 05 Dec 2026
Thursday Friday
17 Dec 2026 18 Dec 2026
Availability Available
Land Only Trip Price £ 4079 £ 4079 Book with £ 1019 deposit Book with £ 1019 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +£ 850
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesWould you like to include flights with your booking?
- ATOL protected
- Competitive flight prices
- Full refunds in the event of FCDO cancellations or major disruption at your UK departure airport
- Specialist support to rearrange flights and transfers
- Regional flights available from many UK airports
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Excluding Flights From
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