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Tikal Ruins

Belize to Tikal: Reefs, Rivers & Ruins of the Maya World

Belize to Tikal - Example 9 Day Cruise aboard National Geographic Quest
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Travel to Belize and Guatemala and discover the reefs, rivers, and ruins of the Maya world. This magical 9-day cruise is the perfect introduction to this historical world. Visit Tikal, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the largest and most impressive archaeological sites and urban centers of the pre-Columbian Maya civilization. Explore the many temples, including Temple I, which rises 154 from the jungle floor, and the North and South Acropolis. Enjoy the largest reef system in the Northern Hemisphere. Hike nearby trails or explore the lesser-visited ruins at Topoxte, secluded on an island in the lake.
Spider monkey at TikalThe famous Tikal temple used in the filming of Star WarsArches in Guatemala CityTikal Ruins
Highlights
  • Discover the dazzling undersea of the beautiful Belize Barrier Reef
  • Observe the detailed stonework of the Mayan ruins at Quiriguá
  • Explore turquoise seas and protected corals of Glover’s Reef
  • Walk through the endangered and fragile littoral forest at Half Moon Caye
Activities
Places Visited
Activity Level: Relaxed
Involves minimal physical effort and is typically associated with leisurely activities. Activities are low-intensity or last less than a few hours each day.
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Full Itinerary

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Day 1: Belize City, Belize | Embark

Embark the National Geographic Quest and start your journey.

Day 2: Laughing Bird Caye National Park or Sapodilla Cayes Marine Reserve, Belize

Snorkel, kayak, or stand up paddleboard the crystalline waters of Laughing Bird Caye National Park or Sapodilla Cayes Marine Reserve. Discover the dazzling undersea of the Belize Barrier Reef, second only to the Great Barrier Reef in terms of biodiversity, while snorkeling or, if certified, scuba diving. 

Day 3: Quiriguá & Rio Dulce, Guatemala

See the highly detailed stonework of the Mayan ruins of Quiriguá, sculpted to glorify Maya kings. Enjoy lunch on the shores of Lake Izabal then take local boats through the beautiful limestone canyon of the Rio Dulce. 

Day 4: Glover’s Reef | South Water Caye Marine Reserve

Explore turquoise seas and protected reefs of Glover’s Reef and South Water Caye by snorkeling or, if certified, diving, then explore the shoreline and reef top by kayak or stand up paddleboard. If conditions permit, stop at a remote field station to learn about reef research. 

Day 5: Lighthouse Reef & Half Moon Caye Natural Monument

Snorkel, dive, kayak, and stand up paddleboard inside the fringing reef that surrounds Lighthouse Reef Atoll. This lagoon is dotted with hundreds of coral patches, and is known for its high diversity of corals and fishes. Walk through the endangered and fragile littoral forest at Half Moon Caye to view the nesting population of red-footed boobies from observation platforms. 

Day 6: Belize City | Disembark | Flores, Guatemala

Take a charter flight to Flores, Guatemala. Transfer to Tikal, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the largest and most impressive archaeological sites and urban centers of the pre-Columbian Maya civilization. Check into the Camino Real Tikal Hotel.

Day 7: Tikal, Guatemala

Delve deeper into Maya history and architecture over three nights with local experts in Tikal while enjoying a stay at the Camino Real Tikal Hotel. Explore the many temples, including Temple I, which rises 154 feet from the jungle floor, and the North and South Acropolis. 

Day 8: Yaxha & Topoxte, Guatemala

Visit Yaxha, the third largest ruin in the Maya world, beautifully situated on a ridge overlooking Yaxha Lake. Hike nearby trails or explore the lesser-visited ruins at Topoxte, secluded on an island in the lake.

Day 9: Flores | Guatemala City

  • 1 Breakfast
End your journey in Flores and have pre-arranged a charter flight to Guatemala City at an additional cost, to connect with International flights home. You may opt-out of this flight should you choose to spend more time in Flores or make independent arrangements to Guatemala City.

Ship/Hotel

National Geographic Quest

Ship Exterior

National Geographic Quest

The National Geographic Quest is a state-of-the-art expedition ship accommodating 100 guests in 5 different categories of fully equipped cabins. It is fully stabilized for cruising unique polar passages and wonderful tropical landscapes while providing comfort and adventure in every journey.
Guests explore by zodiac from the ship National Geographic Quest in Rudyerd Bay, Misty Fjords National Monument Wilderness, Ketchikan, Alaska, USA
Dining Area
Fitness Center

Camino Real Tikal

Camino Real Tikal

Camino Real Tikal

Experience the history, culture, and tradition of ancient Mayan civilization while enjoying the manifold comforts of Camino Real Tikal. The hotel offers guests a unique tropical retreat in the relaxing ambiance of beautiful Lake Peten Itza and the Peten jungle.
Camino Real Tikal
Camino Real Tikal
View from the patio - beautiful Lake Peten Itza

Dates & Prices

My Preferred Start Date

This itinerary is no longer available. For other trip ideas, please visit Central America & Mexico Cruises & Tours.
Category 1
Category 1
Cabins feature two lower single beds that can convert to a Queen, a writing desk, and two portholes. Individual climate controls. Shampoo, lotion, and hair dryer are available in cabin bathrooms, as well as an Expedition Essential Kit.
Category 2
Category 2
Cabins feature two lower single beds that can convert to a Queen, a writing desk, and two portholes. Individual climate controls. Shampoo, lotion, and hair dryer are available in cabin bathrooms, as well as an Expedition Essential Kit.
Category 3
Category 3
Cabins feature two lower single beds that can convert to a Queen, a writing desk, and a large view window. Individual climate controls. Shampoo, lotion, and hair dryer are available in cabin bathrooms, as well as an Expedition Essential Kit.
Cabin Category 4
Category 4
Cabins feature two lower single beds that can convert to a Queen, a writing desk, sliding glass door, and small, private balcony. Individual climate controls. Shampoo, lotion, and hair dryer are all available in cabin bathrooms, as well as an Expedition Essential Kit.
Category 5
Category 5
Cabins feature two lower single beds that can convert to a Queen, large view windows, an expanded bathroom, writing desk, ample storage space, and a convertible sofa bed to accommodate a third person. Each cabin has individual climate controls. Shampoo, lotion, and hair dryer are all available, as well as an Expedition Essential Kit.

Notes

Single supplement varies by itinerary. A solo traveler matching program may be available, but is subject to availability. 
 

Rates are capacity-controlled and are subject to change without notice.
Included
  • 8 Breakfasts, 7 Lunches, 8 Dinners
  • 8 Nights Accommodations
  • Accommodations as listed
  • Ground transportation as listed
  • Activities as listed
  • Meals as listed
  • Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
  • Assistance by the onboard National Geographic Photography Expert
  • Access to the OM System Photo Gear Locker with the latest gear to try out on loan (aboard Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic fleet) 
  • Beer, wine, cocktails, and spirits are available aboard the ship. Additionally, a selection of super premium wines and liquors is offered for purchase.
  • Complimentary Starlink-enabled Wi-Fi internet is available to all guests aboard Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic fleet, enabling email, messaging, and social media.
  • Park and site entrance fees, special access permits, and port taxes
  • Excursions and airport transfers to and from flights arriving and departing within recommended window, as indicated in the itinerary
  • Exploration tools such as snorkeling equipment, wetsuits, kayaks, stand-up paddleboard, cross-country skis, and snowshoes (where applicable)
  • Guidance and company of leading expedition staff
  • All meals as indicated in the itinerary, both aboard and onshore.
  • Presentations by expedition staff and expert guest speakers
  • Onboard physician consultations (where available)
  • 24-hour access to exercise equipment (where applicable)
  • All accommodations aboard ship or in hotels per itinerary
  • Complimentary reusable water bottle
  • 24-hour access to lounges, observation decks, library, and other shared spaces
Excluded
  • Gratuities
  • Travel Insurance
  • Personal Expenses
  • Additional excursions during free time
  • Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
  • Laundry, spa treatments, scuba diving, and phone services (except when indicated as included)
  • We strongly recommend our guests to take Travel Protection Plan. A Plan with comprehensive coverage to protect you from cancellation fees, costs incurred due to trip delays/interruption, damaged or lost baggage, medical assistance, and evacuation during your travels
  • Airfare (except flights when indicated as included); charter airfare (where applicable, except when indicated as included); pre- and post-expedition extensions (except flights when indicated as included); additional hotel nights (except when indicated as included)
  • Travel protection plans and passport, visa, and immigration fees 
  • Enhanced and premium Wi-Fi plans
  • Additional costs associated with medical services outside onboard physician consultation (where available)
  • Private transfers (except when indicated as included)

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