Best of Belize

Arrive at Belize International Airport in Belize City and meet your guide. Transfer west toward the Cayo District, traveling approximately 2.5 hours to the village of Cristo Rey. Follow a winding road to Crystal Paradise Resort, perched above the Macal River. Settle into the tranquil surroundings and explore the property at your leisure.

Begin with an early breakfast before driving through Mountain Pine Ridge to reach the remote Caracol archaeological site in the Chiquibul Rainforest. Explore one of Belize’s most significant Maya cities, home to temples, plazas, palaces, ball courts, and an ancient observatory. On the return journey, visit the Rio Frio Cave and take a refreshing swim in the natural granite pools of Rio On, surrounded by forest and flowing water.

Today’s extraordinary adventure takes you deep underground into the Mayan underworld known as Xibalba, a mythical realm of spirits, powerful gods, and sacred rituals. Hike, wade, ford, swim, and climb through the Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM) cave system to reach ancient ceremonial chambers. Along the route, discover preserved artifacts and signs of ritual sacrifice. The journey ends in a high chamber where the Crystal Maiden, calcified skeletal remains embedded in the flowstone, offers a haunting glimpse into Maya spiritual practices.

After breakfast, travel back to Belize City for a brief stop at a local shop before boarding your chartered motorboat. Journey 90 kilometers / 56 miles offshore, passing through mangrove ranges and white sand cayes to reach Belize’s most remote island group. Upon arrival at Half Moon Caye, meet your guide team, receive a full orientation to the island, and settle into your accommodations. A late lunch is served, followed by an introduction to one of the many available marine activities.

Over the next few days, you will have opportunities to explore the surrounding area through guided experiences based on weather conditions and group preferences. Activities may include snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding. For those seeking rest and relaxation, "hammock surfing" with a good book and a cold drink is always an option.

Please note: 
"Basecamping" involves sleeping in wall-tented cabanas. These spacious safari-style tents have ample headroom to walk around, are on raised wooden floors, and have real wood-framed beds (6-inch foam mattresses). Tents can be configured with either double or single beds. All bed linens are provided.

Guided marine activities are available each morning and afternoon. Options include local snorkeling excursions, kayaking, kayak sailing, stand-up paddleboarding, and fishing. Morning sessions feature engaging talks on the history of Belize, its vibrant marine ecosystems, and local culture. These are also the most likely days for snorkeling trips to the Great Blue Hole and the Lighthouse Reef Aquarium.

Evenings at Half Moon Caye are relaxed and social, with happy hour gatherings, cold beverages, cultural presentations, and stunning Caribbean sunsets.

Spend your final morning at Lighthouse Reef Atoll as you choose. Snorkel your favorite patch reefs, explore the island trails, relax in a hammock, or beachcomb along the shoreline.

After lunch, board your motorboat charter for the return trip to the mainland. Travel through Turneffe Atoll and cross the Great Barrier Reef before arriving at the Belize City Biltmore lobby, typically by late afternoon.

Travel Notes: For travelers leaving Belize after this trip, we also strongly suggest spending a night in Belize City. International connections out of the country require a departure the next day. Contact our Trip Planners for hotel reservations in Belize City, or to extend your Belize itinerary by combining this trip with another adventure.