Belize | Exploring Rainforest, Reefs, and Ruins

Upon arrival at the airport in Belize City, you will be met and transferred to Burrell Boom to the Black Orchid Resort, situated on the banks of the Belize River. Gather this evening for an orientation by your guide, followed by a welcome dinner.

Early this morning travel to Orange Walk where you will board a boat and travel 26 miles up the New River to Lamanai Ruins. Lamanai is known for its impressive architecture and beautiful rainforest setting. The ruins are one of the most interesting and picturesque in Belize. Set on the edge of the New River Lagoon, it is one of the largest Maya sites in Belize and features three large pyramids, a couple of residential areas, restored stelae, and open plazas, as well as a small and unique ball court that featured a large round stone set flush in its center. Spend time exploring the ruins and then later in the afternoon return to Orange Walk by boat and then transfer back to the hotel for dinner.

This morning after breakfast, transfer to the Belize Zoo. Situated upon 29 acres of tropical savanna, the zoo exhibits more than 150 animals representing over 45 species, all native to Belize. Residents include orphaned, rescued, and rehabilitated animals, as well as those born at the zoo or sent as donations from other zoological institutions. Upon arrival, receive an introduction to the animals of Belize and visit the exhibits. Highlights include the jaguar rehabilitation program, the Harpy Eagle exhibit, and the Baird's tapir enclosure. Have lunch at a local restaurant and then continue to the Maya site Cahal Pech. Later this afternoon transfer to Sibun River and check-in at Sleeping Giant Rainforest Lodge.

After breakfast, we’ll ride to the starting point for our exploration of Actun Tunichil Muknal Cave. This arduous but rewarding activity will begin with 45 minutes of hiking that includes river crossings and wading in knee-high water. Once at the cave entrance, we will swim through the opening and start a 3.5-hour journey in the cave. This activity will require endurance, strength, agility and balance. The "ATM Cave," Actun Tunichil Muknal, is an important archaeological wonder of the Mayan world. This living museum full of important artifacts is a fragile system which requires strict instruction for the preservation of this site. Have a picnic lunch and then return to the lodge for a short rest before dinner.

After breakfast, transfer to the village of Gales Point for Wildlife Safari by boat. The local Creole villagers in Gales Point are the guardians for the protected feeding and nesting grounds of two of Belize's most endangered animals: the Caribbean Manatee and the Hawksbill Turtle. Have typical lunch in Gales Point. Later this afternoon, return to our lodge and have the rest of the afternoon free to enjoy the amenities or go on a rainforest walk with our guide. This evening, have dinner at the lodge.

This morning, go birding along the trails of the lodge. Our location in the foothills of the Sibun National Forest Reserve provides a rich natural environment for numerous species of birds, including the beautiful Lesson's Motmot and the Keel-billed Toucan-the national bird of Belize. Following a leisurely breakfast, check out of the hotel and transfer to our lodge on the Caribbean coast. Have lunch along the way. This evening, sundowner on the patio before dinner.

After breakfast, board the boat at the Placencia pier for the 45-minute ride to Laughing Bird Caye National Park, part of the largest marine reserve in Belize and an outstanding example of a barrier reef ecosystem. The island itself sits on an ancient faro reef shelf formation, contributing to both the abundance and variety of marine life and diverse coral habitats. Due to its rich environment, protected status, and no-take zones, which have allowed resident fish populations to flourish, Laughing Bird Caye is a snorkeling and diving paradise. Conch, Spiny Lobster, snapper, and other animals are also plentiful. In the afternoon, travel to the nearby small southern village of Maya Center, there you are met by a traditional Mayan family led by a master chocolate maker who offers the opportunity to go on a hike in a working Cacao farm and learn about the process of chocolate making. This evening dinner on own to explore local restaurants.

Today, have breakfast and a second snorkeling excursion. This afternoon free time to enjoy the beach. Farewell dinner and drumming by locals at the resort.

This morning after breakfast, transfer to the airstrip for a short flight to the Belize International Airport, where you will connect with your international flight back home.