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Ultimate Belize Safari
$5,495 per person, based on double occupancy. Single supplement: $1,395
Trip Overview
It’s hard to comprehend the wealth of wonders tucked inside this tiny country on the edge of the Yucatán Peninsula – and that’s just ashore. Belize also boasts the planet’s second-largest barrier reef beneath the turquoise seas that edge its lush rain forests. The screech of parrots and howler monkeys rings out through the rain forest, which is decorated in a tangle of bromeliads and orchids. And when you tire of exploring, the pleasures of fine eco-lodges await.
Trip Itinerary
Please note that the dates below do not include travel time to and from the destination. We suggest consulting our tour operator, Natural Habitat Adventures, to discuss the best flight options for your travels.
Saturday, March 12, 2011: Belize City, Belize / Kanantik
Arrive in Belize City and fly this afternoon to Kanantik Reef and Jungle Resort. Kanantik sits on the ocean’s edge, secluded within a 300-acre tropical wilderness preserve. Here, where pristine beach meets protected rain forest, wildlife abounds. Meet this evening for a welcome dinner. Kanantik Reef and Jungle Resort (D
Sunday, March 13: South Water Caye
Belize’s 185-mile-long barrier reef is home to 500 species of brilliant fish, numerous corals and sponges, delicate sea fans, bright anemones and spiky sea urchins. Descend into this magical realm on an all-day guided snorkeling trip, with a picnic lunch on the marine island reserve of South Water Caye. Kanantik Reef and Jungle Resort (B,L,D)
Monday, March 14: Kanantik / Placencia Lagoon
As the sun slides above the Caribbean, the air awakens with the music of more than 500 species of birds. Travel to Placencia Lagoon and set out by boat to explore this diverse mangrove ecosystem. Scan the waters below for a glimpse of gentle manatees, which congregate here to feed on plentiful sea grass. Also known as sea cows, these shy creatures may delight you with magnificent, close-up viewing opportunities as they glide slowly through the clear, fresh water. Reef and Jungle Resort (B,L,D)
Tuesday, March 15: Hummingbird Highway / Xunantunich / Hidden Valley
This morning, experience the rich culture and warm welcome of the local Garifuna people. After a scenic drive inland along Belize’s famous Hummingbird Highway, stop to explore the dramatic Mayan ruins of Xunantunich. Examine the intricately carved stone temples of this ancient civilization, including the 130-foot-high pyramid of El Castillo. At the end of the day, unwind at an intimate eco-lodge in the pine forests of the Maya Mountains. Hidden Valley Inn (B,L,D)
Wednesday, March 16: Canoeing in Barton Creek Cave / Green Hills
An adventure is in store today – a journey by canoe into Barton Creek Cave. Belize’s limestone landmass is riddled with subterranean chambers that the Mayans viewed as a sacred portal between the human world and the realm of the gods. As you glide through the caverns, you’ll see rock formations, skeletal remains and cultural artifacts left by the Maya centuries ago. Hidden Valley Inn (B,L,D)
Thursday, March 17: Hidden Valley / Chan Chich
Thousand-foot waterfalls and more than 90 miles of trails lace Hidden Valley’s 7,200-acre private reserve. Spend the morning exploring the area before flying to Chan Chich Lodge on the Gallon Jug Estate in northwest Belize. This private estate lies within the heart of La Selva Maya, the largest contiguous rain forest north of the Amazon and an extraordinary destination for wildlife encounters. Chan Chich is a premier eco-lodge, offering unsurpassed ambience and amenities. Tonight meet a resident scientist for an informative talk on this exciting region, whetting our interest for further exploration. Chan Chich Lodge (B,L,D)
Friday & Saturday, March 18 & 19: Chan Chich
No hunting has occurred on the estate for more than 20 years, and you may see species that have vanished elsewhere, including large birds like the crested guan and great curassow. All five Latin American cats – the jaguar, puma, ocelot, margay and jaguarundi – live here, and while all elusive species, the jaguar is spotted about once a week, a record unmatched elsewhere. On drives and walks you’ll likely see tapirs, peccaries and red brocket deer as well as coatimundis, tayras, agoutis and kinkajous. Birding is fabulous, too, with 350 resident species. On this final evening, celebrate with a farewell dinner at the lodge. Chan Chich Lodge (B,L,D)
Sunday, March 20: Belize City / Depart
Fly back to Belize City and connect with flights home. (B)
Optional Extension
Tikal, Guatemala
March 20 – 22, 2011
El Peten, in northeast Guatemala, represents the largest tropical forest in Central America, containing ruins from the ancient Maya civilization. The crown jewel among the Peten's 13,000 square miles is Tikal, a sprawling complex of more than 3,000 structures. The ruins of Ceibal, Aguateca and Yaxha contribute to the Peten's standing as the heartland of the Maya. Countless more ruins still lie shrouded by dense forest overgrowth in the Peten, which contains more than 800 species of trees, 57 species of reptiles and 500 species of birds.
Cost: Please contact us to inquire about rates.
