Day 2 | Caracol, Rio Frio Cave & Rio On Pools Pools

A full-day guided excursion travels deep into the Chiquibul Forest Reserve to Caracol, Belize’s largest Maya city and once one of the region’s most powerful kingdoms. Monumental temples, carved stelae and expansive plazas reveal its significance before continuing to Rio On Pools for relaxation among granite formations and cascading freshwater pools.

Day 4 | Guatemala & Tikal National Park

Crossing into Guatemala, the journey continues to Tikal National Park, one of the greatest cities of the ancient Maya civilisation and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Towering temples emerge above the rainforest canopy while monumental plazas and royal palaces reveal centuries of political, religious and architectural achievement.

Day 6 | Return to Belize, Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary

Returning to Belize, the journey continues to the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, the world’s first protected reserve for jaguar conservation. Rainforest trails, waterfalls and diverse forest habitats showcase one of the country’s most important protected areas before continuing south to the Toledo District.

Day 8 | Maya Caccao Heritage

The Maya relationship with cacao comes to life through visits to Eladio Pop’s cacao experience and Ixcacao Chocolate Farm. Traditional cultivation, organic farming and handcrafted chocolate production reveal the cultural and economic importance of cacao, from ancient Maya civilization to present-day southern Belize.

Day 10 | Tiger Cave Adventure

A guided rainforest hike leads to Tiger Cave through mature broadleaf forest rich in wildlife and native flora. Limestone formations, underground chambers and archaeological evidence demonstrate the ceremonial importance of caves within Maya cosmology, combining geology, archaeology and rainforest exploration in one rewarding experience.

Day 12 | Punta Gorda Town & Depature

A visit of Punta Gorda concludes the journey through Belize’s southern landscapes before the domestic flight to Belize City for onward departure. From the ancient kingdoms of Belize and Guatemala to pristine rainforest and living Maya traditions, the itinerary reveals the enduring legacy of the Maya world across two remarkable countries.

Day 1 | Arrival in Belize & Jungle Retreat

Arrival at Belize City International Airport, followed by transfer to San Ignacio in the Cayo District along scenic, well-maintained roads through farmland, rainforest, and rural landscapes. Accommodation is at Table Rock Jungle Lodge, a secluded eco-retreat on the Macal River, surrounded by lush jungle, waterfalls, and rich wildlife—offering an immersive first introduction to Belize’s natural environment.

Day 2 | Caracol Maya City & Rio On Pools

Full-day excursion to Caracol, Belize’s largest and most powerful ancient Maya city, reached via a scenic drive deep into the Chiquibul rainforest. Exploration includes monumental plazas, temples, stelae, and the towering Caana pyramid rising above the jungle canopy. On the return, stop at Rio On Pools for a refreshing swim in natural granite basins and small waterfalls surrounded by tropical forest.

Day 3 | ATM Cave – The Maya Underworld

An unforgettable journey into Actun Tunichil Muknal Cave, one of Central America’s most significant archaeological cave systems. The adventure begins with a rainforest trek and river crossings before entering a vast underground world of crystal formations, subterranean chambers, and Maya artifacts preserved in their original context. Human remains and ceremonial offerings reveal the spiritual depth of Maya ritual life in this sacred underworld.

Day 4 | Transfer to Guatemala & Tikal National Park

Crossing into Guatemala, the journey continues to the legendary Tikal, one of the most iconic Maya cities in Mesoamerica. Rising above dense rainforest, its pyramids, temples, and ceremonial plazas reflect centuries of political and religious power. Sunset views from elevated temples reveal the vast jungle canopy stretching into the horizon. Overnight at Tikal Inn inside the national park, surrounded by nature.

Day 5 | Tikal, Cerro Cahuí & Lake Petén

Early morning exploration of Tikal National Park offers exceptional wildlife encounters, including toucans, parrots, and howler monkeys in the awakening rainforest. Continue to Cerro Cahuí Biological Reserve, where jungle trails open to views over Lake Petén Itzá and rich birdlife. The day concludes in Flores, a charming island town with colonial streets and lakeside atmosphere.

Day 6 | Return to Belize & Caribbean Arrival

Scenic cross-border drive back into Belize, passing through changing landscapes of rainforest, villages, and coastal plains along comfortable road networks. Arrival in Hopkins on the Caribbean coast, a relaxed Garifuna village known for its cultural rhythm and beachfront setting, with time to unwind by the sea.

Day 7 | Belize Barrier Reef Snorkeling

Boat excursion to the Belize Barrier Reef, the second-largest barrier reef in the world, offering snorkeling over vibrant coral gardens filled with tropical fish, rays, and sea turtles in crystal-clear waters. Time is also spent relaxing on board and enjoying the open Caribbean Sea before returning to Hopkins in the afternoon.

Day 8 | Cockscomb Wildlife Reserve & Transfer to Toledo

Visit to Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, the world’s first jaguar reserve, where rainforest trails lead through rivers, waterfalls, and dense jungle rich in biodiversity. In the afternoon, continue via scenic coastal and inland roads to the Toledo District and check in at Tanager Rainforest Lodge, set along the river and surrounded by untouched nature.

Day 9 | Maya Living Experience & Uxbenka

A cultural immersion into contemporary Maya life, where traditions, daily practices, and sustainable living are experienced firsthand through a Maya Living Experience. Continue to Uxbenka, one of Belize’s oldest Maya sites, featuring ceremonial plazas, temples, and ancient architectural remains surrounded by forested hills.

Day 10 | Maya Cacao Heritage

Visit to Eladio Pop’s cacao experience, where traditional Maya cacao cultivation and chocolate-making techniques are demonstrated. Continue to Ixcacao Chocolate Farm in San Felipe, a sustainable organic farm practicing mixed cultivation. The day concludes with a guided tasting of handcrafted chocolate, connecting agriculture, culture, and heritage.

Day 11 | Jungle & Cave Exploration

Full-day adventure into the Toledo cave systems near San Antonio, combining rainforest trekking with exploration of Tiger Cave. The journey passes dense jungle, streams, and limestone terrain before entering vast cave chambers filled with natural formations and archaeological remains. The site reflects the deep spiritual significance of caves in Maya cosmology and ritual life.

Day 12 | Lodge Relaxation by the River

A restful day at Tanager Rainforest Lodge along the river, surrounded by tropical rainforest. Time for relaxation, birdwatching, swimming, or simply enjoying the peaceful natural setting. The day offers space to reflect on the journey through Belize and Guatemala, from ancient cities to jungle and coast.

Day 13 | Departure via Punta Gorda

Morning transfer to Punta Gorda for the return flight to Belize City, passing once more through lush southern landscapes of rivers, rainforest, and coastal views. The journey concludes with final impressions of Belize’s natural and cultural diversity, leaving lasting memories of an immersive Central American experience.