Belize | Exploring Rainforest, Reefs, and Ruins

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

Early this morning, travel to the town of Orange Walk, where you will board a boat and ride 26 miles up the New River to the archaeological site of Lamanai. Known for its impressive architecture and beautiful rainforest setting on the edge of the New River Lagoon, Lamanai is one of the largest Maya sites in Belize. It dates to the 16th century BCE and features three large pyramids, a couple of residential areas, restored stelae, and open plazas. Its ball court, though small, is notable for its large stone central marker and the ceremonial vessel that archaeologists discovered underneath it. Spend time exploring the ruins before returning to the hotel later in the afternoon.

Begin the day with a visit 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 Cahal Pech, a Maya site that consists of seven plazas and over 30 structures including temples, residential buildings, ball courts, an altar, and a sweat-house, all on just two acres. Later this afternoon, continue to Sibun River and check in at Sleeping Giant Rainforest Lodge.

Today you'll descend into the Maya underworld. Ride to the starting point for your exploration of Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM) Cave, also called the Cave of the Crystal Sepulchre. This arduous but rewarding activity begins with a 45-minute hike through the Tapir Mountain Nature Reserve that includes river crossings and wading in knee-high water. Once at the cave entrance, swim through the opening and start a 3.5-hour journey into this geologically fascinating cave and its main attraction, the "Cathedral" chamber, which was a Maya ceremonial site and burial ground. More than 1,400 Maya artifacts such as pottery, tools, ceremonial items, and more than 200 vessels have been catalogued within the cave. Note this activity requires endurance, strength, agility, and balance, and strict instructions must be following to preserve the site's fragile artifacts. Have a picnic lunch and then return to the lodge with time to rest before dinner.

Visit the village of Gales Point, which sits on a brackish lagoon near the Caribbean coast, for a wildlife safari by boat. The local Creole villagers are the guardians for the protected feeding and nesting grounds of two of Belize's most endangered animals: the Caribbean manatee and the hawksbill sea turtle. Have a typical lunch in Gales Point. Later this afternoon, return to the lodge, where you will have the afternoon free to enjoy the amenities or go on a rainforest walk with your guide before dinner.

This morning, go birding along the trails of the lodge. The lodge's 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 Belize's national bird, the Keel-billed Toucan. After a leisurely breakfast, check out of the hotel and make your way to the Caribbean coast, stopping for lunch en route. Arrive to Placencia, check in at your accommodations, and enjoy a welcome cocktail on the patio before dinner.

Board the boat at the Placencia pier for the 45-minute ride to Laughing Bird Caye National Park, one of the seven protected marine areas that make up the renowned Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System - the second largest coral reef system in the world. This is an excellent area for snorkeling, thanks to the deep channels and clear water that surround the island, as well as the park's status as a "no-take zone." You may be able to see corals, tropical fish, spiny lobsters, urchins, conchs, and other marine life. The island is also an important nesting site for hawksbill sea turtles. Back on the mainland this afternoon, travel to the small village of Maya Center. You'll be met by a traditional Maya family, led by a master chocolate-maker. Go on a hike at a working cacao farm and learn about the process of chocolate-making. This evening, dinner is on your own to explore local restaurants.

Set out on a second snorkeling excursion today, with free time this afternoon to enjoy the beach. Gather for a farewell dinner and a drumming performance at the resort this evening.

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