Explore the Cayo District rainforests and the beaches of Ambergris Caye on an 8-day family vacation. Visit the ancient Maya temples of Xunantunich and learn to make chocolate from cacao beans. You also select between a cave tubing and zipline adventure or a visit to the native animals at the Belize Zoo. Free time at the jungle lodge allows for rest or independent exploration. On the Caribbean coast, stay on Ambergris Caye near the Belize Barrier Reef. Snorkel with nurse sharks and rays at Hol Chan Marine Reserve, and use the open days to swim, fish, or relax. This itinerary offers the perfect mix of guided adventure and free time for an unforgettable family getaway.
Highlights
Hike nature trails at the lodge to spot birds and local wildlife
Zip line through the canopy and cross the river on a 1,000-foot line
Make traditional Mayan chocolate from bean to bar with a local expert
Snorkel Hol Chan Marine Reserve and Shark Ray Alley
Climb Xunantunich Maya ruins for 360-degree views of the jungle
Moderately active but not overly strenuous. This level includes activities like casual cycling, yoga, or excursions/activities that typically last 3-5 hours total each day.
Arrive at the Belize City airport and transfer to your jungle retreat. The jungle lodge is tucked next to the Tapir Mountain Nature Reserve and Roaring River. Surrounded by pristine forest, your days at the lodge are filled with natural discoveries, exploring the lush vegetation of the Maya Mountains and the mysteries beneath.
Today is free for you to choose your activities. Take advantage of complementary activities on site at the lodge, such as birding or hiking trails.
For those looking for more adventure, consider adding additional activities. Spend your days exploring the Maya ruins of Xunantunich and canoeing the Rio Macal. You can also go caving and zip-lining, float through the Barton Creek Cave, or explore the mystery of the Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM) cave. Off-site activities are not included and have an additional cost. Click here to view excursion options.
Day 3: Xunantunich and Traditional Chocolate Making
Spend the morning exploring the ancient site of Xunantunich (pronounced Shoo-Nan-Too-Neech). Cross the Mopan River on a hand-cranked ferry to tour the temples and palaces. Climb "El Castillo," which towers 130 feet (40 meters) above the plaza for unobstructed views of Western Belize and Guatemala. Your guide explains the history and ongoing research of this place.
In the afternoon, discover the history of Cacao, a bean once used as currency in the Mayan civilization. Learn how the plant grows and observe the stages of harvesting and processing. Try your hand at grinding the beans with a traditional mano and metate to make your own Mayan chocolate drink.
Day 4: Cave Tubing and Zipline or Belize Zoo Visit
Today, choose one of the following adventures for your family.
Cave Tubing and Zipline Adventure
Head to the Nohoch Che’en Archaeological Reserve for this dual adventure. Hike roughly 45 minutes up the river to the entry point, where your guide ties your tubes to their own and leads you through the cave system. After exiting the cave, float down the peaceful river back toward the trail. For adventurous spirits, there is a cliff-jumping rock near the end of the ride. Explore the reserve area from the treetops on a zip line tour. Hike and zip through the jungle canopy and even cross the river on a 1,000-foot line.
The Belize Zoo
Visit the Belize Zoo to see local animals in habitats that mimic their natural environments. See monkeys, tapirs, the Harpy Eagle, a jaguar, and much more in this unique sanctuary.
After breakfast, transfer to the Belize City for a transfer to the crystal clear Caribbean waters to Ambergris Caye. Settle into your beachside hotel and relax into the Belizean spirit.
Set off this morning on a snorkeling trip to Hol Chan Marine Reserve and Shark Ray Alley for your introduction to the wonderful world of the Belizean reef. Sea turtles, eagle rays, nurse sharks, and hundreds of species of fish, corals, and sponges create one of the world's most diverse underwater ecosystems.
The rest of the time is yours to arrange activities locally. Take a PADI Scuba Diver Resort Course, explore the island by bicycle, rent a catamaran, or just relax on the beach. The island offers plenty of services for daytime adventures and nighttime dining.
Enjoy a free day to arrange activities locally. Take a PADI Scuba Diver Resort Course, explore the island by bicycle, rent a catamaran, or just relax on the beach. The island has plenty of services for daytime adventures and nighttime dining. Click here to check for more activities you can enjoy during your stay.
Day 8: Return Home
1 Breakfast
Bid farewell to Ambergris Caye and fly back to Belize City in time to connect with your return flight home.
*Please schedule your international flight to depart 12:30 PM or later this day.
Apologies for the inconvenience. Prices for not yet published. Below per person rate based on previous season. Contact us to confirm upcoming season pricing.
Prices for are estimated based on inflation. Contact us to confirm pricing and availability for your desired departure date.
Initial deposit is 50%, and most travelers will call our office and pay the deposit with a credit card.
Final payment is due 70 days (10 weeks) prior to departure by bank transfer, check or credit card. All final payments by credit card may be subject to a surcharge and maximum of $20,000 charge
For full cancellation policy details, please contact us for a quote.
Included
6 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch, 4 Meal Package - Full Boards
7 Nights Accommodations
Accommodations as listed
Ground transportation as listed
Activities as listed
Meals as listed
Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
Snorkeling gear (mask, fins, snorkel) is provided on your trip free of charge. Occasionally the snorkeling gear that is supplied is worn, and there may not be enough sizes available to fit every traveler. Therefore, you may want to bring your own snorkeling gear (particularly a mask and snorkel).
Specific tours as detailed in the itinerary
On-site complimentary activities at your jungle lodge
Excluded
Gratuities
Travel Insurance
Personal Expenses
Flight costs (please request a quote)
Additional excursions during free time
Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
Internal Flights: Belize City - Ambergris Caye - Belize City
Map
When to Go
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Good to ideal period to travel, and many people choose to visit at this time.
Chance for unpredictable weather but with fewer visitors.
Kate was great to work with in the planning stage. She was prompt, helpful, and efficient. Our tour guide, Edwin, was knowledgeable and passionate. We were very happy to have traveled with Adventure Life, it made the trip easy and a true pleasure. We could concentrate on enjoying the experience rather than the details of travel.
