The Highlights of Guatemala and Belize
Tour Introduction
This country-combo trip features some of Central America’s most spectacular highlights. Explore Guatemala’s volcanic landscapes, vibrant Mayan culture, and ancient city ruins, alongside Belize’s wildlife-rich, meticulously protected rainforest—and its pièce de résistance: the Belize Barrier Reef.
Heading a short distance west from Guatemala City, you’ll arrive at Antigua, the nation’s historic capital. To this day, it remains a stunning example of colonial architecture and city planning, set against the breathtaking backdrop of three colossal volcanoes. As you journey through the Guatemalan Highlands, you’ll have the opportunity to visit environmentally responsible coffee farms, vibrant towns adorned with countless murals, and traditional markets brimming with authentic Mayan crafts. Journey into the mysterious Selva Maya—the largest expanse of tropical rainforest north of the Amazon. Rising dramatically above the forest canopy at Tikal, the towering Temple of the Great Jaguar stands as a breathtaking centerpiece of this astonishingly preserved Mayan city, ready for you to explore.
Crossing into Belize, you’ll have the opportunity to spot extraordinary yet elusive wildlife thriving in its expansive forests—protected by Belize’s longstanding commitment to conservation. This dedication extends to the Belize Barrier Reef, home to the world’s second-largest coral reef ecosystem, which remains one of the planet’s premier destinations for diving and snorkeling. Conclude your journey at an idyllic beach resort, where you can fully unwind and reflect on your unforgettable Mesoamerican adventure.
Full Itinerary
Arrive at Guatemala City's La Aurora International Airport. Met and transfer to La Antigua Guatemala, an idyllic city with painstakingly restored Spanish colonial architecture, manicured parks, and a horizon shaped by three spectacular volcanoes. Check in to the Meson de Maria Hotel, and spend the afternoon on a private guided walk, wandering its cobbled streets and churches.
Staying at Hotel Meson de Maria. Includes No Meals.
Visit San Miguel Escobar, where along with your guide you will meet a farmer that owns a small, independent coffee plantation and promotes environmentally responsible agriculture in Guatemala. Experience the processes of harvesting and processing the coffee, then roast and grind it before tasting your brew. Enjoy a traditional lunch with the farmer and his family in their home before returning to Antigua.
Staying at Hotel Meson de Maria. Includes Breakfast.
Morning pick up from the hotel by a private guide and transfer to San Juan Comalapa, a town known for its more than 500 painters, primarily of Maya Kaqchiquel heritage. Enjoy the town's colourful murals and marvel at the treasure trove of traditional crafts in the market. After lunch at a traditional restaurant, explore the Mayan ruins of Iximché before ending the day at Lake Atitlán.
Staying at Hotel Atitlán. Includes Breakfast and Lunch.
Experience the splendour of majestic Lake Atitlán by kayaking along a portion of its sparkling surface and then exploring charming, Mayan villages overlooking the lake. In the evening, enjoy a relaxing sunset drink or swim in the pool with phenomenal views, from your hotel.
Staying at Hotel Atitlán. Includes Breakfast and Lunch.
Pick up from Hotel Atitlán and transfer to Guatemala City Airport for a domestic flight to Flores. Met on arrival and transfer to your hotel near the ancient Mayan ruins of Tikal.
Staying at Jungle Lodge Hotel. Includes Breakfast.
Full day to explore Tikal, where some 3,000 ancient Maya structures rise from the rainforest floor. Cast your eyes on the mightily impressive Temple of the Great Jaguar, a 44 metre high pyramid. Keep your ears open for howler monkeys in the surrounding forest.
Staying at Jungle Lodge Hotel. Includes Breakfast and Lunch.
Travel across the border into Belize, and continue your journey to the stunning Chan Chich Lodge, in the heart of the Belizean rainforest. You have a good chance of seeing some of the mammals of the jungle along the drive, and jaguars are occasionally spotted near the lodge.
Staying at Chan Chich Lodge. Includes Breakfast and Dinner.
The lodge is situated in the Rio Bravo Conservation Area, a huge expanse of lowland rainforest where you can spot black howler monkeys, spider monkeys, toucans, parrots, deer, and if lucky, nocturnal cats such as ocelot and jaguarundi. The lodge is also one of the best places to see jaguar in Belize with around two sightings being made per week.
Staying at Chan Chich Lodge. Includes All Meals.
Explore the surrounding area. Use the Lodge's network of forest trails independently, or join a guided walk with a naturalist. In the afternoon, perhaps take a dip in the lodge's swimming pool or jacuzzi, or take a guided horseback or canoeing excursion.
Staying at Chan Chich Lodge. Includes All Meals.
Morning departure for a road transfer along miles of isolated old logging trails to Lamanai. Arrive at your lodge on the shore of the New River lagoon, right next to the Lamanai Maya ruins, the largest long-excavated site in Belize.
Staying at Lamanai Outpost Lodge. Includes All Meals.
Make the most of Lamanai's many tours and activities, including: Guided forest walks, night walks looking for nocturnal species, a guided Lamanai Maya ruins tour, lagoon cruises and guided birding excursions.
Staying at Lamanai Outpost Lodge. Includes All Meals.
Another full day to enjoy the forest and lagoon at Lamanai. The lagoon and its waterways are fringed by gallery rainforest and hold a wide variety of waterfowl, raptors, bats, mammals, reptiles and other wildlife, many species being in surprisingly large numbers and altogether providing many hours of excellent nature viewing.
Staying at Lamanai Outpost Lodge. Includes All Meals.
Transition from rainforest to reef for the remainder of your trip, as you travel from Lamanai to South Water Caye. The South Water Caye Marine Reserve forms part of the Belize Barrier Reef, the largest of its kind in the northern hemisphere. The diversity of marine life is a spectacle here.
Staying at Pelican Beach Resort. Includes All Meals.
The first of three full days to simply relax on the truly beautiful beach here, or enjoy the snorkelling and diving opportunities that abound. You can also use the resort's kayaks and paddleboards as much as you like.
Staying at Pelican Beach Resort. Includes All Meals.
Make the most of the additional activities that the resort offers, including: Scuba diving on the various reefs, boat trips to other islands for snorkelling or a boat tour to see the impressive frigate bird and booby rookery.
Staying at Pelican Beach Resort. Includes All Meals.
A final full day in this tropical paradise.
Staying at Pelican Beach Resort. Includes All Meals.
Transfer by boat from South Water Caye to Dangriga. Then fly from Dangriga to Belize International Airport for your onward international flight.
Includes Breakfast.
Tour Accommodation
Hotel Meson De Maria
Overview
Hotel Meson de María is perfectly positioned for exploring the heart of Antigua as it’s located very close to Calle del Arco, Antigua’s main street, and just 150 metres from the town’s main plaza. On the third floor there is a roof terrace affording the best views of the Agua, Fuego and Acatenango volcanoes which surround the valley.
The hotel is set in a finely restored mansion built in the 17th century. It creates a relaxed, refined atmosphere with its charming central courtyard and lovely roof terrace, making it a haven of calm after the busy streets of Antigua.
The service is warm and friendly, and the rooms have comfortable beds and are elegantly decorated in a colonial style with warm earthy tones.
Swimming Pool
Air Conditioning
Rooms
Facilities
All rooms have free WiFi, cable TV, DVD, safe, telephone, private bathroom, hairdryer, free toiletries and an outdoor area with either a courtyard setting or views over Antigua to the mountains beyond. The hotel has two restaurants, a 24-hour reception desk, room service, laundry, babysitting service, shoe shine service (free), and a business centre. The solarium has reclining chairs and massage services are available by appointment.
Optional Activities
Exploring the historical churches and streets around Antigua. Adventure tours and excursions to volcanoes are possible.
Hotel Atitlan
Overview
Hotel Atitlan is a charming, long-established Spanish colonial-style property just outside Panajachel town with an enviable location directly on the shores of Lake Atitlan with private lake access. On clear days you will have picture-perfect views from the pool of the three volcanoes San Pedro, Toliman and Atitlan across the lake.
Each room features a private balcony overlooking either Lake Atitlán or the hotel’s tranquil grounds. The accommodation has been individually decorated with authentic artwork from local Guatemalan villages.
The beautiful swimming pool and Jacuzzi overlook the entire lake and the hotel’s magnificent botanical gardens are a true horticultualist’s paradise. In the morning, begin the day taking in the sounds of the exotic birds and fluttering butterflies among the flowers and shrubs.
Swimming Pool
Air Conditioning
Rooms
Facilities
A stunning outdoor pool and Jacuzzi, restaurant, bar and lounge, complimentary free Internet, cable television and spa-style baths with plush towels and deluxe bath products, a fitness centre, laundry service and a shop.
Optional Activities
Picturesque Lake Atitlán offers a diverse array of sights, attractions and recreational activities. From trekking and boat trips to archaeological sites, diving sunken Mayan villages, kayaking and fishing.
The nearby San Buenaventura Nature Reserve is perfect for wildlife hikes.
In just one day, you can summit a lakeside volcano, set off on a horseback riding adventure and tour a working coffee plantation.
Jungle Lodge Hotel
Overview
Jungle Lodge is located practically adjacent to the main Tikal Mayan ruins site, which makes early morning starts for the sunrise tour and further visits so much easier. It is the only good hotel situated so conveniently close to the site.
The recently renovated, comfortable bungalows are decorated with intricate Mayan designs and connected by a cobblestone path through gardens to the lobby.
The hotel pool is perfect after a long hot day exploring the Mayan ruins. There’s a bar and a deck seating area in the shade. Occasionally howler and spider monkeys swing by in the treetops and pairs of parrots pass overhead, squawking their way to the evening roost.
Swimming Pool
Air Conditioning
Facilities
Each thatched roof bungalow boasts a private bathroom and a ceiling fan.
The hotel has a bar, lounge, restaurant, outdoor pool, 24-hour front desk, room service and laundry service.
WiFi runs 24 hours a day, available only in the lobby and restaurant areas.
Jungle Lodge is committed to staying green and only run the electricity generator twice a day: from 1-2pm and from 5-10pm. The only exception is the main lobby, where the electricity runs credit card transactions and WiFi. Gas lamps are provided.
Local Wildlife
Spider monkeys, howler monkeys, coatimundi, keel-billed toucans, scarlet macaws and ocellated turkeys are some of the wildlife you can expect to see in the grounds and the night air is filled with the sounds of the jungle's smaller creatures such as frogs and crickets.
Chan Chich Lodge
Overview
One of the first wildlife lodges in Belize, dating back to 1988 and cited by Gerald Durrell as the model on which all such lodges should be based. A truly special place, set in its own Maya plaza surrounded by 130,000 acres of private lowland rainforest reserve. Getting there is an adventure in itself: you fly to a remote airstrip by light aircraft, then transfer by vehicle along miles of jungle track – even crossing a real suspension bridge – before arriving at the magical lodge.
Swimming Pool
Air Conditioning
Rooms
Facilities
14 luxury detached cabanas plus one two-bedroom cabana, ideal for families. Fully screened-in jungle pool with Jacuzzi, restaurant, bar, huge private reserve with nearly 10 miles of trails, Maya ruins,
lake for canoeing, riding stables.
Local Wildlife
Chan Chich offers perhaps the best general wildlife viewing in Belize. More than 350 bird species including keel-billed toucan and various parrots, howler monkey, spider monkey, white tailed deer, kinkajou, ocelot and jaguarundi. Puma and jaguar are sometimes seen, especially at dawn or dusk or at night, mainly along the old logging trails: indeed, this is where these cats are most seen by visitors to Belize.
Optional Activities
Guided and independent nature walks, night wildlife walks, swimming, canoeing, archaeology walks, medicinal plant walks, bird watching, horse riding, night drives and some full day excursions off site, including to Lamanai.
Lamanai Outpost Lodge
Overview
A long established, well-run, family-owned lodge with rustic-chic, comfortable cabanas set on a huge 28-mile freshwater lagoon and right by Lamanai Maya ruins, one of Belize’s most important sites. Plenty of on-site activities and excursions are available, and you might even see Menonites (similar to Amish) on their horse-drawn buggies. The lodge is ideal for wildlife and waterfowl lovers perhaps with an interest in Mayan civilisation.
All activities are on-site or very near the lodge. The package generally includes two standard activities per night’s stay, as follows: jungle dawn guided nature walk; sunrise canoe expedition; visit to Lamanai ruins; Maya medicine trail; sunset cocktail cruise; spotlight nocturnal wildlife safari; night nature walk. If you are not on a package, all activities are optional.
Swimming Pool
Air Conditioning
Rooms
Facilities
Private bathrooms, mini bar, verandah, fans, restaurant, bar, TV in rooms, dock with boats, canoes
Local Wildlife
Birds including various raptors and kingfishers, jabiru stork, keel-billed toucan and water birds such as northern jacana, Morelet’s crocodile, manatee, neotropical otter, northern racoon, bats, mantled howler monkey. The sight of reflective crocodile eyes shining at you in the night is unforgettable as they hunt the water birds such as jacana. Jaguar and other wild cats are occasionally seen near the lodge but it’s rare.
Optional Activities
If you are not on a package, all activities mentioned above are optional.
Pelican Beach Resort
Overview
One of only a handful of islands located on the edge of the Belize Barrier Reef (a World Heritage Site), the 15-acre South Water Caye is perhaps the most beautiful of all the inhabited reef cayes. It forms part of the South Water Caye Marine Reserve, Belize’s largest marine reserve covering an area of over 100,000 acres and considered to be one of the most biodiverse marine areas in the country.
Situated on the lovely southern end of the caye on a coral sand beach adorned with coconut palms, the hotel consists of a main wooden period building, Pelican’s Pouch (once a Convent for the Sisters of Mercy) with five rooms on top and a restaurant below plus five separate wooden cottages comprising eight units.
The accommodation is fairly simple and has been designed to have the lightest environmental footprint including solar power, captured rainwater and state of the art composting toilets.
There is excellent snorkelling right off the beach and diving can be arranged at a resort on the island or from the mainland: the reef drops off to 2000ft just thirty yards offshore allowing fabulous wall dives. The resort is owned by a prominent local family, the Bowmans, who once owned the entire island and others nearby; the food is excellent and the Belizean staff are very friendly and quietly efficient.
Swimming Pool
Air Conditioning
Rooms
Facilities
Five separate cabanas comprising eight units: Osprey’s Nest (two rooms, each with double and single beds, shared balcony) shared private dock, sea views; Heron’s Hideaway (for honeymooners, with dbl bed and sea views); Sandpiper Suites (duplex - one dbl, one dbl plus sgl, beach view); Egret’s Escape (first floor unit, dbl bed); Kingfisher Cottage (first floor unit with dbl bed, lagoon and beach views). All have composting loos and hot water showers. The main building, Pelican’s Pouch, has five large first-floor rooms, en suite toilet and basin, shared hot showers on ground floor, east facing verandah with hammocks, restaurant, bar, dining room with large deck. On the property are a boat dock, hammocks, canoes and Lazer sailboats for the use of guests.
Local Wildlife
Snorkelling for eagle rays, stingrays, nurse sharks, tarpon, corals, reef fish; Man ’O’ War Cay for large numbers of roosting magnificent frigatebirds and yellow-footed boobies. Around the island, pelicans dive constantly for fish, frigatebirds soar overhead and hermit crabs scurry along the beach, pure white and fringed by coconut palms. The island’s resident ospreys can be observed hunting for fish and tending their nest above the radio mast.
Optional Activities
Swimming, snorkelling (gear for hire), diving (no dive shop – tanks and gear can come from a mainland operator or nearby resort), canoeing, sailing, boating, birdwatching, bone fishing, drop-line fishing, kite surfing (bring your own gear), exploring the island (you can generally walk anywhere), visiting other islands, mangrove tour, relaxing in a hammock.
Route Map
Departure Dates
Travel Information
Are International Flights Included?
No. Please contact us for a quote if required.
Flight Info:
Includes domestic flights.
Best Visited:
November to April
Are you ATOL Registered?
Yes. This means we are legally able to book your international flights in conjunction with your ground arrangements so you can book with us with complete confidence. Read more about our ATOL license here.
Claire Pote
Area Specialist
If you have any questions regarding this Tour, please feel free to contact me on +44 (0)1803 866965
I have been travelling for many years and have been lucky enough to visit many exciting, far flung exotic places. However, this trip to Belize has knocked the socks off anywhere else I have been. I would recommend (and have been already) people with a sense of adventure to go asap….. It is a truly amazing place and I can now die happy. I was also very pleased with the service you provided and hopefully will be booking with you again. Thanks for organising a wonderful trip.
