belize trip planner

• Skip to right header navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar

MY WANDERLUSTY LIFE

#TimeBudgetTravel

The Perfect Belize Itinerary: 7 Unforgettable Days of Jungle & Islands

Last Updated: December 26, 2023 //  by  Ashley Smith Leave a Comment

When I first drew up my Belize itinerary, I had no idea it would end up being one of the most exciting and memorable trips ever. I mean it, I was tearing up on my last day knowing I had to leave this incredible country. (Not only because I had just acquired the sunburn to end all sunburns.) That’s how amazing, beautiful, fun, delicious, welcoming, and surprising this place is.

For that reason, I’m so happy to share with you this perfect 7-day Belize itinerary so you can have just as an unforgettable time as I did.

Table of Contents

Belize Packing List

How long to spend in Belize

How long you should spend in Belize all comes down to how long you can spend in Belize.  Having never been there before, I didn’t want to commit too long in case I didn’t like it. But I wanted to give it enough time to experience both the jungle and the island side of things.

That being said, you could certainly spend a month here and never have a boring moment – there’s that much to do here. But, one week is still a great amount of time in which to explore the ancient Mayan sites, get up to some adventures in the jungle, and chill out on the Caribbean beaches. In my opinion, 7 days makes the perfect Belize itinerary for first time visitors.

Don’t miss: What to Pack for Belize (And What I Can’t Belize I Brought!)

Best time to visit Belize

Similarly, the best time to visit Belize is whenever you can visit Belize. However, there are definitely more preferable times around which to plan your Belize itinerary. For instance:

December – May

December – May is Belize’s dry season and definitely the best time to visit. You’ll have clear, sunny days and very little chance of vacation-ruining rains. It will also be plenty warm enough during this time despite this being the “winter” months.  

However, this is also the most popular / busiest time to visit Belize. Tourist season in Belize peaks at Easter! So, it will be a bit more “crowded” than other times, prices may be higher, and hotels and tours may have limited availability. But, this is Belize, not the Amalfi Coast in July , so you should be just fine (as long as you plan accordingly).

June – December

June – December is Belize’s wet season when you’ll most likely encounter some rains. However, this isn’t set in stone (‘cause weather be weather), and June, July, and even August can still be great months to travel.

I personally visited in June. It was HOT (bordering on too hot actually) and, despite being the “wet season,” was actually super dry. So, you can plan for the most “ideal” situations, but again, weather be weather.

Popular Belize events

There are also a handful of popular annual events in Belize you may be interested in planning your Belize itinerary around. Check out:

Lobster Fest – Belize’s Lobster Fest is an annual celebration that takes place in July in Caye Caulker, Ambergris Caye, and Placencia.

Chocolate Festival of Belize – Belize’s chocolate festival takes place in late May in Punta Gorda (the “chocolate capital of Belize” apparently).

International Music and Food Festival – Belize’s International Music and Food Festival is held in Ambergris Caye in late July, mon.

7-day Belize itinerary at a glance

Now I’ll get into the nitty gritty of my perfect Belize itinerary. This 7-day itinerary actually starts on Day 0 (arrival day, we don’t count that). It includes 3.5 days in the jungle and 3.5 days on the islands. *chef’s kiss*

Day 0: Arrive in Belize; transfer to your jungle eco-lodge

Day 1, jungle: Jungle adventures in the Cayo District

Day 2, jungle: Day trip to Tikal National Park in Guatemala

Day 3, jungle: San Ignacio and ATM Cave tour

Day 4, jungle/islands: Wake up in the jungle, transfer to Caye Caulker

Day 5, islands: “Go Slow” in Caye Caulker (or not)

Day 6, islands: Unforgettable snorkeling in the Belize Barrier Reef

Day 7, islands: Soak up that island life before departing

Belize itinerary, day 0: Arrive + transfer to San Ignacio

The start of your perfect Belize itinerary begins with arriving in Belize (obviously). You can fly to Belize with Alaska Air, American Airlines, Delta, Southwest, Sun Country Airlines, and United. You can even get direct (nonstop) flights to Belize from:

• Seattle, Los Angeles (Alaska)
• Dallas , Miami (American Airlines)
• Atlanta (Delta)
• Fort Lauderdale, Houston (Southwest Airlines)
• Duluth and Minneapolis, MN (Sun Country Airlines – If you know what Sun Country Airlines is then I guess you’re reading this in Minnesota.)
• Chicago, Denver, Houston (United Airlines)

You’ll want to fly into Belize City (airport code BZE), the former capital of Belize (but not really an especially worthwhile city to visit). From Belize City, you’ll start your Belize itinerary in the western part of the state – in the Cayo District near the town of San Ignacio. But first you’ll need to get there.

How to get to San Ignacio from Belize City

There are a few different ways to get from Belize City to San Ignacio and they all vary wildly . Choose wisely. Maybe do as I say and not as I do.

Public bus from Belize City to San Ignacio

Personally, I opted for the public bus . The trip takes between 2-3 hours and costs around $4 total, but the ride is anything but smooth, literally and figuratively. The bus is dirty and crowded (you might actually have to stand the whole time). It makes frequent stops and the whole thing is just chaotic.

Because it’s really just an old American school bus, there are no seatbelts, luggage racks, or air conditioning. There’s not even a website or ticket system. Just open windows letting in all the road dirt and exhaust fumes and a topless woman breastfeeding in the seat next to you while her infant stares directly into your eyes.

You’ll need to take a cab from the airport to “the bus station” and this is where my assistance leaves you because what comes next is totally random. Ask around for the bus to San Ignacio, ask how to pay, ask where you should be picked up, and prepare for it all to seem just totally made up on the spot.

Once on the bus, know now that I’ve been told you need a PhD in order to drive in Belize – a degree in pothole diversion. So, hold on to your butts! BUT ! The public bus is cheap and the ride will certainly be one you never forget.  

Belize City to San Ignacio by rental car

You can certainly rent your own car to get from Belize City to San Ignacio. But, do you have a PhD? I’m told this is mandatory. (And from what I’ve witnessed personally, oh hell yeah it is.) The ride is going to be rough and will take about 2 hours. Check out the best local Belize car rental deals here and godspeed.

Private shuttles from Belize City to San Ignacio

Otherwise, you can take a private shuttle to San Ignacio from Belize City. This will also take about 2 hours (no stops to pick up coconut salesman, go figure) but will cost just slightly more than $4. Some charge per person and others offer big discounts the bigger your group is.  

There are lots of times to choose from and you’ll get the ride all to yourself, all the way from BZE to San Ignacio. Check out the best Belize shuttles here :

• Private shuttle: Belize airport to San Ignacio town
• Private transfer from Belize airport to San Ignacio
• Shared shuttle: Belize International Airport to San Ignacio

Hotel pickup in Belize City

Another option I highly recommend is to just have your lodging arrange a pickup at the airport for you. Yes, this is going to be the costliest option, but it’s also the most stress-free!

For this Belize itinerary I’m going to recommend you stay at the Black Rock Lodge (more on that in a minute). They offer private airport shuttle service all the way from the airport to their front door. (Because of their remote location, you would still have to get picked up in San Ignacio because you need a special vehicle to get to their property.)

If you’re staying at Black Rock, book your airport pickup with them and call it a day! Otherwise, check to see if your jungle lodging offers the same service.

Also check out: 17 Things that Shocked Me in Belize

Where to stay in the Belize jungle

There are a handful of fantastic jungle lodges to choose from in Belize, but I HIGHLY recommend checking out the Black Rock Lodge . This place is one of my all-time favorite lodging choices and that’s still an understatement.

BRL is a completely self-sufficient eco-lodge deep in the rainforest. It’s bursting with awesome jungle adventures, resident wildlife, an amazing staff, and so much more. The food and drinks here are so good and everything is produced on site, ethically, and sustainably.

Seriously stop me or I will rave about this place for dayzzzz . Instead, I wrote an entire post about how awesome this place is – read my Black Rock Lodge review here . You can read more reviews and book your stay here . You can also watch this quick video I made about them here:

Other accommodation options

However, if Black Rock Lodge should be all booked up by the time you go to reserve, other popular and nearby jungle accommodation options include:

• Ka’ana Resort & Spa – beautiful location, lots of activities and spa treatments, amazing food
• Mahogany Hall Luxury Boutique Resort – spacious suites, botanical setting, highly-rated staff
• Table Rock Lodge – excellent reviews, very jungle-y, on-site restaurant and bar
• See all San Ignacio-adjacent lodging here. ( Expedia and Hotels.com usually have good deals too.)

Settle in to your jungle accommodations

Once you’ve made it to Black Rock Lodge, you’ll be greeted with a welcome drink and a quick tour of the property. Spend more time exploring on your own while you wait for dinner, or go ahead and put on your bathing suit and head down to the river. (If you can make it over the rapids without falling off your tube you get a free drink!)

You can work in a light hike, a mountain bike, a more in-depth tour of the property, go for a swim in the pool, or let the resident bird nerd show you all the toucans and other colorful creatures that live nearby.

Soon you’ll enjoy an incredible candlelit dinner among new friends. Then, fall asleep in your hammock under the millions of stars above you (and the Jurassic sounds of howler monkeys across the river that will seep into your darkest nightmares). This Belize itinerary truly is unforgettable.

Belize Itinerary, day 1: Welcome to the jungle!

Today is your first full day of the Belize itinerary. Do you know where you are? You’re in the jungle, baby! There are seriously so many options as to how you can spend today.

Partake in some jungle adventures

Personally, I did the following during my time in Belize’s jungles:

Mountain Summit hike in the morning – This trail takes a couple of hours and winds through the jungle up and up to the top of the mountain for excellent views of the rainforest. So much wildlife and beautiful plants and flowers along the way. Also, so much sweat.

Lunch at the lodge – Black Rock Lodge serves three amazing meals a day in the most blissful dining setting. Don’t miss a single meal there, seriously.

Mountain biking – BRL offers mountain bike rental free of charge to their guests. We rode down the road that leads out of the property, past burning wildfires and teak forests and beyond. (And then walked my ass back up because… exhaustion.)

Swim in the river before dinner – All that sweaty fun today led me straight down to the river for a cool swim in nature. Then, another drool-worthy jungle dinner. (There’s also a great pool for those a little fish-phobic.)

Guided night hike through the jungle – A couple we met the night before recommended this to us and it will forever be one of the coolest things I’ve done while traveling. A trained jungle guide takes you along the trails after dark and shows you all the unbelievable things that happen at night.

He points out otherwise unseen nocturnal creatures of all kinds and seriously so much more. It was AMAZING. Important note: you don’t have to hold a tarantula if you don’t want to.

More jungle adventures

Besides the awesome jungle activities we did on the first day of our Belize itinerary, there are many more options for how to spend your day at Black Rock Lodge. You can also choose from:

Canoeing and kayaking – Head out along the Macal River with a trained naturalist guide. Or head to the beach area to do some stand-up paddleboarding. Or just head to bar, no judgment.

River tubing – Do absolutely no work whatsoever and just float down the river. Free rum punch if you can make it over the Black Rock waterfall without falling off! Tubes are totally complementary.

More hiking – Besides the Mountain Summit, there are many more hiking trails that start at the lodge for all different hiking levels. Even a wildlife hike! (Pick up a trail map at the tour desk.)

Spelunking – Take your hiking desire into one of Belize’s awesome cave systems. Search for Mayan artifacts and cool cave formations.

Yoga – This is a wellness lodge of sorts, after all. Borrow one of their yoga mats for free if you didn’t bring one. (I definitely did not include one in my Belize packing list .)

Birding – Follow your nose out to the bird tower for panoramic views with their bird guide! (That’s a toucan joke.) Belize is actually one of the biggest birding destinations in the world.

Visit Mayan sites – You can also head off-site to tour some of the most popular Mayan sites in the area like Cahal Pech, Caracol , Yaxhá, and Xunantunich .

San Ignacio – Don’t forget you can always head into San Ignacio for market day or just to check out the town.

Most popular Belize jungle excursions

If you’re looking for something a little different (and perhaps more organized and/or guided), check out these most popular Belize jungle excursions around San Ignacio:

• Xunantunich & Cave Tubing Combo Tour – Full-day history and adventure tour, small groups, lunch included. (Or check out this unique tour that combines a visit to Xunantunich and horseback riding .
• Cave Tubing & Jungle Ziplining Combo Tour – Full-day guided adventure through the caves and over the jungles, lunch included
• See all San Ignacio jungle adventure options here on Viator and here on Get Your Guide .

Belize Itinerary, day 2: Day trip to Tikal

Yes, one of the most popular things to do in Belize is actually leave it for Guatemala. Do with this information what you will, but it’s totally worth it.

Tikal National Park in nearby Guatemala is one of the largest and most important ancient Maya sites you can visit. It’s just a quick drive over the border from San Ignacio and is so cool .

I won’t spill all the details here, because I wrote a whole post on taking a day trip to Tikal – what you need to know, how to get there, what to see, some important dos and don’ts, etc. Check out my full guide to a Tikal day trip here .

And if you already know you want to do this, take a look at some of the Tikal day tour options here:

• Belize to Tikal Day Trip with Local Lunch from San Ignacio – Full day tour, comfortable transportation, your own local guide, includes lunch.
• Private Belize to Tikal Day Tour with Lunch + Guide – Includes a private guide, air conditioned transport, lunch
• Check out all the Tikal day trip options on Viator and Get your Guide to find one that best suits your needs!

You’ll return from your Tikal day trip totally exhausted so take it easy for the rest of the night. Enjoy the amazing dinner at Black Rock Lodge and get some sleep for another epic adventure tomorrow!

Belize Itinerary, day 3: ATM Cave tour

Another epic day in Belize dawns and this will be another you won’t soon forget. Today, book yourself on one of the once-in-a-lifetime ATM Cave tours.

The ATM Cave in Belize (Actun Tunichil Muknal) is another ancient Maya site, but this one is inside a surreal cave system. You’ll swim and tunnel through these ancient caves to get to a skeleton that sparkles. But the path to get there is straight out of an Indiana Jones flick.

If you’ve done any kind of research on what to do in Belize, I’m positive that the ATM Cave tour has dominated those lists. And it is not overrated at all – it totally deserves those top spots!

However… the ATM Cave is not for everyone. It’s an epic adventure, yes, but a challenging one in many ways. Check out my full guide to touring the ATM Cave in Belize here to get all the exciting details and heart-stopping realities.

And if you already know you want to do this, take a look at some of the ATM Cave tour options here:

• ATM Cave Tour and Picnic – Ton of rave reviews, full day, lunch + rum punch included! (This is closest to the one I did – rum punch and all!)
• ATM Cave Tour from San Ignacio – Full day tour, all fees included, packed lunch/snacks/water included
• ATM Cave with Local Lunch from San Ignacio – Full day, lunch and water included, tons of 5-star reviews!
• See all ATM Cave tour options here in case something else fits your style better.

Again, after your full day tour of the ATM Cave, you’re going to be totally pooped. (It’s a physically-taxing adventure to say the least!) Take it easy, enjoy dinner, pass the hell out.

Lemme help you plan! Also read: What to Pack for Your ATM Cave Tour

Belize Itinerary, day 4: Jungle > Islands

After your night of much-needed rest, enjoy one last Black Rock breakfast and prepare to move over to the islands. If you want, squeeze in some last minute birding or hiking, or any of the other awesome activities on-site. Now, make your back towards Belize City and over the water to the island of Caye Caulker.

How to get to Caye Caulker

To get to Caye Caulker you’ll need to take the water taxi from Belize City. The trip takes about 45 minutes and costs just $20 per person.

If you utilize the private shuttle service at Black Rock Lodge, they will happily drop you off right at the water taxi port in Belize City. Otherwise, take your chosen transportation method back to the Belize City and get a (car) taxi to the water taxi dock.

Once on Caye Caulker, you’ll need to either walk or organize a pickup at the port to get to your chosen accommodation. FYI – Caye Caulker is a car-less island. It’s either bicycle, feet, or golf cart from here on out. (The island is just 5 total square miles so it’s not like you’ll have far to go.)

There will most likely also be golf-cart drivers hanging out at the dock in case you need a ride. (This is what we did – just hailed a golf cart once we arrived.)

Where to stay on Caye Caulker

There are lots of totally pleasant places to stay on Caye Caulker, but for my Belize itinerary I trusted my island time to Colinda Cabanas .

We had our own adorable beach cabana for our stay with lots of great amenities, everything we needed actually. The staff was so welcoming and helpful. It was so peaceful and private; I would not hesitate to stay here again! (Seriously, book your room at Colinda Cabanas now !)

Besides Colinda Cabanas, some other popular Caye Caulker hotels include:

• Blue Zen – A favorite of my readers, free bikes, swimming pool, sun terrace and grill, and much more.
• Sea Dreams Hotel – Free WiFi, bar and rooftop terrace on site, free bikes and kayaks
• Weezie’s Ocean Front Hotel and Garden Cottages – Choose from cottages, guest rooms, oceanfront suites, and more. Kayaks, paddleboards, and snorkel gear for free!

After your all checked in on Caye Caulker, take a stroll around the main part of the island. Grab some street food, do a little souvenir shopping, then post up at one of the super chill bars along the beach.

Watch the sunset and continue resting up from the past few days of your Belize itinerary. You’re on Caye Caulker now where the motto is “Go Slow” so you better get used to it.

Belize Itinerary, day 5: Go slow in Caye Caulker

This is very hard for me to write, but Day 5 of your Belize itinerary is all about embracing Caye Caulker’s motto and “Go Slow.” I personally am not a go-slow kinda traveler, but it was incredibly easy to adjust here.

This is your day to just chill out in the sun and do nothing (if you don’t want to). If you’re more like me and you still want to do something, check out this list of 23 Exciting Things to Do in Caye Caulker .

For instance, you can spend your day fishing, kite surfing, sailing, swimming, diving, exploring by bike, taking a scenic flight over the Blue Hole, yoga, kayak, meet some seahorses, and much more. And then spend your evening with a sunset sail. See the full list for all the details!

Belize Itinerary, day 6: Snorkeling + the Split

Okay, now that you’re all rested up and ready to get back at it, it’s time to spend Day 6 of your Belize itinerary in the water. Belize is located along the Hol Chan Marine Reserve – the world’s second most incredible barrier reef. (Their words, not mine. But also mine.)

Snorkeling in Belize

For real though, the snorkeling here is unreal. You’ll swim with sea turtles and a million tropical fish, nurse sharks and rays, eels, manatees, and more. You’ll get to explore a sunken ship and learn all about the stunning wildlife in this area from the most accommodating local guides.

Snorkeling in Belize was absolutely one of the highlights of my trip and I took my tour with Caveman Snorkeling Tours. And yes, I wrote an entire post on it because I had such a great time! Also check out: My Day Snorkeling in Belize with Caveman Snorkeling Tours .

I highly recommend Caveman Snorkeling Tours, but if you need other options, also check out these tours that all include small groups, lunch and refreshments, expert guides, snorkeling equipment, and GoPro footage of your underwater adventure:

• Hol Chan Marine Reserve Small-Group Tour from Caye Caulker
• 7-Stop Snorkeling in the Belize Barrier Reef from Caye Caulker
• Or this 3-stop snorkeling tour for just the highlights (includes snacks but not lunch)
• Check out all Belize snorkeling tours here on Viator and here on Get Your Guide .

Hang out at the Split

After your day of snorkeling, chances are you’ll be super wiped out again (but exceptionally tan). So, for the rest of your day in Caye Caulker, head over to the Split.

The Split is literally a split in the island formed by a hurricane… but now it’s the most popular hangout spot on the island. Grab a bucket of Belikin at the Lazy Lizard and just relax in the turquoise waters or play some corn hole – whatever you have the energy left for.

Belize Itinerary, day 7: Leaving the island life behind

Depending on when your flight home is, you may or may not get to enjoy a little more of that island life before you head out. Grab some last-day fry jacks at Errolyn’s, go for another leisurely stroll, or hang out (literally, so many hammocks) on your nearest over-water pier.

Afterwards, you’ll need to take the water taxi back to Belize City, and then a regular ol’ auto taxi to the airport where you’ll leave the island life behind. It will be a sad day, to say the least.

Belize is an incredible, unforgettable, and, dare I say it, unBelizeable place to visit. The people are so warm and welcoming, the scenery is stunning, and the adventures are epic. Regardless of how you fill your Belize itinerary, consider yourself lucky to be able to experience this Central American wonderland!

More info to supplement your Belize itinerary

• Heading to Belize?  Find  great places to stay here on Booking.com (my fave booking site). But Hotels.com and Expedia usually have similar deals too!
• Need a car?  Check out the  best rental car deals in Belize here.
• Don’t forget to  pick up this guidebook  for all your Belize sightseeing. (It includes a day trip to Tikal too!)
• Want more Belize content? Check out all my Belize posts here.

Have questions about visiting Belize? Ask away in the comments below or reach out on Instagram ! Have fun in Belize!

Save this info, pin this image:

Subscribe to MWL

About Ashley Smith

Ashley is a historian and Oktoberfest expert & tour guide. She has traveled to 39 countries and specializes in quick trips throughout Europe and the Americas that prioritize hiking adventures, museums of all kinds, cultural experiences, and jam-packed itineraries. She hails from Memphis, TN and currently lives in Boston with her husband and two feline sidekicks.

Reader Interactions

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Get my 2024 Oktoberfest Party Planning Checklist here!

Free 2024 Oktoberfest Packing Checklist

Get my 2023 Oktoberfest Packing List here!

Want more  Oktoberfest ?

Iceland Packing List

Get my 2024 hotel booking checklist here.

Subscribe to MWL!

Tmb packing list 2024, morocco packing list 2024, 2024 oahu bucket list.

• Meet the Team
• Work with Us
• Czech Republic
• Netherlands
• Switzerland
• Scandinavia
• Philippines
• South Korea
• New Zealand
• South Africa
• Budget Travel
• Work & Travel
• The Broke Backpacker Manifesto
• Travel Resources
• How to Travel on $10/day

Home » Central America » Belize » Itinerary

EPIC BELIZE Itinerary! (2024)

If Belize were a person, it would be Indiana Jones. The 8867 square miles, half Caribbean getaway, half jungle mystery possitively exudes a sense of adventure and wonder. It’s no wonder you’re excited and looking forward to planning a trip to Belize!

One of the less talked about Central American getaway destinations, for anyone looking to experience the uniqueness of Central America or looking for an almost year-round perfect climate, this is it!

From party hot-spots to snorkeler’s paradise reefs and sacred caves, Belize has it all. It even has pyramids!

If you’re planning a trip in Belize then this this is the itinerary for you!

Unlock Our GREATEST Travel Secrets!

Sign up for our newsletter and get the best travel tips delivered right to your inbox.

Best Time to Visit Belize

Where to stay in belize, belize itinerary, day 1 itinerary in belize, day 2 itinerary in belize, day 3 and beyond, staying safe in belize, day trips from belize, faq on belize itinerary.

The best time to visit Belize is also the most inconvenient, because it’s when everyone wants to go! This is usually during the country’s dry season, which lasts from November to April.

During this time you can expect the best from Belize’s tropical climate and coastal sea breezes. In fact, temperatures rarely dip below 20 °C/68 °F!

The Broke Backpacker is supported by you . Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more .

So, if you’re wondering when to visit Belize, the answer is entirely dependent on what you want. Some prefer the busy, dry season while others prefer the quieter, wet season as it gives them an opportunity to explore in peace.

Whether you’re looking to take a short trip to Belize as you pass through South and Central America, spending the weekend in Belize or just looking to vacation in Belize, you’ll need to take note of the best months to do so and plan according to your individual travel desires!

One of the key parts of choosing where to stay for any trip is choosing an area that suits what you’re looking for. If you’re backpacking Belize to go scuba diving staying on the coastline is a no-brainer. However, not all areas are super affordable.

For that reason, if you’re planning on spending time somewhere, it’s always great to choose someplace central and fairly inexpensive. So, whether you’re wondering where to stay in Belize for 5 days or 20, staying central is key! For this reason, we recommend Belize City .

Two of the best places to visit in Belize are the emerald jungle-based San Ignacio, and the turquoise water surrounded island of Caye Caulker! The problem can be, with such great options, which to choose?

Luckily, by staying in Belize City you not only get great options on accommodation but both destinations are within fairly easy reach! This is a great option for the best place to stay in Belize.

Belize City is the biggest city in the country! As a result, it is home to a variety of hostels , hotels, casinos as well as the Museum of Belize, located inside a former prison! It’s also a great place to get to know the real people of Belize and spend time getting to know the culture and history whilst admiring the architecture! We have listed a few of the best hostels in Belize below to help you get started.

Best Hostel in Belize – Red Hut Inn

Located in a safe and convenient area just outside the city (around 8 miles from the airport) the beach isn’t far away enough for you to not smell the sea breeze. With decent sized, clean rooms, options of A/C and friendly staff, this is a great find for anyone exploring on a budget!

Best Airbnb in Belize: A brand new apartment that keeps you central

With a recently renovated interior and brand new gadgets, this Belize vacation rental is up at a fair price. It’s on a pretty sleepy street, so don’t worry about been kept up all night. That been said, it’s only a short walk from the city centre, so you won’t be spending half your trip stuck on the bus!

Best Budget Hotel in Belize – DB Tower Vacation Rental

4 miles away from Belize harbor and 7 miles from Philip S. W. Goldson International, this is the perfect place for anyone looking for hotel quality without going broke! It offers free WiFi, a hot tub, and a barbecue atop a fantastic rooftop terrace. It’s the perfect place to decompress and enjoy the stunning views this steal offers.

Best Luxury Hotel in Belize – Radisson Fort George Hotel & Marina

For those looking for a more luxurious stay, the Radisson Fort George Hotel & Marina is the perfect spot. With chain hotels, you’re almost always guaranteed quality and this is no exception. With sea views, a gym and spa center and more than a few pools, this is a great way to experience Belize in style!

There is so much to do in Belize that if you don’t know what you want to do or what there is to see you may miss out on some amazing sites and hidden gems. To prevent that, our Belize Itinerary will show you all you’d want to see and probably even more!

If you’re going to be using our Belize trip itinerary, you’re going to move around quite a bit. As such, there are two common ways for visitors to get around. Most of our stops are fairly close to one another and can usually be walked to and from but day to day you may have to travel to a different area or district. This will often be done using chicken busses!

In case you’re concerned about the name, it’s more of a nickname these days than a description although in some places the buses are still occasionally used to ferry, well, chickens . This is one of the cheapest and most fun ways to travel. Another fun way to travel may be using water taxis that are often used to travel up, down or across the  many rivers that flow through various cities!

For a more medium distance based form of travel, your best bet is the many green license-plate bearing cabs!

Old Belize | St. John’s Cathedral | Belize Zoo | Belize Museum | Riverside Tavern

The first thing you want to do when you arrive in a new city is to get to know it. Uncovering the hidden parks, niche shops, cool bars and understanding the heartbeat of where you are is half the fun of traveling! So for day 1 in Belize, we want you to get acquainted with your new home and the epicenter of your travels, Belize City!

Day 1 / Stop 1 – Loosen Up in Old Belize

• Why it’s awesome: Old Belize is a nice way to ease into your adventuring
• Cost: 10$ USD
• Food nearby: Old Belize Exotic Beach & Bar has tasty snacks and more for you to kick-start your morning!

Old Belize prides itself on being able to provide a sense of history and at the same aiming to provide a modern, unforgettable experience!

Old Belize offers a series of interesting and fun activities ranging from Cucumber Beach Marina and Kukumba Beach to the Old Belize train ride and a series of enticing restaurants. It lies on a patch of the coast of Belize City unofficially known as “Kukumba Beach”!

The beach is a man-made one and is home to a 50 feet tall, 90 foot-long water slide which will have you screaming in delight. Other activities include bean bag toss areas, inflatable tubes, rope swings, volleyball nets, live music and bar, and restaurant!

Experience authentic Belizean cuisine! The Old Belize Exotic Beach & Bar restaurant is ideally situated facing Cucumber Beach and the Caribbean Sea. This provides a nice, tropical ambiance for some post-swim food!

Enjoy the peaceful panoramic view of the boats passing through the marina.

Day 1 / Stop 2 – Admire the St. John’s Cathedral

• Why it’s awesome: An eerie reminder of the power of old empires. Sort of creepy seeing such a decidedly European building in a distinctly Central American country.
• Cost: Free!
• Food nearby: Bird’s Isle Restaurant, their authentic Belizean food will only enhance your cultural experience!

Welcome to your cultural stop on our Belize Itinerary!

Located in downtown Belize City, just a few hundred feet west of the Government House. The majestic Cathedral was built in 1812 as the Church of England’s headquarters in Central America. Once upon a time, the cathedral was once used to crown four different native kings of the Miskito tribe in lavish ceremonies.

Today, the cathedral is the oldest surviving building constructed by Europeans in Belize.

Using gigantic ballast stones brought over from Europe, English colonizers constructed the cathedral as the “power base” of the Church of England in Central America! It makes for an odd point of interest in Belize. The contrast is pretty weird, if you looked only at the Cathedral and ignored the fantastic weather, you could be convinced that you were in an old English town!

It may seem kind of touristy, but it’s also something you shouldn’t miss out on for that reason alone. It’s an incredibly worthwhile stop on our Belize travel itinerary. The incredibly well-maintained architecture (made from Sapodilla and Mahogany wood), as well as an antique pipe organ and tombstones of English colonists, is definitely worth checking out!

Day 1 / Stop 3 – Visit The Belize Zoo

• Why it’s awesome: The Belize Zoo is the world’s most famous “little zoo” and is a stunning way to see the wildlife of the country in as close to their natural environment as possible.
• Cost: 15$ USD
• Food nearby: Lil Texas Bar and Grill serves tasty Texan food with delicious Belizean flair!

Home to over one hundred and seventy-five species of animals, this is a must-see destination for animal and nature lovers. The Belize Zoo is a non-profit zoo that focuses on the conservation of wildlife through “environmental education and rehabilitation”!

It was the first nature destination in Belize that is fully accessible to handicap visitors!

The Belize Zoo’s 175 animals represent over 45 native species. The Zoo keeps animals that were orphaned, rescued, born at the zoo, rehabilitated animals, or sent to The Belize Zoo as donations from other zoological institutions around Belize!

A must-visit on any trip to Belize District, the zoo has many animals you’re unlikely to see elsewhere – several tapirs (a Belizean relative of the rhino), scarlet macaws, white-lipped peccaries, pumas and a variety of other animals!

A visit to the Zoo is the best way to get an introduction to the animals of Belize and to understand why it is important to protect the habitats that sustain them.

Insider Tip: Arriving early in the morning is a sure way to beat the loud and often obnoxious tour groups that get brought in closer to midday!

Day 1 / Stop 4 – Learn at the Belize Museum

• Why it’s awesome: The National Museum of anywhere is a must-see as it’s the perfect way to learn about where you are and its culture.
• Cost: 5$ USD for entrance
• Food nearby: Celebrity Restaurant & Bar serves some of the best seafood in Belize!

Just a few hundred meters from the coast, the Belize Museum is an essential stop for anyone in Belize! Belize was once a key part of the ancient Mayan Empire and ruins of their ancient cities litter the countryside. Artifacts from the Victorian Colonial era can also be found recounting the time when Belize was once known as British Honduras!

If you opt for a tour, part of the experience includes a visit to an authentic prison cell! Built more than 150 years ago by the British colonial government to house prisoners, the facility was closed down by the newly-independent government of Belize in 1992. Ten years later, the government of Belize renovated the building, converting it to the Belize Museum!

Passing by this stop allows you to experience more than 3000 years of history and is a nice way for anyone feeling reluctant to make the journey to see the ruins of the Mayan civilization!

Day 1 / Stop 5 – Dinner at The Riverside Tavern

• Why it’s awesome: Home to the best and biggest burgers in Belize, this eating extravaganza is the perfect way to cap off a busy day!
• Cost: Depending on what you eat, meals may range from 15$ USD (for a takeaway, includes a drink) and up.
• Food nearby: Don’t worry about food, this is all you’ll need!

A definite highlight of our Belize Itinerary!

Whether you’re on the patio overlooking Haulover Creek or inside the busy bar area, this restaurant is a great way to either begin your night out or end your day. It is commonly spoken of as being one of the best restaurants in Belize and has a secure, free, fenced off and guarded area to park in if you’re driving.

Their signature hamburgers come in sizes from 6 oz. and bigger, are arguably the best in Belize. Their onion ringed options are highly recommended as well as their steak and prime rib dishes. These are sourced from nearby cattle from the Bowen farm at Gallon Jug. The Bowens are also the owners of the restaurant as well as Belikin beers.

Insider Tip: This is one of the few restaurants in Belize with a dress code though so be warned, shorts aren’t allowed at night!

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

San Ignacio Farmer’s Market | Capello’s Art Gallery | ATM Cave  | Green Iguana Project | Ko-Ox Han Nah

This is the perfect last day for anyone just looking for a 2 day itinerary in Belize!

Day 2/ Stop 1 – San Ignacio Farmers Market

• Why it’s awesome: The market is a fantastic opportunity to experience a literal taste of what makes Belizean life so unique!
• Cost: Varies, depending on stalls, but prices have been known to be around 1$ USD for 10 bananas or 1$ USD for 5 limes!
• Food nearby: Some of the best fruit and veg in the world, all locally sourced can be found right at the market! You can also enjoy breakfast and coffee at the near by Bamboo Tea & Coffee!

In this itinerary for Belize, some places can’t be missed. San Ignacio is one of those places!

San Ignacio is a small town in the Cayo district with a quaint, small-town vibe. It makes for a perfect stop on any Belize Itinerary! With a colorful history and an eclectic mix of cultures, it makes the perfect place to explore the country’s Mayan ruins and Cave Systems!

But before we get to the exploring part, one of the best things to do in San Ignacio is to visit the San Ignacio Farmers Market.

Opening at roughly 04:30, this marketplace is the largest of its kind in Belize and with the variety of fruit and vegetables available, it is the perfect way to start your day. The open-air market is a perfect blend of bright fruits, vibrant clothing, and colorful languages as it is extremely multicultural. Everything from English to German, Spanish, Creole, and native Mayan can be heard through this bustling hub!

The busiest day to visit is a Saturday and many native Belizeans use this opportunity to meet, exchange gossip or just spend time out with one another. Perusing the best of what Belize has to offer is just the right way to begin your day as you load up on all the fresh produce you can inhale!

Insider Tip: Most adventuring in Belize starts early, ends late and can involve a lot of walking tours so bring some reliable shoes!

Day 2 / Stop 2 – Capello’s Art Gallery

• Why it’s awesome: This stunning art gallery offers local artists a chance to shine and as a result, boast some of the most unique and beautiful works of art anywhere in the world!
• Food nearby: Authentic Belizean food and more is available at a hole-in-the-wall spot called Ko-Ox Han Nah (Let’s Go Eat)!

Capello’s Art Gallery is one of the most beautiful buildings in San Ignacia, inside and out.

The gallery prides itself on giving local artists the opportunity to create magical creations. It hosts four full time professional Belizean artists. Each artist has their own private studio and the gallery uses high-quality materials to ensure long-lasting value.

Visiting this talent-filled studio is an opportunity to experience the soul of Belize – just perfect for the art orientated traveler.

Day 2 / Stop 3 – Explore the ATM Cave

• Why it’s awesome: These caves are the most sacred in the world and an almost spiritual experience
• Cost: 110$ USD per person(includes guide, lunch, and transport, water and entrance)
• Food nearby: Purple Star Sports Bar & Grill offers generous and cheap meals for anyone looking for nearby value for money!

The ATM Cave (short for the less catchy, Actun Tunichil Muknal) is, according to National Geographic, the world’s most sacred cave in the world. They tend to know a little something about these things so you can assume it’ll be time and money well spent!

The ATM Cave is a something of a mix of natural wonder and archaeological site. It stretches at least a kilometer into the earth, twisting through narrow passes in the rock. This goes on until you reach a massive, glittering atrium of crystallized stalagmites and stalactites.

What makes the cave feel so sacred isn’t just the crystal cathedrals. The ATM Cave is the resting place of the remains from several ancient human sacrifices…. The most famous of these is the “Crystal Maiden” – the intact skeleton of a young female in near perfect condition in the heart of the cave. The “crystal” comes as a result of a covering of calcium carbonate which sparkles eerily…

In addition to human remains, there are also countless pieces of pottery and other artifacts broken into pieces, presumably as part of sacrificing rituals. As such it’s one of the most famous of all the Belize landmarks and not to be missed.

Insider Tip: Bring clothing you don’t mind getting wet and a pair of old shoes as the cave goes from wet to dry to wet and back again!

Day 2 / Stop 4 – Green Iguana Conservation Project

• Why it’s awesome: You actually get to interact with these gigantic creatures!
• Cost: 9$ USD
• Food nearby: Running W. Steakhouse & Restaurant is one of the most beautiful places in Belize to grab a bite and toucans can often be spotted as you enjoy your meal

Native to Central, South America, and the Caribbean, green iguanas are some of the largest lizards in the Americas. In fact, their huge tails making up nearly half of their length!

Unfortunately, these iguanas and their eggs are eaten by humans, and considered a delicacy. Locally, edible iguana is known on menus as “bamboo chicken”.

A result of this as well as increasing the destruction of their natural environment has led to them becoming increasingly endangered. Hence the need for the Green Iguana Conservation Project!

The project includes two critical programs. The first involves adopting an Iguana and the second; the Iguana Kids Club. Both promote the process of incubating, hatching, rearing, and releasing young iguanas back into the wild. The aim is to have youth participating in the program walk away with higher awareness and education about these large reptiles.

Situated at the San Ignacio Resort Hotel, the Iguana Conservation Project allows tourists hour-long tours. During this, you venture into the enclosed area where juvenile iguanas are raised until they are released into the wild. Touch and hold adult iguanas, and then enjoy dozens of baby iguanas cling to your body!

Day 2 / Stop 5 – Dinner at Ko-Ox Han Nah

• Why it’s awesome: Truly authentic meals at reasonable prices
• Cost: Most meals are around 20$ USD or less
• Food nearby: You’re already here!

The best way to end off a day is to enjoy some of the best food at one of the best restaurants in San Ignacio. Some go so far as to call it, THE restaurant. How could we not list it in our expansive Belize Itinerary?

Meaning “Let’s Go Eat” in Maya, this restaurant offers a diverse and incredible range of food from local and authentic Belize food to lamb curry and Mexican doof to American classics. It also offers several vegetarian and vegan options. The word eclectic gets used a lot but in this case, it’s entirely appropriate!

Why an eatery should warrant a stop is a good question but all we can say is give it a try. No one who’s been has regretted it and you’d have to go out of your way to find someone who has had a bad experience!

With excellent service, a cool vibe, great food, an authentic ambiance, and a sense of inherent quality, you should definitely use this opportunity to pass up going back to the hotel and enjoying room service!

Red Hut Inn

Located in a safe and convenient area just outside the city (around 8 miles from the airport) the beach isn’t far away enough for you to not smell the sea breeze.

• Free Parking

Caye Caulker | Truck Stop in San Pedro | Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary | Xunantunich | Placencia

If you’ve got time for more than 2 days in Belize, you’ll definitely want to try and explore each district. Ideally, we suggest you try spending more than 3 days in Belize to maximize the value of your trip as for a small country, there really is a lot to see and do.

If you’re planning on spending at least 5 days in Belize, try to do as much as possible. To help with that here are a few key places to visit in Belize ( in 3 days) !

Unwind in Caye Caulker

• Dive in one of the world’s must-dive sites, the Great Blue Hole!
• Swim with Caribbean Reef Sharks!
• A great way to see and do a little of everything Belize has to offer.

A perfect way to spend a day for anyone who has time for a 3 day itinerary in Belize! A mile away from the famous barrier reef system, the Great Blue Hole, Caye Caulker is a tiny island most popular among budget travelers, backpackers, and those wanting to escape the hustle and bustle of a chaotic life back home. The island is a cheaper alternative to the busier San Pedro islands and is often said to be its “little sister”.

There are no paved roads and to get around, most people wither make use of a combination of golf carts, bicycles, water taxis and good old fashioned walking!

If windsurfing, snorkeling, and diving are your speed then this is for you. A variety of day tours are also available that include scuba diving, snorkeling, zip-lining, or seeing the local manatees!

Due to its varied geography, Caye Caulker is the perfect place to enjoy a romantic sunset. It’s a nice place to unwind and catch a break from all the adventuring you’ve no doubt been doing since arriving in beautiful Belize.

Eat Out at The Truck Stop in San Pedro

• Experience the unique flavors of South America with travelers from all over the world
• Right on the doorstep of some of the best daytime beach activities
• Enjoy the chance to eat Arepa !

San Pedro, like Belize as a whole, boasts huge amounts of adventure activities to do!

From diving in the Hol Chan Marine Reserve and Shark Ray Alley to enjoying sunset cruises. One hidden gem of this golden island is the Truck Stop!

Located 1 mile north of San Pedro Town the Truck Stop is a bunch of shipping containers, converted into delicious eateries with something for everyone! Enjoy the cool breeze of the dock over the lagoon, eat/drink in the beer garden, or chill in the “tree pit”.

With entertainment like tossing cornhole bags, horseshoes, redneck golf, life-size Jenga and more you definitely won’t be bored!

They also sell some of the best tasting South American food in the form of Arepas as well as food from other parts of the world including Malaysian/Asian-style alternatives.

The Truck Stop is the type of hidden gem that really makes you appreciate having done some research beforehand!

Spend time with Jaguars at Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary

• Visit the world’s only Jaguar Sanctuary
• Get authentic and explore this sanctuary on foot!
• Only 5$ per person!

With several hotels available roughly 30 minutes from the site, it may be best to book a spot there before heading to this one of a kind sanctuary. It’s a nice way to explore Belize’s natural beauty as there are over 14 different hiking trails and very few tourists to compete with.

From hidden waterfalls, rivers and mountain tops with amazing views of the park, it’s a truly surreal way to spend some time in nature.

For birdwatchers, a large array of diversity of tropical birds exists! Tracks of wildcats and other wildlife are often spotted- especially along the bank of South Stann Creek. Plan an extended visit if possible. The park has several cabins as well as campgrounds for anyone looking to spend the night!

An interesting fact about the area is that the area was also designated to protect the upper watersheds of important river systems. Cockscomb has two distinctive basins, which separated by a ridge of land. The East Basin drains into South Stann Creek and the West Basin drains into Swasey River!

Xunantunich Tour

• Makes you feel like a true blue adventurer, you can almost imagine Indiana Jones adjusting his hat next to you!
• Enjoy the stunning view of the Mopan River from 130ft tall El Castillo!
• Admire structures older than many religions

Probably the best Belize walking tour.

This is another ancient Belize site . Xunantunich means “stone woman” in Mayan and these ruins date back to about 200-900 AD. The ruins include over 25 different temples and palaces. One of the most impressive is the domineering El Castillo. It stands 40m (130ft) tall, and from the top, provides an amazing view of the jungle, other ruins, and beyond the Guatemalan border!

Fair warning though, getting to Xunantunich can take a little bit of effort, and as the park closes at 4pm, you’ll want to get an early start. If you’re coming from San Ignacio, you can usually find a bus going to the ruins fairly easily. Most of the main cities in Belize have organized tours that provide transportation daily. When you are dropped off, take a free ride on the hand-cranked ferry to cross the Mopan River, with a short scenic walk to the site!

This is one of the most important Belize attractions so make sure you don’t miss out!

Go Bar Hopping in Placencia

• Home to some of the best beaches and bars in Belize, you may as well combine the two!
• There’s always something to do in this happening nightlife scene
• Safer for going out than Belize City and more entertaining at night than San Ignacia or Caye Caulker

Enjoy live music five nights a week, full-moon parties and fire dancing at the Barefoot Bar. If you prefer coffee or breakfast vibes, then check out Above Grounds or Brewed Awakenings!

For a colorful lounging atmosphere and, Garifuna dancing on Wednesday, give the Tipsy Tuna Sports Bar a look. For nightclub scenes Yoli’s, Street Feet and Sky Deck are all happening places that can get pretty intense on the weekends.

If you’re looking for a more locally popular place check out dockside J-Byrds, especially on a Friday!

So how safe is Belize ? Well, Belize, like many other Central and South American countries has issues with high crime and you need to exercise caution.

Violent crimes against tourists do happen but are fairly rare. The major concerns are be pick-pocketing, muggings and general theft.

To help keep vigilant, there are a few things you might have to be wary of. Firstly, keep your stuff safe: whether it’s on a chicken bus, in a taxi, at your hotel or hostel or even while traveling. It’s not exactly rare to have things stolen from your  accommodation, so chose your stay carefully. Don’t skimp only to get robbed later.

If you feel unsafe or unsure about something, ask: The Belizeans are known for their hospitality and will most likely help you if they can. In addition to this, English is the national language so communication shouldn’t be too difficult!

While you’re chatting with the locals, try not to stick out. If you look like tourists, people will assume you’ve got money. Dress like a local, don’t show off and walk like you know where you’re going. Be very careful about flashing jewellerey or electronic gadgets – you never know who may be watching you.

Lastly, stay in public places. I.e don’t duck and dive into alleyways, don’t use dodgy ATMs and if it’s during the night, maybe don’t go to that hole-in-the-wall bar no-one knows about.

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Belize

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

The Belize day trips below form a key part of any Belize vacation itinerary or travel guidebook for Belize and so  you definitely don’t want to miss out on any of them!

San Ignacio: Caracol and Rio On Pools with Lunch

Spend the day discovering the wonders of the ancient Mayans!

Head to Caracol, where you’ll stroll through the Maya villages of Cristo Rey and San Antonio, Toledo.

Follow the winding forest trail and listen to the wonderful guides immerse you in stories of old Maya. As they do so you’ll see the grand stone structures and the vast networks of ancient roads!

Walk along the paths the warriors used to take and climb one of the largest man-made structures in Belize (43 meters), the Canna. You’ll get to experience the plentiful tropical rainforests before stopping at the waters of either the Rio On Pools or the Big Rock Falls. After your delicious lunch, you can enjoy a refreshing swim!

Actun Tunichil Muknal Cave: Full-Day Tour

Prepare for a long day of adventuring in one of the must see’s during any of your day trips in Belize!

Hike to your starting point, cross a river before hiking some more until you come across one of the most famous caves in the world!

Switch between swimming and walking as you make your way through the cave. To protect the cave, travelers must remove their shoes before entering.

A living museum, most of the cave’s artifacts have been calcified into the ground, unmoved even by archaeologists. Hear stories of rituals, ceremonies, bloodletting, and human offerings. The cave contains a total of 15 human remains!

Climb a ladder to see full skeletal remains before exiting the cave in the same way you came in!

From Belize: Xunantunich, Cave Tubing, and Belize Zoo Tour

Xunantunich is a national treasure that can’t be missed!

Once you arrive, you’ll start off with a 30-minute hike and while it’s mostly on flat ground, you may end up wading through a few knee-deep water streams!

Once you reach the entrance of the cave, it is time for your adventure to begin! Inside, you will see beautiful crystalline formations and eerie rock formations. If you’re lucky your guides may stop at the mini waterfall and swimming area.

Next, arrive at the Belize Zoo – a small zoo with a big heart which will definitely win you over. Every species is placed in habitats based on what their natural surroundings would be.

Caye Caulker: Full-Day Hol Chan Marine Reserve Snorkeling

The name means “little channel” in Mayan, and is home to a variety of colorful and intriguing sights, including an enchanting coral reef, seagrass beds, and a mangrove forest. Enjoy exploring these then go snorkeling among sharks, stingrays and a school of bright marine life!

4 great snorkel stops are included. The Hol-Chan Channel, Shark Ray Alley, Shipwreck, and the North Channel. In between stops, you’ll get a chance to visit San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye to enjoy a tasty beachfront lunch.

Belize Cave Tubing and Ziplining

In this Belize Itinerary, there are more than a few adventure activities, and this is one for the highlight reel!

Absorb the vibrant flora and fauna during a 30-minute walk as you make your way to the entrance of the cave. The ancient Maya visited the site to conduct important rituals. You are propelled by the gentle currents as your guide tells you everything you need to know about the natural formations found inside the cave!

The second part of this adventure involves an adrenaline-inducing ride through the forest treetops, giving a bird’s eye view of the emerald forest canopy. The zip line tour involves crossing from one platform to another along with cables 75 feet above the forest floor!

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

Find out what people want to know when planning their Belize itinerary.

How many days do you need in Belize?

Three to four full days in Belize is plenty of time to explore the charming country. It’ll also give you time to relax at the beach and give your feet a bit of rest. Of course, having more time is always recommended.

What is the best month to go to Belize?

We’d recommend visiting Belize towards the end of dry-season, in March or April. That will promise great weather, still quite a few tourists, but nothing too overwhelming. Prices might start to drop as well.

What should you definitely add to your Belize itinerary?

Scuba diving should not be missing on your Belize itinerary. The crystal blue water is literally made for snorkeling and diving, and the calm sea means even beginners get to have their fun. Exploring Old Belize is pretty fun as well.

What can I do in Belize today?

To find out what’s on the activity menu in Belize today, check out GetYourGuide for awesome tours, attractions and tickets. If you want to have a more local vibe, go with Airbnb experiences instead.

Having finished our Belize Itinerary, you should have an idea of what to expect for your journey into the beautiful Caribbean, jungle hybrid that is Belize! You’ll have tested your Indiana Jones adventuring skills as well as your ability to take in all the natural beauty that lies in Belize.

Make sure you take note of when to go and remember that even in the rainy season, many of the things mentioned here can still be done without too much hassle. In fact, it may even enhance things!

Don’t forget to take a camera and snap up as many photos as you can of one of the world’s most photogenic, naturally beautiful and interesting places anywhere in the world. Try as much as you can, when you can, and you’ll definitely enjoy it all!

Claire Martin

Share or save this post

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail.

The Perfect One Week in Belize Itinerary: Jungle And Island Adventures

Written By: The Planet D

Updated On: March 16, 2024

Are you ready to journey through Belize? Our meticulously crafted one-week in Belize itinerary will take you from the beaches to the jungles. Follow our adventure, doing precisely what we did as we traveled to the laid-back Caye Caulker and Ambergris Caye to the adventure capital of San Ignacio for jungle trekking. Are you ready for a great adventure? Let’s go!

Table of Contents

One Week Belize Itinerary

Belize is a diverse country nestled between Mexico and Guatemala, boasting a stunning coastline along the Caribbean Sea. A trip to Belize isn’t just about island life. A Belize trip itinerary can include rainforest adventures, exploring majestic mountains, and a rich network of rivers and caves.

Belize’s geography is a paradise for nature lovers and a gateway to the world’s second-largest barrier reef, offering unparalleled snorkeling and scuba diving experiences.

Formerly a part of British Honduras, Belize’s official language is English, making it an accessible destination for travelers to explore independently.

Belize’s culture is a blend of influences, including Maya, Creole, Mestizo, and Garifuna culture. This cultural melting pot manifests in Belize’s cuisine, music, and festivals, making every experience here richly textured. From exploring ancient ruins and lush jungles to relaxing on sun-kissed beaches, Belize offers an array of activities that cater to every traveler’s desire.

We took a direct flight to Philip Goldson International Airport (PGIA) just outside of Belize City from Toronto. We transitioned from a cold and grey winter’s day to the tropical air of Belize in just 4 1/2 hours. We didn’t even leave the airport as we caught a quick hopper flight to the islands.

Day 1 in Belize – Caye Caulker

Start your Belize trip with a bit of island life at one of the Cayes. After you arrive in Belize City, head through security and have your Tropic Air ticket ready to transfer to the islands. This is the perfect way to begin your week in Belize. We made a home base in Caye Caulker, but most people were flying to San Pedro. When I saw the crowds going there I was happy to hop on our quiet flight to the smaller cay.

Flights from Belize City to Caye Caulker are just 10 minutes allowing plenty of time to enjoy this laid-back island where the motto, “Go Slow,” sets the tone for a tranquil yet fun experience. Indulge in the palm tree-lined shores and azure waters that make Caye Caulker a paradise for relaxation and water sports.

Check in to El Ban Cabanas

Golf carts await at the tiny airstrip on Caye Caulker, where our transfer to El Ben Cabañas held up a card with our name to take us to the pier for our first boat ride in Belize.

El Ben Cabañas is a luxury resort located on the sparsely populated north side of Caye Caulker Island. With twenty-six cabaña-style rooms featuring palm-thatched roofs, private verandas overlooking the sea, and chic, modern designs that transport you to a tropical paradise. Rooms have air conditioning and private verandas.

The resort offers free shuttles to Caye Caulker South throughout the day, allowing visitors the chance to enjoy the wild side of the island while escaping to the quiet and luxurious retreat that is nestled within swaying palms, sandy beaches, and two swimming pools.

It’s been a long day, so after you check into the hotel and fall into your feathery bed, make your way to the restaurant at El Ban Cabanas, which is considered the best fine dining on Caye Caulker. We indulged in fresh seafood caught just off the shores of Belize with a bottle of wine as the friendly staff filled us in on all the things to do.

It was an early evening as we had a big day ahead to enjoy the sights and watersports over the Belize Barrier Reef.

Day 2 in Belize – Ambergris Caye

No trip to Belize would be complete without visiting Ambergris Caye, so we took a day trip to the largest island in Belize to explore San Pedro Town and to take part in a few adventures. To make the most of our time, we caught an early morning flight to the island for some fun in the sun. Flights from Caye Caulker to Ambergris Caye are only five minutes long and take you directly to San Pedro.

We had an amazing breakfast at the Blue Water grill overlooking the sandy beach. Located across from the airport, it was just a short walk to our meal. This was the perfect place to enjoy a coffee while the tropical breeze cooled the air as we looked out at the turquoise waters of the Hol Chan Marine Reserve.

Flight Over the Blue Hole

After breakfast, we took the short walk back across the street to the airport, where we boarded our private flight to the Great Blue Hole . This hour-long scenic flight is a trip of a lifetime. The Great Blue Hole was made famous by Jacques Cousteau, who declared it one of the best scuba diving sites in the world, but honestly, to see it from above is truly spectacular.

The Great Blue Hole is a giant marine sinkhole, about 300 meters (984 feet) across and 124 meters (407 feet) deep. It is located off the coast of this beautiful country in Central America and is a nearly perfect circle in the sea. Its deep blue color stands out amongst the electric turquoise waters surrounding it.

When visiting Belize, you must make a trip to this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Discovery Channel named it one of the most amazing places on earth, and we agree!

The flight is so much more than just seeing this natural wonder, we spent an hour soaring over the Caribbean Sea, taking in the bird’s eye views of not only the shores of Ambergris Caye and its Secret Beach but also Caye Caulker and the colorful waters of the Hol Chan Marine Reserve. Some 400 Cayes are scattered throughout the Belize Barrier Reef, which is the second largest reef in the world after the Great Barrier Reef in Australia.

From above, you can see the colors changing before your eyes as the water’s depth changes and the corals come into view. Flights to the Blue Hole can be booked from Belize City, Caye Caulker, and Ambergris Caye and can range from $250 per person to $1250 for a private flight.

After taking in all that beauty in the Caribbean Sea, we worked up an appetite and made our way back to San Pedro Town for lunch at one of the most famous restaurants in Belize.

El Fogon Restaurant

El Fogon Restaurant is a family-run business that has been in operation for more than 20 years. The Arceo-Eiley family grew up in La Isla Bonita and opened this restaurant to preserve the authenticity of Belizean Cuisine. We loved our meals of spicy stews and local soups while enjoying the lively atmosphere of this popular spot.

Parasailing

Continuing our theme of island life and water sports, we joined Belize Parasail Ltd . for another adventure in the sky. They picked us up in San Pedro, where we enjoyed a sightseeing tour of the island as we made our way to Boca del Rio Resort, located on a quieter side of the island, to hop on a speed boat for our parasailing adventure in the sky.

The adventure was about an hour long taking us out to the Belize Barrier Reef. Once we were well away from the shore, we put on our life jackets and strapped into our harnesses before being pulled high into the sky for beautiful views. We even saw manta rays from our perch!

It was terrific to spend our first day seeing the Belize Barrier Reef from above.

It was a lot of fun in the sun and after a full day trip in the air, we made our way back to San Pedro to catch our flight back to Caye Caulker. There are plenty of places to eat on Caye Caulker, but we decided to catch our free water shuttle back to our resort to enjoy its fantastic restaurant. Being close to home lets us fall into our beds dreaming about our perfect day in Belize.

Day 3 in Belize – Caye Caulker

If yesterday was about seeing the Caribbean Sea and Belize Barrier Reef from above, today was all about exploring the Hol Chan Marine Reserve from below.

After a hearty breakfast at our resort, we arranged a free water taxi to Caye Caulker South to enjoy our day on the water.

We were let off at the pier and walked along the sandy street Wanderlust Sailing and Snorkeling  which is located on the main street. They fitted us with fins and snorkels and then we all walked together to the Split to board a luxury catamaran for our half-day trip.

Private Yacht Tour

We boarded a private yacht with Wanderlust Adventures to sail for a half-day trip to the heart of the Hol Chan Marine Reserve. The sailing trip was as exciting as the snorkeling as the different hues of blue unfolded before our eyes. We sat on the front of the catamaran and felt like millionaires as we sailed through the Caribbean Sea with our private crue who took care of our every need.

When you visit Belize you must get on the water to do some sailing. Even if you don’t want to go snorkeling, you can book a day trip on a boat. You can see a lot just from the deck. During our sail out to the coral reef, we saw sea turtles, sting rays, and nurse sharks from the boat’s bow!

But, getting in the water is truly spectacular. The water was clear and warm and all snorkeling equipment was included, so all we had to do was put on our mask, fins, and snorkel and follow our guide.

South Channel Reef

We snorkeled in four different sites. Beginning in the Caye Caulker South Channel where we explored the colorful coral reefs to see parrotfish, lobsters, angelfish, and tarpon.

It was then on to another site to before making our way to Shark Ray Alley. It has exploded since our trip 20 years ago! Sharks were originally drawn to the area when local fishermen cleaned their catches in the calm and shallow waters of the Belize Barrier Reef. This practice turned the area into a natural feeding ground for nurse sharks and stingrays, who were attracted by the easy meal.

Shark Ray Alley

The last time we snorkeled in Shark Ray Alley was in 2003, during a diving trip through Central America. We stopped in Belize and fell in love with its crystal clear waters. Cut to 20 years later and we are back with different goals of snorkeling in luxury.

A highlight of any Belize itinerary is a snorkel trip to Shark Ray Alley. There is no need to go scuba diving here, the marine life is all within a few feet of water so a snorkel tour is more than enough.

Afternoon – Tour of Caye Caulker

Doing a half-day tour lets us experience the rest of Caye Caulker for a day. We love this island much more than Ambergris Caye. It is much less busy and fewer golf carts are zipping through its sandy streets. It’s easy to spend several days chilling out on Caye Caulker, but here are a few highlights.

We walked along the tree-lined waterfront, popping into shops in search of necklaces and souvenirs, and made our way to The Split for a cocktail at the Lazy Lizard.

The Split is a popular spot on Caye Caulker with bars, volleyball courts, a swimming area, and soft sand. It’s also one of the best places for sunset. The split is located near the center of the island where Caye Caulker was split into two parts by Hurricane Hattie in 1961. The fierce storm carved a narrow channel creating a distinct north and south division of the island.

Split Shuttle

There are shuttles that run between the two sides of the island for $5 per person. We used this a couple of times instead of the free shuttle from El Ban Cabanas as the ride is just a short minute or two long and it’s only a five-minute walk to our hotel once we reached the other side. If you are staying on Caye Caulker, you need to ride this boat at least once.

Feed the Tarpon

Other things to do on Caye Caulker. It doesn’t take long to explore Caye Caulker, it is a small island and the experience is all about relaxing, interacting with the locals, and soaking up the sun. If you want to keep busy, you can rent paddleboards or do some sea kayaking. If you are looking for some unique activities, head over to the pier to feed the tarpon, pop into the Chocolate factory, or visit the dog shelter.

There are plenty of dogs on Caye Caulker, as one of our guides mentioned, “Did you notice that we are a dog-friendly island?”

Our night ended with a fantastic food tour through downtown. Owner Matt met us at the pier, and we followed him to Salty’s where we enjoyed Belezian appetizers and cocktails on the patio overlooking the beach.

Dinner – A Taste of Caye Caulker Food Tour

The locals were playing Bingo, and everyone welcomed us as friends as we talked about life on the island and sampled the incredible food.

We toured four different restaurants eating and drinking our way through Caye Caulker. Our second stop took us to the highest rooftop on the island where we ate salads paired with another local cocktail and enjoyed the sunset.

Already feeling full and a little buzzed, we then walked on to the local sports bar where we sampled four different main dishes that were huge. Not to mention another couple of cocktails to go with the meals. We made instant friends with our guide and vowed to come back soon. Don’t miss the Taste of Cay Caulker Food Tour when you are on the island.

But the night wasn’t over yet; we had to have dessert, so we went to the beach, ordered more cocktails, and enjoyed authentic Belizean treats as we listened to music and enjoyed the cool tropical breeze.

We made it back to our water taxi just in time for the last ride and as a storm came in, we learned what it is like to boat in the dark through crashing waves. These drivers are skilled and we didn’t worry at all.

Day 4 in Belize – Caye Caulker to San Ignacio

After breakfast, we had the chance to explore North Caye Caulker a bit. This is a much quieter island with just a few resorts. We walked along the road to the Caye Caulker Split, chatting with locals riding their bikes to work.

We caught a flight back to Belize City to transfer to San Ignacio. You can take a ferry and then hop on a bus, but this saved us a lot of precious time by flying. Plus, when we landed in Belize, we were met by our driver from the tour company, Nine Belize , who drove us to San Ignacio on a two-hour private transfer from Belize City. It is an awesome way to see the countryside.

Drive to San Ignacio

San Ignacio is the jumping-off point for jungle adventures in Belize and it is worth spending a few days exploring its surrounding jungle hiking trails, caves, Mayan ruins, and waterfalls. The jungles of Belize house jaguars, howler monkeys, toucans, and other tropical birds. It can be difficult to see them, but you never know! One thing is for sure, you will hear the distinct roar of the howler monkeys.

It’s been a long day of transferring and instead of staying at a San Ignacio resort hotel, we checked into the luxurious Hidden Valley Wilderness Lodge which is a destination unto itself. This is the perfect spot to chill out and relax. The completely self-sufficient resort is set in the middle of the jungle with a restaurant, cozy bar, swimming pool, and sprawling property that is perfect for jungle adventures.

Relax at Hidden Valley Wilderness Lodge

We never wanted to leave our villa, which was a chic cabana that was larger than most people’s houses. We settled into our huge villa complete with a full living room, kitchenette, indoor and outdoor shower, full screened-in cabana with dining area and sitting area, and a chic bedroom with a California king-sized bed.

Did we mention the private infinity plunge pool overlooking the jungle? During the wet season, this was heavenly as we warmed our bones in the hot water and then went back into our room to sit in front of one of our two fireplaces. In the hot weather, it has air conditioning to keep us cool and dry.

This luxurious eco-resort is situated on a vast private reserve in the Mountain Pine Ridge area of Belize. Guests have access to hiking tours, free bikes, and jungle adventures within the property. There is fine dining on the property, a bar, and a swimming pool. They offer day trips from horseback riding tours into Belize’s jungles and river tubing or cave tours. Everything you need is right here.

Day 5 in Belize – Ancient Maya City

Did you know that there are Maya Ruins in Belize? They aren’t just in Mexico and Guatemala, the Ancient Mayan City of Caracol is up there with the best of them.

Full Day Tour

We took a private tour with Maya Tours to see Carocal. Very few people visit these ancient Mayan Ruins as the trip is arduous, with a rough road taking us all the way to the Guatemalan border. Having the complex nearly all to ourselves, we felt like Indiana Jones exploring the ruins in the rain.

Caracol Natural Monument

Nestled deep in the Chiquibul Forest Reserve, Caracol is Belize’s largest Maya site, offering a mesmerizing glimpse into a once-powerful civilization rivaling Tikal in Guatemala.

It’s an impressive ancient city set in the middle of the rainforest. If you are quiet, you’ll hear howler monkeys roar in the distance as spider monkeys and toucans play in the forest canopy overhead. What we love about Caracol, is that you can see jungle growing from its pyramids and other mounds buried under the canopy. It’s a wild experience similar to Angkor Wat in Cambodia where the forest has taken over the city.

Plus, unlike Chichen Itza where you can no longer climb the temple, you can climb the structures here including the imposing Caana (“Sky Palace”), once the tallest man-made structure in Belize. We wandered with our guide through the extensive network of plazas, temples, and altars, where intricate carvings and stelae narrate stories of ancient Maya royalty and rituals.

Big Rock Falls

After a delicious Belizian lunch at the archaeological site and a chance to walk through the museum and displays, we were back in our four-wheel drive vehicle to explore the pools of Big Rock Falls. Normally, this is a perfect time to swim in the cascade of waterfalls, but with the unseasonable rain, we enjoyed it only from a distance as we watched the speeding water plunger over the falls.

Day 6 in Belize – Caves and Adventure

Full-Day ATM Cave Tour or Crystal Cave Tour

Sadly, during our Belize trip, the rains came in with a vengeance, and our cave tours were canceled due to flooding. The wet season in Belize is usually over by November, but this year was exceptional and with the rains being so intense, our cave tour was too dangerous. We weren’t alone, though, all cave tubing and those who booked the ATM Cave Tour were canceled as well.

But, to give you an idea of what our day would have been, we’ll explain what it is like to do a cave tour in the Cayo District. We talked to many people who have done them all to get first-hand accounts of what the ATM Cave Tour, Crystal Cave Tour, and Cave Tubing are like.

ATM Cave Tour (Actun Tunichil Muknal)

The first thing I must tell you is that no cameras, video, or phones are allowed in the ATM Cave. But that is what makes it so unique! (The photos above were provided by the Belize Tourism Board)

The Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM) Cave takes you on a journey into the heart of the Mayan underworld, where you’ll traverse through jungle trails and wade through crystal-clear waters. National Geographic ranked it as the most sacred cave on earth and it’s easy to see why.

Inside the ATM Cave, you’ll witness the awe-inspiring geological formations, ancient ceremonial sites, and well-preserved Maya artifacts, including pottery and skeletal remains. Yes, you heard me, skeletons.

This unique spelunking adventure is a tour and a journey back in time, providing insights into the mysterious ancient Maya civilization. Guides undergo rigorous training, and very few lead tours into the ATM Cave, so you can be sure that you will have a safe and memorable experience. This incredible experience is a full-day trip and the perfect blend of adventure, history, and natural beauty. Be prepared to do some crawling, swimming, and squeezing.

Crystal Cave Tour

Crystal Cave Tour is a more intense experience than the Actun Tunichil Muknal Cave experience. You can do a full or half-day tour of this cave where you’ll go on an eco-adventure back in time. This tour is rigorous and heart-pumping and is not for the faint of heart.

The tour starts with private transportation, with Mayawalk Adventure taking a 90-minute drive to St. Herman’s Blue Hole National Park. It is then a moderate 50-minute hike to the cave entrance followed by climbing down 15 feet into the Mayan Underworld.

Be prepared to slide through mud ramps, climb rocks, and be surrounded by ancient stalactites and stalagmites coated in crystals. Like the ATM Cave, you’ll also witness a living museum with ancient skeletal remains, Mayan artifacts, old fire pits, and pottery.

The tour ends with a Belizean Lunch and a swim in the Inland Blue Hole. You then can enjoy a rum punch for the drive home.

Cave Tubing

Cave Tubing is one of the most popular day trips in Belize and is a much easier tour than the ATM Cave Tour. Tubing is such a fun thing to do and to glide along the cool waters of the ancient river caves, surrounded by the lush tropical rainforest is something you won’t soon forget.

Navigate through the darkened caves, marveling at the stunning stalactites and stalagmites while learning about the area’s geological and cultural history. Suitable for all ages and skill levels, cave tubing connects you with nature but also provides a glimpse into the mystery of Belize’s underground landscapes.

Tour of San Ignacio

If your cave tour is canceled like ours, there are still plenty of things to do in the Cayo District.

We took a day trip to discover downtown San Ignacio, a bustling hub of culture and adventure. This lively town is nestled in the lush Cayo District with plenty of things to enjoy on your Belize travel itinerary. We started our journey at the bustling San Ignacio Market, where we bought our handcrafted souvenirs and sampled some authentic Belizean cuisine.

We took a walk along its pedestrian street, popping into its shops, and found a popular place for lunch to enjoy empanadas and tacos.

San Ignacio has its own Maya ruins without taking the long drive to Caracol. Adventure seekers can delve into the ancient Maya history at the nearby Cahal Pech Mayan Ruins, offering a glimpse into the rich heritage of Belize.

While in San Ignacio, don’t miss the opportunity to explore the Iguana Conservation Project, a unique chance to interact with these fascinating creatures and learn about conservation efforts.

Butterfly Farm

After a morning in San Ignacio, we visited the Greenhill Butterfly Ranch . This was a fascinating tour and the perfect thing to do on a rainy day when the caves of San Ignacio are flooded. We walked through the butterfly enclosure where 30 different native species of Belize flew through the large flight area. If we were very still, they landed on us and we had a friend or two walk through with us for awhile.

We learned about the life cycle of the butterfly, from seeing where they lay their eggs to watching them as chrysalids and emerging as butterflies.

After our tour, we were free to spend as long as we liked to watch the hummingbirds that visit the bird feeders. This stop is huge on bird watching and photography tours. After Dave captured this beautiful picture, I could understand why! We could watch them flit about for hours.

Other things to do in San Ignacio include visiting the Green Iguana Conservation Project, the Belize Botanic Gardens, and the Belize Zoo which houses only rescued animals. The Belize Zoo is a good place to stop on your way back to Belize City.

Day 7 in Belize – EcoAdventure and Waterfalls

Today, we didn’t leave our resort as we enjoyed the luxury of Hidden Valley Resort all day long. We had adventures in the morning followed by pampering and romance in the evening.

We enjoyed a delicious breakfast at the resort. Everything that is brought in has been locally sourced within a 15-mile radius following a true, farm-to-table experience. We enjoyed freshly made yogurts, breakfast burritos, and fresh coffee grown right on the property before setting off our our day of adventures.

Jungle Tour

Mountain Pine Ridge area of Belize is one of the best bird-watching areas in Belize where avid birders come to spy on tropical birds inhabiting its jungle. We went on a 4X4 sightseeing tour of the jungle to explore the many waterfalls on the property.

Our first stop was King Vulture waterfall which was made famous by Bear Grylls who rapelled down its amazing cascade. While there we spotted the elusive orange-breasted falcon and its mate who were soaring through the air.

It was then onto a hike to … pools where we went jungle hiking over ladders and vine-covered trails to a powerful waterfall plunging into a pool. During the dry season, people can swim in these pools.

We ended at … pool which is an easy five-minute hike. The resort sets up picnics here where couples and families can spend the day by the waterfall, swimming in the pool, and relaxing in a hammock. They bring out lunch to you and drinks. Whatever your heart desires.

People who go jungle trekking are armed with radios so they can keep in touch with the resort should any problems arise.

Afternoon: Private Massage

After enjoying another delicious meal at SAP restaurant, we returned to our villa where two massage tables were set up on our large veranda to enjoy a deep tissue couples massage. This was the ultimate experience that made us truly feel like royalty.

We’ve had a lot of massages around the world, but we’ve always had to go to the spa. Having the massage therapists come to us was heavenly. When they finished, we simply walked into our private plunge pool to relax and rejoice as we listened to the sounds of the rainforest.

After taking a nap and feeling completely relaxed from our massage, we cleaned ourselves up for a private candlelight dinner. Walking out to the screened-in cabana, we enjoyed a three-course meal created by renowned Belizean chef Sean Cuylan.

The traditional stove fire was lit as candles burned all around us. This was the ultimate romantic evening as we enjoyed the locally infused flavors combined with international cuisine.

This resort has everything you could ask for in a luxury vacation. After dinner, we walked to the Rum bar to enjoy a post-meal cocktail where we chatted with the bartender Kenny about the resort and how everything right down to the gin is locally made.

Taking a glass of wine to our villa, we walked along the torch-lit path taking us to our private retreat where we built a fire and sat in the infinity pool sipping on a glass of wine.

It was bittersweet as this was our last night in Belize. But it ended perfectly with pampering and relaxation after a morning of adventure and fun. It’s exactly the way we like it.

As we faded to sleep we vowed to come back to Belize and tour the caves that we missed and to explore more places around the country. A one-week Belize itinerary is just barely enough to scratch the surface.

When is the Best Time to Visit Belize?

The best time to visit Belize is typically during the dry season, which runs from late November to mid-April. This period offers the most favorable weather conditions for enjoying Belize’s outdoor activities and natural attractions:

Weather : The dry season brings less rainfall and more sunshine, making it ideal for activities like snorkeling, diving, and exploring the Mayan ruins. Temperatures are generally warm and comfortable.

Crowds : The peak tourist season in Belize coincides with the dry season, especially around Christmas, New Year’s, and Easter. If you prefer to avoid the busiest times, consider visiting in November or early December before the holiday rush, or in late April, when the weather is still pleasant but the crowds have diminished.

Festivals and Events : Belize hosts various cultural events and festivals during these months, offering a glimpse into its rich cultural heritage.

Off-Season Travel : If you’re considering traveling in the off-season (May to November), you’ll encounter fewer tourists and lower prices, but be prepared for hotter, more humid conditions and a higher chance of rain, especially during the hurricane season from June to November.

What is the Best Way to Get to San Pedro, Belize?

San Pedro Belize is located on Ambergris Caye, the largest cay in Belize. It is one of the top tourist destinations in Belize with beaches, resorts, and day trips to the Belize Barrier Reef.

The best ways to get to San Pedro, Belize, from Belize City are either by plane or ferry:

By Plane : The quickest method, taking under 30 minutes, with flights operated by Maya and Tropic Air. Tropic Air has three daily flights in the morning, and Maya offers flights throughout the day from 7.40 AM to 6.30 PM. The cost for a one-way flight to San Pedro is around 119 USD? ?? ?.

By Ferry : A more affordable option, taking around 1.5 hours. The San Pedro Belize Express offers several daily ferries, equipped with amenities like wheelchairs, life jackets, and first-aid kits. The cost for a one-way ferry ticket is approximately 29 USD.

How to Get to San Ignacio Belize?

To get to San Ignacio, Belize, from Belize City, you have several options:

We took a private transfer to San Ignacio from Belize City with Nine Ecological Tours

Tourist Shuttle : This is a comfortable journey that takes about 2 hours from Belize City. The cost starts from around $20.

Public Bus : A cheaper and more adventurous option, taking approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes. Buses usually depart from Belize City Bus Terminal to San Ignacio Bus Terminal. However, buses may not be very comfortable or reliable, especially if crowded? ?.

Taxi : A fast and comfortable option, taking about 1 hour and 30 minutes, with fares ranging from $100 to $150 one-way. Taxis can be booked online or by phone and will pick up passengers from various locations in Belize City.

Car Rental : Renting a car offers flexibility and convenience, with the journey taking about 1 hour and 40 minutes. Car rental costs range from $60 to $90 per day, and the route is mostly along the Western Highway (George Price Highway). This option requires a valid driver’s license, credit card, and insurance/

Belize Packing List

Belize is a little different from other countries, especially if your Belize itinerary includes a trip to San Ignacio. Weather can be unpredictable in the rainforest and the cayes are a little different than other tropical destinations, so besides your beach gear, here are a few items to add to your Belize packing list.

• Rain Gear : A lightweight rain jacket or poncho, especially if traveling during the rainy season (June to November).
• Sun Protection : Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat to protect against the strong sun.
• Insect Repellent : To guard against mosquitoes, especially in jungle areas.
• Long Sleeve Pants and Shirts that you don’t mind ruining for the ATM Cave Tours or river tubing.
• A long-sleeved rash guard shirt for snorkeling. The sun is hot, so make sure to protect your skit.
• Camera or Smartphone : For capturing the stunning scenery and wildlife.
• Backpack or Daypack : For day trips and excursions.
• A dry bag for your electronics.
• An umbrella if you are traveling in the wet season.

Is Belize Expensive to visit?

The cost of visiting Belize can vary widely depending on your travel style and choices. Certain aspects of travel here can be expensive and costs here are more along the lines of what you’ll find in Costa Rica. That said, Belize may be more expensive than other Central American countries like Guatemala and Honduras, but it is more affordable than Caribbean destinations.:

• Accommodation : Prices range from budget-friendly hostels to high-end resorts, with options to fit various budgets.
• Food and Dining : Local eateries and street food are generally inexpensive, but restaurant meals, especially in tourist areas, can be pricier.
• Activities : Tours and activities like scuba diving, snorkeling, and visiting ancient Mayan ruins can add to the cost, though there are often a range of options available.
• Transportation : Local transportation like buses is affordable, but taxis, shuttles, and internal flights can increase costs.
• Location : Popular tourist areas like San Pedro on Ambergris Caye and Placencia tend to be more expensive than less touristy locations.

Plan Your Next Trip To Belize With these Resources

• 26 of the Best Things to Do in Belize
• The Great Blue Hole In Belize: How To See This Natural Wonder
• Belize Travel Guide

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

You May Also Like

Is Belize Safe To Visit In 2024? Your Guide To Belize Travel Safety

Discover San Ignacio, Belize- Your Ultimate Guide To Adventure

20 Best Things to Do in Caye Caulker Belize

About The Planet D

Dave Bouskill and Debra Corbeil are the owners and founders of The Planet D. After traveling to 115 countries, on all 7 continents over the past 13 years they have become one of the foremost experts in travel. Being recognized as top travel bloggers and influencers by the likes of Forbes Magazine , the Society of American Travel Writers and USA Today has allowed them to become leaders in their field.

Join thousands of others who get our monthly updates!

Leave a comment cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

1 thought on “The Perfect One Week in Belize Itinerary: Jungle And Island Adventures”

This itinerary is a dream come true for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts alike! The Perfect One Week in Belize Itinerary brilliantly combines the best of both worlds – the lush wonders of the jungle and the idyllic charm of the islands.

Starting with jungle explorations, you’ll find yourself immersed in the rich biodiversity of Belize. Trekking through dense rainforests, encountering vibrant wildlife, and exploring ancient Mayan ruins provide a perfect blend of history and nature. The itinerary smartly balances active pursuits with moments of tranquility, allowing travelers to fully appreciate the beauty of Belize’s untamed landscapes.

The transition to island adventures brings a refreshing change of pace. Whether it’s snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters, basking on pristine beaches, or discovering the vibrant marine life, the itinerary offers a diverse range of activities to satisfy every water lover’s desires. The inclusion of cultural experiences and local cuisine adds an authentic touch, providing a holistic understanding of Belizean life.

The detailed and well-thought-out itinerary ensures that every day is filled with excitement and discovery, yet leaves room for relaxation. It caters to various interests, making it an ideal plan for couples, families, or solo travelers seeking an unforgettable Belizean experience. Overall, this itinerary is a masterful guide for those yearning for a perfect blend of adventure, nature, and culture in the enchanting landscapes of Belize.

Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Belize Trip Planner

Top destinations in belize.

Top attractions in Belize

Other notable attractions

Explore nearby places

• Franks Eddy
• La Democracia
• Mountain Pine Ridge Reserve
• Georgeville
• Burrell Boom
• San Antonio
• Santa Elena
• San Ignacio
• San Jose Succotz
• Belize City
• Crooked Tree
• Benque Viejo del Carmen
• Melchor de Mencos
• Rock Stone Pond
• Orange Walk
• Monkey River Town

All related maps of Belize

• Map of Belize
• Map of Franks Eddy
• Map of La Democracia
• Map of Belmopan
• Map of Armenia
• Map of Camalote
• Map of Camelote
• Map of Pomona
• Map of Mountain Pine Ridge Reserve
• Map of Georgeville
• Map of Burrell Boom
• Map of Ladyville
• Map of San Antonio
• Map of Santa Elena
• Map of Silk Grass
• Map of Dangriga
• Map of Augustine
• Map of San Ignacio
• Map of San Jose Succotz
• Map of Belize City
• Map of Hopkins
• Map of Kendal
• Map of Crooked Tree
• Map of Benque Viejo del Carmen
• Map of Melchor de Mencos
• Map of Rock Stone Pond
• Map of San Pablo
• Map of Maskall
• Map of Placencia
• Map of Orange Walk
• Map of Monkey River Town

Belize throughout the year

• Belize in January
• Belize in February
• Belize in March
• Belize in April
• Belize in May
• Belize in June
• Belize in July
• Belize in August
• Belize in September
• Belize in October
• Belize in November
• Belize in December

Q&A about Belize

Add places from guides with 1 click, collaborate with friends in real time, import flight and hotel reservations, expense tracking and splitting, checklists for anything, get personalized suggestions.

4.9 on App Store, 4.7 on Google Play

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to footer

Belize Adventure

Easy-to-use travel guide for Belize

Make the most out of One Week in Belize

Since Belize is a small country, it’s the perfect vacation destination to visit for a week-long trip.

Related: 2 Weeks in Belize & Where to Stay in Belize

Whether one week in Belize might feel too short or too long for you, 7 days and 6 nights allow for just enough time to see many of the country’s main tourist attractions . This includes staying at Belize’s most popular beach and jungle destinations .

One Week in Belize Itinerary (7 Days, 6 Nights)

This Belize itinerary involves spending 3 days at a beach destination ( Ambergris Caye or Caye Caulker ) and 4 days in mainland Belize (staying in San Ignacio, Cayo , a hub for jungle adventures), which are the most popular destinations in Belize.

• Arrive in Belize City as you fly into the Philip Goldson International Airport  (BZE), which is Belize’s only international airport.
• Make your way to Ambergris Caye or Caye Caulker . This involves either taking a local flight for 15-20 minutes or getting there via boat which involves catching a 30-minute cab ride to the Belize City Water Taxi terminal and then jumping on a water taxi to the cayes, which takes 1-2 hours.
• Arrive in Ambergris Caye or Caye Caulker. Check into your hotel and then go grab late lunch or dinner at a local restaurant.

Belize City is Belize’s main gateway to exploring the country. Most people don’t stay there but if you care to visit, consider taking a scenic tour of its downtown to learn about the city’s culture, economics, and architecture.

Ambergris Caye is Belize’s largest island and it’s a popular destination for snorkeling, diving, and fishing. San Pedro town is its largest settlement and it’s known for luxury beach resorts, restaurants, and fun nightlife .

Caye Caulker is Ambergris Caye’s smaller sister island and a popular stop for travelers looking to relax and enjoy a “go slow” Caribbean vibe. The island attracts younger and less affluent individuals that want to enjoy a no-frills beach vacation.

• Discover the Belize Barrier Reef ! Popular activities include diving, snorkeling, and fishing.
• Start by visiting Hol Chan Marine Reserve . It is considered the most popular snorkeling spot in Belize.
• Explore downtown San Pedro or Caye Caulker. Spend the afternoon/ evening visiting local restaurants/bars and don’t forget to check out local shops for Belizean souvenirs .

Belize’s Reef is perhaps the number one reason people visit Belize. It’s the second-largest barrier reef in the world and a UNESCO world heritage site. Popular reef activities include fishing, diving, snorkeling, and sailing.

Hol Chan Marine Reserve offers one of the best snorkeling experiences in Belize. During a trip here you will see pristine coral gardens and swim with marine wildlife such as sea turtles, nurse sharks and stingrays. By boat, Hol Chan is about 15 minutes away from San Pedro and 40 minutes away from  Caye Caulker . 

• Visit the Great Blue Hole . Dive it or see it from above via a scenic flyover tour .
• If you really enjoy diving, add dive sites: Half Moon Caye Wall  and Long Caye Aquarium  to your Blue Hole dive trip.
• Go sailing! ‪Sunset cruises are my favourite boat tours since there’s something really magical about watching the sunset from a boat, lazily sailing while fresh ceviche and delicious rum punches are being served.

The Great Blue Hole is Belize’s most famous attraction. It’s a giant marine sinkhole near Lighthouse Reef Atoll that draws divers from around the world and it’s Belize’s top tourist site for a scenic flyover tour .

Typically done on catamarans, cruise tour options include sunset sailing or full-day scenic boat tours which include snorkeling and island hopping. Boats can be rented out privately or you can join a group, which is always fun since you never know who you might meet.

• Make your way to the Cayo District in Western Belize. I recommend staying in or near San Ignacio .
• Catch a water taxi to Belize City and then head to San Ignacio via taxi cab or private shuttle (1.5 hours) or bus (3 hours). Alternatively, you can catch a local flight to San Ignacio, which takes about 45 minutes.
• Arrive in San Ignacio. Check into your hotel and then go grab late lunch or dinner at a local restaurant.

San Ignacio is a small town in Cayo that serves as a hub for eco-adventures in Belize. Its lively downtown is popular with tourists since it has a restaurant and nightlife scene that is not seen elsewhere in Cayo.

• Go horseback riding to the Maya ruins of Xunantunich  or leisurely visit Cahal Pech  on your own.
• Stop for lunch in San Ignacio and explore the downtown area.
• Go cave tubing or ziplining in the afternoon. Ask your tour operator to combine the Xunantunich and cave tubing tours to save time and money.

Xunantunich is my favorite Maya temple. After crossing a hand-cranked ferry, lush jungle surrounds the site. The main temple, El Castillo offers spectacular views of nearby villages and Guatemalan mountains.

Cahal Pech is a small Maya site located in San Ignacio, Cayo. Although this site is really small, I really like that it’s within walking distance from downtown San Ignacio and thick jungle foliage surrounds the temples.

Cave Tubing is probably the most popular activity for cruise ship tourists visiting Belize. It’s loads of fun and an interesting way to mix river tubing and cave exploration . This tour is often paired with zip-lining.

A zip line adventure generally involves enjoying a bird’s eye view of Belize’s jungle canopy. This activity is perfect for adrenaline junkies and it’s often paired as a combo tour with cave tubing .

• Have an action-packed day as you explore the world-famous  Actun Tunichil Muknal Cave .
• OR, take a day trip to the amazing  Mountain Pine Ridge Nature Reserve . You’ll visit Caracol, Belize’s largest Mayan ruin , explore the Rio Frio Cave and swim at the Rio On Pools.
• Alternatively, visit the nearby  Tikal Maya Ruins in Peten, Guatemala. You leave San Ignacio at 8 AM and return by 5 PM.

Actun Tunichil Muknal is an impressive, artifact-rich Maya ceremonial cave that contains rare bloodletting altars, sacrificial human remains, and over 1400 cataloged artifacts. It’s Belize’s top cave tour .

Mountain Pine Ridge is a nature reserve created to protect Belize’s native pine forest. Visitors are treated to many top tourist attractions and can experience fun activities such as hiking, swimming and birding .

Tikal is one of the largest Maya sites in Guatemala and also Central America. It’s majestic ruins stand tall touching the sky and stretch for miles inside a national park that is teeming with protected wildlife.

• Catch a taxi cab/private shuttle (1.5 hours) or local flight to Belize City (45 minutes).
• If you choose a private shuttle, make a quick stop at the Belize Zoo. It’s known as the best little zoo in the world .
• Arrive at the Philip Goldson International Airport and make your way home.

The Belize Zoo isn’t your ordinary zoo, here you will only find rescued animals that are native to Belize and they roam “free” in large enclosures that replicate their natural environment.

Check out alternative itineraries:  14 days in Belize ,  backpacking in Belize , and  Belize on the cheap . Also, take a look at the  tours and activities  page.

If you love beach destinations , feel free to switch things around by spending more time in Caye Caulker or Ambergris Caye. BTW, some of the inland tours that I suggest can be done from the islands by booking them via Tropic Air.

Where to Stay in Belize

• List of Luxury Hotels
• List of All-Inclusive Resorts
• List of Beach Resorts
• List of Jungle Resorts
• List of Dive Resorts
• List of Treehou se Hotels
• List of Family Resorts
• List of Cheap Hotels
• List of Hostels

Related posts:

One Week in Belize: A First-Timers Belize Itinerary

• Post last modified: March 31, 2024
• Post category: Belize / Itineraries / One Week Trips

Belize is a sampler platter of Central America. Belize has everything you could want of a Central American vacation, including the beautiful beaches, Mayan ruins, lush jungles and a barrier reef. In just one week in Belize, you’ll have the opportunity to see a taste of everything Belize has to offer. This Belize itinerary will take you from the reef, to the jungle, to the beach all in one week. This is the perfect one week Belize itinerary for first time visitors to the country.

Stuff In This Post

Getting There and Around

You’ll need to fly in to Belize City. This is the only international airport in the county. From there, you can choose to take public transportation or personal transportation.  

Public transportation is available via buses and super cheap. However, it is rumored to take longer to arrive at your destination due to frequent stops.  

We opted for personal transportation a majority of the time so that we could move around on our own timeline. We used both taxis and rental cars to get around the country.  

For more information on driving in Belize, check out our post here.

Where to stay.

For this Belize itinerary, we’ll suggest a town to stay in each night. We used a home rental site to find places to stay. However, in Belize home rentals do have to have licensing with the Belize Tourism Board. Look for either a screenshot of this certificate or a license number when you are making your bookings. You can also use hotel booking sites to find places to stay as well. We did find that many of the places we stayed didn’t have a great online presence, so booking direct generally wasn’t an option.  

We’ve also included links for the recommended towns to stay in below.

We love Hotels.com as their FREE loyalty program lets you earn credit toward future stays. By buying from the links below, we'll earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Read the full Terms and Conditions here.

Belize Itinerary

Day 1 – island living.

Arrive in Belize and make your way to Caye Caulker or Ambergris Caye (Caye = Key). You can reach either island via the ferry from Belize City . To get to the ferry, you’ll need to take a $25-30 taxi ride to the dock. You can pay for your ferry tickets with cash or credit card at the docks in Belize City. Ferry rides are between $20-30 US/person and take between 45-60 minutes.

Most Belize itineraries will tell you to visit one island or the other. However, we see the merits of both islands. Ambergris Caye is more developed and touristy and has the price tag to go with that. Caye Caulker is less developed and smaller. Challenges on Caye Caulker can be finding things to do as the tourism infrastructure doesn’t seem to keep up with demand at times.   We spent a small amount of time on Ambergris Caye and a majority of our time on Caye Caulker . We liked the rough small-town vibe of Caye Caulker better but amenities were lacking.

To see a full list of things to do on Caye Caulker, check out our post here.

Whichever island you choose to visit, spend the afternoon exploring town. Bikes are a popular option on the islands. We stayed in a home rental that provided us with bicycles or you could rent one in town. First, wander town and get a lay of the land and look at the different tour operators in town.  

Stay overnight on the island.  

Day 2 – Snorkel and Swim

Morning – snorkel tour.

On the second day of your Belize itinerary, you’ll be exploring the amazing Shark Ray Alley and Hol Chan Marine Reserve . Tour operators in both Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker take snorkel tours out daily. Try to book an early in the day tour to beat the crowds (yes crowds) and see the reef at the most active part of the day.

We used Caye Caulker Reef Friendly Tours, based on Caye Caulker. We were wildly impressed with Armando and his reef conscious behavior. Some tour operators feed the nurse sharks in Shark Ray Alley, which teaches them unnatural feeding habits. However, ecologically friendly tours do not participate in the antiquated practice.  

Whatever tour you choose, you’ll most likely start at Shark Ray Alley . Because of years of tour companies feeding sharks here, nurse sharks with swam your boat when you arrive. Don’t worry, they generally don’t bite. Once the swarm dissipates, you’ll be able to hop into the water with your snorkel gear. At the Shark Ray Alley stop, you’ll see plenty of nurse sharks and several types of rays.  

Next, your tour will likely visit the Hol Chan Marine Reserve . This is a protected area and admission is required. Make sure that your snorkel tour includes the price of admission into the reserve. At Hol Chan, you’ll get to snorkel at a shallow spot of the barrier reef that runs along the coast of Belize. Here you’ll see plenty of reef life, including fish and coral.

Additionally, some tours will take you to other snorkel sites like shipwrecks and other shallow reef sections.  

A majority of these tours, including ours, will have you back on land in time for a late lunch.  

Afternoon – Beach And/Or Bar

In the afternoon, spend time playing in the water or lounging at a beach bar .

In the evening, consider doing a sunset cruise around the island. Several tour companies offer these. Most of them include after dinner drinks!

Stay overnight on the Caye again.

By buying from the links below, we'll earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Read the full Terms and Conditions here.

Day 3 – The Second Biggest Great Barrier Reef

Wake up early for some adventures on the third day of your Belize vacation. You have two fantastic options this morning: a fly-over of the Blue Hole or scuba diving on the Meso American Barrier Reef . Either way, you’ll be exploring the second largest barrier reef in the world, second only to the Great Barrier Reef in Australia.   If you want to scuba dive, you must be scuba certified before coming to Belize or you will have to allot more time to getting dive certified in Belize.

To read more about the dive certification process, read our article here.

If you choose to do a fly over of the Blue Hole , tours leave from the Cayes several times each day. Cost varies from $300/person. Most flight-seeing tours last about an hour.  

We are scuba certified and love diving so we choose to scuba dive Esmerelda Reef . This is one of the several half day dives you can choose from. These “half-day” dives typically last 6 hours and include 2-3 dives. There are other full day dives to choose from as well. These typically take 2 extra hours, include lunch and one additional dive. Most of the full-day dives are at reef sites farther away from the Cayes.

Afterwards, relax by the pool before having dinner.  

Watch the sun set over the island and stay another night in the same accommodations.

Day 4 – Iguanas and Mayan Ruins

Morning – traveling  .

Wake up early to watch the sunrise over the Cayes. Take the ferry back to the mainland.

From this point onward, you’ll need a rental car for your Belize itinerary. We rented our car through Crystal Auto Rental . If you pre-arrange with this rental company, they’ll pick you up at the ferry and take you to the rental car office. Or you can pay the $25-30 USD fare for a taxi ride to the area near the airport where a majority of rental car companies are located.  

Drive to San Ignacio where you will stay the next two nights. 

For a guide to renting a car and driving in Belize, check out our post here.

Afternoon – Xunatunich and Iguanas 

Next, head to Xunatunich Mayan Ruins. You’ll arrive at a small souvenir area near a river before you get to the ruins. Here you can park your car, hire a guide, if you so choose, and walk to Xunatunich. Wander around the ruins before heading back into San Ignacio . Xunatunich closes at 4:30 PM and we missed visiting by just a few minutes so we weren’t able to go. However, we did make it to the hand crank ferry that you will need to use to cross the river and get to the ruins. If traveling there yourself is too intimidating, you can hire a tour guide in San Ignacio that will take you there.

Next, visit the San Ignacio Hotel where you can pay $12 USD/person to take a tour of the Green Iguana Conservation Project . Here you can learn all about these adorable native animals.  

Lastly, have dinner in town and stay overnight in San Ignacio . We also wandered around town where we were able to find tour operators for our next two days. We had good luck getting last minute tours. However, as most guided tours leave early in the morning, you are generally not able to get same day tours so you will need to book ahead.  

Day 5 – ATM Cave

Next, we booked a tour to take us to Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM) cave . Tour guides are certified by the Belizean tourism board. You must take a tour with a certified guide. Guides are trained in archaeological best practices to ensure continued enjoyment of the ATM cave for years to come.  

Most of these tours are advertised as a full day. They’re more like half day tours. You’ll get wet so make sure to wear your swimsuits and some quick drying clothes.  

To learn more about what these ATM tours entail, check out the post here.

Next, take a short trip to Cahal Pech. These Mayan ruins are in town! And these are easy to access on your own. Cost of admission is $5USD/person. These are smaller ruins compared with Xunatunich and Caracol but make for a nice way to end your day.  

Afterwards, visit a cacao shop and learn all about the history of the cacao plant and the agriculture in the region.  

Have dinner in San Ignacio before staying one final night in your San Ignacio accommodations.  

For more things to do in San Ignacio, check out the post here.

Day 6 – Caracol Ruins

The next day of your Belize itinerary, visit Caracol . While you can drive yourself to Caracol, the route there is rough and involves going through a military checkpoint. Right now, there is also some serious construction happening on the road. So you can drive yourself, and in a few years it may even be easy, but right now we’d suggest going with a guide. Another advantage of a guide is how much history they can share with you.

Our guide drove us to Caracol and gave us a tour of the ruins. We had plenty of opportunities to ask questions and our guide customized our tour to us as we were the only ones on it.  

For more details on a Caracol tour, check out our post here.

After several hours exploring the site, we had a picnic lunch at the park entrance. We then stopped at two more sights, including another cave and Rio-On Pools where we were able to swim. Then our guide drove us back to San Ignacio. This was a full day tour with the drive and we didn’t return to San Ignacio until around 4 PM.

As this is the final day in San Ignacio on this Belize itinerary. You can either stay in San Ignacio one more night or continue on to the coast and stay in your beach accommodations. We chose to drive to the beach, though that did mean a little bit of night driving.

To read more about driving in Belize, check out our post here.

Day 7 – Beach Day

For the last day of this Belize itinerary, you will be spending it exploring the beach. You have two great options: Hopkins or Placencia. Both are popular tourist towns along the beach and both are close to Cockscomb Basin. We chose Placencia because we found a better vacation rental to stay in.

Choose a rental with a kitchen so that you can cook your own breakfast and watch the sunrise on the beach with your breakfast.  

If you're interested in visiting Placencia, check out our post here.

Next, drive to Cockscomb Basin Forest Reserve to do some hiking and hopefully spot a jaguar. Chances are you will not see a jaguar, but you will enjoy hiking through the jungle and finding some hidden waterfalls. Make sure to pack your swimsuits so you can swim in the beautiful hidden rivers and waterfalls here.  

Then head back to your accommodations, which should be splurge level so they are on a beach. Because for the rest of the day, enjoy laying on the beach and soaking up the sun. If you’re looking for something more adventurous, there are snorkeling outfitters or bike rentals in the area that will help you to keep active.  

Both of these lovely beach towns have some fun beach bars so make sure to grab a drink with dinner before spending one last night in Belize.  

Day 8 – Leave Paradise

Wake up for another breakfast on the beach and spend whatever time you can soaking up the sun before you have to head back to Belize City to catch your flight home.  

On your way home, you’ll want to take the Hummingbird Highway . This road curves away from the beach and back into Belmopan. It seems like it will take longer but the coastal highway is unpaved and actually takes longer. Not to mention, the Hummingbird Highway is the most beautiful road in Belize. So enjoy your final drive in this remarkable country before heading home.  

Want to Adjust the Belize Itinerary

If you are short on time, you could eliminate the Caracol day tour as this takes all day. However, this was a very impressive ruin so while it takes longer to get to, it is much more impressive than Xunatunich and Cahal Pech.

If you have even less time, you can break a whole chunk off of this Belize itinerary. There are three locations that you’re staying: A Caye, San Ignacio , and the Beach. With only 5-6 days, pick two locations. If you only have 2-3 locations, pick one.

If you have more time, consider staying longer at the beach or longer in San Ignacio. San Ignacio has so many different areas to explore nearby, we felt like we could have stayed there for so much longer. Or who doesn’t love more time on the beach?

We hope that these suggestions have helped you to plan your own Belize vacation . This one-week Belize itinerary was the perfect introduction to the country. If you have any questions or comments, please leave them in the comments section below.

This Post Has 2 Comments

Thank you I am planning 1 month in September…. rentals would be appreciated….also I have heard we can fly to cancan and bus to Corozal.

Hi Lorraine, September will be a fun time to visit.

We did meet some folks who flew into Cancun and took a bus to Belize. While this sounds like an easy trip, the people we met ran into some trouble with it. From where we are located, it is about the same price to fly into Belize City as it is to take the Cancun bus so we wouldn’t recommend it. Have fun on your vacation!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

You might also like.

A Really Great Redwood National Park Weekend Itinerary

How To Spend One Week In London

A Beautiful Snoqualmie Falls Road Trip

The Best of Belize: An Action-Packed 7-Day Itinerary

• Updated: 04/15/2024

Considering a vacation to this fantastic Central American country with a Caribbean feel? This article can help save time and energy in planning your Belize trip. I share our 7-day Belize itinerary we did with our 12 and 15-year-olds.

In it, find a mix of rivers, ruins, and reef experiences ideal for first-time visitors and families with older kids or teens craving adventure. Additionally, find recommendations for things to do, places to stay, and planning resources to help you book your perfect Belize getaway.

Table Of Contents

Why Visit Belize & Where to Find It

Belize is a bio-diverse Central American destination where natural beauty, adventure, and rich and historic culture combine to make for an outstanding vacation spot. Come to Belize to enjoy its Caribbean coasts and barrier islands, where you can snorkel or scuba a UNESCO World Heritage reef. And go inland for adventures like jungle treks and cave tubing, touring Mayan ruins, and cultural exploration.

With its international airport offering convenient flights to North America and the world, English being its primary language, and its currency pegged two to one with and interchangeable with the US dollar, visiting here is far more convenient, straightforward, and ideal than many would-be travelers realize. See where to find Belize on the quick Google Earth clip below.

Our 7-Day Belize Itinerary At-a-Glance

Particularly for North American travelers, Belize offers an accessible international trip, with a flight duration of only a few hours to a similar time zone. We visited two destinations on our Belize trip. Here’s how we split our time between the jungle (San Ignacio region) and coast:

• Days 1 to 4: San Ignacio , a traveler hub town in western Belize known for its outdoor and cave adventures and proximity to Mayan ruins, about ten miles from the Guatemalan border.
• Days 5 to 8: Ambergris Caye , a Caribbean barrier island north and east of Belize City, where the primary mode of transport is the golf cart, and snorkelers and scuba divers can explore nearby world-class reefs.

Get details about what we did, where we stayed, tips, and recommendations for alternative things to do in the sections that follow.

San Ignacio: 4-Day Itinerary

Here is an overview of how we spent the first half of our trip—four days in San Ignacio:

Day 1 : Arrive and transfer to Macaw Bank Jungle Lodge outside of San Ignacio

Day 2: Jungle zipline at Calico Jack’s, tour Green Hills Butterfly Ranch, and hike down to Big Rock Falls in the Mountain Pine Ridge Reserve

Day 3: Day trip to Tikal in Guatemala.

Day 4 : ATM Cave Tour

See the color-coded map below to view the places we visited each day. I share the detail for each day and its activities below.

How to use this map:  In the map header, click the square tab to the left of my logo or click the enlarge frame to the right to view detail. You can save the map to “Your Places” on Google Maps by clicking the star next to the map name. Or you can share it by clicking the share icon.

Day 1: Getting to Macaw Bank Jungle Lodge

• Arrive in Belize at Phillip S.W. Goldson International Airport (BZE).
• Two-hour private transfer and check-in to Macaw Bank Jungle Lodge .
• Breakfast: At the airport.
• Lunch: Tasty takeaway stop en route to lodge for stewed rice and beans at Amigos Family Diner outside of Belmopan.
• Dinner: Tostone appetizer, caramelized barbeque fish, cassava pudding, and fresh fruit smoothies at Macaw Bank.

We arrived in Belize on an early morning four-hour direct flight from our hometown of Chicago. After wrapping up immigration (~2-hour process) and collecting our baggage, we met our driver pre-arranged by Macaw Bank Jungle Lodge  for the approximate two-hour drive to the lodge. 

Belize has direct flights from several cities in North America. Check Flight Connection to see routes. Get tips on finding the best fares here .

Sign up for my monthly Discovery Newsletter & get a free Trip Budget Calculator !

If you prefer to rent a car , know rental car rates in Belize run high, often $100+ day for 4×4 vehicles—ideal for traveling the country extensively. To book your best option, check out these tips , and learn about getting rental car insurance for international rentals.

About an hour into our drive west, we pulled into Amigos Family Diner at Mile 31 on the ½ Western Highway just outside Belmopan for a stretch, bathroom break, and snack before returning to the road to arrive at our lodge shortly after dark.

Once settled in our jungle cabana, we enjoyed an excellent and relaxed three-course dinner made by Raul, one-half of the expert and multi-talented husband and wife team who run Macaw Bank, before gratefully falling into beds lulled to sleep by the sounds of night jungle noises.

Alternative Places to Stay

If you want to stay in a jungle lodge on your Belize trip, I share the top options for different budgets in the San Ignacio area in this article , also shown below. Or, if you prefer to stay in the town of San Ignacio, check out your choices on Booking.com here , including my top pick, the San Ignacio Resort Hotel . 

Day 2: Ziplining, Butterflies, & Waterfalls

• Early morning guided bird walk on-site at Macaw Bank.
• Jungle zipline, extreme swing, and lunch at Calico Jack’s .
• Guided tour of Green Hills Butterfly Ranch .
• Hike down and swim at the foot of Big Rock Falls in Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve .
• Breakfast: Tropical fruits, eggs with chaya and fry jacks, and sausages at Macaw Bank.
• Lunch: Vegetarian tamales and stewed rice and beans at Calico Jack’s.
• Dinner: Black bean tostada appetizer, adobo chicken, and a crispy dessert crepe filled with soursop ice cream topped with a tamarind paste at Macaw Bank.

Refreshed and ready for our first full day in Belize, my husband and I woke early to join Raul—letting the kids sleep—on a guided bird walk, catching sight of several species, such as parrots, melodious blackbirds, and hummingbirds, on a foggy and peaceful morning. After the walk, we woke the kids and joined them for a delicious homemade breakfast as we decided on our plans for the day with our lovely lodge co-manager, Letty, and Raul’s wife, who would be our guide and driver.

Up first, on day one, was my adventurous 12-year-old’s number one pick, jungle ziplining at  Calico Jack’s  on their  Ultimo course , an approximately one-hour double-cable zipline with nine runs soaring through the jungle canopy. Although this activity was a kid choice, the whole family  loved the experience. I especially found it a great family-friendly introduction to the type of jungle terrain we would be in the next three days.  The kids—craving one last thrill after the zipline—added the optional Extreme Swing, a free-fall jungle swing, before we headed to a convenient lunch at Calico Jack’s  on-site Crossroads restaurant.

After being well fed, we headed to nearby  Gr een Hills Butterfly Ranch , less than a 10-minute drive for a guided tour of their open-air butterfly house and caterpillar nursery. We saw butterflies emerging from chrysalises and learned about their diets, egg-laying habits, and the voracious appetites of caterpillars—while several species of colorful butterflies circled prettily around us. I share highlights from our visit in the short Instagram clip below.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Janice | Exceptional Family & Friend Group Travel (@gatherandgotravel)

With energy to spare—and within close driving distance of Big Rock Falls in the Mountain Pine Ridge Reserve, we headed there next. We followed Letty down on the short hike to see the impressive and thundering falls and go for a river swim before returning to Macaw Bank for another excellent dinner and a well-earned rest. 

Alternative Things to Do

If you are looking for other activities in the San Ignacio area, consider river tubing , horseback riding, canoeing, hiking, or chocolate making .  I share information about these options with other activity suggestions and links for where to book them in this article , also shown below.

Day 3: Tikal National Park in Guatemala

• Wake early to meet our MayaWalk  Tikal group tour in San Ignacio.
• Cross the Belize border into Guatemala. Drive two hours to Tikal National Park for a guided group tour.
• Return via the same route with a stop for lunch.
• Breakfast: to-go waffles with cheese and fresh fruit from Macaw Bank.
• Lunch: Vegetarian plate and fajitas at Restaurant Gonzalez in Guatemala.
• Dinner: Garden greens with homemade cilantro dressing, spicy spaghetti bolognese, and zucchini cake at Macaw Bank.

Going to Tikal, one of the most important ancient Mayan sites in Guatemala and the world, was the activity my husband and I wanted to do most while in the San Ignacio area. Although going here requires a full day and an early wake-up, the effort is worth it—as seeing and learning about this sprawling archeological park that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with unforgettable towering pyramids surrounded by jungle is a wonder.

If you are coming from the San Ignacio area, know this tour involves a border crossing and can require anywhere from nine to 11 hours of your day, including time for driving, crossing the border, touring Tikal, and eating lunch in Guatemala.  And even though our day trip took longer (13 hours) due to logistics issues in our group—marveling at the ancient Mayan ruins and learning more about the Mayan culture and history—was a highlight of our trip. 

Find other top Tikal tours departing the San Ignacio area on Viator or Get Your Guide .

If you prefer to skip the all-day tour with a border crossing, explore ancient Mayan sites within Belize, such as Caracol , a two-hour drive from San Ignacio.  Or opt for closer-to-town Xunantunich , a 30-minute drive, which makes for an excellent half-day tour combinable with other activities.  Find a complete list of other Mayan sites and activities in this article.

Day 4: Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM) Cave

• Join a guided group tour of ATM cave with Cayo Inland Expeditions.
• Cross three rivers and walk a jungle trail to follow our guide into the cave through watery caverns to see and learn about ancient Mayan artifacts in the innermost chambers.
• Breakfast: eggs, fresh fruit, crispy cassava, and fry jacks at Macaw Bank.
• Lunch: picnic-style stewed chicken with rice, beans, and plantains, plus sides provided by our tour company.
• Dinner: pumpkin soup, spiced green onion pork chops with vegetable sides, and zucchini cake and cassava pudding at Macaw Bank.

Although two of us—me included—were iffy on our pre-tour cave comfort level, visiting Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM) Cave, a full-day tour and a top traveler adventure in Belize, was an activity my family decided we  could not miss and all ended up loving. We joined our group tour with Cayo Inland Expeditions  at a pre-arranged drop spot, and then once at the trailhead, separated into groups of eight, each led by a specially trained and licensed guide. 

Find other top ATM tours in the San Ignacio area on Viator or Get Your Guide.

To get to the cave entrance, we crossed a river three times and hiked along a jungle trail—catching a  glimpse of an actual boa constrictor on the way.

At the end of the trail and the cave entrance, we switched on our helmet headlamps, following our guide into the cave single-file as we swam, waded, and scrambled through watery caverns—making our way to a  living museum deep in the site, which is rich with ancient remnants of Mayan priest sacrificial rites. If going on this adventure also tops your list of things to do, I share helpful tips and things you should know before you book below.

Helpful Things to Know Before Booking an ATM Cave Tour

• Reserve your spot for this tour as soon as you know your trip dates—there is a daily cap on the number of visitors allowed at the site.
• You should be moderately fit to do this activity—expect to swim, walk, wade through water, scramble over rocks, and climb one ladder to reach the innermost cave chamber. 
• If you tend to feel claustrophobic, it may help to know that much of the cave portion of the ATM tour takes place in large to medium caverns. I do not love caves, particularly for their typical guano smells and heavy presence of bugs—which are both thankfully missing from ATM cave—and their small, enclosed spaces. So, I prepped myself to feel uncomfortable on this tour, though surprisingly, I never found I did. 
• Expect to leave phones or cameras in your tour vehicle, as photography and video are not allowed in the ATM cave for safety and site preservation reasons.
• Wear socks and water shoes. I know—it sounds like an odd combination, so read on. The socks are necessary because once you enter the innermost cave chambers, you must remove your shoes and tread lightly. Due to some small pebbles on the cave floor, it would be uncomfortable to go barefoot. We wore thin sporty socks under water shoes like these  that we bought before our trip and had a tread ideal for the trail and water crossings.

Other Cave Activities

Alternatively, if going on an ATM Cave tour sounds like too much adventure, and you want a different cave experience, consider tubing through Nohoch Che’en Cave or joining a canoe trip through Barton Creek Cave . I share more information on these experiences and other cave excursions and where to book them in this article .

Ambergris Caye: 3-Day Itinerary

After leaving the San Ignacio area, we spent the second half of our Belize trip—three days—on the northern barrier island of Ambergris Caye . Here is how we spent our time.

Day 5 : Depart Macaw Bank, fly on a 14-minute Tropic Air flight from Phillip S.W. Goldson International Airport (BZE) to Ambergris Caye, check in, and relax at Bella Vista Resort hotel .

Day 6 : Full-day boat tour snorkeling at Hol Chan Marine Reserve and Shark Ray Alley, with lunch at Caye Caulker.

Day 7 : Spend the day at Secret Beach and walk the waterfront of San Pedro.

Day 8 : Departure, return home.

See below for a color-coded map of the places we visited each day. I share the detail for each day and its activities, with alternative suggestions for things to do, in the sections below.

Day 5: Fly to Ambergris Caye & Relax

• Explore the Macaw Bank nature trails on an early morning walk.
• Return to Phillip S.W. Goldson International Airport (BZE) for our 14-minute Tropic Air  flight to Ambergris Caye.
• Complimentary golf cart pick-up and transfer to Bella Vista Resort .
• Check in, relax on our balcony and at the pool, and walk the path along the coast.
• Breakfast: fresh fruit, eggs with green onions, taro root fritter, and refried beans at Macaw Bank.
• Lunch: Bakery snacks and smoothies at the airport. Fish tacos and key lime pie at our resort.
• Dinner: a mix of tapas-style appetizers and paella at Aji Tapas Bar & Restaurant , also at our resort.

Today was a travel and rest day. Though, we did wake early, letting the kids sleep, to explore the nature paths around Macaw Bank before leaving. We walked with our coffees to the river, backtracking from there to follow the well-maintained trail to the extensive lodge gardens and to marvel at the massive trailside ceiba tree before breakfast and going to the airport.

Although flying to Ambergris Caye from either the international or municipal airports in Belize City costs more than taking the ferry (~$100 per ticket vs. $30), the flight time savings—14 minutes versus 1.5 hours—was a nice bonus. Plus, the views from our Tropic Air flight on a clear sunny day to the shallow waters and coral reefs below were breathtaking and worth the price of the flight alone.

To price out or book air or water ferry transport to Ambergris Caye or Caye Caulker, visit the Tropic Air or San Pedro Express Belize Water Taxi websites.

Once we landed and quickly collected our bags at the tiny Ambergris Caye airport, we made our way to the Bella Vista Resort —courtesy of a complimentary pick-up by the lodge manager, Linda, in a golf cart shuttle—to our intimate seven-room hotel 2.5 miles north of town.

After checking in to our spacious two-bedroom and two-bath unit featuring a full kitchen, an oversize balcony with lounge seating, a large table, and a hammock that overlooked the pool and oceanfront, we settled in to enjoy all the benefits that staying at a small oceanfront hotel boasting a highly rated and open-air tapas restaurant had to offer. 

Most travelers who visit the northern cayes of Belize stay at either the more populous Ambergris Caye or the smaller, relaxed, and more budget-friendly Caye Caulker.

As Caye Caulker offers more of a chill adult vibe, especially on the Split, a popular spot at the channel that splits the island in two and offers ample opportunity for swimming, sunbathing, and drinking at waterfront bars—we opted instead to book lodging on more mainstream and family-friendly Ambergris Caye .

We loved staying at full-service Bella Vista Resort . The layout of our two-bedroom unit and its price point—especially during the winter holiday high season—was ideal for a group. And we appreciated its quieter northern location close to area restaurants. Plus, the generous breakfast included in the price of our room helped keep costs down.

My number two pick for a place to stay on Ambergris Caye, if our budget had been more flexible or I planned to visit at a non-holiday high-season time of year, was the more luxe Pelican Reef Resort Villas south of San Pedro. Discover more Ambergris Caye lodging options in this article,  shown below.

If you are leaning toward a stay in Caye Caulker, my top pick for stretchy budgets would be the Iguana Reef Inn which offers an ocean-view penthouse apartment with a 360-degree view ideal for bigger groups and families. Find other more affordable options for families in Caye Caulker here .

Day 6: Hol Chan Marine Reserve & Caye Caulker

• A full-day Hol Chan Marine Reserve snorkel tour with lunch on Caye Caulker with Bella Vista’s on-site tour company.
• Return to Ambergris Caye through the mangroves along the western edge of San Pedro.
• Breakfast: full Belizean breakfast of eggs cooked with peppers and tomatoes paired with fry jacks and refried beans at our resort and included in the price of our room.
• Lunch: Chicken nachos and stewed chicken with rice and beans at Bambooze Beach Bar & Grill in Caye Caulker.
• Dinner: We planned to eat at the nearby Garage Seafood & Steakhouse , though we had to cancel and stay close to home due to a child feeling ill. Instead, we stayed at our resort to eat grilled pork chops, snapper, and seafood curry, with slices of coconut cake and key lime pie.

Today was my birthday! And the best gift I could have asked for was the beautiful weather our family enjoyed as we snorkeled the UNESCO World Heritage Hol Chan Marine Reserve and Shark Ray Alley.  We booked our all-day group excursion through Bella Vista Resort which owns and operates and on-site tour company.

As another large group booked the same excursion and required the larger boat, we ended up with a private tour giving us the flexibility to bypass the congested Marine Reserve snorkeling site to go to Shark Ray Alley first. 

Find other top Hol Chan Marine snorkel tours on Viator or Get Your Guide  with more central San Pedro meeting places.

With fewer crowds, we witnessed the nurse sharks feeding for longer and had time to leisurely snorkel the surrounding area and catch sight of rays camouflaged on the ocean floor before the crowds descended. Then, we backtracked to the now less crowded and impressive Hol Chan Marine Reserve reef area for more snorkeling and viewing abundant sea life.

From there, we headed to Caye Caulker for lunch and to explore the island. After eating, we met back at the boat and headed up the coast to feed the tarpons congregating along the shallow shores of Caye Caulker and to visit the seahorse nursery at the Iguana Reef Inn. 

Looking to make the most of your time on Caye Caulker? Check out this list of 29 things to do ! 

On our return to Ambergris Caye, we slowed to catch sight of a manatee, eventually making our way back through the mangroves golden in the late afternoon light to cross under the bridge separating the northern and southern halves of Ambergris Caye to our resort on the eastern shore. 

Once back, we rested and refreshed ourselves, heading downstairs to the resort restaurant to top off a perfect birthday with a celebratory cocktail, dinner, and slice of cake.

Alternative Activities

I do not recommend alternate activities , particularly if you have limited vacation time. Visiting Hol Chan Marine Reserve, Shark Ray Alley, and Caye Caulker makes for an unbeatable day. You will be hard-pressed to do better. 

If not staying at Bella Vista Resort, where you can take advantage of their on-site tour company, book your Hol Chan marine tour through  Viator  or  Get Your Guide . With more vacation time to spare—consider fitting in a snorkel tour to Mexico Rocks and Tres Cocos like this one on  Viator .

Day 7: Secret Beach & San Pedro

• Rent a golf cart to drive to Secret Beach.
• Grab open lounges at the Pirates Bar pier. Spend the day wading in the water, swimming, eating, and relaxing.
• Drive to San Pedro to check out the town and walk the beach. 
• Catch a beautiful sunset and dinner at the Truck Stop .
• Breakfast: same full Belizean breakfast as the day before at Bella Vista Resort.
• Lunch: nachos, fish, and veggies tacos, with fresh juices at Pirates’ Bar.
• Dinner: artisanal pizzas, gourmet tacos, and homemade ice cream at the Truck Stop.

Our final day in Belize was all about relaxation and taking it easy. We rented a four-seater golf cart—the primary mode of transport on Ambergris Caye—to drive approximately 30 minutes at 15 to 20 mph from our resort to Secret Beach on the island’s western coast.

Once at the beach, we grabbed open lounges at the tail end of the Pirates’ Bar pier—the best place to sit on the beach—and waded in and out of the calm, cool water while we enjoyed tasty tacos and nachos and some excellent relaxation. 

After a few hours and a quick return to our resort to freshen up, we drove our golf cart south to San Pedro for a walk through the Artisan Market and to stroll the waterfront, stopping for dinner and sunset at the incredibly family-friendly Truck Stop just a two-minute drive from our resort. It was an ideal and low-key way to wrap up our last vacation day.

If you do not want to make the golf cart drive to Secret Beach—a nearly 45-minute ride from San Pedro—recreate your version of a beach day by visiting the waterfront at Ramon’s Resort closer to town or the small beach at Central Park in the center of San Pedro. Or, if your hotel or resort provides it, enjoy the beach, swimming area, or water sports they provide.  To further explore San Pedro, the number one thing I wanted to do if we had more time was join this Belize Food Tour . 

Day 8: Departure Day

• Return to the international airport for our flight home.
• Breakfast: final full Belizean breakfast at Bella Vista Resort.
• Lunch: quick-to-go items from airport vendors to eat on the plane.
• Dinner: airport dinner during our stopover at Houston International Airport.

Sadly, today was our last day in Belize. Since it was a transport day, I did not count it in this itinerary. Although we had a hiccup with our Tropic Air flight getting diverted to the Belize City municipal airport due to poor weather, Tropic Air provided van transport to the international airport, ensuring we arrived on time for our flight home.

One week was hardly enough time to explore the diversity of things to do that Belize offers. Though, it was an excellent first trip and a great introduction. 

Related Reading

If you are traveling to Belize, check out my related articles below to help you get the information you need to plan your best visit. 

• 36 Belize Inland Tours & Activities You Will Love
• 7 Belize Jungle Lodges You Will Love to Stay
• The Best Ambergris Caye Hotels & Resorts for Families

Macaw Bank Jungle Lodge in Belize: All You Need to Know to Book a Stay

• 31 Warm Winter Break Vacation Ideas Your Family Will Love

Or view my “ Belize: The Best Books to Read Before a Trip ” below to get a Belize reading list.

Additional Trip Planning Resources

To further help you with travel planning, I share my go-to resources for every trip below. 

Google Flights. My first research stop for affordable flights for every trip. Learn why here . 

Google Hotels . Use its “ Where to stay ” button to discover the best neighborhoods to base your visit.

Booking.com. For hotel and rental bookings, I appreciate its flexible cancellation, candid user reviews, discounts, loyalty program, and easy-to-use interface.

Viator , Get Your Guide , & Airbnb Experiences . Quickly find and book highly-rated tours and activities on these sites.

Google Travel Things to Do & Google Maps . Find more things to do in your destination on Google Travel, then record where you want to visit on a custom Google Maps list. 

AllTrails . Love to hike? Me too. I religiously use AllTrails to discover hiking and biking trails and download its offline maps to manage my hikes.

Guide Along . 5-star self-guided audio tours that are GPS-compatible for US road trips and national parks. We loved the Glacier National Park tour .

Insure My Trip. I never travel internationally without trip insurance. Learn why here . My preferred place to shop and compare policies is InsureMyTrip.com . 

Plus, check out the 15 travel apps I use on trips, my preferred guidebooks , and my free customizable travel itinerary template , downloadable in four file formats.

About the author:  Janice Moskoff is a travel writer and blogger who loves hiking, exploring the world, and reading. She writes to inspire travel-loving families, adult friends, and couples on her blog,  Gather and Go Travel . Check out  her bio , learn how she became  a blogger , and discover how to  work with her . Sign up for her monthly  Discovery Newsletter  to get her latest travel recommendations and  how-to’s .

Love to travel? Sign up for m y monthly Gather & Go Travel Discovery Newsletter and get a free trip budget calculator .

Affiliate Disclosure: Some of the links on this page may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I only recommend products and companies I use. And the income goes to keeping the site community-supported and ads minimal.

Cathedral Rock: How to Make the Most of Your Hike

Why You Will Love Enchantment Resort: A Review

From An Expert: InsureMyTrip.com is My #1 Pick for Trip Insurance

35 Places You Will Love for Your Next Ladies’ Trip

How to Make the Most of Missoula in 3 Days

39 Amazing Ideas for Things to See & Do in Missoula

Leave a reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Welcome to Gather and Go Travel , a blog inspiring families, adult friends, and couples to explore US and international destinations and to get outdoors. I am Janice, an experienced traveler to over 50 countries and a travel writer, book lover, and blogger. Learn more about me , read our story , and how to work with me .

Need an Itinerary for a Spring Trip to Europe? Here are 25 Amazing Ideas

49 Things You Need to Do to Plan Your Best Trip (Free Travel Research & Planning Checklist)

Rental Car Insurance: When You Need It & When You Don’t

Your Family Will Love These 30 Road Trips Near Chicago

Pack Faster & Better With This Universal Printable Packing List

How to Spend 10 Days In Rome, the Amalfi Coast & Sorrento

Instagram....

gatherandgotravel

📍US & 🌎 travel for families, friends + couples 📝 Itineraries, destination guides and ideas + tips ❤️ hiking🥾, mountains + 📚books 🏡 Chicago

love this info?

And receive our F REE Budget Trip Calculator .

© 2023 All Rights Reserved

Travel planning.

Amazeballs Better Travel Guide

Travel Planning Tips

Destinations

Travel Learning

Conversations With Travel Pros

Blogs I Love To Follow

Work With Me / Contact Me

Journey From 100 To 10K

Terms of Use

Privacy Policy

Get A Free Trip Budget Calculator

Sign up for my monthly gather & go travel discovery newsletter packed with tips and vacation ideas and get my trip budget calculator for free..

The Perfect 2-Week Belize Itinerary

• Pinterest 123

If you’re looking for rainforests, coral reefs, Maya history, and Caribbean culture all rolled into one pint-sized destination, you’ll find everything – and more – in Belize. 

Less visited than its larger neighbors, like Mexico and Guatemala, Belize stands out as the only English-speaking country in Central America. Travelers can put away the Spanish phrasebook for a few weeks as they explore a country with Maya origins that’s been irrevocably shaped by British colonialism. 

You’ll be struck first by the sheer natural beauty of Belize. Home to the Belize Barrier Reef (the second-largest barrier reef in the world), head to iconic destinations like Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker and you can live the island life. Chill on white sand beaches, snorkel with sharks and stingrays, or brave the mysterious depths of the famous Great Blue Hole, which extends to a width of some 1,000 feet across the ocean and 400 feet below. 

There’s so much to see on your 2-week trip to Belize you won’t know where to begin. That’s why we’ve put together our ultimate 14-day Belize itinerary for you. Stick to this comprehensive vacation plan, and you’ll have an incredible time exploring this colorful corner of Central America! 

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

Two Weeks in Belize

When to visit belize.

Located south of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, and to the north and east of Guatemala, Belize has an extensive coastline extending along the Caribbean Sea that’s home to reefs, islands, cayes, and atolls. This southerly location in the Northern Hemisphere has given Belize a tropical climate that’s split into distinctive wet and dry seasons, and inland, the expansive rainforests thrive off the rainfall.

For travelers, the best time to visit is in the dry season, when the chance of rain is limited. This season generally falls between December and May, although the shoulder months on either side can sometimes offer equally dry weather and lower prices (but not always!). As you might expect, December and January tend to be the busiest months in Belize, with tourists flocking here for winter sun over the holiday season. 

We recommend holding off until February or March to escape the crowds and higher prices, particularly if you’re looking to spend time on the islands where accommodation is always limited. February and March are still relatively cool, with temperatures ranging through the 70s. The heat starts to ramp up from April onwards, with daily highs often exceeding 85°F.

You’ll want to avoid the wet season, not only for the rain, but for the danger of hurricanes. June to November is officially hurricane season, and there’s every chance the Caribbean Coast will be hit by fierce storms. This season is best avoided for obvious reasons. 

Things to Know Before You Go

Belize has a liberal visa policy for many nationalities. If you’re from the US, UK, Canada, the EU, and many other countries, you’ll be visa-exempt for 30 days. This means that if you’re visiting for tourism purposes, you’ll get a 30-day stamp on arrival. If you’re staying longer, then this can be extended, or you can hop over the border to Guatemala or Mexico, and then hop back for another 30 days in Belize. 

The local currency is the Belize Dollar, which is pegged to the US Dollar at a fixed rate of 2 BZD to 1 USD. If you’re traveling overland, you’ll be able to exchange money (including Mexican Pesos and Guatemalan Quetzals) at the border, but you’ll also find that ATMs are widespread. 

Many businesses, including hotels and tour companies, also accept card transactions. In a pinch, many Belizeans will accept USD rather than Belizean dollars, giving the fixed exchange rate. 

Given its colonial history as a British colony since 1840, the official language in Belize is English. There are two variants, however. Official English, which is taught in schools (the Queen’s English so to speak), and Belizean English, which evolved as a Creole language among the slave communities that the British brought here. 

Spanish is widespread, while Garifuna communities – descended from mixed Arawak Indian and Afro-Caribbean communities that the British kicked off St. Vincent in the 18th century – speak Garifuna, while the Maya communities often still speak Maya languages. 

Belize is generally a safe country to visit, but as with anywhere in Central America, there are certain districts that are best avoided, especially in Belize City. You also need to keep in mind that Belize has been struck by deadly hurricanes in the past, so keep an eye out for weather warnings, even outside of hurricane season.

Getting Around Belize

Belize has one major international airport in Belize City, which is just a half-hour drive from the city center. The airport has daily connections to several major cities in the US and Canada, including New York and Toronto. 

There are also regular flights to other cities in North and Central America, including San Salvador and Mexico City. During the dry season, charter flights operate to many more US and Canadian destinations, as winter sun seekers ramp up demand. 

Unfortunately for anyone traveling from Europe, direct options are almost non-existent, so you will need to fly via the US, Canada, or Mexico. Another popular option is to arrive in Belize overland, traveling from either Guatemala or Mexico. This is a great option for anyone spending more time in Central America or Mexico, and you can tailor the itinerary below to best suit your direction of travel.

Getting around Belize is fairly straightforward, given there are only a few major roads in the entire country. However, you do need patience if you’re using public transport, as it can be difficult to find accurate bus timetables unless you visit the bus stations and ask for up-to-date information. 

From Belize City, you can travel to all major towns and destinations in the country, but be prepared for a Central American “chicken bus” experience. Belize has a fleet of old American school buses that ply the routes, and while cheap, they’re inevitably overcrowded, they leak when it rains, and are swelteringly hot the rest of the time. 

Factor in extra time in case of weather-related delays. You can speed things up by flying, as domestically, Belize is incredibly well-connected by local air shuttles. 

Belize Itinerary: 2 Weeks to Explore the Highlights of the Country

Belize city – 1 night.

Your 2 weeks in Belize start in Belize City. Despite being the country’s namesake city, you might be surprised to learn that Belize City is not, in fact, the capital. For many decades it was, until Hurricane Hattie smashed into the coastline, causing massive damage in 1961. 

Fearing that the city would eventually be lost to hurricanes and coastal erosion, the authorities decided it was time to build a new capital. Belmopan, which you can also visit later in your trip, was born in 1970, but Belize City still remains the largest city in the country. 

You don’t need too long to see the sights in Belize City, so we’ve only allocated a night here. You can learn more about local history at the Museum of Belize, visit the heritage-listed St. John Anglican Cathedral, which dates back to 1812, and take a selfie with the monumental Belize sign on the boardwalk overlooking the Caribbean Sea. 

Belize City is well located to many atolls and cayes just off the coast, including St. George Caye, where the British fought off the Spanish in 1798 to claim Belize, an event which is still celebrated every September as a defining moment in Belizean history. 

Caye Caulker – 2 Nights

Belize City is really just a transit point because the best sights await you out in the Caribbean Sea. The first real stop on our Belize itinerary is Caye Caulker, a paradisiacal island that’s just a 45-minute boat ride away from the city.

You can hop on the water taxi from Belize City, and when you arrive in Caye Caulker, be prepared to start your vacation the slow way. Time works differently on this island (the island motto is “Go Slow”), which measures just five miles in length and one mile across at its widest extent. 

Belize Barrier Reef 

Book yourself a beachside bungalow and rent a mask and snorkel, because Caye Caulker is all about the ocean. You’ll love the white sand beaches, which are perfect for doing nothing at all, or you can waltz into the warm water and snorkel directly on the Belize Barrier Reef. 

Caye Caulker Marine Reserve 

If you’re looking to be more active, we recommend joining a day tour of the Caye Caulker Marine Reserve, where you’ll be whisked away to the best snorkeling spots around the island.

The Lazy Lizard Bar & Grill 

Head over to the Split for sunset, where you can order cocktails or an ice-cold Belikin (the local beer) while you wait for your lobster dinner to arrive fresh from the ocean!  The Lazy Lizard Bar & Grill is the place to go for stiff tropical cocktails and fresh seasonal seafood dinners.

Ambergris Caye – 2 Nights

If you can’t get enough of the slow life, then don’t worry because there are more island vibes at your next stop. Hop back on the water taxi and head north for another two nights in paradise on Ambergris Caye. 

At 25 miles long and one mile wide, it will feel like you’ve arrived back in the big city after your time on Caye Caulker. Ambergris Caye is just as relaxed, though, and again, you can stay in one of the beach hotels and spend the next two days drinking cold Belikins if you really want to vacation.

Hol Chan Marine Reserve

But there’s also much more to do in Ambergris Caye, especially if you love being in the water. This caye is fringed by the Belize Barrier Reef, and a day of diving or snorkeling in the Hol Chan Marine Reserve, which is home to the iconic Shark Alley, is arguably one of the best things to do in Belize. 

Great Blue Hole 

From San Pedro, the main settlement in Ambergris Caye, you’ll also find almost daily departures (in high season) to the equally iconic Great Blue Hole. Located around a four- to five-hour boat ride from the island, the 1,000-foot-wide Great Blue Hole is an unusual cave and coral formation that drops some 400 feet to the bottom of the sea. 

It was made famous by Jacques Cousteau, a marine biologist and the father of modern scuba diving, and it really is one of the most incredible places to snorkel or dive anywhere in the world. It’s a long day trip, so you could also opt to take a flightseeing tour in a small propellor plane or a helicopter from Ambergris Caye in order to see the Great Blue Hole in all its glory from above. 

San Ignacio – 3 Nights

If you can bear it, leave the white sands and turquoise waters of Ambergris Caye behind and hop on a water taxi back to Belize City. Now it’s time to travel inland as you make your way west toward the border with Guatemala. 

Your destination is San Ignacio, a small town that’s surprising in its diversity. Away from the Caribbean vibes of the coast, San Ignacio is the best place to immerse yourself in the multitude of cultures, communities, and people that call Belize home.

The country’s unusual colonial history sets it apart in this respect from the neighboring Central American countries. In San Ignacio, you can hear Spanish, Maya, English, Belizean English, Garifuna, and even old German dialects being spoken. 

San Ignacio Market 

The San Ignacio Market draws in all the different communities that live in the area, including Mennonites, Maya, and Mestizos. Held every day of the week, you can buy watermelons and cheese from the Mennonites, order pupusas from El Salvadorans, and buy clothes, chocolate, fruit, vegetables, and so much more from the different people who call themselves Belizean. 

Learn more by joining a dedicated cultural tour, which takes you to visit the Mennonite communities in nearby places like Barton Creek and Spanish Lookout as well, as to the San Antonio Women’s Co-operative, where predominantly Maya women are finding ways to preserve their culture through eco and culinary tourism.

A short walk from the town center where the market is held, you can visit the jungle-strewn ruins of Cahal Pech, an ancient Maya site dating back to 1200 BC. If you’re game for an adventure, then deep, deep in the jungle, you can visit the Caracol ruins. Once one of the most powerful Maya cities in Central America, the partially excavated ruins are only accessible after a bumpy 2-hour off-road drive from San Ignacio.

ATM Cave 

More Maya history awaits you at the ATM Cave, one of the best places to visit in Belize. Located just an hour’s drive south of San Ignacio, the Maya believed this vast cave system was the entrance to the underworld. 

Follow in the footsteps of Maya ghosts as you wade across rivers, swim through underwater lagoons, and climb past stalactites to reach the ancient ceremonial chambers. Inside, you’ll find yourself among the skeletons of sacrificial victims, including the infamous Crystal Maiden, which have lain undistributed for centuries.

Dangriga/Hopkins – 2 Nights

Next up is the Caribbean coastline, and you may need to change buses in Belmopan or Belize City when traveling from San Ignacio. There’s not much to do in Belmopan, despite it being the capital (it’s more like a large village), but if you have a few hours before the next bus, take a wander through the marketplace and dig into some local dishes like fry jacks (deep-fried dough).

Your next destination is Dangriga, a lovely coastal town where you can delve into the unique culture of the Garifuna. Visit the Gulisi Garifuna Museum, and you can learn more about this Belizean minority, who also have communities in Guatemala and Honduras. The Garifuna are descended from the survivors of Arawak Indians and African slaves who were exiled from the island of St. Vincent in the 18th century after losing a war with the British. 

The Garifuna speak a distinct language, and you can learn more about their music, dance, history, and cuisine on the new Garifuna Trail, which takes in the important sights in Dangriga and the nearby town of Hopkins. 

Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary – 2 Nights

Although Belize is best known for its coastline, cayes, and atolls, the mainland is almost entirely covered in rainforest, an estimated 50% of which is primary rainforest. 

You’ll have had a taste of the rainforest in San Ignacio, but we recommend spending one or two days hiking in the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary for a more immersive experience.

Located between Hopkins and Placencia, the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary covers an extensive area of some 136 square miles in the Maya Mountains. The reserve was established in 1984, and it’s become a vital preserve for the elusive jaguar, which is found in small numbers within its boundaries. 

There are several short day hikes to waterfalls you can follow from the visitors center, although you’ll need the expertise of a local guide if you want a chance of spotting a jaguar. You can find local homestays in Maya Central, a Maya community on the edge of the sanctuary. 

Placencia – 2 Nights

Your two weeks in Belize come to a close in traditional Belizean fashion, on the beach. Your final stop is Placencia, a small beach town at the end of the Placencia Peninsula. 

Here, you’ll find countless beach bars lining the white sands, and we won’t complain if you crash out at the end of the trip with a few more Belikins. You could even get a little cultural and join a Maya chocolate-making tour or a Garifuna cooking class.

If you’ve still got energy, though, Placencia is a great place for more snorkeling or diving. Just off the coast, you can visit Laughing Bird Caye National Park and see an incredible example of community conservation in action. 

In 2001, the reef here was almost entirely destroyed by Hurricane Iris, but thanks to the efforts of local NGO Fragments of Hope, the coral has been replanted and is now thriving. The NGO trains locals to lead tours and plant coral, offering a fantastic community-based tourism experience at the end of your 2-week trip to Belize! 

There you have it! That’s our perfect 2-week Belize itinerary. Where will you be traveling on your trip to Belize?

Planning a trip to Belize? Check out our favorite books and travel guides!

SHARE THIS ON PINTEREST

Richard is an award-winning travel writer based in Southwest England who’s addicted to traveling off the beaten track. He’s traveled to 75 countries and counting in search of intriguing stories, unusual destinations, and cultural curiosities. Richard loves traveling the long way round over land and sea, and you’ll find him visiting quirky micronations and breakaway territories as often as he’s found lounging on a beach (which is a lot). When he’s not writing for BBC Travel, National Geographic, or Lonely Planet, you can find Richard writing for the Wandering Wheatleys or updating his off-beat travel blog, Travel Tramp.

Related Posts

7 Tips for Planning a Great First Trip to Walt Disney World

The 10 Coolest Hotels Near Petco Park in San Diego, California

The 10 Best Vacation Destinations in April (2024)

Leave a comment cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

• X (Twitter)

One Week in Belize – the Ultimate Belize Itinerary

A friend once asked me why I wanted to spend a whole week in Belize, claiming that there was nothing there but beaches.

He knew I wasn’t a beach person. I can do a day or two on the beach, but any longer than that and I will get bored and start looking for other things to do. What he didn’t know, though, was that Central America’s second smallest country had lots more to offer than just beaches.

If you’re also wondering what to do in Belize for a week, or if you should even come here, then this post is for you.

Let us start with a spoiler: One week in Belize is nowhere near enough to see it all. I had a fantastic time, and I easily would have found enough things to do to keep myself busy for another week or two.

Plus, it’s possible to visit the country on a budget or in luxury. Whatever travel style you prefer, Belize caters to it.

We hope you choose to spend more than a week in the country, but in case you’re short on time or are looking for a first inspiration, here is an ultimate Belize itinerary that takes in the best of the country. You will experience a mixture of beaches, jungle, wildlife and ancient history – basically, a taste of everything Belize has to offer.

Are you short on time and want to do some last-minute bookings? Then check out these recommended hotels and activities for our favourite places in Belize:

Our favourite hotels for your stay:

• Miramar Suites (Placencia, private beach, tropical gardens and a pool)
• Dream Cabanas (Caye Caulker, small huts with a garden and a very nice host)
• Midas Resorts (San Ignacio, charming cabins surrounded by rainforest)

Check out these awesome activities and tours :

• Monkey River boat and hiking tour (from Placencia, see howler monkeys, manatees and much more)
• Snorkel at Hol Chan Marine Reserve (from Caye Caulker, see the stunning underwater world of the Belize Barrier Reef)
• Explore the ATM Caves (from San Ignacio, dive into the heart of the Mayan underworld)

Need more inspiration and help with planning? Get the Lonely Planet Belize before your trip!

Table of Contents

Day 1 – 2 – Placencia

Placencia offers one of the country’s most beautiful beaches in combination with friendly people and a Caribbean atmosphere. Located on a peninsula, Placencia is also known as ‘the caye you can drive to’.

Getting here

If you arrive from the north or by air, the easiest way is to take a bus from Belize City to Independence and then also to continue by water taxi.

You can also take a direct bus from Belize City. But since this bus only goes once a day, going via Independence is a far better option.

If you come from Guatemala, you need to first take a boat from Lívingston to Punta Gorda, then a bus to Independence and from there, a water taxi to Placencia. It might sound a bit complicated, but it’s actually quite simple and easy to do on your own.

No matter how you arrive in Placencia, we suggest staying at least two nights. If you have more time than that, even better.

Things to do

As we said, Placencia has a beautiful beach. You can spend a whole day relaxing here. Or you could go snorkelling, do a tour to one of the tiny islands located off the shore or cruise down Monkey River to see wildlife.

When I was in Placencia, I woke up at six in the morning to a tropical thunderstorm. It didn’t stop raining until noon, so I didn’t spend much time at the beach. I went out in the afternoon to take pictures but didn’t linger to relax or go for a swim.

Instead, I spent the afternoon walking through the colourful village, which was just as awesome as the beach.

Placencia has a pedestrian walkway called ‘the sidewalk’. It runs parallel to the beach and is lined by wooden houses painted in bright colours, souvenir shops, beach bars and restaurants. We recommend you take your camera with you and spend some time walking from one end to the other.

If you decide to stay for more than two nights and want to see more of the area, you should explore the surrounding area.

Our favourite option is the trip to Monkey River, which takes you into the jungle, where you have the chance to see lots of wildlife. Listening to howler monkeys is an awe-inspiring experience, so don’t miss out on it. You can get more information about the tour as well as prices and availability here .

But you cannot just find monkeys. If you’re lucky, you might see crocodiles, iguanas or even manatees.

Another option is to go on a snorkelling tour. Laughingbird Caye is a protected area just a short boat ride away from Placencia, and it’s perfect if you want to explore the best the underwater world has to offer. Click here to see more details and book your tour .

What to eat and where to stay

One of the best places to have dinner in Placencia is Rumfish y Vino, a restaurant that uses lots of local ingredients. If you want to splurge on a meal, we recommend that you come here.

Besides that, you need to buy some ice cream on the sidewalk and eat your frozen treat while walking along the beach. What more do you need?

As for hotels, we stayed at Lydia’s Guesthouse, where we had a private room with a shared bathroom. The rooms and the bathrooms were spotless, the price was reasonable, and we had everything in the kitchen that we needed.

Plus, Lydia was very nice and gave us excellent advice on what to do, where to find supermarkets and how to travel onwards.

If you want to know more, you can send an inquiry about the available rooms and rates via their website .

Besides that, here are some other options that consistently receive good ratings:

Mid-Range : If you want to stay close to the sea, relax on your own private beach and have the option of jumping into a pool, you should check out Miramar Apartments. The photos look fantastic, so you should go and take a look yourself .

Budget : Do you want to rent a bungalow on the seafront? Then you should check out Heavens Gate Beach Bungalows. The huts are simple, but you’ll have your own veranda and can relax in a hammock on the beach. Click here to see reviews and check out availability and prices .

A bit more comfort : The rooms in the Ellysian Boutique Hotel are some of the most stylish ones we’ve seen. They come with a balcony, and the suites also have a spacious living room area where you can unwind. Plus, there’s a pool, direct beach access and the option to enjoy a delicious breakfast. Click here to find out more and see prices and availability .

Sign up here to get a printable trip planner!

By signing up, you'll get the One Week in Belize Trip Planner immediately in you inbox. We will also send you some bonus tips on how to get ready for your trip!

Day 3 – 5 – Caye Caulker

Everyone I met on my travels had been to Caye Caulker . It not only seems to be the place to be, it’s also a great addition to your Belize itinerary.

Don’t come to Caye Caulker expecting beaches as beautiful as in Placencia. Instead, come here expecting a relaxed atmosphere, friendly locals and a great place to meet fellow travellers.

Getting there

From Placencia, a bus leaves at quarter past six every morning. It is the only bus to go to Belize City. Your only alternative is to take a water taxi to Independence and a bus from there.

In Belize City, you will arrive at the Novelo bus terminal. From here, it’s a short walk to the water taxi. The ferries to Caye Caulker leave regularly, and you shouldn’t have to wait for longer than an hour or an hour and a half.

You can buy your tickets directly at the ferry terminal and there’s usually no need to reserve anything in advance. If you prefer to have everything ready, though, click here to purchase your tickets online .

We stayed on Caye Caulker for three nights, which is a reasonable amount of time to explore the island.

Things to Do

The one thing you need to make sure of when travelling to Caye Caulker is to come with the right expectations. As I said, the island does not have beautiful beaches, so if you think you’ll spend your days on a Caribbean beach, you will be disappointed.

In fact, if you want to relax at a beach, I would advise you to stay in Placencia for three nights and just go to Caye Caulker for two nights.

But despite the lack of beaches (and shade, for that matter – bring plenty of sunscreen), you can do lots of fun things on Caye Caulker.

First of all, the island is located inside Belize’s only UNESCO world heritage site – the Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System. That means you can do some fantastic snorkelling excursions from here. Just look for day trips to the Hol Chan Marine Reserve.

Plus, if you know how to dive and have an advanced divers license, you could go on a trip to the famous Blue Hole.

I haven’t done any snorkelling myself since my friend doesn’t snorkel and we wanted to find activities we could enjoy together. But I have talked to a lot of people who went snorkelling, and everyone loved it. They saw sea turtles, stingrays, sharks and even manatees, not to mention hundreds of colourful fish.

Click here to find current prices and more information about snorkelling tours to the Hol Chan Marine Reserve.

If you don’t snorkel, don’t worry. We still found plenty of things to keep us occupied for two full days, so you will enjoy your time here, too.

First of all, take a long walk through the village. Caye Caulker is full of colourful wooden houses and friendly locals. You can find a photo opportunity at every corner. Don’t be shy to ask locals if you want to take their pictures. I have not had a single person turn me down.

After walking through the village, you will eventually end up at The Split. It’s on the northern tip of Caye Caulker’s South Island. Caye Caulker used to be one island, but a hurricane split it into two parts, and now you have the South and the North Island.

The Split is a great place to hang out, enjoy a drink and splash in the water.

If you want a place with more shade, take a free shuttle boat to Koko King on the northern island. Here, you can rent a VIP area with shade, two beach lounges, chairs and a hammock. We spent a whole day here, reading, relaxing, talking to a new-found friend and cooling down in the water.

In the evening, go for a sunset cruise with Raggamuffin, a tour that I can highly recommend. It is not cheap, but it is very relaxing to sit on a sailing boat and watch the sun disappear behind the horizon. If you need more inspiration on activities on Caye Caulker, read up on it here .

I had good food, and I had below-average food on Caye Caulker. My best experience was, without a doubt, at Chef Juan. This tiny restaurant serves excellent dishes for an excellent price. If you’re spending one week in Belize on a budget, this is the place to eat.

I went for the curry, which I can highly recommend. My friend had a pulled pork burger, and that one also looked terrific.

On Caye Caulker, it is also easy to find street food. I had an excellent burrito that I bought from a street food vendor. Our room neighbours brought home delicious banana cake one day, and I saw multiple people selling fruit. If you’re looking for a snack, just walk down the street, and you will find one.

As for hotel options, we stayed at the Blue Wave Guest House. It was one of the cheapest options for a private room with a shared bathroom. The room was okay. It wasn’t the best we’d ever had but not the worst one either. Just be careful if you’re planning on using the kitchen as it doesn’t have a fridge.

If we went here again, I think we would pick a different place to stay. Here are some places we found that we would consider for the next time as they all received decent ratings:

Budget: Barefoot Beach Belize offers bungalows with a private bathroom. While we didn’t stay here, we love that Barefoot Beach has a private beach with sun chairs, so you can spend hours relaxing there. Click here to see updated rates and reviews .

Mid-Range:  If you’re looking for a place that’s new and clean, check out Dream Cabanas . It’s close to the water taxi and pretty much everyone mentions in their review that the host is super nice. Check out the place here .

Extra comfort:  Island Magic Beach Resort offers comfortable rooms. Plus, you will have access to a sun terrace and a pool! What could be better? Click here to get more information on availability and prices .

My advice for Caye Caulker is not to leave your booking until the very last minute. The nicest places tend to book out early, so make sure to reserve your room as soon as you can.

Day 6 – 7 San Ignacio

San Ignacio is located so close to Guatemala that from one of the nearby Mayan ruins, you can see the border. This jungle town is perfect for a taste of ancient history. In the area, you can find many Mayan sites. Plus, you have the chance to get close to iguanas at the Green Iguana Conservation Project.

Getting to San Ignacio is very straightforward. Take the ferry from Caye Caulker back to Belize City. You now have two options.

You can either take a minibus straight from the ferry terminal (make sure to haggle down the price). Or, for half of the price, you can catch a chicken bus from the Novelo Bus Terminal. They leave every half an hour and take between two and a half to three and a half hours.

Our minibus took as long as the chicken bus, so there’s not much of a difference between the two besides the price.

We stayed in San Ignacio for two nights. If you have the time (and the money to do some of the expensive tours), you could easily stay longer.

As I already mentioned, San Ignacio is the perfect base for visiting the nearby Mayan sites. There are two ancient cities that you can easily visit by yourself. The first one is Cahal Pech, located right in San Ignacio. It is so close that you could even walk here.

The second one is Xunantunich.

Xunantunich is larger than Cahal Pech, and it is very easy to access, too. Go to the bus station in San Ignacio and take any of the buses headed towards Benque. Tell the driver that you want to go to Xunantunich and he will drop you off at the ferry in San Jose Succotz.

It’s a short (and free) ferry ride across the river. On the other side, follow the road to Xunantunich. I recommend coming early in the morning since it’s an uphill walk of about one mile. We went on a cloudy morning and were still dripping with sweat by the time we made it there.

What I loved about Xunantunich was the museum near the entrance. It gives lots of information about the Maya, the surrounding cities and Xunantunich itself. We usually like to have a guide for visiting archaeological sites, so we know what we’re looking at, but the museum was good enough that we felt we didn’t need one.

After having exhausted ourselves by climbing to the top of the highest pyramid, we returned to San Ignacio. If you want to see Cahal Pech afterwards, get off at the roundabout shortly after the town entrance. It’s as close to that site as you can get and saves you a longer walk.

Besides Mayan temples, you can also see some wildlife in San Ignacio – and you don’t even have to leave the city. The San Ignacio Resort Hotel is home to the Green Iguana Conservation Project.

In Belize, green iguanas have gotten rarer and rarer since locals like to hunt and eat them. The Conservation Project breeds these iguanas and releases them into the wild. It is a fascinating place to learn about iguanas and to get very close to them.

In fact, I got so close that my scratches took a few days to heal.

If you are not travelling on a budget, there are more things you can do in the area, and it might be worth adding an extra day or two to this Belize travel itinerary to check them out.

Mayans used the Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM) caves as a religious site. Tours through these caves are amazing and you’ll get a unique perspective of this ancient culture.

Click here to see reviews and book your own tour on Viator now!

You could also visit Caracol, the largest Mayan site in Belize. Getting there requires travelling two hours on an unpaved road through the jungle, but the pyramids are amazing.

Many tours also include other stops along the way. Check out this one, where you can enjoy a swim after visiting the Mayan ruins .

We researched both lunch and dinner options and had some pretty good food while staying in San Ignacio.

For lunch, we recommend you go to Martha’s Kitchen. The food is not exceptionally good, but it is very cheap, and it is the best I’ve had in that price range in Belize. Plus, my burrito was so huge that I took the remaining half home and had it for dinner.

On our first evening, we decided to splurge and go to the Crave House of Flavour. It is not the cheapest restaurant in San Ignacio, but the food is exceptionally tasty. It took me a long time to order because I couldn’t choose between all those fantastic dishes on the menu. If you’re looking for a recommendation, the risotto is excellent.

If you’re in San Ignacio on a Saturday, make sure to also check out the Farmer’s Market for fresh produce and food. Thank you very much to Kate, our reader, who gave us this tip!

My friend and I stayed at J & R Guest House. It’s a tiny guest house run by a lovely old lady. The rooms were small, but everything, from the rooms to the shared bathrooms was spotless. And here, unlike on Caye Caulker, we could find a fridge in the kitchen – and everything else that we needed.

Unfortunately, they seem to be closed by now. If we went back to San Ignacio, here are some properties that we researched and that we would book for this stop on our Belize trip itinerary:

Mid-Range: If you want to stay surrounded by rainforest, next to a river, you should check out Midas Resorts.  The charming cabins are well-equipped and the staff can help you book horse-riding and fishing excursions. Plus, despite being surrounded by nature, the resort is only a 10-minutes walk away from the town centre. Check out rates and reviews now !

Budget: If you’re looking for affordable accommodation in San Ignacio, we recommend Yellow Belly Backpackers. This hostel is a bit out of the way, so you won’t be in the centre of town, but it receives excellent ratings. The owners, Jess and Bubbles, are super friendly and will go out of their way to help you with anything you need. Click here to see prices and availability for your trip !

A bit more comfort: The San Ignacio Resort Hotel is our preferred high-end choice. We already mentioned the hotel above, as they are home to the Green Iguana Conservation Project. They also have a pool and a spa, and each room comes with a balcony from where you can overlook the jungle. Click here for more information !

Best time to visit Belize

The best time to go to Belize is from January to May. This is the dry season when you can enjoy the best weather. Some places, like Placencia, can get rain all year long but it gets much worse in autumn.

We went in early June and already had some rain, but we also had perfect sunny days. June is still a decent month, especially if you want to avoid the crowds of the high season. Plus, it’s the beginning of the lobster season in June and you can join the Lobster Fest on Caye Caulker!

The heaviest rains fall from August to October, with some hotels even closing in September. We recommend avoiding this time of the year, if possible.

A week in Belize passes far too quickly.

If you have more time, you can find lots of other things to do in Belize. San Pedro on Ambergris Caye and Hopkins on the mainland are both supposed to be great if you’re looking for more beaches.

If you’re interested in wildlife, travel north to the Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary. And for more Mayan ruins, rent a car in Belize city and go and check out Altun Ha.

If you’re travelling to Belize, we have a few other resources that you will find interesting and that will help you plan your trip. Make sure to check them out!

• Belize packing list – Find out what you need to pack for your trip to Belize
• The best things to do on Caye Caulker
• Discover the best beaches in Central America
• How to get to Caye Caulker – your complete transportation guide

Or click here to see all of our Belize content .

We hope you found this Belize one week itinerary useful.

If you travelled to Belize, did anything we listed on this itinerary or visited a place we have never heard of, we would love to hear from you. Please leave us a comment and tell us about your experience.

Until your next adventure!

Like it? Pin it!

Ilona is a world traveller passionate about sharing her experiences and giving advice to fellow travellers. Having visited over 70 countries, she is always excited about her next trip.

Related Posts

Jeonju choco pie: everything you need to know, how to get to gamcheon culture village & unmissable things to do there, zurich to liechtenstein day trip – your complete guide, 13 comments.

Thanks for the article. I love Belize. Have been twice and hope to return next year. One suggestion, listing prices, or a range of prices would be helpful.

Thank you so much for your comment, Ed! We also hope we can return to Belize, although I’m not quite sure it’ll be possible for us next year already. Thank you for your suggestion! We’re going to look into adding price ranges soon.

Planning our first trip to Belize around April. My question is, how hard will it be to find accommodations without advanced reservations.

Hi Geno, I would usually say that it’s not a problem to find accommodations without advanced reservations. But at the moment, you can only book accommodation in Belize that meets the “Gold Standard”, which means that many hotels and guest houses are closed. We’d therefore recommend looking into this topic beforehand and even booking in advance. Once things go back to normal, I hope that it’ll become easier to spontaneously book accommodation again.

Many many many resorts airbnb. vrbo .hotels.com are gold standard and the tours and activities also gold standard. We will be there next week. May be a bit pricier because of last minute but plenty of options. We stayed at Sapphire Beach Resort 11 miles north of town once. This will be our second time at Tres Cocos resort. Ambergris caye fb pages have lots of good information and helpful hints!!! Best of luck.

Information outdated, Belize and Guatemala land and sea borders have been closed since early April 2020. Belize still has not issued when land and sea borders will open. You can not easily now backpack thru Central America . Many hostels are not open in Belize due to Gold Standard restrictions. Due Diligence when now attempting backpacking thru Central America.

Thank you for your comment, Zack. We agree that it’s important to look up travel restrictions and especially also restrictions on border crossings when travelling anywhere at the moment. Hopefully, things will get better this year so travel becomes easier again!

Without doult the best hidden Gem in San Ignacio is The Belize Raptor Center, daily Raptor shows of their Ambassadors, learn about the ecology of the area and about its abundance of Raptors. During Covid-19 you have to make an appointment and they follow all government guidelines. Call 615-0226.

Thank you for the recommendation! We hadn’t heard about the Raptor Center before, but it sounds like a great place to visit.

This article made me miss Placencia and San Ignacio. Travel restrictions are lifting! Don’t forget the Farmers market on Saturday in San Ignacio. There’s a place across the street with wonderful cheap breakfast and really good coffee.

Thank you very much, Kate, for the tip about the Farmer’s Market in San Ignacio! I also miss Belize and would love to go back, so I hope that restrictions will lift soon and travel becomes easier again.

I found Belize very expensive. I was traveling solo and only had one free day. I had booked a trip to Lamanai and a safari river cruise to get there. One day before departure, Get Your Guide tours cancelled because they didn’t get enough people. I later heard due to the pandemic, it is very common for them to keep cancelling leaving you in the lurch. Now I was left to do nothing or book privately. Basically cost me $385. + tipping to have a local guide take me to 1) the Belize sign (ok, but no big deal. 2) to Shane the Rasta’s howler monkey sanctuary (cool to feed a howler monkey pieces of banana), 3) Go cave tubing at St Herman’s Blue Hole NP. (Guide -Marvin (?) was fantastic and very knowledgeable, definitely a unique experience). Tour of the capital city which basically was driving past the US Consulate (whoop de doo) and going by a place that made chocolate, wasn’t interested. I had a great time but NOT worth the price. Was quoted $150. to go to Lamanai privately next time I have business there. Either I book again with Get Your Guide and chance they again will cancel or pay more to go privately. Definitely poor business practice.

Hi Ethel, We are very sorry to hear you had such a bad (and expensive) experience with Get Your Guide cancelling the tour! You are right, this is indeed poor business practice and we highly recommend you contact Get Your Guide and also leave a negative review. Cancelled tours depend on the tour operator, and your review could warn other travellers from experiencing the same. Unfortunately, these things happen and have happened to us before. We’re glad to hear you still had a great day, and we definitely agree that Belize is expensive!

Write A Comment Cancel Reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

Cookie consent notice

Privacy overview.

Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. These cookies do not store any personal information.

Advertisement cookies help us provide our visitors with relevant ads and marketing campaigns.

Analytics cookies help us understand how our visitors interact with the website. It helps us understand the number of visitors, where the visitors are coming from, and the pages they navigate. The cookies collect this data and are reported anonymously.

Preference cookies are used to store user preferences to provide them with content that is customized accordingly. This includes the language of the website or the location of the visitor.

Weather & Climate

Best Time to Visit

Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport Guide

Places to Visit

Driving in Belize

48 Hours in Belize

Top Things to Do

Best Beaches

Best Diving Sites

Must-Try Food in Belize

Top Restaurants

Your Trip to Belize: The Complete Guide

Belize Travel Guide: Planning Your Trip

Nestled along the coast of the Caribbean Sea in Central America, Belize is a tropical paradise that has much to offer travelers. From pristine beaches and lush rainforests to ancient Mayan ruins and some of the best scuba diving sites in the world, there is plenty to see and do in this magnificent country. Whether you're looking for an active, adventurous escape or a relaxing vacation in the sun, Belize can accommodate your wishes, while managing to deliver more than a few surprises along the way too.

Planning Your Trip

• Best Time to Visit: The weather in Belize is warm and tropical all year long, but some months are better than others for travelers. For instance, April and May are a good time to go, as the crowds are small and the summer rains have yet to arrive. Avoid the peak season of January if you can help it, as the crowds can be quite large.
• Language: Because Belize was a British colony for more than a century, it is the only country in Central America where English is the official language   . Visitors will also hear variations of Spanish and Creole in parts of the country as well.
• Currency: The official currency used in Belize is the Belize dollar. It features a fixed exchange rate of 2 Belize dollars to $1 USD   , and both currencies are accepted in most places.
• Getting Around: While most cities and towns are quite walkable, taxis and buses are a cheap, reliable way to travel throughout Belize. Numerous bus routes run throughout the country, and hopping on and off these buses is an affordable way to explore the region. Travelers looking for extra flexibility may consider renting a bike or a car, depending on their needs.
• Travel Tip: Belize may be located along the coast in Central America, but it operates more like a Caribbean island in terms of time and schedule. In other words, you'll be on "island time" throughout your stay, so don't expect anyone to be in a big hurry or to show up precisely at the appointed time. Your best bet is to embrace this approach and go with the flow.

Things to Do

Belize is widely considered to be one of the best scuba diving destinations in the world, attracting divers and snorkelers from around the globe. Back on land, hikers will find plenty to love, too, particularly if they enjoy spotting colorful birds and wildlife on a remote jungle trail. The ancient Mayan ruins found throughout the country are a big draw also, allowing visitors to explore some of the best-preserved archeological sites located in all of Central America.

• Dive the Great Blue Hole: There are plenty of coral reefs and even shipwrecks to visit while scuba diving in Belize , but the famous Great Blue Hole is, without a doubt, the biggest underwater attraction. This submerged sinkhole is more than 1,000 feet across and 400 feet deep  , making it a top bucket-list destination for divers the world over.
• Wander through the Mayan Site of Xunantunich: Perhaps Belize's most well-preserved Mayan site, Xunantunich is one of the best tourist attractions in the entire country. Dating back to the seventh century, the place offers visitors a chance to hike past ancient temples and plazas that were once home to thousands of people.
• Spot wildlife: With more than 575 bird species to spot, not to mention an array of monkeys, iguanas, crocodiles, and other creatures as well, Belize is a favorite destination for those who love wildlife encounters. Of course, the best of those experiences is tracking jaguars in the jungle, where the elusive big cat can still be found in abundance.

Discover more of our recommendations of the top things to see and do while visiting Belize , plus Belize's best beaches , and the top places in Belize that you shouldn't miss.

What to Eat and Drink

As befitting its location as a crossroads of the world, Belize looks to its surroundings when it comes to its culinary traditions. As a result, travelers will typically find plenty of fresh seafood on offer, often cooked with a mix of Caribbean spices and paired with vegetables from Africa and fruits from Central America. Lobster and conch are typical delicacies, while classic regional dishes such as beans and rice and ceviche are very popular too. Everything tends to be fresh, flavorful, and maybe even a little spicy, so don't be afraid to indulge.

The local tropical fruit makes for delicious and refreshing drinks as well, with plenty of cafes and juice shacks offering up a wide array of flavors. Those same juices can be used in the creation of some colorful cocktails as well, although the Caribbean staple of local rum remains a favorite when it comes to alcoholic beverages. The locals also love Belikin beer , which is brewed locally and can be found just about everywhere.

If you're looking for an especially good meal, head over to the Maya Beach Hotel Bistro or Chef Rob's Gourmet Cafe . Both places deliver fresh, tasty dishes that you'll be thinking about long after you've gone home.

Want more tips on what to eat and drink? Check out recommendations for must-try foods in Belize .

Where to Stay

Options on where to stay abound in Belize, where visitors will find everything from sprawling and luxurious resorts to humble but comfortable hostels. There are even homestay options for those looking to experience a more unique and culturally immersive experience, and Airbnb offers many options too. Most of the larger resorts are found along the Caribbean Coast, providing quick and easy access to the beach and water. Wander further inland, however, and you'll discover many fun and distinctive eco-lodges tucked away in the jungle. In short, no matter what type of accommodations you're looking for, chances are you'll find something to meet your needs in Belize.

Find out which hotels in Belize made our list as the best in the country, as well as our picks for the top eco-lodges too.

Getting There

The simplest way to get to Belize is by flying there. Several major airlines—including four from the U.S. alone—fly direct to the country via Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport (BZE) located in Belize City. Visitors can also reach Belize by bus from Mexico and Guatemala if they are traveling from one of those two countries as well.

Culture and Customs

Belize is a conservative culture, so travelers are encouraged to dress conservatively. Casual dress is accepted almost everywhere in the country, although visitors should avoid wearing revealing clothing when visiting local churches.

Tipping is not customary among the residents of Belize, but visitors are often expected to include a tip. Generally speaking, a 10 percent gratuity on taxi rides and meals is seen as an adequate tip for excellent service.

Money Saving Tips

• Use public transportation. Buses and taxis are cheap, plentiful, and easy to use throughout all of Belize. Travelers can save some cash by ditching the rental car and sticking to public transit instead.
• Visit during the offseason. Travelers can save a significant amount of money on airfare, accommodations, and tours if they visit during the low season, which is typically April and May. Expect savings of up to 50 percent.
• Eat street food. If you want to save some cash, skip the touristy restaurants and enjoy some tasty street food instead. The options are plentiful, delicious, and cheap!
• Fly to Cancun: Flights into Belize can be pricey. To save some cash, hop a flight to Cancun , Mexico instead, then take the bus across the border. The ride is very affordable, and it is easy to travel between the two countries.

Belize Tourism Board . "Facts About Belize."

Belize Tourism Board . "Blue Hole."

The Best Places to Visit in Belize

Tulum Travel Guide - Budget and Tulum Travel FAQ

48 Hours in Belize: The Ultimate Itinerary

Best Romantic Destinations in November and December

22 Best Things to Do in Belize

The Best Places to Visit in Central America

Mexico's Riviera Maya: Planning Your Trip

9 Very Adventurous Things to Do in Costa Rica

The Top 5 Scuba Diving Sites of Belize

Weather in Belize: Climate, Seasons, and Average Monthly Temperature

Florida Keys: Planning Your Trip

Romantic Getaways in 2019: Go Here, Not There

Top 9 Mexico Travel Myths Debunked

The Best Cruise Ports of Call in the Western Caribbean

The Best Countries in the World for Adventurous Travelers

15 Private Islands You Can Rent, From Budget-Friendly to Splurge-Worthy

Lists by Lukiih 🍀

Practical travel guides with less fluff

• 🐠 One Week in Belize: Itinerary + 12 Great Things To Do

Belize, the only English-speaking country in Central America, is home to a stunning barrier reef, the famous Great Blue Hole, and the world’s first jaguar reserve.

One week in the small country of Belize is enough time to visit both the mainland and the islands, where you can experience a mix of jungle, cave, and ocean experiences.

I spent an adventurous week in Belize, and here, I share amazing things to do and tips on  optimizing your trip itinerary . This post covers:

• 🗓️ 7-day optimized itinerary
• ⭐️ Top attractions in the country
• 📍 Belize map with key places
• 🚙 How to get around & where to stay
• 💎 Firsthand travel tips
• ✏️ Belize trip planner

Planning a trip? Here’s what to know about Belize .

• Itinerary Route
• About This Itinerary
• One-Week Itinerary
• Days 1-2: Ambergris Caye
• Day 3 (Option 1): Caye Caulker
• 🤿 Option 1: Snorkel/Scuba Tour
• Days 4-6: San Ignacio
• Day 7: Belize Zoo & Departure
• With More Time

Lists By Lukiih is readers-supported. When you buy with my affiliate link, I may earn a small commission. Thanks!

Belize Itinerary Route

This itinerary takes you to some of  Belize’s   best places :

• Ambergris Caye – the biggest and most visited island.
• Caye Caulker – a more laid-back island and the second-most visited one.
• San Ignacio – a gateway to Maya ruins and other top attractions.

About This Belize Itinerary

This Belize itinerary efficiently sequences attraction s and activities the country is famous for. It gives you the opportunity to:

• Snorkel in the stunning site of Hol Chan Marine Reserve
• Explore one of the world’s top sacred caves
• Visit famous Maya ruins with panoramic views
• See natural wonders like the Great Blue Hole
• Eat delicious food at local markets and restaurants

This map has all the  recommended places  in the Belize itinerary below.

One-Week Itinerary for Belize

Below is a great way to spend seven days in Belize. To help you plan efficiently, I’ve included  suggested times for each activity  based on my firsthand experience.

The Belize trip planner below has this itinerary prefilled.

This itinerary starts in Ambergris Caye and ends in San Ignacio, but you can also do the trip in reverse (i.e., start in San Ignacio and end in Ambergris Caye).

All prices mentioned here are in USD 💵 .

Ambergris Caye (Days 1-2)

Fly into Belize’s only international airport and start your Belize trip in Ambergris Caye.

🌴 Why Visit Ambergris Caye?

Ambergris Caye is one of Belize’s most popular destinations and the country’s largest island. It has access to endless water activities, including world-class snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, and jet skiing.

It also has a lively downtown area with local restaurants, art galleries, and shops.

📍 How To Get From Belize City to Ambergris Caye

Belize has one international airport , Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport (BZE), located in Belize City.

From the airport, you can get to Ambergris Caye by taking a water taxi or booking a short flight with a local airline.

🛥️ Option 1: Water Taxi

Taking the water taxi operated by San Pedro Belize Express is the most common way to get to Ambergris Caye.

From Belize City, Ambergris Caye is about a 90-minute boat ride and costs $30 per person. The boats can hold a little over 100 passengers.

This is the budget-friendly way to get to Ambergris Caye, but it’s not ideal if you get motion sickness like me.

🛩️ Option 2: Local Airline

You can also take a small plane from Belize City’s airport to Ambergris Caye’s tiny airport, John Greif II Airport, in San Pedro.

Belize has two local airlines , Maya Island Air and Tropic Air , that will take you to the islands.

The flight from Belize City to Ambergris Caye takes approximately 20 minutes and costs over $100 per person. Each plane carries about 8 to 12 passengers, and this is how I got to Ambergris Caye.

Belize’s local airlines do not fly to Ambergris Caye daily, so check their flight schedules beforehand.

If you book your flight in advance and miss your flight , the airline will put you on the next available one. The planes frequently leave whenever they have enough passengers.

📍 How To Get Around Ambergris Caye

Once on Ambergris Caye, you can get around by walking or renting a golf cart.

👟 Option 1: Walking

Ambergris Caye’s downtown area, San Pedro, is pedestrian-friendly . If you want to travel outside San Pedro, you’ll need to rent a golf cart.

Avoid walking around San Pedro on Pescador Drive, as there are no sidewalks there. Instead, walk on the main street, Barrier Reef Drive .

🚙 Option 2: Golf Cart

Locals and tourists primarily travel around Ambergris Caye by golf cart. Cars are rare on the island, as a special permit is required to drive one.

There are several golf cart rental places in San Pedro, and you can also rent a golf cart online in advance.

⭐️ Top Attractions in Ambergris Caye

Ambergris Caye is an island where visitors can spend over a week doing just water activities.

With two days on the island, here’s how to efficiently optimize your time doing some of the best things there.

🗓️ Day 1 in Ambergris Caye

After arriving in Ambergris Caye on your first day, settle in San Pedro town.

Stop #1: San Pedro

San Pedro is the pedestrian-friendly downtown area of Ambergris Caye. It’s lined with shops, restaurants, bars, galleries, and palm trees. It also has a vibrant nightlife with live music and beach bars.

San Pedro is the bustling main area of Ambergris Caye; everywhere else on the island is mostly resorts or small remote shops.

Here are a few places in San Pedro that are worth visiting:

🦞 Local Restaurants : Belizean cuisine is flavorful and influenced by several cultures, including the Caribbean, Mexico, African, and Mayan. I think the best food on Ambergris Caye is served in San Pedro and not at the resorts.

• Elvi’s Kitchen is a nice sit-down establishment that serves an amazing grilled octopus.
• El Fogon Restaurant serves one of the best ceviches I’ve ever eaten.
• DandE’s makes homemade ice cream with a wide variety of flavors.
• Hungry Grouper serves all kinds of delicious fish and sometimes has live music.

🖼️ Art Galleries and Shops : Belizeans are proud of their artists and sell beautiful paintings at competitive prices.

• San Pedro Originals Art Gallery has some of my favorite high-quality Belizean art.
• Meliza’s Art and Soul and Belizean Arts both feature local artists.

Some restaurants will also have art for sale. I bought my three-piece painting at Elvi’s Kitchen, which partners with San Pedro Originals Art Gallery to feature artwork.

🍫 Other Great Places : If you walk around, you’ll be able to find a variety of other arts and crafts, souvenir, and dessert shops.

• Belize Chocolate Company has great chocolate chip cookies and offers chocolate-making classes.
• San Pedro’s Central Park hosts local events and has food stalls on Friday nights. The pork rib hot dog I got here was mouthwatering.

Stop #2: Belize’s Swimming Dock

Before the sun goes down, head to one of Ambergris Caye’s many swimming docks.

The island is not known for sweeping white sand beaches. Instead, Ambergris Caye is a great place to enter the ocean through swimming docks, and you’ll see locals and tourists jumping in from them. Here are two docks that I visited and can recommend:

• Ramon’s Village – A popular dock, Ramon’s Village attracts locals and tourists. I saw stingrays swim by both times I visited (they don’t bother people as they typically stay close to the ocean floor).

• Matachica Resort – This dock is further north and feels more private. It also has a more luxurious feel than Ramon’s Village and caters primarily to tourists.

All beaches in Belize are free and open to the public , so you can visit swimming docks at resorts you’re not staying at. You can’t use the hotel’s equipment if you’re not a guest, so bring towels, gear, etc.

Stop #3: Dinner in San Pedro

After taking a dip in the ocean, head back to San Pedro for a delicious local dinner. See above for some of the local restaurants I recommend .

Return to itinerary ↑

🗓️ Day 2 in Ambergris Caye

On your second day in Ambergris Caye, snorkel the world’s second-largest barrier reef and visit one of the island’s better beaches.

Stop #1: Hol Chan Reserve and Shark Ray Alley

The Hol Chan Marine Reserve (which includes Shark Ray Alley) is part of the stunning Belize Barrier Reef , a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

It’s a  top snorkeling site  with abundant tropical fish, stingrays, sea turtles, coral reefs, and nurse sharks (which are harmless to humans if left unbothered).

Since the reef is a protected area , you’re required to book a tour with a licensed operator to snorkel or scuba dive in Hol Chan Marine Reserve. A half-day snorkeling tour costs $60 to $90.

Remember to pack and wear reef-safe sunscreen when visiting the Belize Barrier Reef.

The dry season is the best time to visit Belize.  But even during the  rainy season , I could see the colorful marine wildlife during my snorkeling tour.

See what it’s like to visit Belize during the rainy season .

Stop #2: Truck Stop and Secret Beach

Although Ambergris Caye is not necessarily known for sweeping beaches, Secret Beach is one of the nicer beaches.

It has clear water, soft sand, and a more typical beach vibe with beach chairs, picnic tables in the water, umbrellas, food stalls, and massage spas. It’s the perfect place for a relaxing afternoon.

Several businesses on Secret Beach will allow you to use their beach equipment if you spend a minimum on food and drinks . However, not all places seem to strictly enforce this.

Secret Beach is located on the west side of Ambergris Caye, so you’ll need to rent a golf cart and drive approximately 30 minutes from San Pedro.

You can break up the drive to Secret Beach by stopping at the tourist-friendly The Truck Stop for lunch.

🏠 Where To Stay in Ambergris Caye

Ambergris Caye has  numerous resorts  on its northern and southern sides, away from San Pedro. Those areas are a great option if you primarily plan to be in the ocean and aren’t interested in spending significant time in San Pedro.

I chose to  stay in San Pedro  because I wanted to walk around, eat at local restaurants, and be close to the meeting places for some snorkeling tours.

I stayed at the Blue Tang Inn for $56 per person per night. I liked that the hotel is located in a more secluded corner of town. They serve a simple, satisfying breakfast daily, which is convenient for the early morning tours.

Caye Caulker (Option 1 for Day 3)

On the third day, visit a more laid-back island for a change of scenery.

🏝️ Why Visit Caye Caulker?

Caye Caulker is Belize’s second-most popular island . It’s not too far from Ambergris Caye, and it’s more laid-back, less touristy, and cheaper overall.

📍 How To Get From Ambergris Caye to Caye Caulker

From Ambergris Caye, you can get to Caye Caulker by ferry or plane.

⛴️ Option 1: Water Taxi

Several ferry companies operate water taxis between Caye Caulker and Ambergris Caye . San Pedro Belize Express is one of the larger operators.

The water taxi ride takes 30 minutes and costs a little over $20 during the peak season.

Caye Caulker does  not allow cars  on the island, so you can get around by walking, biking, or renting a golf cart once you arrive.

Belize’s local airlines, Maya Island Air and Tropic Air, have flights between Caye Caulker and Ambergris Caye. The flight takes ten minutes and costs around $50.

⭐️ Top Attractions in Caye Caulker

Like Ambergris Caye, Caye Caulker offers a lot of water activities. With a day in Caye Caulker, here are some great things to do on this smaller island:

1. The Split

The Split is an iconic stretch of water that separates Caye Caulker into two beaches. It was created during a hurricane in 1961 and is now a popular swimming and sunbathing spot.

2. Marine Life Feeding

Every afternoon, Iguana Reef Inn hosts a marine life feeding where you can have  stingrays calmly swim up  to you. It’s considered the best place to see stingrays and a unique experience.

3. Go on a Bike Ride

Caye Caulker is a small island, stretching only about 5 miles long . It’s a great place to rent a bike and go for a leisurely ride.

4. Snorkeling

You can also snorkel and see the Hol Chan Reserve from Caye Caulker. My friend did a six-hour snorkeling tour with Salt Life Eco Tours  and highly recommends them. They greatly respected the environment and knew where to spot marine life.

Great Blue Hole (Option 2 for Day 3)

If you rather skip Caye Caulker, spend the third day visiting the famous sinkhole of Belize instead.

🤿 Why Visit the Great Blue Hole?

The Great Blue Hole is a marine sinkhole in the Caribbean Sea. One of  Belize’s most iconic natural wonders , it has captured the imagination of divers, scientists, and marine enthusiasts.

📍 How To Visit the Great Blue Hole

The Great Blue Hole is 50 miles from Ambergris Caye and can be visited by helicopter or on a snorkel/scuba tour.

🤿 Option 1: Snorkel/Scuba Tour

Several full-day snorkel/scuba tours visit three sites, one of which is usually the Great Blue Hole.

These tours typically start early in the morning (between 5:30 and 6:30 am) and cost over $200.

🚁 Option 2: Helicopter Flyover Tour

Another way to view the Great Blue Hole is by helicopter.

Some offer a standard tour, which usually includes 8-10 people, and others offer a private charter helicopter tour. A standard tour lasts one to two hours and costs over $100.

If you choose to do the helicopter tour, you’ll have the rest of the day to do more water activities in Ambergris Caye or do a short visit to Caye Caulker .

San Ignacio (Days 4-6)

On the fifth day, head to Belize’s mainland for jungle and cave adventures.

🦎 Why Visit San Ignacio?

San Ignacio in the Cayo District of Belize is a town known for its rich cultural heritage and acts as a gateway to several archaeological wonders.

From San Ignacio, you can visit several  ancient Maya ruins , explore one of the  most sacred caves  in the world, and canoe through intricate cave systems.

📍 How To Get From Ambergris Caye to San Ignacio

From Ambergris Caye, you can get to San Ignacio by water taxi and shuttle or by plane.

🚐 Option 1: Water Taxi and Shared Shuttle

First, take a water taxi from Ambergris Caye to Belize City. From Belize City, you can take a shared shuttle to San Ignacio. This is the most budget-friendly option , but it takes significantly longer.

I took a shared shuttle from San Ignacio to Belize City, and it cost $56 per person, split between four people.

Belize does not have ridesharing services like Uber or Lyft. The country’s only public transportation is the local bus.

Maya Island Air and Tropic Air stop at San Ignacio’s tiny airport , Maya Flats Airstrip (CYD), so you can take a small plane from Ambergris Caye directly to San Ignacio (and vice versa).

The flight takes about 45 minutes and costs over $200. This is how I traveled from Ambergris Caye to San Ignacio.

There are no taxis waiting around San Ignacio’s airport, so ask your hotel to call one in advance if you don’t want to wait. I had the airport attendee call one when I arrived, and I had to wait 20 minutes for it.

📍 How To Get Around San Ignacio

Once you’re in the town of San Ignacio, you can get around in four ways .

🚕 Option 1: Taxi

Official taxis in Belize look like ordinary cars, but they have green license plates . Taxis in San Ignacio have a flat rate per person. When I visited, it was $2.50 per person per ride.

The  quality of the taxis in San Ignacio can vary (for example, I rode in a taxi that didn’t have seat belts). If you find a taxi driver you like, you can ask for their number and arrange future rides through WhatsApp.

👟 Option 2: Walking

The downtown area of San Ignacio is small and pedestrian-friendly , but most of the resorts and hostels are further away on a hill.

Walking between the resorts and the downtown San Ignacio area takes about 20 to 30 minutes . I wouldn’t call the walk pleasant, but it isn’t difficult.

🚗 Option 3: Rental Car

Many top attractions are more than 30 minutes from San Ignacio, so you can rent a car to get around independently.

A United States license is sufficient to rent a car in Belize (you don’t need an International Driver’s License). Note that many cars in Belize are old and not in great shape.

🚐 Option 4: Tour Transportations

Almost all guided tour packages in Belize will include transportation to and from your hotel and the tour’s destination.

⭐️ Top Attractions in San Ignacio

Here’s how to efficiently sequence the best attractions in San Ignacio across three days.

🗓️ Day 4 in San Ignacio

After arriving in San Ignacio, you’ll have enough time to visit the market and make the green iguana tour on the fourth day.

Stop #1: San Ignacio Market

San Ignacio Market features several local vendors selling fresh produce, souvenirs, and meals for $5 to $10 .

Some of my favorite meals in Belize came from this market. It’s open daily until 3 pm , so it’s a great place to get lunch.

San Ignacio Market is cash-only . Remember that tipping is customary in Belize. See more cash-related tips in this Belize trip cost breakdown .

Stop #2: The Green Iguana Tour

After lunch, walk 15 minutes to see one of the #1 things to do in San Ignacio, according to Tripadvisor.

Green iguanas are an endangered species in Belize. The Green Iguana Conservation Project tour gives educational information and raises scholarship funds for local children.

The tour is located in the San Ignacio Resort hotel and costs $12.

They’ve recently changed their policies to  discourage visitors   from touching the iguanas.  When I visited, touching was allowed and encouraged.

Stop #3: Dinner in Downtown San Ignacio

Spend the rest of the day relaxing and exploring the downtown area before an adventurous tour the next day.

Some of my favorite and best restaurants that I ate are Martha’s Kitchen , Pop’s Restaurant , and Lydia’s Fast Food Kitchen .

Make sure to try fry jacks , which are deep-fried dough pieces. They’re a delicious traditional food often served at Belizean breakfasts.

🗓️ Day 5 in San Ignacio

On your fifth day in Belize, get ready for an all-day adventure.

All-Day Stop: The ATM Cave

National Geographic considers the Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM) one of the world’s top sacred caves . The cave, which contains Maya human sacrifices, is one of Belize’s main attractions, and tickets sell out during the high season.

Exploring the cave requires a short hike, swimming, and climbing. It was the highlight of my trip  and remains one of my favorite tours of all time.

Learn how to plan for the ATM Cave .

After the ATM Cave tour, you’ll likely be tired, so spend the rest of your day relaxing near the ocean or by a swimming pool.

🗓️ Day 6 in San Ignacio

On your second-to-last day in Belize, visit some of the country’s biggest archaeological wonders: the Maya ruins.

Stop #1: Xunantunich

Xunantunich is one of Belize’s most well-known Maya ruins . Visitors can learn about its mysterious history, which includes a ghost story and the unknown disappearance of its 200,000 inhabitants in 750 AD.

Visitors can also climb El Castillo, Xunantunich’s tallest structure , to get a peek at neighboring Guatemala. If you’re lucky, you may also see some howler monkeys.

See how to visit Xunantunich by horseback riding .

Stop #2: Cahal Pech

After visiting Xunantunich and having lunch in San Ignacio, you can take a short walk to Cahal Pech, a  small Maya archaeological site.

Although Xunantunich is more popular, visitors are freer to wander and explore Cahal Pech, which makes it more fun for some visitors. Cahal Pech has a $5 entrance fee.

🏠 Where To Stay in San Ignacio

In San Ignacio, you can stay within the downtown area or in one of the resorts about a 20-minute walk away.

I stayed at  Cahal Pech Village Resort  for $46 per person per night. The resort is located on a hill and has a  very nice view.  

However, the walk to the downtown area wasn’t pleasant, so I wished I had stayed closer to downtown in a place like Venus Hotel , which I walked by several times.

Belize Zoo and Departure (Day 7)

On your last day, stop by the zoo before departing.

Stop #1: The Belize Zoo

Stop at the zoo while on your way to the airport from San Ignacio.

The Belize Zoo features unique animals (e.g., tapirs and pumas), many of which are rehabilitated and rescued.

The zoo is one of the most highly-rated attractions in Belize. Some people even spend multiple days there. The entrance fee for adults is $15.

Stop #2: Belize City International Airport

After the Belize Zoo, you can take a 40-minute shuttle or taxi to Belize’s only international airport to fly home.

How much will a trip set you back? I share my travel expenses in this  Belize budget breakdown .

With More Time: 10 Days in Belize

If you’re spending extra days in Belize, you can easily extend your stay in Ambergris Caye, San Ignacio, or a third destination.

🤿 More Time in Ambergris Caye

Visitors sometimes stay for as long as  one week  in Ambergris Caye, primarily doing water sports and activities.

Ambergris Caye is a popular place for some expats and digital nomads to stay for extended time.

🛶 More Time in San Ignacio

San Ignacio has a plethora of other activities to check out if you have more time:

• Tikal Maya ruin is another ruin that enables you to take a day trip to Guatemala.
• Caracol is the biggest Maya city in Belize, making it one of the most famous ruins.
• A visit to Barton Creek gives you the unique opportunity to canoe through a network of caves.
• Mountain Pine Ridge is a largely untouched forest where you can hike and visit waterfalls.
• Cave tubing is another popular activity in Belize if you’re looking for a chiller experience.

🏝️ More Time in Placencia

If you want to visit a third destination, you can check out Placencia,  Belize’s best beach area  featuring soft white sand.

Placencia is a three-hour drive from San Ignacio , so it’s only worth stopping there if you have more than a week in Belize.

Placencia is also near  Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary . This tropical rainforest is the world’s first jaguar reserve and one of Belize’s 17 national parks.

Belize Trip Planner 2024

To make your travel preparation easier, download the trip planner below. It has destination-specific travel information, itinerary, map, and packing list.

My trip planners are built on Notion, which I use for all my travel planning. I genuinely love this tool and creating an account is free .

Thoughts? Questions? Leave a comment below .

Belize Travel Guides

• 🇧🇿 Belize Travel Tips: 10 Practical Things To Know
• 💰 My 2024 Belize Trip Cost: A Budget Breakdown
• 🔦 Belize ATM Cave: Firsthand Review & Tips
• 🐴 Horseback to Xunantunich: Firsthand Review & Tips
• 🌧️ Visiting Belize in Its Rainy Season: What To Know & Pack

🧋 Support Lukiih

Lists by Lukiih is a humble website that I fund with my own savings. If you find my tips helpful, I appreciate you saying thanks with a bubble tea !

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Belize Itinerary: How to spend 5 to 10 days in Belize (2023)

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. At no cost to you, I might earn a small commission if you make a purchase through the links in this article. 

Planning an epic Belize itinerary? Whether you are planning 5 days in Belize, 7 or 10, I wrote this guide for you.

Belize is the second smallest country in Central America that’s famous for its scuba diving. While some think Belize has only beaches, it’s’ not true! Belize boasts lush jungles, diverse cultures, and some of the best Mayan ruins in Central America.

✅ Check out where to stay in Belize

5 DAYS IN BELIZE ITINERARY

5 days in Belize is not a lot of time, so stick to just one destination and making the most of it. Depending on what your plans and budget look like, you could also take a day trip to see more of the country.

✅ What language do they speak in Belize ?

My suggested places for 5 days in Belize are Ambergris Caye , Caye Caulker and Placencia – the most popular coastal towns where you can find some of the best beaches in Belize, enjoy snorkeling and scuba diving, and try the traditional Belizean food. 

Day 1: Arrive in Belize City 

Arrive at Philip Goldson International Airport (BZE), the only international airport in Belize. From here you will have a choice to go to several destinations in Belize like Ambergris Caye, Placencia, and San Ignacio.

If you are visiting Belize for the first time, start with Ambergris Caye, the largest island in Belize that’s popular for diving and water sports.

How to get from Belize City to Ambergris Caye

The fastest way to get from Belize City to Ambergris Caye is by taking a flight with Tropic Air to San Pedro, the capital of Ambergris Caye and the second largest city in Belize.

Another way to get from Belize City to Ambergris Caye is via boat. You need to take a taxi to the Belize Water Taxi Terminal and catch a boat to Ambergris Caye which takes about 50 minutes and costs $25 USD.

PRO TIP: Flying to San Pedro from Belize City will save at least 2 hours. A boat is only slightly cheaper than a flight, but taking a flight from Belize City to San Pedro will help you to save a lot of time.

Caye Caulker 

Alternatively, you can also choose Caye Caulker instead of Ambergris Caye. These two islands are located about 25 minutes apart by boat taxi but offer a different experience. Ambergris Caye has resorts and more upscale restaurants and is more popular with people who want to splurge on their vacation.

✅ Check my guide to the best things to do in Belize

Caye Caulker caters to budget travelers and backpackers and you can find a better variety of cheaper hostels and hostels in Caye Caulker. It’s also smaller than Ambergris Caye and offers a more relaxing experience for your itinerary.

Where to stay on Caye Caulker:   Sea Dreams Hotel

The island is divided into two parts by a narrow channel called the Split. The north part of the Split is filled with thick mangroves and is home to diverse wildlife. Part of the area is a protected area referred to as the Caye Caulker Marine Reserve.

Best Caye Caulker tours

The lower half of the island is where you’ll find the island’s only town – Caye Caulker Village. 

➡️ GET THIS ANTI-THEFT BAG TO KEEP YOUR BELONGINGS SAFE

Rent a kayak or paddleboard to get around the coast of the island. You can also book a tour that will allow you to snorkel manatees, but keep in mind that it’s never a guarantee. 

Day 2: Snorkel or scuba dive

Ambergris Caye is the largest island in Belize that sits at the doorstep of the Great Mesoamerican Barrier Reef , the second-largest barrier reef in the world.

Best scuba diving tours in Belize

So grab your gear and explore the incredible Caribbean waters! There are several companies on the island where you can book a tour like Belize Pro Dive Center, where you can book your diving session. 

✅ Check my guide to the best things to do on Ambergris Caye

Best snorkeling tours of Ambergris Caye

If you are not a diver, book a snorkeling tour of the Hol Chan Marine Reserve , the protected area where you can observe the incredible wildlife and swim with whale sharks.

This is one of the must-dos during your 5 days in Belize! 

✅ RENT A GOLF CART ON AMBERGRIS CAYE

Where to eat on Ambergris Caye

Ambergris Caye boasts a good selection of restaurants. Head to Iguana Juan’s for some healthy food or stop at Elvi’s Kitchen , one of the most popular restaurants on Ambergris Caye. 

To end your day, grab a bottle of Belikin , a Belizean beer, and head to the pier to watch the gorgeous Caribbean sunset. 

➡️ Read my guide to the best resorts in San Pedro , one of the most popular places to visit in Belize

Day 3: Fly over the Great Blue Hole 

For your third day, you have a few options.

You can catch a boat to Caye Caulker, Caye Caulker’s smaller cousin if you want a change of scenery. Take a flight over the Big Blue Hole or do a diving session there. 

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Blue Hole is in an offshore atoll called Lighthouse Reef.

✅ BOOK YOUR TOUR OF BELIZE BLUE HOLE HERE

What’s so special about the Blue Hole in Belize?

The Great Blue Hole is over 400 feet deep and is one of the best diving spots in the world. It was formed thousands of years ago when the rising sea level flooded a vast network of caves that have stalactites and stalagmites. 

You can take a scenic flyover of the Blue Hole from the San Pedro Airport with Tropic Air or Maya Island Air, which lasts about 1 hour. It’s a wonderful experience and is one of the best things to do in Belize, in my opinion! 

LET ME HELP YOU PLAN YOUR TRIP TO BELIZE!

Besides being a travel blogger, I also create itineraries for my readers 😃 If you want me to plan your trip to Belize, provide insider tips and do all the research for you, fill out the form below. 

My custom itineraries include information on popular landmarks, restaurants, and hidden corners that most tourists miss. As part of my services, I also offer suggestions on flights, hotels and activities.

Can’t wait to hear from you! 💛

Spend your afternoon enjoying San Pedro’s beaches

You can rent a golf cart, and go to Secret Beach or simply jump in the water from one of the docks along the main drag in San Pedro.

Palapa Bar in the heart of San Pedro has a great beach club where you can sip a drink and enjoy the bright Caribbean waters. 

In the evening, head to Truck Stop, about 1 mile north of downtown San Pedro. This venue is a bunch of shipping containers, converted into small restaurants that offer cuisines from many parts of the world.

It has frequent social events and games, so you will not get bored there!

Day 4: Take a day trip from Ambergris Caye

For your fourth day, take a day trip to mainland Belize. You can choose from many options including a tour of Mayan ruins, a fun tubing adventure in the Belizean jungle, or caving where you will swim and wade through the water. 

Best guided tours from Ambergris Caye

Day 5: take transportation from ambergris caye to belize city.

Take a flight to Belize City Airport to maximize your time. This way, you don’t have to spend a few hours on the boat ride. 

7 DAYS IN BELIZE ITINERARY

One week is enough to enjoy one of the main destinations in Belize along the coast and venture into the jungle. While it’s still very little time, you can make the most of it by maximizing your time. 

➡️ Read about the best Belize resorts for any taste and budget

Since I’ve already covered the San Pedro activities in my 5 days in Belize, I will focus on a different destination for my 7 days in Belize, so you could choose from several options. 

After arriving at Belize City International Airport, take a flight or private shuttle to Placencia, a beach town located along the coast of Belize. If you are on a budget, catch a bus from Novelo Bus Terminal in Belize for about 10 BZD. 

✅ How to get from Belize City to Placencia

Private shuttle from Belize City to Placencia

Where to stay in Placencia: Casa Del Hut

Placencia is a fishing village with colorful houses along the main street. It’s a perfect alternative to Ambergris Caye if you want to be closer to mainland Belize and some of the most beautiful islands in the Caribbean. 

✅ GET REEF SAFE SUNSCREEN FOR YOUR TRIP TO BELIZE

You will be hungry after you arrive in Placencia following a few hour journey! One of the best restaurants in town is Rumfish y Vino, which has plenty of options made with locally sourced ingredients. 

Day 2: Spend a day exploring Placencia 

Placencia is popular with ex-pats, digital nomads, and travelers who come to do snorkeling and diving. Whether you want to spend your day on the beach or grab your camera and walk around the main drag of Placencia lined with colorful houses, you will have a blast. 

➡️ Read my guide to where to stay in Placencia

Day 3: Take a snorkeling or diving lesson

Placencia offers perfect conditions for diving and snorkeling in Placencia with pristine coral reefs and spectacular wildlife. You can spend the rest of the day on the beach or walk around town to meet locals and enjoy the local flair.

➡️  GET A WATERPROOF BAG TO KEEP YOUR STUFF SAFE

Day 4: Explore the Laughing Bird Caye Park

The Laughing Bird Caye Park is a paradisiacal island in the middle of the Caribbean that’s an absolute must for anybody who comes to Placencia . A tour takes most of the day and can book your adventure online for a hassle-free experience. 

Day 5: Take a day trip to Hopkins

Hopkins is a village near Placencia that’s home to the Garifuna culture in Belize one of the most interesting cultures of the Caribbean. The best way to learn about this culture is by taking one of Garifuna’s drumming classes, shopping art from local vendors, and trying traditional Garifuna dishes in the area’s restaurants. 

Another option for your fifth day in Belize is to take a trip to the Cockscomb Wildlife Sanctuary that’s home to jaguars. While these felines are notoriously hard to spot during the day, you can still enjoy a hike or two in this place.

Day 6: Spend the last day enjoying Placencia

For your last day in Placencia, take a day trip to the famous Actun Tunichil Muknal Caves (ATM caves) .

Profiled by National Geographic, ATM caves offer the Indiana Jones kind of experience. Here you get to swim and wade through the water and learn about ancient Mayan rituals that took place thousands of years ago.

Best Placencia tours

Visiting ATM caves was one of my favorite experiences in Belize, and you definitely shouldn’t miss out on this experience during your 7 days in Belize. 

10 DAYS IN BELIZE ITINERARY

10 days in Belize is a good amount of time to explore some of the most popular islands in Belize like Caye Caulker and Ambergris Caye and venture into the mainland.

If you are visiting the country for the first time, I don’t recommend less than 10 days, simply because there’s so much to do here, despite many people coming to do a couple of dives or snorkel. 

Day 1: Arrive in Belize City

Arrive in Belize via Felipe Goldson International Airport. Take private transportation to Placencia, catch a flight to Ambergris Caye, or a boat ride to Caye Caulker.

Day 2-4: Relax on best Belize beaches

Just like with my itineraries for 5 and 7 days in Belize, you can spend the first few days in popular places like Ambergris Caye, Placencia, or Caye Caulker . Four to 5 days in Belize is enough time to do snorkeling, or diving and enjoy the slow pace of Belize’s islands and beach towns.

Day 5: Travel to mainland Belize

It’s time to venture to mainland Belize! You can begin your trip by booking a tour of the Lamanai ruins in the heart of the Belizean jungle near Orange Walk Town or head straight to San Ignacio, a backpacker hub in western Belize near the Guatemala border. 

Best guided tours of Lamanai ruins

How to get from belize city to san ignacio .

The easiest way to get from Belize City to San Ignacio is by taking private transportation which can be arranged online ahead of your trip. 

Another option is to take a chicken bus from the Novelo bus terminal in Belize City. This is a preferred mode of transportation among locals which will be significantly cheaper, but longer. Chicken buses in Belize are safe but they don’t have air conditioning and don’t have any room to store your luggage. 

If you are traveling with a lot of luggage, booking private transportation to San Ignacio is the best option.

Private shuttle from Belize City to San Ignacio

If you are a backpacker or budget traveler, catching a bus from Belize City to San Ignacio is a great alternative.

✅ Read my guide to where to stay in San Ignacio, Belize

Remember that you need to pay in cash and keep an eye on your belongings, as chicken buses in Belize can be crammed with people. You will need to buy your tickets at the bus terminal with cash. The ticket costs about 8 Belizean dollars ($4 USD).

Is Belize City safe?

Belize City has a bad reputation due to the high crime in crime-plagued parts of the city. As long as you keep a low profile and don’t stay out at night, you should be fine. If you are staying in Belize City, the best way to get around is by taxi. 

Day 5: San Ignacio 

San Ignacio is a gateway to adventure and is one of my favorite destinations in Belize. It’s a great budget destination with many activities in the area like kayaking, zip-lining, hiking, and visiting Mayan ruins.

Where to stay in San Ignacio:   Mariposa Jungle Lodge

After you arrive in San Ignacio, head to Xunantunich, an impressive Mayan ruin site near the Guatemala border. You can reach the entrance of Xunantunich by catching a taxi from downtown San Ignacio if you are on a budget, but you can also book a guided tour of Xunantunich online if you have more money to spend. 

Check the best tours of Xunantunich from San Ignacio

➡️ Check my guide to the best things to do in San Ignacio

After arriving back in town, grab some food in one of the local restaurants in downtown San Ignacio. I recommend Martha’s Kitchen. 

Day 6: Take a day trip from San Ignacio to ATM caves

ATM Caves are a must stop in Belize. You can book a tour of ATV caves from San Ignacio online.

Day 7: Visit Caracol Mayan ruins

Book a tour of Caracol, a remote Mayan ruin site that’s about 1,5 hours away from San Ignacio. Many tours of Caracol from San Ignacio include a stop in the refuge, where you can see the tallest waterfall in Central America camp and swim in the gorgeous Rio Frio Cave Pools. 

Day 8: Explore San Ignacio Belize

Your day 8 is a perfect opportunity to take a break and chill after a few days of adventure.

✅ Find out how to get from Belize City to San Ignacio

You can spend your day in town, book a kayaking tour of the Macal River that flows through the heart of San Ignacio or visit Cahal Pech, an archaeological site within walking distance from downtown San Ignacio. 

Day 9: Go cave tubing

Cave tubing is one of the most fun things to do in Belize and is an unmissable activity on your 10 days in Belize itinerary that basically involves floating on the river.

Book a cave tubing tour or go to the jungle to do some zip-lining. 

Day 10: Head back to the airport in Belize City

Stop in Belize Zoo on your way back to Belize City from San Ignacio. The name zoo is a bit misleading because this is a refuge for the orphaned or injured animals that are native to Belize but can’t survive on their own in the wild. 

The Belize Zoo operates as a non-profit, and your money goes a long way to help the animals that live here. You can spot tapirs, jaguars, macaws, and other animals native to this part of the world. 

It’s a great stop for your Belize itinerary, if you have a car rental but you can also get there by Chien bus from San Ignacio to Belize City, and ask your driver to stop at the entrance of the zoo, which is along the highway. 

Belize Backpacking itinerary 

If are traveling as a backpacker, you will need between 10 and 14 days in Belize. Many backpackers arrive in Belize by border crossing with Mexico or Guatemala, so depending on where you come from, plan accordingly.

If you arrive in Belize from Guatemala, stay in San Ignacio for 3-5 days before going to other places. If you are crossing the border between Mexico and Belize, you might want to check out Corozal and Orange Walk town, two hidden gems of Belize in the northern part of the country.

Spend 3-5 days on Belize beaches and take a couple of day trips depending on your budget. If you have slightly more time, get a PADI scuba diving certification in Belize, which is a one-of-a-kind experience.

Finally, don’t forget to put Punta Gorda on your backpacking itinerary in Belize. This small town is located in the southern part of the country and is perfect if you want to save money and get off the beaten track. 

Do I need to rent a car in Belize? 

Generally, you don’t need a car rental in Belize. It’s a small country with still developing infrastructure, and you can mostly get around by public transportation or private shuttles. But renting a car in Belize is an option if you want to skip guided tours and have more freedom to travel the country on your own.

✅ CLICK HERE TO CHECK PRICES ON CAR RENTALS IN BELIZE  

Where to rent a car in Belize?

The best place to rent a car in Belize is Belize City International Airport. You can find several car rental companies here. You can look for available vehicles on  DiscoverCars , one of the best online platforms for finding rental cars in Belize. 

Belize itinerary: FAQ

Do I need a passport to go to Belize? 

Yes, you need a passport to go to Belize. Depending on your country, you might need a visa and other documents. Always check travel requirements for Belize before making your travel plans. 

✅ Find out if you can use US dollars in Belize

How many days do you need for Belize?

If you want to see some of the most popular places in Belize like Ambergris Caye or Placencia and visit Mayan ruins or explore some of the caves in Belize, a week in Belize is enough. But if you want to get off the beaten track and see some hidden gems in Belize, plan between 10 to 14 days in Belize.

Is 5 days enough in Belize? 

5 days is not enough to see Belize. While it’s enough to see a few major destinations like Ambergris Caye, Placencia, or Caye Caulker, 5 days in Belize is a short amount of time, which will not allow you to see most of the country. 

Is a trip to Belize worth it?

A trip to Belize is well worth it. This Central American country is famous for its lush jungles, diverse wildlife, and the world-famous Great Blue Hole. If you enjoy water sports and like a combination of adventure and history, you will love Belize.

Is Belize safe for tourists?

While Belize has high crime statistics due to the high violence rate in certain parts of town, it’s mostly safe for tourists. As a visitor, you need to be vigilant, as you are more likely to be affected by scams and petty crime than anything else.

Exercise increased caution in busy places, and keep an eye on your belongings. Don’t accept gifts, food, or drinks from strangers, and don’t share your personal information or travel plans with people you don’t know. 

What is the best month to visit Belize? 

The best months to visit Belize are April and November. It’s a perfect time to save money before the high season kicks in and enjoy mild sunny weather and uncrowded Belize beaches in places like Ambergris Caye, Placencia, and Caye Caulker. 

Belize itinerary: the final word

Whether you spend 5, 7, or 10 days in Belize, you will love this hidden gem of Central America. Belize is less discovered compared to many of its neighbors and offers a great alternative to popular places if you want to try something new. 

Belize Travel Guide

Last Updated: April 15, 2024

Belize is one of Central America’s biggest tourist destinations and one of my favorite countries in the region. Backpacking around Belize was an amazing experience. It’s a small, easy-to-navigate country so you don’t need a lot of time to visit.

Yet there is a ton to see and do here as well.

The diving here is world-class. Belize’s barrier reef (the second largest reef in the world) draws in scuba and snorkeling enthusiasts from around the world. Explore Mayan ruins or relax on picturesque beaches. Trek through the jungles of the interior and bask in a vibrant, diverse culture.

And those with an interest in archaeology will find the Mayan sites of Altun Ha, Lamanai, and Caracol fascinating — I certainly did!

I loved visiting Belize. It may not be the cheapest destination in Central America but it’s still quite affordable and is one of the easiest and more relaxing places to travel in the region.

This travel guide to Belize will help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your time in this idyllic destination.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Belize

Click Here for City Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in belize.

1. Visit Altun Ha

Anyone even remotely interested in Mayan culture should make it a point to check out Altun Ha. This former Mayan trading center is located 19 miles (31 kilometers) outside of Belize City and attracts visitors not only for its ruins but for the wildlife in the region and the jungle ecosystem. The main attraction of the site is the Temple of the Masonry Altars, set in the Grand Plaza, dating back to the 7th century. The Temple is 54 feet (16 meters) tall and a climb to the top rewards you with a panoramic view of the pyramids and plaza below. You can purchase a licensed guide for 20 BZD outside the museum at the entrance. A half-day tour costs around 100 BZD and includes transportation, the entrance fee, a guide, and drinks. Admission is 10 BZD.

2. Explore the Cayes

There are hundreds of small islands off the coast of Belize, but the two most visited are Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker . Ambergris is 35 miles (56 kilometers) east of Belize City and is the largest and the most expensive as it’s popular with families on resort-style holidays. You’ll want to spend some time exploring San Pedro Town, the major town on the island. Caye Caulker, on the other hand, is popular with backpackers. Both islands have incredible activities and you’ll have a hard time choosing which snorkel or diving trip, kayaking tour, swimming with sharks, or manatee-watching tour you want to do. Don’t miss the beautiful nature reserve on Caye Caulker, home to 170 species of birds as well as turtles, iguanas, snakes, and crocodiles. If you’re there in the summer, be sure to check out Lobsterfest for local music, beach parties, and all the incredible lobster dishes you can possibly eat.

3. See the Belize Zoo

One of the most popular attractions in Belize City is its zoo. With the tagline “the best little zoo in the world,” this 29-acre site is home to over 120 species of animals, all of which are native to the country. The zoo was started in 1983 and aligns with local wildlife conservation efforts to care for rescued, orphaned, or donated animals. Check in advance for special education days that include World Croc Day, National Tapir Day, and more. They also have guided tours by appointment and even accommodations on the premises. Their dorms start at around 80 BZD per person and camping starts at around 18 BZD. Admission to Belize Zoo is 30 BZD. Be sure to wear long pants, comfy footwear, and insect repellent, as the zoo is literally in the jungle.

4. Visit Xunantunich

Xunantunich is one of Belize’s most impressive and easily accessible Maya sites, known for its spectacular scenic location in the middle of the jungle. Archeologists date this site around 600 BCE (though the exact date is unknown). Xunantunich means “Maiden of the Rock,” which stems from its spooky legend of a dark, ghostly Mayan woman who was sighted climbing up and down the pyramid before disappearing. Getting here is an adventure — you take a hand-cranked cable ferry across the Mopan River, near the village of San Jose Succotz (don’t forget to tip the operator 2 BZD). The main El Castillo pyramid is 131 feet (40 meters) high, with ornate carvings on both the eastern and western sides. It’s a strenuous climb that’s well worth your efforts. Once you reach the top, you’re treated to stunning panoramic views of the landscape, including the Macal and Moral rivers. Expect to see lots of birds and butterflies, as well as incredible views from the temples and plazas. Admission is 10 BZD.

5. Wander the Hol Chan Marine Reserve

Coming to Belize and not diving or snorkeling would be like visiting Paris and not seeing the Eiffel Tower or going to New York City and not wandering around Central Park. Hol Chan is the most well-known marine reserve in the country, made up of Ambergris Caye marine areas (including Belize’s Great Barrier Reef), coastal seagrass beds, as well as the Boca Chica and Cangrejo Shoals mangrove islands. The diving and snorkeling within the park are fantastic, with beautiful caves, coral, and plenty of tropical fish. Head to nearby Shark Ray Alley for the chance to get up close and personal with nurse sharks, sea turtles, and southern stingrays. Activity prices start at 180 BZD for half-day tours.

Other Things to See and Do in Belize

1. see the wildlife.

Much of Central America is a wildlife observer’s paradise, and Belize is no exception. Birdwatchers will enjoy Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary with its world-class spotting opportunities, while those interested in big cats can flock to the country’s most famous protected area, Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, where you can find jaguars. Another must-do is to check out Monkey Bay Wildlife Sanctuary, a 1070-acre protected natural area teeming with wildlife, from hundreds of bird species to pumas, tapirs, and more. Finally, the Green Iguana Project allows visitors to get an up-close-and-personal look at the endangered Green Iguana species..

2. Visit Bacab Adventure & Eco Park

Only 20 minutes outside Belize City, and with over 500 acres of lush jungle, here you’ll find hiking trails, waterways, wildlife (such as howler monkeys), a giant swimming pool with a waterfall. It’s part theme park and part nature reserve, and makes for an excellent getaway from Belize City. There are plenty of activities, from horseback safari, kayak tours, jungle biking, nature walks, swimming, bird watching, ruins tours, and more. It’s a fun place to visit with kids.

3. See Caracol

Caracol is a large Mayan site located in the Chiquibul Forest Reserve in the Cayo District. This was once one of the most powerful cities of the Mayan era. Unlike Altun Ha, the ruins in Caracol are less restored and are located in a jungle setting, which adds to the ancient feeling of the site (which made them my favorite because I felt like Indiana Jones). The site is full of reservoirs, walls, and tombs, with the best attraction being the main temple (called the Canaã or Sky Place), a 143-foot (44-meter) tall building that offers incredible views and surprising acoustics. Admission is 15 BZD.

4. Explore Actun Tunichil Muknal

One of the most exhilarating, if not spooky, things to do in the country is the Actun Tunichil Muknal cave tour. The cave is home to the remains of victims of Mayan sacrifices and, after a brief hike and trek through the jungle, you’ll come face to face with their skeletons. The site was discovered in 1989 and has been popular with tourists ever since. It was one of my favorite activities in the country. Because it is so popular, tours have become a lot more restrictive on where you can walk and when you can go. Expect to pay around 225-250 BZD for an organized tour. Bring water shoes, a bathing suit, and clothes that you don’t mind getting wet.

5. Dive the Barrier Reef

This is the second-longest barrier reef in the world, stretching over 186 miles (300 kilometers) as part of a reef system that extends all the way up to the Yucatan Peninsula. The vibrant coral and magnificent marine life make up the country’s most popular tourist attraction. Divers and snorkelers can enjoy the reef within one of the many islands in the marine park or take a boat tour further out. In 1996, the reef was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Great Blue Hole is the most common reason people visit the barrier reef. This incredibly striking underwater sinkhole is known for its crystalline waters, coral, fish, and stalactite-filled caves, stretching hundreds of feet below. Other must-do activities include snorkeling at the Hol Chan Marine Reserve, swimming with whale sharks at the Gladden Spit and Silk Cayes, and exploring Half Moon Caye.

6. See St. John’s Cathedral

Located in downtown Belize City, St. John’s Cathedral is the oldest Anglican Church in South America (and the oldest standing structure in the country). Built from red bricks that were brought aboard English sailing ships in the 1800s, this is an awesome piece of history to check out. The original church became a cathedral in 1891, and the neighboring cemetery was actually built during the colonial era using slave labor.

7. Visit Orange Walk

The Orange Walk area of Belize has a diverse range of locals, from Creoles to Mennonites. Often dubbed “Sugar City” because of its abundance of sugar cane, the town of Orange Walk is an ideal location for exploring the Altun Ha and Lamanai and a variety of nature parks and is often used as a stop on the way to Mexico . However, honestly, there’s not much in town, and I wouldn’t suggest spending more than a few days here before moving on; it’s more of a layover stop than anything.

8. Explore Placencia

Placencia is the ideal location for divers, snorkelers, and those who wish to explore the Mayan ruins in the south of the country. It’s also an increasingly popular destination for tourists and expats. The town still has a laid-back Caribbean vibe and life here centers around the narrow main street where you will find most bars and restaurants. Located at the end of Placencia’s bustling boardwalk, Placencia Beach is brimming with shops and eateries. I loved my stay here and ended up staying an extra week.

  For information on specific cities in Belize, check out these city guides:

• Caye Caulker Travel Guide
• Orange Walk Travel Guide
• Placencia Travel Guide
• San Ignacio Travel Guide

Belize Travel Costs

Accommodation – A bed in a hostel dorm room averages 25-50 BZD per night. Private rooms in hostels range between 70-100 BZD per night. Free Wi-Fi is standard and most hostels have self-catering facilities. Free breakfast is rare.

Prices for budget hotels start at around 140 BZD per night while a 3-star hotel will go from about 200 BZD per night. Your best value though will be renting a room or an apartment from a local over websites like Airbnb. A room in a shared house on Airbnb averages 40 BZD per night and an entire home averages around 200 BZD per night.

Food – Belizean cuisine leans heavily on beans, rice, cheese, and tortillas. Rice and beans are a common lunch choice, and you can always find tamales, panades (fried meat pies), onion soup, chicken stew, and garnaches (beans, cheese, and onion in a fried tortilla) pretty much everywhere you go. Other popular dishes include ceviche, fry jack (deep-fried dough pieces), conch fritters, and johnny cakes. On the islands, expect a lot of seafood, including lobster, shrimp, red snapper, sea bass, and halibut.

Expect to pay around 13 BZD for a quick meal at a restaurant serving traditional cuisine. A meal at a restaurant with table service and drinks costs between 50-100 BZD. For fast food (think McDonald’s), expect to pay around 15 BZD for a combo meal.

A beer is 4-5 BZD, and local alcoholic drinks like rum and coke cost around 5 BZD. It’s 8 BZD for a latte/cappuccino. Water is 1.50 BZD.

If you’re on a budget, snack on fruit here—it’s cheap, abundant, fresh, and delicious! On that note, street food is generally very cheap, as well. For less than 5 BZD, you can snack on tostadas, empanadas, and other filling local staples.

Groceries for a week cost about 80 BZD. This gets you basic staples like, rice, beans, vegetables, and some chicken or fish. Most accommodations won’t include a kitchen so be sure to find accommodation that does if you plan on cooking. Expect about 30% higher prices on the popular tourist Cayes.

Backpacking Belize Suggested Budgets

If you’re backpacking Belize, my suggested budget is around 80 BZD per day. On this budget, you’ll be staying in a hostel dorm, cooking most of your meals, eating street food, using local buses to get around, and doing the occasional cheap activities.

On a mid-range budget of 180 BZD, you’ll get a budget hotel/private hostel room/Airbnb, be able to dine out on all your meals, drink more, do more intercity travel, take the occasional taxi, and enjoy any tours you want within reason.

On a luxury budget of 325 BZD or more, well the sky is the limit and there’s nothing you really can’t do. This amount of money will get you anything you want and, any number higher than that, is just going to get you more! That said, you wouldn’t be reading a budget travel blog if you were a luxury traveler!

Belize Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Belize can be a very expensive country and costs here can add up super quickly if you aren’t careful. It’s one of the more expensive countries in the region (though the islands are more expensive than the interior towns). To help you save money, here are a few budget tips for Belize:

• Travel off-peak – The most expensive time to visit is between October and April. By traveling in the off-season, you can significantly reduce prices for accommodation and flights.
• Hitchhike – It’s a common custom among the locals to simply hitchhike everywhere they need to go. You see old ladies, children, and families on the side of the road looking for a ride. It’s just what they do. My friends and I met great people thumbing it across the country without spending any money at all.
• Use public transportation – Aside from hitchhiking, the most cost-effective way to get around Belize is by using public transportation. The country’s bus system covers all major highways and cities. See the How to Get Around section for more information.
• Combine excursions – Many tour operators offer trips that combine popular excursions. These are a good way to save on transfers to each tourist destination as well as possibly get dropped off at your next destination.
• Embrace happy hour – Most bars have a happy hour in the late afternoon and offer cheap drinks. Ask your hotel/hostel staff for suggestions on where to go for the latest deals.
• Bring your own food – Because many day trips and excursions charge extra for lunch, bring your own food and save money. There’s tons of grocery stores that sell things to make sandwiches with.
• Eat local – Rather than dining in restaurants in touristy areas, seek out neighborhood joints for more affordable prices. Better yet, fuel up on street food from vendors. This is almost always the cheapest option.
• Stay with a local – If you plan ahead, you can usually find really nice Couchsurfing hosts all throughout the country. This way, you not only have a place to stay, but you’ll have a local host that can share insider tips and advice. There aren’t a ton of hosts here however so send your requests early.
• Pack a water bottle – The tap water can be hit or miss here so bring a reusable water bottle with a filter. Not only will you save money but you’ll reduce your single-use plastic usage as well. My preferred bottle is LifeStraw since it has a built-in filter to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Belize

There aren’t a ton of hostels in Belize so make sure you book early to secure your spot. Here are my suggested places to stay in Belize:

• Sophie’s Guest Rooms (Caye Caulker)
• Sea Dreams Hotel (Caye Caulker)
• D’s Hostel (San Ignacio)
• The Old House Hostel (San Ignacio)
• Marissa Guest House (San Ignacio)
• The Royal Rat (Placencia)
• Alux House (Placencia)
• Casa Ricky’s (Orange Walk)

How to Get Around Belize

Public transportation – A lot of the destinations within Belize are pretty walkable once you get there. There really isn’t any public transportation as the towns and villages are too small (and easily walkable). Some of the larger cities, like Belize City, have small bus networks.

The best way to get around the smaller places is to rent a bike. They cost around 25 BZD per day in many places and are a great way to explore.

Bus – Buses are the cheapest travel option to travel across the country, with fares costing between 5-25 BZD (depending on the distance traveled). For example, a bus from Belize City to Orange Walk takes 1.5 hours and costs 10 BZD. A five-hour bus to Placencia from Belize City costs about 20 BZD.

Most of the buses are old school buses that take locals and visitors between cities and all around the country. There’s no real nationwide company and schedules change frequently. Your best bet is to ask someone at your accommodation for the updated bus schedule or just show up at the bus terminal and go from there.

You can also refer to belizebus.wordpress.com. It’s not a professional website, but it’s updated frequently and it is dependable.

Flying – There are two domestic airlines in Belize: Maya Island Air and Tropic Air. These small planes take you between Caye Caulker, Placencia, Corozal, and Ambergris Caye. Flights aren’t cheap though. Belize City to Caye Caulker is 200-300 BZD round-trip, while Belize City to Placencia is about 250-550 BZD, depending on the season. You should only fly here if you’re really pressed for time.

Car Rental – If you want a lot of flexibility to get around Belize, a car rental is a great idea. Rentals are around 90-150 BZD per day. Drivers usually need to be 25 and have an IDP (International Driving Permit). Drivers under 25 might be able to rent a car though there may be extra fees.

To find the best car rental prices, use Discover Cars .

Ferry – You can take ferries and water taxis to the islands (cayes) from Belize City with either San Pedro Belize Express or Ocean Ferry Belize (about a 1.5-hour journey). Belize City to Caye Caulker starts from 42 BZD one-way, while Belize City to San Pedro (Ambergris Caye) starts from 62 BZD one-way. Between San Pedro and Caye Caulker, it’s from 42 BZD one-way.

A ferry also runs between Corozal, Sarteneja, and San Pedro. Another route runs between Placencia and Independence, while frequent water taxis run between Dangriga and the Central Cayes. You don’t need to book your ferry or water taxi in advance. Just show up at the ferry terminal and you’ll be good to go.

When to Go to Belize

The best time to visit Belize is from the end of November to mid-April. This is the country’s dry season and, although it’s peak season, Belize never really gets too crowded. It’s warm and tropical with clear skies, and you’ll have no trouble visiting the country’s best attractions.

The water is also clearest during this time for diving, and temperatures average around 80°F (27°C) each day.

From the end of April to May, humidity intensifies and temperatures increase to an average of 87°F (31°C) each day.

The rainy season is the low season and it lasts from September to October. Many businesses are shut down during this time so keep that in mind as you plan.

For the cheapest prices, consider visiting in June or July. This is when hotel prices tend to be at their lowest. November and May are good months to visit for those who want to avoid crowds as much as possible. Otherwise, you can’t beat the dry season for its sunny skies and pleasant temperatures.

How to Stay Safe in Belize

Belize is a safe place to backpack and travel. Violent crime against travelers is very rare. It’s one of the safest countries in the region.

Petty theft (including bag snatching) is one of the most common types of crime in Belize so always keep your valuables secure and out of reach just to be safe. It’s a good idea to store major valuables and large amounts of cash in a hotel safe or other secure location when you’re out exploring for the day. And, be extra-vigilant when visiting ATMs or banks.

I would avoid Belize City as much as possible. If you have to spend a night there, avoid wandering too far from the main tourist part of town. While the country as a whole is safe, Belize City is not, especially at night. I would be extra vigilant here.

Keep an eye out for common scams against tourists , such as fake ATMs, taxis that don’t use a meter, and questionable tour operators. They are rare, but they can happen.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here, however, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.). For specific tips, visit one of the many solo female travel blogs out there. They’ll be able to provide more detailed advice.

If you experience an emergency, dial 911 for assistance. Keep in mind that Belize City has the two best major hospitals in the country should you need medical attention.

For more in-depth coverage of how to stay safe in Belize, check out this post we wrote that answers some frequently asked questions and concerns.

Always trust your gut instinct and be sure to make copies of your passport and important documents.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past.

Belize Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Belize Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Belize and continue planning your trip:

Is Belize Safe to Visit?

Is Central America Safe to Visit?

Get your  free travel starter kit.

Enter your email and get planning cheatsheets including a step by step checklist, packing list, tips cheat sheet, and more so you can plan like a pro!

• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

An Adventurous 12-Day Belize Road Trip Itinerary

The first thing that came to mind when I thought of Belize was the Great Blue Hole, coconuts and white sand beaches. And while we did dive into the Great Blue Hole and sip rum out of coconuts, we spent hardly any time on the beach. Because what I didn’t know was that this tiny little country is packed full of ancient ruins, awe-inspiring scenery, intoxicating adventures, and thousands of square miles of untouched jungle.

THE LOGISTICS

. For us, getting to Belize was anything but straightforward. Our flight was scheduled to deliver us to Belize City 6 hours after our departure from Toronto. After a lot of last minute packing, a sleepless night, and a long white-knuckled drive through heavy fog at 2am, we arrived at the airport to be told that our flight was cancelled and our next available departure was 8 hours later. Bad luck? Maybe. But little did we know that it was the prelude to an entire host of unfortunate circumstances, including, but not limited to: 18 additional hours of travel time, airline change complications, missed connections, lost bags, botched accommodation plans, torrential downpours at the beginning of the dry season, a flat tire in the middle of the jungle, and all the money lost that goes with the solutions to all of those things.

We basically found our plans to be anything but etched in stone, but welcomed the promise of new adventure that each change in our itinerary offered us. So we discarded our original schedule, instead opting to semi-wing it, which proved that sometimes the best adventures are, in fact, unplanned. .

THE ROUTE .

. CAYE CAULKER

Ambergris Caye or Caye Caulker? It seems to be the debate that plagues visitors who seek to visit the chain of islands that lay between the east coast of Belize and its barrier reef. But Greg and I quickly decided on Caye Caulker for its laid back Caribbean vibe and smaller price tag.

Once a top destination for young, budget travelers , Caye (pronounced Key ) Caulker now attracts vacationers from all walks of life who are attracted to the island’s “Go Slow” directive. And its taken seriously.  The island is small, quaint, and completely chill. The local population hovers around 1000 people compared to the much larger population of Ambergris Caye.

You won’t find any cars, air pollution or stretches of white-sand beaches on Caye Caulker, but you will find plenty of hammocks, salty breezes, golf carts, and barefoot bicyclists maneuvering around dogs napping in the middle of the dirt roads. And while you’ll have plenty of time to sit back, relax, and sip on rum in coconuts, you’ll still find plenty of things to keep you busy, such as: snorkeling with manatees, snorkeling and/or scuba diving the barrier reef, swimming, stand up paddle boarding, bird watching, adopting a dog

Read about our adventure SCUBA diving the Belize Barrier Reef

Where to stay: Go Slow Guesthouse

Caye Caulker is a really small island, so unless you book far in advance you’ll find most (if not all) of the budget-friendly Airbnbs completely sold out as your travel date approaches. But thankfully, because Caye Caulker attracts a very backpacker friendly crowd, hostels are a really awesome, abundant, and affordable last minute option.

And The Go Slow Hostel was exactly what we were looking for. Clean, cozy and totally colorful, the hostel is inviting and the staff is knowledgeable and friendly. Located down a side street, but within a 5-minute walk from the most popular bars and restaurants. The atmosphere was friendly – full of conversation, music, and (of course) rum and coconuts. It didn’t hurt that the wifi was only available in the courtyard, giving everyone a little nudge to gather around together.

How to get to Caye Caulker from Belize City: You’ll exit the airport and take a taxi to the San Pedro Water Taxi Terminal, located in Belize City. Buy a ticket to Caye Caulker and get on the boat! Its that simple. There are no cars allowed on Caye Caulker, but once you get there you’ll see a bunch of golf carts lined up in front of the dock. You’ll be able to rent one of them to help transport your bags.

Important note for the return trip : If you’re heading back to the mainland, then you’re going to Belize City, NOT San Pedro (San Pedro will take you to Ambergris Caye)

You can also find any information you need on bus schedules and tours when you arrive back at the San Pedro Water Taxi Terminal.

Cayo is where we spent most of our time during our road trip in Belize. Famous for its lush forest, waterfalls, and assortment of Mayan archaeological sites, Cayo is the largest (and arguably most beautiful) district in the country. .

Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve and Caracol

Our first mainland stop on our road trip through Belize was the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve. The mountainous reserve is comprised mainly of needle-like trees, red clay, sinkholes, caves, and several noteworthy waterfalls (including 1000 Foot Falls – the highest waterfall in all of Belize). But it felt a little less like a Central American jungle and much more like the American Southwest to me. A stark contrast to the tropical paradise we had just left behind on Caye Caulker. We set our sights on this area after a glowing recommendation from our taxi driver in Belize City and because Greg wanted to visit Caracol – the largest Mayan ruin in Belize, located just outside the southern boundary of the reserve.

Read about our adventure to Caracol and what to know before you do it for yourself

San Ignacio

Its no secret that I’m not much of a city person, but I was pleasantly surprised by San Ignacio. Maybe because its not so much a city, but more like a large vibrant town, located on the banks of the Macal River. Many travelers choose to visit San Ignacio for its central location, budget accommodation, food, nightlife, and ease of navigation via taxi, bus or on foot.

We also found that it was most central to a handful of Mayan sites, including Cahal Pech, Xunantunich, El Pilar and ATM Caves, as well as the Iguana Sanctuary. There’s also a market every Saturday where locals gather to sell fruit, vegetables, souvenirs, art and play music.

Although we didn’t spend as much time in San Ignacio as we would have liked, we did make it a point to dedicate half a day to exploring Xunantunich.

Xunantunich

The name Xunantunich is derived from Maya language and means “Stone Woman”. The legend tells of a beautiful and elusive stone woman who lives in a cavern near the base of El Castillo, the most prominent structure of this ancient city.

The reserve was easy to find and is located just across the river from San Ignacio near the western border. If you plan to visit this archeological site, you’ll find yourself entertained by the small hand-crank ferry that escorts you and your vehicle across the Mopan river.

I was instructed to exit the car, while Greg navigated it onto the ferry. Thoroughly amused by the fact that the ferry was actually operated only by a hand crank and some cables, I was happy to ride alongside our car until we were delivered to the paved road on the other side of the river.

From the ferry, it was a bit less than a mile to the reserve.

We parked our car, paid the $10 entrance fee and walked up the path to the ruins, where we left behind the bustle of the town and entered the rustling of the jungle. Although the reserve covers a relatively small area, it is quickly becoming the only piece of jungle left surrounded by an otherwise urban area.

We wandered around the courtyards, lingering to admire the lush green foliage and well-preserved architecture. Like many of the other Mayan sites in Belize, it is possible to climb the pyramids and, of course, Greg wanted to climb every one of them. But the views were breathtaking, offering sweeping views of the plaza below us, howler monkeys frolicking in the palm trees, and the not-so-distant Guatemalan border.

Given its proximity to Guatemala, We used San Ignacio as our Belizean home-base for our side trip to Tikal.

Read about our trip to Tikal in Guatemala and how to make the side trip on a budget

. THE HUMMINGBIRD HIGHWAY

The hummingbird highway connects you from Belmopan in Cayo all the way to Dangriga in the Stann Creek District. 55 miles of twisting, turning, winding road that carries you through several villages, untouched Belizean jungle, valleys of towering mountains, and lowland citrus farms. Along the way you’ll find a mixture of newly paved double-lane road, a (very) healthy dose of speed bumps, and old one-lane bridges left over from when the road was used for transporting citrus fruits to Dangriga.

It down poured 90% of our drive along the highway, so we didn’t get to stop nearly as often as I would have liked. But keep your eyes out for fresh fruit stands, local road side restaurants, flocks of green parrots, trucks hauling loads of orange citrus, and many of the noteworthy stops and sights along the way including:

• Magnetic Hill at mile 29. Read about the phenomenon here .
• Hermans Blue Hole National Park  at mile 42
• Lamanai Chocolate  at mile 43. Stop for stone ground coffee and home made chocolate (I recommend splurging on the cinnamon chocolate nibs)

• Marie Sharp’s Factory and Farm , located just outside of Dangriga. She has been making her own carrot. based hot sauces, jellies and jams since 1980.  There is at least one bottle of her hot sauce on every table in Belize. .

COCKSCOMB BASIN

Cockscomb basin is a wildlife reserve in the Stann Creek District of south-central Belize. It was the last stop on our Belize road trip. The reserve’s 400 sq kilometers protect the area’s unique flora and fauna and the eastern slopes of the Maya Mountains. It’s also noted as the world’s premier site for jaguar preservation.

Besides the Barrier Reef , Cockscomb was my absolute favorite stop during our trip. I really wish we had spent more time here (I find myself saying that a lot…), but due to our string of bad luck (i.e. the weather, and a flat tire that we acquired along the hummingbird highway) we only had half a day to explore.

From the highway, we turned into the reserve and followed a red dirt road, which stood in stark contrast to the surrounding green foliage. And Obviously I made Greg pull over so he could take pictures of me frolicking in the road…

Anyway, once we got there, we checked in at the park entrance desk. That’s when we learned that there’s so much to do in Cockscomb – a plethora of trails ranging from short, easy day hikes to multiple day treks up Mt. Victoria, to lazy tubing down the river. But given our hiccup with the tire, we picked the guide’s brain on how to make the most of our short stay. He recommended the hike to Tiger Fern Falls.

This was my first hike in the jungle. Unlike the crisp alpine air I’m used to hiking in, the air here was fresh and heavy and smelled of moss and dirt. We walked in silence, listening to the symphony around us. The birds singing. The monkeys howling. Water babbling in the nearby stream. The squish of our shoes in the heavy red mud beneath our feet. In a single file line, leaf cutter ants scurried by carrying pieces of leaves three times the size of their own heads.

The trees changed from moss-covered jungle to pine forest as we climbed to the top of the mountain. Eventually the tree line broke, offering us an absolutely breathtaking view of Mt. Victoria and the untouched jungle around us. Trekking through the mountain top meadow, we found ourselves steeply descending the other side of the mountain, where our surroundings once again became damp and tropical.

About 40 minutes into our hike, we reached the waterfall and its swimming pool. We spent about an hour alone, folicking barefoot and half naked, fully immersed in the present moment, the falls, the jungle, and the river downstream.

BELIZE TRAVEL TIPS

. Splurge on a rental car : The rental car will, hands down, be the most expensive part of the trip. But while public transportation is readily available throughout the country, a car is truly the only way to see all that Belize has to offer (and on your own time!). Spend the money, you won’t regret it.

Currency:  Belize dollars or US dollars. It really doesn’t matter. Both currencies are used interchangeably. Just remember 1 USD = 2 BZD.

Don’t drink the water!  Tap water is okay to bathe in but is not safe to drink. No water? Just drink Belikin, the local beer. Its (literally) everywhere.

DO buy fresh fruit from roadside fruit stands,  but only the kind that you can peel to avoid any contamination on fruit skins.

Wear good shoes. The limestone at the Mayan ruins is really slippery when it rains

Don’t forget to bring home Marie Sharps Hot Sauce.  Just try it and you’ll see why.

Utilize hostels and Airbnb.  The people in Belize are the friendliest I’ve met thus far and they offer the best advice

THINGS YOU’LL BE GLAD YOU PACKED

• Passport with copies
• Lightweight backpack
• rain jacket
• hiking sandals
• jean shorts
• 1 pair of jeans
• 2 bathing suits
• baseball hat
• first aid kit
• advil/asprin/Benadryl (you never know what you’ll get bit by or be allergic to in the jungle)
• car charger
• water bottle/camel back (to stock up on fresh water)
• camera with charger and extra batteries

Like this post? Pin it for later

Related Posts

12 Best Hotels in Lake Placid | Memorable Overnight Stays

13 Amazing Things to Do in the Adirondacks for Fall

Top Things to Do in Lake Placid NY in the Summer

Wonderful!!! It feels refreshing to read this blog on your Belize trip – Jacqueline. I always wanted to go on a road trip to Belize. It’s always been in my bucket list. This blog is going to help me to plan my Belize trip. Helpful tips and suggestions! Thanks for sharing such an informative blog.

Thanks for reading Steffan! Great to hear it will be useful to you :) Belize was one of my favorite adventures and I have a feeling it will be one of yours too!

[…] you’re traveling New Zealand, road tripping the Southwest, or escaping the winter chill in sunny Belize, your camera roll is mostly likely overflowing with photos of the incredible moments you captured […]

Leave A Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

WANT TO SAVE MONEY TRAVELING?

Check out the travel resources →

Check out my list of reliable budget-friendly travel resources that are guaranteed to save you the most money, without compromising your experience.

This error message is only visible to WordPress admins Error: There is no connected account for the user 17841400792270379.

Get in touch

Contact Portfolio Let’s work together

Explore the blog

Destinations Guides and itineraries Travel planning tips

Let’s connect

Never miss an adventure, privacy policy | terms of service | disclaimer | by zazen designs.

Back to top

History Fangirl

The Ultimate History Travel Blog Since 2015

Planning a Trip to Belize: 11 Steps to the Perfect Belize Getaway

Last Updated on: 27th February 2023, 12:19 am

Planning a trip to Belize? The country is a popular vacation destination for anyone looking to get away and enjoy some relaxing time on some of the world’s most beautiful beaches.

Here’s a checklist of everything you need to think about as you plan your trip, whether you’re going to be enjoying time on the mainland or on some of Belize’s gorgeous islands.

Read next:   The Ultimate Belize Packing List

My Favorite Travel Booking Sites for 2024

These are my favorite companies that I use on my own travels.

Protect Your Trip via Safety Wing

Find the best city tours, day tours, bus tours, & skip-the-line tickets on GetYourGuide and Viato r .

Find the best deals on hotels & vacation rentals on Booking.com .

For English-speaking private airport transfers, book through Welcome Pickups.

For road trips and independent travel, rent a car through Discover Cars .

Find information and cruise reviews on Cruise Critic.

For packing and travel essentials order via Amazon .

Book an affordable family or romantic photography session on your trip through Flytographer (Use the code HISTORYFANGIRL for 10% off your first photoshoot).

For travel guidebooks to have with you during your trip, I always pick one or two from Rick Steves and Lonely Planet.

Check to See if You Need a Visa

You will need a passport to enter Belize that is valid for at least six months after your stay.  Belize offers visa-free travel for up to thirty days to citizens from many countries:

• EU Citizens
• Citizens from Caribbean Community Member States (CARICOM) with the exception of Haiti
• US Citizens and passport holders from the territories
• Citizens of Costa Rica, Chile, Guatemala, Iceland, Mexico, Norway, South Africa, Tunisia, Switzerland, & Uruguay
• UK Citizens and Citizens from the Commonwealth, with the exception of Bangladesh, Cameroon, Chad, India, Nauru, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Mozambique, and West African Countries

To check up-to-date visa-free travel information and information on how to apply for a travel visa if you need one, you can visit the website for the Belize High Commission.

Many people make Belize their first trip abroad from the US. If you don’t have a passport yet, start by researching how to get a passport and using this online tool to take your passport photo.  

Make sure you follow the regulations for taking passport photos so that your photo is accepted or go and get some taken professionally.

Book Your Tickets

Getting off the plane in Belize City, I started beaming as soon as the tropical air hit my face. We selected Belize as our getaway because of the cheap flight deals available from the USA, which is one reason that the country is so popular with American and Canadian tourists.

Belize has many airports, but all flights from the US land at Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport in Belize City.

From there, you can get flights on Maya Air or Tropic Air to many small airports across the country, including San Pedro and Caye Caulker. Otherwise, you can fly into Belize City and use ground transportation and water taxis to get to your first destination.

To find the cheapest flights, use Skyscanner and Google Flights to check the various options.

If you’re planning on flying into a regional airport, price flights to that airport and what flights cost if you fly into Belize City and book the regional flight separately.

You may find the prices to be different if booked separately, but they will sometimes be lower and sometimes be higher.

Plan Your Belize Itinerary

Belize has many popular vacation destinations, so you’ll want to decide which ones you will be visiting.

Add in the transportation time and costs to determine if a destination is worth adding to your trip.

I personally prefer going to one or two destinations per week of travel so that I get enough time to settle in and relax.

There’s no perfect Belize itinerary, but here are some of the most popular places to visit:

Ambergris Caye

Probably the place in Belize most synonymous with a luxury vacation, Ambergris Caye is popular with vacationers and honeymooners looking to enjoy the best of everything.

Most visitors stay in San Pedro and use this as a base to explore the island. While it is possible to do Ambergris Caye on a budget, most people coming here aren’t backpackers or budget travelers.

Popular things to do on Ambergris Caye include visiting the Secret Beach and Scuba Diving or Snorkeling at Hol Chan .

Caye Caulker

Caye Caulker is popular with backpackers and young tourists, and it has more of a party atmosphere than Ambergris Caye.

While here, you can relax at the Split, enjoy the street food, or even rent kayaks and explore further out.

Make sure to check out snorkeling at  Hol Chan and Shark Ray Alley .

For those who want a taste of Caribbean life while also having access to Belize’s jungles, Placencia offers the perfect combination of both.

Popular activities here include diving the White Hole, snorkeling at the Silk Cayes, and hiking through the nearby jungle.

Read next:  10 Spectacular Belize Beaches for Your Caribbean Getaway

Corazol might be one of the least touristed spots in Belize, but that means you can have Mayan ruins all to yourself.

Make sure to visit Cerros, the country’s only Mayan ruin that’s right on the coast. You can also visit Belize’s largest fishing villiage, Sarteneja, which was originally founded by the Mayans before the Spanish invasion.

Cayo District

Many travelers wanting to explore Belize’s Mayan ruins will use San Ignacio as a base to explore the Cayo District.

This is also a great way to see inland Belize, including visits to the local markets, tubing or canoeing on the river, and you can even visit an Iguana sanctuary.

Plan Your Activities

Many travelers in Belize come wanting to do specific activities, like scuba dive in the Blue Hole or snorkel at Hol Chan . There are also amazing Mayan ruins and options for day trips out to uninhabited islands.

I use GetYourGuide to book my day tours and activities while on the road. I had an absolutely abysmal tour in Dresden , and I had to rely on GetYourGuide’s customer service since the local company refused to help and were actively rude.

I love the certainty that I have an extra layer of customer service to go to in case of problems on the ground.

Check for Belize tour reviews and prices here.

Budget Your Trip

Once you decide how long your trip will be, where you want to go, and what activities you want to do,  you can start to put together a trip budget. The largest pieces of your budget will be transportation and accommodations, so decide how much you want to spend on lodging per night.

While on your trip, track your daily expenditures to help you stay within your budget.

The best way to save money in Belize is to cook some meals and make some of your drinks at home if you have the option. Restaurant prices in touristy locations can be pricey.

Book Your Accommodations

Once you determine your travel budget, it’s time to book your accommodations.

I use Booking.com to make travel arrangements since most properties have an option to cancel a booking ahead of time if you decide to make other arrangements.

They also offer a wide variety of accommodation types, from luxury to hostels and everything in between.

Once you’ve found the accommodations you want, make sure to book  in advance since rooms in Belize tend to sell out during the high travel season.

Research Any Health Information and Vaccinations You May Need

Belize is a very safe destination to travel to, but there are a few pieces of information travelers need to stay healthy.

Is the Water Safe to Drink?

Note that you shouldn’t drink tap water in Belize. Bottled water only. If drinks are being made from water, like coffee or tea, that should be made from bottled water as well.

Is there a Risk of Zika in Belize?

Belize, like many countries, has a risk of Zika. For most people, Zika poses no threat. However, you can read about Zika facts and prevention here . This is especially important if you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant.

What Vaccines Do I Need for Belize?

The CDC recommends that you be up to date on routine vaccinations and Hepatitis A shots before heading to Belize. They also recommend being vaccinated against Typhoid if you are doing extensive travel in rural areas.

Anyone going to Belize for a little “coed” fun should be vaccinated against Hepatitis B. Rabies vaccines are recommended for anyone camping or who will be spending time around wild animals.

Belize requires anyone coming from a country with a risk of yellow fever to be vaccinated against yellow fever to protect local Belizeans. Note that there is no risk of getting yellow fever in Belize. You can check if your country is on this list here .

Pregnant women might need to take anti-malaria medication. You will need to check with your doctor.

Check the up-to-date CDC recommendations for Belize vaccinations and health updates  here .

Learn a Few Common Spanish Words and Phrases

As part of its legacy of being a British colony, the official language of Belize is English. In many of the most touristed spots in Belize, you won’t run into many situations where you need Spanish.

However, only about 60% of the population speaks English, and over 50% are native Spanish speakers. Bilingualism is common, but it never hurts to have a few Spanish phrases handy.

Hello   =  Hola

Good Morning  =  Buenos días

Good Evening = Buena noches

Goodbye  =  Adiós

Please  =  Por favor

Thank You  =  Gracias

Excuse Me  =  Perdóneme

Okay or Good  =  Bueno

Yes  =  Sí

No  = No

I Don’t Understand  =  No entiendo

Do You Speak English?  =  ¿Habla usted Inglés?

I don’t speak Spanish = Yo no hablo español

Pack Your Bags

I have an entire post on  what to pack for Belize , but if you don’t read it, make sure to have these five things with you before you leave for your trip:

Lonely Planet Belize   which is available as a paper copy or in a Kindle edition.

Mosquito Repellant   is the single most important thing you’ll want on you as soon as dusk hits. Have enough to at least get through the first night. However, if you’re traveling with a checked bag, bring enough for your trip since it’s way more expensive in Belize.

After Bite for mosquito bites   even being extremely careful, you may end up with some bites if you have to go somewhere at dusk.

Full Sized Travel Towel  This is the best travel towel in the world . It’s pretty enough for the beach, large enough that you forget it’s a microfibre towel, and quick-drying, which is crucial in super humid Belize.

A GoPro   for underwater and action photography. Why go all the way to Belize and not be able to capture some of the most exciting parts of your trip?

Read next:  What to Wear & What to Pack for Belize

Prepare For Your Arrival

It’s important to know exactly how you’ll get from your arrival point in Belize to your accommodations. For those headed straight to Ambergris Caye or Caye Caulker, I have guides for how to get from Belize City to Caye Caulker and to Ambergris Caye . These include costs and how much the taxis should be.

If you’re going to be headed elsewhere, then work with your accommodations to find out the best route from the airport to your hotel or hostel. Things to ask:

• Best transportation route
• Hours of operations (some options like water taxis may not be available in the evenings)
• Acceptable payment methods (USD, local currency, Visa, Mastercard…)
• Do you need to book ahead or can you arrange once you’re on the ground

Your accommodations should have this information readily available, but make sure you know ahead of time since you will probably not have a sim card right away.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!

During your trip, what would happen if you got in a boating accident, had your camera stolen, or got sick and had to be rushed to the hospital? For anyone who knows that these scenarios would cause serious financial and logistical hardship, travel insurance is the best answer.

Even though it’s not fun, I always buy a  Travel Insurance Policy  because things happen on the road.  I pay for  World Nomads,  and I happily recommend them. It’s especially important to get travel insurance if you’re going to be doing any snorkeling or scuba diving while in Belize. And the policies are pretty affordable. You can check policy prices for your trip dates here.

Pro Tip: I have been a paying customer of  World Nomads  for travel insurance for two years, and I happily recommend them.  It’s especially important to get travel insurance if you’re going to be doing any water sports, like scuba diving, sailing, or snorkeling, or if you’re going to do anything in the jungle or visit any ancient ruins.  Check policy prices for your trip dates here.

More Resources to Help with Planning a Trip to Belize

Headed to Belize? Start with my  complete Belize packing list  so you can arrive on vacation completely prepared.

If you’re still trying to decide where to go in Belize, check out my post on the  most Instagrammable places in Belize  and the best beaches in Belize.

If you know you’ll be headed to Ambergris Caye at some point on your trip, here’s my post on  how to get there , the  best things to do in San Pedro , and  how to get to Secret Beach.  

If you’ll be headed to Caye Caulker, check out my guide on  how to get there from BZE and Belize City.

Finally, here’s my guide to  snorkeling at Hol Chan and Shark Ray Alley . Even if you plan to go snorkeling in a different part of the country, this guide goes over what generally to expect and what to bring with you.

Are you planning a trip to Belize or have you already returned from your trip? Leave Your Best Travel Tips and Questions below!

Pin this article for your trip to belize.

In this Article:

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Travel Guide

• Things to Do
• Entry Requirements & Customs
• Getting Around
• Visitor Information
• Regions in Brief
• Tips on Accommodations
• Calendar of Events
• Getting There
• Tips on Dining
• Escorted & Package Tours
• Staying Healthy
• Staying Safe
• Sustainable Travel & Ecotourism
• Tips for Families
• Tips for Gay and Lesbian Travelers
• Tips for Senior Travelers
• Tips for Student Travelers
• Tips for Travelers with Disabilities
• Staying Connected
• Getting Married
• Active Pursuits
• Suggested Itineraries

Planning a Trip in Belize

Belize offers a wealth of vacation options, ranging from sun-and-fun beach time, to dedicated scuba diving or fishing trips, to themed vacations exploring the ancient Mayan culture and archaeology. Moreover, given the compact size of the country, it's very possible to cover a lot of ground in a short time, and to mix and match these options. Whatever your interests, we'll will provide you with all the tools and information necessary to plan and book your trip.

Note : This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

• All Regions
• Australia & South Pacific
• Caribbean & Atlantic
• Central & South America
• Middle East & Africa
• North America
• Washington, D.C.
• San Francisco
• New York City
• Los Angeles
• Arts & Culture
• Beach & Water Sports
• Local Experiences
• Food & Drink
• Outdoor & Adventure
• National Parks
• Winter Sports
• Travelers with Disabilities
• Family & Kids
• All Slideshows
• Hotel Deals
• Car Rentals
• Flight Alerts
• Credit Cards & Loyalty Points
• Cruise News
• Entry Requirements & Customs
• Car, Bus, Rail News
• Money & Fees
• Health, Insurance, Security
• Packing & Luggage
• -Arthur Frommer Online
• -Passportable
• Road Trip Guides
• Alaska Made Easy
• Great Vacation Ideas in the U.S.A.
• Best of the Caribbean
• Best of Mexico
• Cruise Inspiration
• Best Places to Go 2024

How to Spend Two Weeks in Belize: An Itinerary for First-time Visitors

Two weeks in Belize will give you the perfect amount of time to see all of the best bits of the country. From the ancient Mayan ruins at the ATM Caves and Xunantunich, to the blonde-sand beaches of Placencia and Caye Caulker, my comprehensive guide is going to tell you exactly how to spend 14 days in Belize.

Belize is the 48th smallest country in the world — around the size of Israel, or Maryland in the U.S. — so is easily explored in a short amount of time. This country is a treasure trove for both history buffs and nature lovers alike. Belize is home to hundreds of ancient ruins, including around 33 Mayan archaeological sites in various states of excavation and disrepair. The country is also full of tons of wildlife, including pumas, jaguars, monkeys, and birds — and an impressive 50 percent of Belize is protected by national parks and environmental laws.

The country has a distinctly undiscovered feel about it, making it a great off-the-beaten-path destination. It’s not the cheapest place to travel in Central America, it doesn’t have the edgy feel of Guatemala, or the eco-tourism scene of Costa Rica, but it does have a fantastic culture and a vibrant food scene. 

Due to its history as British Honduras, English is the official language of Belize, spoken by 62.9% of the population, but the vast majority of people are multilingual, with Spanish, Creole, Maya, German and Garifuna all having a place in Belizean language. It’s this mix of culture that gives the country such an interesting dialect, as well as an open-minded and welcoming atmosphere.

Public Transport in Belize: Yes or No?

There’s not much public transport in Belize, other than the infamous chicken buses — old American school buses that run from one town to the next, stopping at every house along the way (or at least that’s what it feels like).

They are definitely an experience and in many ways, an important part of the culture in Belize, as locals rely on them for their day to day transport (cars are a luxury). But chicken buses in Belize are crammed full of people, have zero legroom, and are not fun with luggage. If you haven’t read about my nightmare trip from San Ignacio to Placencia yet, then now might be a good time to do so.

Taxis or private drivers can be hired but are usually expensive, especially for multi-hour journeys. It’s for these reasons that I actually recommend hiring a car. If you did read the article I linked to in the previous paragraph, you already know why I’m suggesting this. Let’s just say I learned my lesson from my first visit to Belize, so decided to rent a car for my second.

What to Know About Money in Belize

The Belize dollar, or BZD, is the official currency of Belize. The official exchange rate is permanently set at 2 Belize dollars to 1 U.S. dollar, which makes currency conversion calculations particularly simple.

Honestly, though? I personally wouldn’t bother with exchanging money, as U.S. dollars are accepted everywhere in the country. Meanwhile, the Belize dollar can only be exchanged within Belize and at border towns in Mexico and Guatemala, so you run the risk of (cough) leaving the country with Belizean dollars you can neither exchange nor spend.

(I’m not saying that’s the reason why I planned a return trip to Belize, but I’m also not not saying it.)

Cash is still king in Belize , although Visa is accepted at most large businesses (only a very limited number of businesses accept MasterCard and American Express). ATMs can be unreliable and expensive and official exchanges seem to be non-existent, so local vendors on the street are often the only available means to change money.

And so, my advice is to take enough USD to get you through your trip, but obviously split it up into different bags or pockets for added safety.

How to Spend Two Weeks in Belize

My two-week itinerary is going to take you to all of the best spots in Belize.

We’re going to start with an optional night in Belize City , then spend 3 or 4 nights in my beloved San Ignacio , exploring ancient ruins and underground caves.

A drive down the scenic Hummingbird Highway comes next, before staying overnight in an incredible lodge in the rainforest.

The next day, a lunch stop in Hopkins is followed by a visit to Cockscomb Basin Forest Reserve : world-famous for its jaguar population.

Next up: spend 2 nights in Placencia , getting to know the south of Belize, before heading back up to Belize City to catch a ferry to Caye Caulker . 

And then, I’m going to recommend spending a whopping six nights in Caye Caulker . It may seem a long time but trust me, you still won’t want to leave!

With epic snorkeling, delicious food and laid back locals, Caye Caulker is paradise on earth. Locals say they never get sick because there is never bad weather. And if you’ve read Never Ending Footsteps for any amount of time, you’ll know that’s exactly what I need! (I catch food poisoning on practically every trip I take.)

Fill your time on Caye Caulker walking stray dogs, flying over the Great Blue Hole, visiting neighbouring Ambergris Caye and living the local motto of Go Slow . Return to Belize City to make sure you get back in time for your flight home the next day and explore the colonial charm of the former capital city.

Day One: Arrive in Belize City

If you’re arriving by air, the Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport is only about 20 minutes from Belize City. If you’re coming overland, you’ll arrive at the dusty Belize City bus station. No matter your form of transport, if you’re arriving late, spend the night in Belize City and enjoy the dilapidated buildings and colonial charm.

But if your flight or bus arrives in the day, head straight to San Ignacio, just a two-hour drive away by car. 

On your way, make a stop at the Belize Zoo and Tropical Education Center. I know, normally I am not at all a fan of zoos, but this one is different. Belize Zoo, in fact, only houses animals from Belize, usually rescued from road accidents or the illegal pet trade. The enclosures are a generous size and comparable to a natural habitat, and there are witty signs all over the place that give you a first taste of the wonderful Belizean humor.

You could also visit the nearby Monkey Bay Wildlife Sanctuary for a chance to spot some wild animals. 

Where to stay in Belize City

Villa Boscardi has everything you need for an overnight stop, it’s located outside of the hustle and bustle of central Belize City on a quiet, leafy, and safe street. Everything in Belize City center is fortified with barbed wire, so it’s nice to stay just outside the main area. The rooms are spacious and clean with lots of beautiful touches, and there’s a great pool and communal cooking area. The free breakfast is also pretty special and offers a great introduction to the food in Belize!

Day Two: Ruin it Up in San Ignacio!

Now, if you’ve read my site for any amount of time, you’ll know that I’m not much of a fan of ruins. I was surprised, then, when I made my way to San Ignacio and was so impressed with its nearby Mayan ruins.

(Maybe I am, just, actually a fan of ruins?)

The first port of call for the day is taking a ferry over to the Xunantunich ruins , just twenty minutes from San Ignacio. This Mayan ceremonial center was inhabited between AD 700 to 1000, and is seriously impressive for such a rarely-visited spot. Climb to the top of the 133-foot tall El Castillo, the second tallest temple in all of Belize, and spot the intricate sun god masks that decorate the walls. While I was sat up there, I could hear howler monkeys growling in the distance, which only added to the other-worldly vibes.

If you have time in the afternoon, I recommend either heading to Cahal Pech in San Ignacio, or taking a two-hour (4×4) drive to the remote ancient Mayan city of Caracol. Abandoned in 900 CE, it’s thought that Caracol once spread over 200 square kilometers and only around 1% of the ruins have been excavated[!].

In the evening, head to the Guava Limb for dinner. The seating area may look as though it’s being reclaimed by the Belizean jungle, but the food takes its inspiration from every corner of the world. They have a farm-to-table ethos, using fresh ingredients to create authentic and international cuisine (the Thai noodles are amazing ). Yeah, there’s a reason why it’s ranked as the number one restaurant in San Ignacio.

Where to stay in San Ignacio

One of our favorite spots to stay in Belize is Pine Ridge Lodge . Just outside of San Ignacio, Pine Ridge is an off-grid lodge located right on the river. Step out from one of the beautifully decorated cabins to sit by the river or go for a walk on a lovely trail leading to waterfalls. Neil, the owner, is more than happy to help you out with local recommendations and his two dogs will keep you company on the trails!

Day Three: Visit the ATM Caves From San Ignacio

Start your day with an American style or Belizean breakfast at Pop’s Restaurant. The traditional Belizean breakfast consists of fry jacks, eggs, beans, and chicken and is something you have to try at least once in your two weeks in Belize — it’s seriously good.

And then it’s time to do what is, in my opinion, the absolute best activity in Belize.

It’s time to take a trip to Actun Tunichil Muknal.

The cave is ranked one of the top ten caves in the world by National Geographic, and it’s time for you to find out why.

On your trip to the ATM cave, you’ll hike through tropical jungle, cross through rivers, and squeeze under rocks, before finally coming to the ancient sacrificial remains of the Mayan, located deep within the caves.

The ATM cave is protected so you have to take a tour in order to visit, with a guide who is licensed by the Department of Ecology. There’s only a couple of dozen of these in the country, so spaces are limited. Unfortunately, photography is not allowed to protect the artifacts, so I can’t even show you what it looks like. You’ll just have to trust me that it’s incredible.

It’s an Indiana Jones-style adventure, but you do get hard hats and torches — which is slightly safer than the terrifying candlelit experience of Semuc Champney in Guatemala!

You can book your tour when you arrive in San Ignacio, but I recommend booking online and in advance before you arrive, to make sure you get a spot.

That evening, visit the iconic Marie Sharp’s Tourist Center in San Ignacio for a culinary class on Belizean cuisine. You are absolutely guaranteed to encounter Marie Sharp’s hot sauces while visiting Belize (I bought them as souvenirs for friends while I was there!), and here, you’ll learn how to cook with it, rustling up classic local dishes, like — you know it! — rice and beans and chicken stew.

Day Four: Take a Day Trip From San Ignacio to Guatemala and the Ancient Ruins of Tikal

Taking a day trip to Tikal from San Ignacio is easy to do, particularly if you have your own transport. Tikal is located just two hours away from San Ignacio, deep within the Maya Biosphere Reserve. It was once one of the most prosperous cities of the Mayan Classic Period, and the largest ancient civilization in Mesoamerica. You can find tours in San Ignacio offering trips to Tikal, or like us, just navigate the border yourself and drive to the ancient city.

Tikal covers an area of 575 square kilometres and dates back to 1000 BC, but it wasn’t a thriving city until much later, around 600 AD. Tikal is thought to have had around 100,000 residents at its height, including a school and even a hospital.

Although it was an advanced city, sacrifice was still thought of as an honor, and the population mysteriously disappeared completely by 900 AD. Climb the pyramids, explore the vast jungle, and watch out for wildlife like howler monkeys and toucans. 

Tikal really is worth the effort, and Guatemala is another wonderful country to visit, but if you want to stay in Belize there are plenty of other things to do. Some fantastic things to do in and around San Ignacio include the Green Iguana Conservation Project, the Belize Botanic Gardens and the Rio Frio cave and pools.

Day Five: Visit Blue Hole National Park and Stay in a Rainforest Retreat

On day five take to the beautiful Hummingbird Highway and head south through Belize’s dense interior. Stop off at the Lamanai chocolate company to take a tour and learn the Mayan art of chocolate making. Then visit St. Herman’s Cave: you can either take the mile hike into the caves or go caving and cave tubing with a local guide. 

Also located within St. Herman’s Blue Hole National Park is the Inland Blue Hole, where you can take a refreshing dip in the small lake and spot wildlife in the surrounding jungle. Or if you’re feeling brave, rappel down a waterfall at the nearby Dreaming Giant waterfalls.

Where to Stay in the Jungle in Belize

Spend the evening at the Sleeping Giant Rainforest Lodge , just on the edge of the national park. Air Conditioned rooms are a welcome retreat after a day spent in the jungle, with home-cooked meals being an added bonus. The Sleeping Giant Rainforest Lodge is in the perfect location to enjoy the outdoors, with panoramic views of the landscape, you can easily explore the surrounding creek, rivers and forests. Plus, the use of kayaks is free of charge!

Day Six: Take a Lunch Stop in Hopkins and Go Hiking in Cockscomb Basin Forest Reserve

Head further south and onto the small beach town of Hopkins, known as the cultural center of the Garifuna population and a must on any Belize itinerary. The music and dances of the Garifuna are a special thing to witness. In 2001, UNESCO declared the Garifuna culture a “Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity”. Hopkins has been called the friendliest place in the country, and many visitors choose to come here to experience the true local culture, instead of including Belize City in their Belize Itinerary. 

Next head to the Cockscomb Basin Forest Reserve for a beautiful hike in nature. Created as a sanctuary for endangered jaguars, the 400km² reserve is thought to be the most important jaguar preserve in the world⁠⁠⁠. Opt for the Tiger Fern Trail, a three-hour round trip taking in waterfalls, a plane wreck[!] and a 360° viewpoint over the Cockscomb Basin.

It’s then just an hour’s drive along the highway and the scenic ocean road to Placencia, your next overnight stop on your two weeks in Belize.

Where to Stay in Placencia

Stay at the Driftwood Gardens Guesthouse . A studio apartment with a large double bed, kitchenette, aircon, coffee machine and Wi-Fi makes for a very comfortable stay. The guesthouse is in the perfect spot for exploring Placencia by foot and is close to bars, restaurants, and the supermarket. The secluded pool is a nice addition on hot days when the beach can get busy and owners Phil and Megan are super friendly hosts that are always available for local tips.

Day Seven: Explore the Peninsula of Placencia

Placencia is a 16-mile-long peninsula in southern Belize best known for its incredible marine life. Spot manatees and saltwater crocodiles in the tidal lagoon or head offshore to the bountiful dive sites on the second largest barrier reef on earth. The Belize Barrier Reef is second in size to the Great Barrier Reef of Australia , and is the largest of its kind in the northern and western hemispheres. The reef extends for more than 180 miles along the Caribbean coast of Belize and can be visited from many places, but Placencia is one of the quietest.

Placencia is also a great place to go diving with whale sharks in Belize. Visit Gladden Split between April to June for a chance to swim alongside these gentle giants. Other top dive spots include Silk Caye, Laughing Bird, Glover’s Caye, Pompion Caye, and South Water Caye. Diving operators in Belize can be a lower quality than some are used to, so be careful who you book with. One of the best dive shops in Placencia is Splash Dive Center. They are limited to six people per dive instructor, have good equipment, and prioritize safety. 

If diving’s not your thing, you can also go snorkeling at beautiful spots like Moho Caye. Other things to do include the Monkey River tour, boat and catamaran trips, or simply relaxing on the beach all day long! By night, visit the live music and bars along the affectionately named ‘Tipsy Strip’, eat fresh seafood from one of the many local restaurants, and enjoy late night strolls along the beach.

Day Eight: Travel Day! Make Your Way to Paradise

Choose to stay in Placencia another night or head to the next beach destination on your epic 14 days in Belize: Caye Caulker. Make the three-hour drive from Placencia to Belize City then catch a water taxi to Caye Caulker. There are two water taxi companies that operate between Belize City and Caye Caulker, San Pedro Belize Express and Ocean Ferry. San Pedro Belize Express has more daily runs and a more comfortable, larger ferry terminal in Belize City, so you’ll likely opt for them.

Return your car here, you won’t be needing it as you’ll be living that sweet, sweet Caribbean island life from here on out. The ferry journey takes around 45 minutes, or you can fly in around 8 minutes from Belize International Airport with Tropic Air or Maya Island Air. Flying to Caye Caulker is a bit more expensive, but you will get great views over the cayes and the trip can even be combined with a flight over the Blue Hole.  

Where to stay in Caye Caulker 

Stay at the Jaguar Morning Star for a relaxing spot on a quiet street in Caye Caulker, just a few minutes’ walk to the beach and the center. The place has a real island vibe with hammocks, free to use bicycles, and communal garden seating, you can even pick your own coconuts! Each room is spacious, clean and comfortable and comes fully equipped with all of the modern creature comforts. 

Day Nine: Go Snorkeling or Diving on the Belize Barrier Reef

Of course, the main reason to visit a small island in the Caribbean is the sealife. Kick your first day on the island off with an amazing snorkeling trip to the Belize Barrier Reef , a definite must-do on your Belize itinerary.

The boats will take you to Hol Chan Marine reserve and Shark Ray Alley. You can expect to see loggerhead turtles, southern stingrays and nurse sharks in abundance. Some trips will also take you to the shallow grassy feeding grounds where the world’s largest population of West Indian manatees live. 

Make sure to pick a sustainable tour (like the one above from Salt Life Eco Tours), that doesn’t encourage feeding or touching the wildlife. It’s also best to use a biodegradable sunscreen or rash vest to avoid damaging the sea life. You will have the chance to see pristine corals that have been protected for over 30 years at the Hol Chan marine reserve, and snorkel over a sunken shipwreck.

Tickets for the tours do sell out, so if you’re visiting during high season, make sure to book early to avoid disappointment. You can check availability for Salt Life Eco Tours below:

Day 10: Hit Up the Great Blue Hole

Now, if you’re anything like me, the first thing that pops in your mind when you think about Belize is an image of the Great Blue Hole from above. A scene that looks a little bit like that one ^ up there.

When I first visited Belize, however, I was a stingy backpacker who refused to splurge on a single big-ticket item. And so, the Great Blue Hole was quickly crossed off my list — and I skipped the ATM caves, too! I knew I would need to rectify all of those financial mistakes on my return trip, as there are some experiences in life that are simply worth the splurge.

Today, then, it’s time to set sail for the one and only Great Blue Hole.

The Great Blue Hole is found within the Belize Barrier Reef, which is the second longest reef in the world. It’s officially an UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most drooled-over dive sites you’ll come across; it’s even visible from space!

Basically, it’s a large underwater sinkhole spanning 300 meters (984 ft.) across and 125 meters (410 ft.) deep. Scientists believe it was formed over 10,000 years ago, when the roof of a limestone cave collapsed, opening up a world of tunnels, stalactites, and, um, terror.

When it comes to exploring the Great Blue Hole, you’ve got two main options: whether to go by sea or by air.

The first option involves taking a trip out to the sinkhole and then opting to snorkel ($120) or dive ($300) into its deep sapphire waters.

Now, I’m going to be honest with you here: the Blue Hole is, well, a hole. And because of that, you’re not going to see an awful lot while you’re beneath the surface. Coral can’t grow in these dark waters, and fish tend to steer clear, too. You can’t dive to the bottom of the Blue Hole, as it’s far too deep.

But what you  will  encounter is a dive site that meets the definition of unique. You’ll get to see the remains of a limestone cave: stalactites and stalagmites, then dozens upon dozens of sharks. It’s truly one of the coolest experiences you can have as a diver.

However, this is absolutely  not  a dive for beginners. You’ll need your PADI Advanced Open Water qualification, as you’ll be taken down to depths of 40 meters, and your surroundings will be dark and dangerous. The Blue Hole has seen some of the highest numbers of fatalities of any dive site, and there’s believed to be as many as 200 bodies resting at the bottom of it.

In other words, if you’re feeling nervous or unconfident about the dive, I’d recommend snorkeling instead.

And snorkeling is definitely worth doing! I swam my way along the edge of the hole, checking out the corals and calcium deposits, and the more varied marine life. You won’t see the stalactites and stalagmites, but you’ll see tons of fish, instead!

Another option is to take a flight over the Great Blue Hole from Caye Caulker, which is the best way to experience its true magnitude, as well as getting to see the other atolls and coral reef formations from above. And, well, it actually looks like the Great Blue Hole from above; from the water, it mostly looks like… water.

For flights over the Blue Hole try Tsunami Adventures : a scenic flight with them costs $225 per person.

Day 11: Explore Caye Caulker on Foot

For a true Belizean institution visit my favourite spot on the island: Errolyn’s House Of Fryjacks. Although it doesn’t look like much from the outside, with just a few seats, it’s one of the most popular spots for breakfast on the island.

If you haven’t had fry jacks during your two weeks in Belize, you must try them here!

Today’s a great day to rest, relax, and explore the island. Visit Caye Caulker Animal Shelter to take some stray pups out for a walk or just to say hi; they love visitors stopping by. 

For a coffee, stop visit Ice and Beans Cafe for the best flat whites on the island, then saunter down to the Lazy Lizard Bar and Grill next to the Split.

You could spend all day here sipping cocktails, lounging around, and eating fresh seafood. Make sure to try lobster, if it’s in season, as it’s one of the most affordable places to buy fresh lobster and is a bit of a local delicacy. Another great spot to eat at in the evenings is the Wish Willy Bar & Grill; tasty barbeque food in a friendly and relaxed setting.

Day 12: Day Trip to Ambergris Caye!

Ambergris Caye is one of the most developed islands off of the coast of Belize. Just 11 miles north of Caye Caulker, Ambergris Caye is actually the largest island of Belize.

Take a short 45-minute ferry ride from Caye Caulker to Ambergris Caye to explore the boutiques, splash resorts and pristine beaches of the island. You can also visit the Marco Gonzales Archaeological Reserve on a day trip, or explore the (far from) Secret Beach, one of the most popular beaches on the island. Enjoy some beach bowling at TOAST Seaside Boozery and Grill, tour the San Pedro Lagoon & Crocodile Sanctuary, or explore the island by golf cart. 

Day 13: Relax on Your Last Day in Paradise

You will definitely want a day off after all of that sightseeing. After all, the island’s motto is to “go slow”. Caye Caulker is the perfect place to relax and get away from it all.

There’s so much great food on the island to try, like the dishes at Meldy’s, a makeshift restaurant on the front porch of Meldy’s home. She used to have a prime spot on the beach but when demand for her famous fried chicken increased, she moved the operation back to her house. If you can find her place through the maze of back alleys, and make it past her friendly dogs, she’ll take you into her kitchen to pick your meal from her finest assortment of fresh ingredients. 

Last time we visited, we requested the fried chicken a day in advance, remembering how good it was from many years before. The next day, she got all of the ingredients fresh in and made the best meal of our entire trip! This sums up not only Caye Caulker but Belize in general. It’s the people that make this country so special. Of course there are breathtaking natural wonders, impressive archaeological ruins and an amazing diversity of cuisines, but the welcoming culture is what makes Belize an unmissable destination. 

As your two weeks in Belize comes to an end, today is your last chance to sample some fry jacks, sip on coconut rum and laze around in a hammock all day without a care in the world!

Day 14: Head Back to Belize City 

On your last day in Belize take the ferry back to Belize City early-ish. If you have a late flight, or one last night in Belize, spend the day exploring the crumbling facades of the old town. Bright colorful buildings line great avenues giving a dilapidated kind-of-charm to this old English colonial city. 

Belize City was the capital of British Honduras and the center of the British Empire’s power in Belize. Revolution during the 1900’s, as well as natural disasters like hurricanes, left the city in a state of disrepair and the government was moved to the new capital of Belmopan in 1970. Throughout the 1980s and 1990s lawlessness prevailed due to poverty, overpopulation and civil unrest. Belize became independent on September 21, 1981. But it was only when cruise ships started to arrive in the early 2000’s and tourism provided a stable income, that Belize City regained a focus for its economy.

It’s still a little ‘rough around the edges’, popular spots to visit are Albert and Queen Street, named after the Victorian monarchs when the city served as a crown colony. You can also see the city’s past in places like the Baron Bliss Lighthouse, the Marine Terminal and Museum and the former Government House (now the Belize City House of Culture). Some good spots to eat at are the Midtown Restaurant, Celebrity and Smokeez Seaside Restaurant out on Seashore Drive.

And That’s How to Spend 14 Days in Belize!

Spend a full two weeks in Belize without rushing around, dedicate some time to really relax and enjoy the Belizean culture. If you have a little more time, you could head north to Lamanai, Altun Ha and Orange Walk. There you can also visit the Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary with its protected wetlands. But remember life’s not a race, so “Go Slow”!

Lauren Juliff

Lauren Juliff is a published author and travel expert who founded Never Ending Footsteps in 2011. She has spent over 12 years travelling the world, sharing in-depth advice from more than 100 countries across six continents. Lauren's travel advice has been featured in publications like the BBC, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and Cosmopolitan, and her work is read by 200,000 readers each month. Her travel memoir can be found in bookstores across the planet.

Related Posts

How to Spend One Week in Mauritius: An Itinerary for First-Time Visitors

How to Spend Three Magnificent Days in Tbilisi, Georgia: A 2023 Itinerary

How to Spend Three Perfect Days in Delhi: An In-Depth Itinerary

How to Spend Three Magical Days in Cusco, Peru: A 2023 Itinerary

How to Spend Two Amazing Weeks in Peru: An Itinerary for First-Time Visitors

How to Spend Three Fantastic Days in Quito, Ecuador: A 2023 Itinerary

Great post! Concise yet full of information with a friendly enthusiastic tone that got me excited for adventure 🤣

Ahhh, thanks so much, Bill! I hope you have a fantastic time in Belize!

About you much did you spend on your 2 week adventure?

Leave a reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Belize Travel Guide – Tips to Plan the Perfect Vacation

Belize is a small country with an amazing diversity of experiences. Climb an ancient Mayan temple. Explore underground caves. View rainforest birds and wildlife. Snorkel among colorful fish and coral on a pristine barrier reef. With so much to offer, planning a two-week vacation that includes the best of Belize can be a challenge.

The best way to see it all is to combine a Belize vacation package on land with a small ship cruise to Belize’s barrier reef . You will truly experience the best of ruins, rainforest and reef when you explore Belize by land and sea. Below our experts have compiled the best Belize vacation tips and advice to help with your trip and cruise planning.

IN THIS POST – Belize Travel Guide: Best Time to Visit Is Belize Safe? Belize Travel Requirements After COVID Belize Land Guide : – Tips & Cos t Belize Sailing Guide : – Tip s & Cos t Why Book With Us More Resources

CONNECT WITH A BELIZE SPECIALIST

You’ve got questions. We’ve got answers.

Important Note: This Belize travel guide is for travelers, couples and families seeking to plan the perfect vacation that makes the most of your time in Belize. If you are a backpacker or independent traveler seeking budget travel tips click here .

Why Vacation in Belize?

Belize’s moniker of ruins, rainforest and reef is not just a marketing catchphrase. Just one of these attractions would be reason enough to visit Belize. But all three are world class. Belize is a former British colony, previously known as British Honduras. It is a small country, about the size of Vermont, with a lot to offer. Here are the top reasons to visit Belize:

• Belize Barrier Reef – Belize is home to the second largest barrier reef in the world. Designated a UNESCO world heritage site, it is home to over 500 species of fish, 65 corals, 450 sand and mangrove cayes (pronounced keys) and three atolls. The reef is in great shape with world-class snorkeling, SCUBA diving and fishing. 
• Rainforest – The rainforests of Belize are pristine, protected and accessible; home to an amazing variety of plants, animals, birds, insects and systems. A stay in the jungle is an integral part of any trip to Belize. 
• Mayan Ruins – Belize is the center of the Maya world and home to spectacular temples and ruins such as Caracol, Xunantuich and Altun Ha. Unspoiled and uncrowded, Mayan ruins in Belize are among the best in Central America. 
• Wildlife – The Belize rainforest is home to jaguars, ocelot, howler monkeys, sloths, tapirs and more. Belize is a birder’s paradise with nearly 600 species including scarlet macaws, toucans, jabiru storks, anhinga, trogon, herons, motmots and more. In short, Belize wildlife is amazing and you will encounter nature, birds and animals in abundance.
• Jungle Lodges – Belize is home to some of the best and most sustainable jungle and eco lodges in the world. They provide intimate access to the rainforest for wildlife and bird watching. The best guides in Belize work at the top lodges. Travel in comfort with our selection of the top jungle lodges in Belize.
• Culture – Belize culture is diverse with influences and people from Creole, Maya, Garifuna, Mestizo, Mennonite and other backgrounds. The people of Belize consider themselves more laid back Caribbean than Central American. This colorful mix of Belize cultures and traditions is a highlight of any trip. 
• Food – With such a diversity of cultures comes an astounding range of cuisine. The traditional dish of rice and beans with chicken or fish is a launching pad for spices and flavors from each culture. Other specialties include lobster, conch fritters, chimole, salbutes, garnache and pibil. Lodges and boats in Belize will serve a combination of traditional Belizean fare and international favorites. Trust us, your taste buds will thank you. 
• Caves – The Maya believed that caves were the dwelling places of the gods. Belize is home to many of the most spectacular and accessible limestone cave systems in the world. Wet caves with rivers in them and dry-cave tours are available to travelers of all ability levels. Any complete vacation to Belize will include a visit to the underworld.
• Weather – High on the list of reasons to visit Belize is the weather. A comfortable tropical climate and average temperature of 84 degrees F will help you escape the winter cold. See our guide to the best time to visit Belize for weather and wildlife by month.
• More Reasons to Visit Belize.   Need more reasons to visit Belize? Belize is easy to get to from North America and easy to navigate once you arrive. English is the primary language and spoken by most locals and virtually all tourism professionals. The Belizean dollar is fixed at 2BZ$ to 1US$ so currency conversion is a breeze.

VIEW ALL BELIZE TRIPS & CRUISES

See the full list of itineraries on land and by ship.

The best time to travel to Belize is during the dry season beginning in December and ending in April. But there is much more to it. Learn about Belize seasons, find weather and wildlife by month and discover tips about snorkeling, scuba diving and fishing in our comprehensive guide to the best time to visit Belize .

Is Belize Safe?

We are often asked “Is Belize safe to visit?” Or “How safe is Belize for travel?” In general, yes Belize is considered safe to visit. But as with any international travel, some safety precautions should be considered.

The Caribbean Islands and interior jungle lodges of Belize are some of the safest places to visit. Crime and gang violence can be a problem in some areas, particularly Belize City. The U.S. State Department advises travelers to exercise increased caution in Belize due to crime. Threats in popular tourist areas mainly involve burglary and pickpocketing.

The easiest way to avoid threats and stay safe while traveling in Belize is to book a guided tour with a reputable operator. Tours will utilize private transfers instead of public transport or taxis. Travel packages stay in reputable hotels and lodges away from crowded town centers. Activities, excursions and day tours will be arranged with experienced professional guides. 

Belize Travel Requirements After COVID

Is Belize open for travel? Many travelers are asking “Can you travel to Belize right now?” The answer is yes, Belize is open for travel. With restrictions rescinded, traveling to Belize in the aftermath of COVID is streamlined.

Currently there are no Belize travel restrictions. As of of July 12, 2022, the Government of Belize removed all public health measures at the ports of entry in Belize. The prior recommendation for vaccination, and requirements for testing and Belize travel insurance have been lifted. Since April 1, 2022, masks are no longer required in indoor or outdoor spaces.

Travelers are no longer required to download and complete the Belize health app prior to arrival. They are required to complete the customs and immigration form that is provided on your flight. Find more information at Travel Belize .

Travelers booking Belize small ship cruises should expect no vaccination or testing requirements for the foreseeable future. Vaccination remains not required aboard Belize charter cruises . 

PICTURE YOURSELF HERE

Expert insights, delivered to your inbox.

Belize by Land – Trip Planning Advice

A land-based active vacation to Belize will highlight the best of rainforest and reef. We recommend basing your adventure from one or two Belize lodges. Consider lodges in different environments for a variety of experiences. For instance, Lamanai Outpost Lodge in Orange Walk combined with Chaa Creek in Cayo District covers northern and central Belize.

Reputable lodges will offer a variety of onsite tours and amenities such as bird walks, river adventures, butterfly farms, cooking classes, night walks and more. You do not have to leave the area to experience Belize. In addition, plan on several tours to nearby Mayan ruins, cave explorations and rainforest reserves. The best guides in Belize work with the top lodges, giving you more bang for your buck. 

Belize Vacation Tips

Our experts share their best tips and Belize travel advice to help you make the most of your trip.

• A valid passport is required to visit Belize. Travelers can stay up to 30 days without a visa. Your passport should expire no less than 6 months after your travel dates.
• Travelers must pay a fee of $39.25 to exit Belize by plane. Usually this is included in the airfare.
• Plan to spend at least two weeks in Belize to experience everything the country has to offer. We recommend one week on a tour of the rainforest and ruins combined with one week exploring the barrier reef by boat. Keep reading for Belize vacation advice on cruises.
• The best time to view wildlife is early in the morning. Plan to wake and hit the trail before sunrise for the best chance to view birds and wildlife. You will probably get an amazing sunrise too.
• Explore Mayan ruins early in the day. Crowds of cruise ship tourists can descend upon ruins at midday. You will also enjoy the cooler weather in the morning.
• Bypass Belize City in favor of a Belize jungle lodge. Plan flights to arrive mid-day to allow time to transfer to your lodge. 
• Short flights can cost more but save a lot of time on a trip to Belize. Roads are notoriously bad (although improving) and you can spend an entire day transiting what appear to be short distances. 
• Book your trip in advance if you plan to visit during the high season. See the best time to visit Belize . 

Cost of a Trip to Belize

The cost of a trip to Belize can vary widely. The value of the Belizean dollar is fixed at 2BZ$ to $1US$. As such, a trip to Belize can cost more than other Central American countries. The Belize trip costs presented below is in US dollars.

Belize on a Budget

Budget travel to Belize can start as low as $150 per person per day. This entails using public transportation, private beds in hostel dorms or budget hotels, budget food at local restaurants and a combination of self-guided activities and shared guided tours.

Belize Tour Package Prices

Mid-range Belize tours including rainforest lodges start at $300 per person per day. This includes all transportation, meals, accommodations and guided activities. Expect shared transfers and tours, quality guides, comfortable accommodations at respected jungle lodges and delicious meals.

Belize Luxury Travel Cost

Belize luxury tours with private transportation and upscale lodges start at $500 per person per day. Belize is home to some world-class lodges that form the basis of high-end tours. Upscale accommodations with private dipping pools, hot tubs, large verandas overlooking pristine jungle and plenty of space will impress even the most discerning travelers. High-end tours include private transfers, top naturalist guides, private tours, spa treatments and more with five-star service and meals.

VIEW ALL BELIZE LAND TOURS

See the full list of itineraries on land.

Belize Sailing Guide – How to Choose A Belize Cruise

Cruise options abound, ranging from large cruise ships to Belize small ship cruises and catamaran yacht charters . Here we discuss the types of cruises available in Belize and offer our advice to choose your Belize cruise. 

Big Ship Cruises

Large ship cruises carry 500-5,000 guests on huge mega ships. Usually these originate in the United States or Caribbean countries. Large ship cruises only visit Belize for part of one day. Ships anchor offshore and passengers are ferried to the Belize Tourism Village. Excursions beyond the village to Belize City, such as a caye and beach snorkel, cave tours, tours of Maya ruins or wildlife tours are available. We do not recommend big ship cruises but include them here for reference. 

Bareboat Charters

Belize is a popular destination for bareboat charters. A bareboat charter includes the boat only. They do not include a crew or captain, so plan to skipper the boat yourself and prepare all the meals. This is a popular option for experienced sailors. However, without an experienced crew, travelers can miss important destinations, interactions and culture that make a visit to Belize so special. We feel strongly that an experienced captain and crew are integral to a successful voyage and do not recommend bareboat charters. 

Crewed Charters

A crewed charter cruise is one of the best ways to explore Belize’s barrier reef. Catamarans that carry 2-10 people explore off the beaten path with access to the most desirable reef sites, cayes and atolls. Your crew takes care of everything so you can focus on experiencing the best of Belize. Learn more about life aboard a Belize charter yacht and read a firsthand account of a Belize catamaran charter cruise . Crewed charters offer intimacy and the flexibility to cater to your interests such as snorkeling, SCUBA diving, kayaking, paddle boarding or fishing.

Small Ship Expedition Cruises

Belize small ship cruises carry about 100 guests aboard specially outfitted expedition ships. These boats are able to range farther and longer than catamarans, perfect for voyages to the outer atolls. These expeditions experience the best of Belize including reef, ruins and rainforest, all in one package. Snorkel right from the back of the ship. Zodiacs ferry guests ashore to remote island cayes or upriver rainforest explorations. Expect an active and immersive experience with plenty of education and adventure. Expedition ships may visit small ports such as Punta Gorda, Placencia, Hopkins or Monkey River. Tours, guides, meals and accommodations are all included.  

Belize Cruising Tips

• Smaller is bigger in Belize. A small ship cruise or catamaran will spend 6-10 days or more exploring Belize. Traditional cruises aboard large ships only spend a few hours in Belize. 
• Most small ship and catamaran cruises will begin and end in Belize City. It is possible to coordinate flights to avoid overnights in Belize City.
• Consider adding a trip extension to a Belize jungle lodge. This is the best combination of Belize by land and sea. Adding a beach resort to your cruise simply re-creates the experience you will have on the cruise.
• Cruise passengers are charged an exit fee of $7. This is usually included in the cruise fare or paid in conjunction with other port fees and taxes when you book the cruise.
• Seasickness is usually not an issue as cruises are protected by the Belize Barrier Reef.
• Book small ships and catamarans in advance. Small boats fill up early.

Belize Cruise Cost

Costs can vary considerably depending on the type of cruise. If you are new to cruising, check out small ship vs big ship-what is the difference to learn more.

Belize Big Ship Cruise Cost

A large ship cruise with a port call in Belize starts at about $150 per person per day for an interior cabin with no windows. The average cruise to Belize costs $250-350 per person per day for simple exterior cabins with view windows. The actual tour to go ashore in Belize will cost extra. Big ships anchor offshore and passengers are ferried to the Belize Tourism Village. Tours beyond the tourism village cost $50-$150 per person.

Belize Bareboat/Liveaboard Charter Cost

A Belize bareboat catamaran cruise starts at about $8,000 per week for up to 8 people on a week-long cruise during the off season. A slightly nicer catamaran during the high season will run about $14,000. Rates do not include fuel, provisions, insurance, water toys or any port fees.

Belize Catamaran Crewed Charter Cost

The cost of a fully crewed Belize charter catamaran cruise starts at about $20,000 per week for 8 people on a week-long cruise. This all-inclusive price comes with everything you need for a worry-free vacation. A crew of 2 people include an experienced captain and first mate/cook. All provisions including food, beer and wine are included. Water toys such as kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, snorkeling equipment and fishing gear is included. Taxes, port fees and insurance are all included in the price.

At AdventureSmith we feel strongly that an experienced captain and crew are integral to your travel experience. As such we only offer fully crewed catamaran charter cruises.  

Belize Small Ship Cruise Cost

The cost for a small ship cruise in Belize starts at about $4,000 per person for a week-long cruise. These cruises are immersive experiences exploring Belize in depth. Belize small ship cruises include transfers, accommodations, meals, guided activities and onboard programs.  

VIEW ALL BELIZE CRUISES

See the full list of itineraries by small ship.

Why Book Belize with AdventureSmith

Our team has traveled extensively in Belize and visits the country often. We bring this firsthand experience to your planning, booking and travel process. Clients are prepared for their journey through one-on-one correspondence with an Adventure Specialist and an extensive pre-trip planner with packing lists, gear recommendations, reading lists and answers to common questions.

As a full-service travel company, we can assist with flights, permits, transfers, guide, travel insurance and more. Contact us to begin planning your custom tour.

After reading our Belize travel guide, do you still have questions? Help us make this the best Belize travel guide by adding your comments and asking questions below.

ASK A BELIZE TRAVEL EXPERT

MORE BELIZE RESOURCES: The Best Time to Visit Belize Belize Small Ship Cruises Belize Active Vacations Belize Catamaran Charter Cruise

Comments will be moderated and will appear after they have been approved.

Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. All fields are required.

Belize By Land & Sea

Our team of experts are here to help guide your Belize travel planning, from the research phase to booking and trip preparation. Start your trip search with this selection of trips and cruises. Our experts can craft tailor-made vacations in Belize. Let us be your personalized Belize travel guide to the vacation of your dreams.

Contact Us - Belize Travel Guide - Tips to Plan the Perfect Vacation

Travel is best planned one-on-one, and we’re here to help you with your specific needs.

• First Name *
• Last Name *
• Phone (required because some email replies get blocked) *
• Country of residence (required in order to comply with privacy laws) * United States of America - US Afghanistan - AF Aland Islands - AX Albania - AL Algeria - DZ American Samoa - AS Andorra - AD Angola - AO Anguilla - AI Antarctica - AQ Antigua and Barbuda - AG Argentina - AR Armenia - AM Aruba - AW Australia - AU Austria - AT Azerbaijan - AZ Bahamas - BS Bahrain - BH Bangladesh - BD Barbados - BB Belarus - BY Belgium - BE Belize - BZ Benin - BJ Bermuda - BM Bhutan - BT Bolivia - BO Bosnia and Herzegovina - BA Botswana - BW Bouvet Island - BV Brazil - BR British Virgin Islands - VG British Indian Ocean Territory - IO Brunei Darussalam - BN Bulgaria - BG Burkina Faso - BF Burundi - BI Cambodia - KH Cameroon - CM Canada - CA Cape Verde - CV Cayman Islands - KY Central African Republic - CF Chad - TD Chile - CL China - CN Hong Kong, SAR China - HK Macao, SAR China - MO Christmas Island - CX Cocos (Keeling) Islands - CC Colombia - CO Comoros - KM Congo (Brazzaville) - CG Congo, (Kinshasa) - CD Cook Islands - CK Costa Rica - CR Côte d'Ivoire - CI Croatia - HR Cuba - CU Cyprus - CY Czech Republic - CZ Denmark - DK Djibouti - DJ Dominica - DM Dominican Republic - DO Ecuador - EC Egypt - EG El Salvador - SV Equatorial Guinea - GQ Eritrea - ER Estonia - EE Ethiopia - ET Falkland Islands (Malvinas) - FK Faroe Islands - FO Fiji - FJ Finland - FI France - FR French Guiana - GF French Polynesia - PF French Southern Territories - TF Gabon - GA Gambia - GM Georgia - GE Germany - DE Ghana - GH Gibraltar - GI Greece - GR Greenland - GL Grenada - GD Guadeloupe - GP Guam - GU Guatemala - GT Guernsey - GG Guinea - GN Guinea-Bissau - GW Guyana - GY Haiti - HT Heard and Mcdonald Islands - HM Holy See (Vatican City State) - VA Honduras - HN Hungary - HU Iceland - IS India - IN Indonesia - ID Iran, Islamic Republic of - IR Iraq - IQ Ireland - IE Isle of Man - IM Israel - IL Italy - IT Jamaica - JM Japan - JP Jersey - JE Jordan - JO Kazakhstan - KZ Kenya - KE Kiribati - KI Korea (North) - KP Korea (South) - KR Kuwait - KW Kyrgyzstan - KG Lao PDR - LA Latvia - LV Lebanon - LB Lesotho - LS Liberia - LR Libya - LY Liechtenstein - LI Lithuania - LT Luxembourg - LU Macedonia, Republic of - MK Madagascar - MG Malawi - MW Malaysia - MY Maldives - MV Mali - ML Malta - MT Marshall Islands - MH Martinique - MQ Mauritania - MR Mauritius - MU Mayotte - YT Mexico - MX Micronesia, Federated States of - FM Moldova - MD Monaco - MC Mongolia - MN Montenegro - ME Montserrat - MS Morocco - MA Mozambique - MZ Myanmar - MM Namibia - NA Nauru - NR Nepal - NP Netherlands - NL Netherlands Antilles - AN New Caledonia - NC New Zealand - NZ Nicaragua - NI Niger - NE Nigeria - NG Niue - NU Norfolk Island - NF Northern Mariana Islands - MP Norway - NO Oman - OM Pakistan - PK Palau - PW Palestinian Territory - PS Panama - PA Papua New Guinea - PG Paraguay - PY Peru - PE Philippines - PH Pitcairn - PN Poland - PL Portugal - PT Puerto Rico - PR Qatar - QA Réunion - RE Romania - RO Russian Federation - RU Rwanda - RW Saint-Barthélemy - BL Saint Helena - SH Saint Kitts and Nevis - KN Saint Lucia - LC Saint-Martin (French part) - MF Saint Pierre and Miquelon - PM Saint Vincent and Grenadines - VC Samoa - WS San Marino - SM Sao Tome and Principe - ST Saudi Arabia - SA Senegal - SN Serbia - RS Seychelles - SC Sierra Leone - SL Singapore - SG Slovakia - SK Slovenia - SI Solomon Islands - SB Somalia - SO South Africa - ZA South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands - GS South Sudan - SS Spain - ES Sri Lanka - LK Sudan - SD Suriname - SR Svalbard and Jan Mayen Islands - SJ Swaziland - SZ Sweden - SE Switzerland - CH Syrian Arab Republic (Syria) - SY Taiwan, Republic of China - TW Tajikistan - TJ Tanzania, United Republic of - TZ Thailand - TH Timor-Leste - TL Togo - TG Tokelau - TK Tonga - TO Trinidad and Tobago - TT Tunisia - TN Turkey - TR Turkmenistan - TM Turks and Caicos Islands - TC Tuvalu - TV Uganda - UG Ukraine - UA United Arab Emirates - AE United Kingdom - GB United States of America - US US Minor Outlying Islands - UM Uruguay - UY Uzbekistan - UZ Vanuatu - VU Venezuela (Bolivarian Republic) - VE Viet Nam - VN Virgin Islands, US - VI Wallis and Futuna Islands - WF Western Sahara - EH Yemen - YE Zambia - ZM Zimbabwe - ZW
• Newsletter Subscribe to our email newsletter
• By submitting this form, you consent to our privacy policy .
• Hidden IP Location

Talk to an AdventureSmith Travel Specialist Call us toll free at 1-877-620-2875 . Call us direct at 530-583-1775 .

Office Hours Monday through Friday, 8am-5pm Pacific Time.

Address 40169 Truckee Airport Road, Suite 201 Truckee, CA 96161

Belize Travel Itinerary: 15 Ways to Immerse Yourself in Culture, History, and Luxury

C rafting the perfect Belize travel itinerary can be fun for couples seeking a blend of culture, history, and luxury. Nestled between the lush jungles and the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean, Belize offers an opportunity to explore ancient Mayan ruins, dive into vibrant marine life, and unwind in exclusive resorts.

However, without a well-thought-out plan, you might miss out on the authentic gems hidden throughout this diverse country. Many travelers overlook key cultural sites and luxurious hideaways due to poor planning or lack of information. We highly recommend you check out these 15 areas when planning your Belize travel itinerary.

1. Explore the Ancient Mayan Ruins of Xunantunich

If you’re diving into Belize’s rich history, you can’t miss Xunantunich. You can stand on top of the El Castillo pyramid , gazing out over the jungle and all the way to Guatemala. The view? Absolutely stunning. Strolling through the ancient temples and courtyard is like stepping back in time. Trust me, Xunantunich is a highlight not just in Belize, but as one of the most pivotal Mayan sites around. You’ll love it!

Pro tip: Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water for the climb up El Castillo.

2. Learn about Belizean Culture at a Garifuna Settlement

When it comes to immersing yourself in the vibrant and unique culture of Belize, a visit to a Garifuna settlement is an absolute must. The Garifuna people are descendants of African, Carib, and Arawak peoples who settled in Belize after being exiled from the Caribbean island of St. Vincent by the British in the 18th century.

At a Garifuna settlement, you’ll have the opportunity to learn about the history, music, dance, and cuisine of these fascinating people. Don’t miss the chance to try hudut, a traditional Garifuna dish made with fish and coconut milk. Also, make sure to witness the mesmerizing drumming and dancing performances that are an integral part of the culture.

Pro tip: When planning your visit to a Garifuna settlement, look into staying with a local family or booking a guided tour that includes a homestay. This will allow you to experience the culture firsthand and connect with the local community on a deeper level.

3. Visit the Museum of Belize

I love visiting museums. They help you learn about the history of the country you are traveling to. So, the Museum of Belize is a must. It’s housed in a former colonial prison and features exhibits on everything from the ancient Mayan civilization to Belize’s struggle for independence. Did you know that the prison was built in the mid-1800s by Mayan slaves using coral rock?

Before you leave, swing by the gift shop. It’s a great spot to grab souvenirs and books that dive even deeper into Belizean history and culture.

4. Take a Horse-Drawn Carriage Tour in San Pedro Town

San Pedro Town is a charming coastal town located on the island of Ambergris Caye. Once a small fishing village, it had since grown into a thriving tourism hub. Today, the town is known for its sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and barrier reefs. You can best explore this town’s colorful history and people by taking a leisurely horse-drawn carriage tour.

This mode of transportation adds a touch of nostalgia to your visit and takes you back in time when life was slower and simpler.

Pro tip: Be sure to book your horse-drawn carriage tour in advance as they can sell out quickly. You’ll want to bring your camera along as you’re sure to capture some amazing shots of the town and its charming architecture.

5. Snorkeling with Whale Sharks -Our Favorite Belize Travel Itinerary Item

Snorkeling with whale sharks is an unforgettable experience and an absolute must-do while in Belize. Belize is home to one of the largest aggregations of whale sharks in the world, making it the perfect spot to get up close with these gentle giants. Despite their name, whale sharks are the largest fish in the world, growing up to 40 feet in length!

Pro Tip: The best time to snorkel with whale sharks in Belize is from April to June when they are most active. For those who are hesitant to get in the water with these massive creatures, don’t worry, they are completely harmless and feed mainly on plankton. Be sure to plan and book your excursion in advance, as spots fill up quickly!

6. Walk on the Wild side in the Belize Zoo

If you’re looking for a unique experience in Belize, visiting the Belize Zoo should be on your list. Founded by an American zoologist who rescued injured or orphaned animals, the Belize Zoo focuses on the conservation and preservation of local wildlife, allowing you to see animals that are endemic to Belize.

Pro tip: Make sure to visit the zoo early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the animals are most active.

Book a behind-the-scenes tour (we know the best in town) where you can get up close and personal with some of the animals and learn about their care or a visit during a night safari to see nocturnal animals.

7. Explore the Ancient Mayan Ruins of Caracol

One of the most fascinating experiences you can have on your Belize vacation is visiting the ancient Mayan ruins of Caracol. Located deep in the Chiquibul Forest Reserve, Caracol was once the largest city-state in the region, with a population of over 150,000 people.

Today, it stands as a testament to the ancient Mayans’ incredible engineering and architectural prowess. The name “Caracol” is derived from the Spanish word for “snail shell,” a nod to the winding roads that lead up to the city. The ruins were discovered in the 1930s, and much of the site has been excavated and restored over the years.

Pro Tip: While you can explore the ruins on your own, a guided tour can provide valuable insights into the history and significance of the site. Many tours also include stops at nearby waterfalls or hot springs, making for a full day of adventure. Caracol is located about 2.5 hours from San Ignacio, the nearest major town, and the roads can be bumpy and rough.

8. Indulge in a Chocolate Making Workshop

One of the most delicious experiences you can have while in Belize is indulging in a chocolate-making works hop. The country is known for producing some of the world’s finest chocolate, and learning how to make it is an absolute must for chocolate lovers. Belize was once home to the ancient Maya civilization, and chocolate was an integral part of their culture. They believed it was a gift from the gods and used it in religious ceremonies.

Pro Tip: Check out the Belize Chocolate Company in San Pedro. You can learn how to make your own chocolate and even customize it with a variety of toppings.The workshop is led by knowledgeable guides who will teach you all about the history of chocolate in Belize and how it’s made.

9. Belize Travel Itinerary MUST-Great Blue Hole!

One of the most notorious destinations in Belize is the Great Blue Hole. Discovered by Jacques Cousteau, this almost perfectly circular underwater sinkhole is a natural wonder that scuba diving enthusiasts best appreciate. If you’re not an avid diver, you can still enjoy this stunning underwater marvel by snorkeling or taking a glass-bottom boat tour. The aerial view of the Great Blue Hole is also breathtaking. Take a scenic flight tour for a unique perspective.

Pro tip: Plan your visit between November and April for the best diving conditions. If you’re not an experienced diver, we strongly encourage taking a diving course or booking a guided tour to explore the Blue Hole safely.

10. Stargaze at the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve

The Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve in Belize is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring the country’s natural wonders.

This reserve is home to many unique species of wildlife including jaguars and ocelots. It is also the largest pine forest in Belize and spans over 300 square miles!

Pro Tip: We recommend taking a night hike through the reserve to see the stars in all their glory. This is an amazing opportunity to escape the bright lights of the city and witness the Milky Way stretching across the sky.

11. Try Fly-Fishing for the Elusive Bonefish on Turneffe Atoll

Fly-fishing on the Turneffe Atoll is known as one of the best flats in the world for bonefish. Fun Fact: The Turneffe Atoll is home to more than 500 species of fish, making it one of the most biodiverse marine environments in the world.

12. Attend a Garifuna Drumming Performance

If you’re looking to experience Belizean culture at its finest, you simply can’t miss a Garifuna drumming performance. The Garifuna are descendants of West and Central African, Island Carib, and Arawak people who intermingled in the Caribbean. They have a unique culture and way of life that is reflected in their music and dance. Garifuna music and dance were declared a “Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity” by UNESCO in 2001.

Pro tip: Be sure to arrive early to the performance and secure a good spot close to the stage. The drumming is intense and the dancers will be right in front of you, giving you a truly immersive experience. Don’t be afraid to join in and dance along with the Garifuna people- it’s the best way to fully immerse yourself in their culture.

13. Explore the Actun Tunichil Muknal Caves

This natural cave system served as a sacred site for the ancient Mayans and was used for ritual sacrifices and offerings. Inside the cave, you can witness the remains of ancient Mayan offerings, including ceramics, human remains, and the famous crystal maiden.

Pro Tip: Be sure to book a guided tour (we’ve got you covered) for your visit to the Actun TunichilMuknal Cave as it is a protected archaeological site and can only be accessed with a licensed guide.Additionally, wear appropriate footwear as you will be walking and climbing on uneven and wet surfaces.

14. Experience Cave Tubing in the Caves Branch River

For an adventure unlike any other, you simply have to try cave tubing in the Caves Branch River.It’s the perfect way to combine thrilling exploration with an idyllic natural environment, as you floatlazily through lush jungle scenery while also taking in some of the most fascinating caves in the world.

Some of these caves were once used by the ancient Maya for sacred rituals.

15. Stroll around Placencia Placencia

Located on the southern coast of Belize, has picturesque beaches and a charming village atmosphere. This quaint town is the perfect place to relax and shop for souvenirs, local arts, and crafts.

Pro Tip: Don’t forget to bargain! Local vendors often offer higher prices to tourists, so try negotiating fora better deal. And be sure to check out the Placencia Sidewalk Art Festival, which takes place every year in February, to witness the creativity of local artists and artisans firsthand.

Which Items Will You Add to Your Belize Travel Itinerary?

So what are you waiting for? Let us help with your travel planning to ensure that you make the most of your trip to Belize.

Bonus Tip: With English being Belize’s official language, exploring the place’s culture and history is easier for most visitors. Let’s do this!

This Caribbean Country Boasts Incredible Scuba Diving

Belize is one of the Caribbean countries that's not an island, but that doesn't stop it from being one of the most awesome diving locations.

• Belize offers diverse diving experiences, from the Great Blue Hole to swimming with turtles and rays.
• Diving in Belize can occur during different periods, each offering unique sights and experiences.
• With its stunning coral reefs and abundant marine life, Belize is a top destination for scuba diving enthusiasts.

When people think about incredible scuba diving, some immediately conjure images of Belize's intriguing Blue Hole (there is a second Blue Hole in Belize , too), but that's not the only great place for visitors to the country to dive. Belize is a Caribbean country, although it's not an island. It's one of the two countries in the Caribbean that are not islands (Guyana being the other). These countries are considered part of the region because of their shared history. Yet its diving spots are legendary among those who know where the best places to dive in Belize are.

Diving in Belize is something that people around the world should experience. The country offers several amazing places to see the depths of the ocean. The Great Blue Hole is one of the highlights of diving in Belize, but it's one of several majestic places to explore Belize's Caribbean coastline and the depths beneath.

It doesn't matter whether a visitor is a seasoned expert diver or a newcomer to the activity; there are sights in this Caribbean country that are worth seeing, regardless of season. Let's explore why visitors won't 'Belize' their eyes when they visit this country for incredible scuba diving.

This Hidden Gem Caribbean Island Offers Incredible Scuba Diving

Why scuba dive in belize, the country's reefs and coastal waters offer a plethora of things to see.

Most people who have already experienced the incredible scuba diving Belize offers will realize that there's a lot to see around the coastal waters. Belize's barrier reef is home to over 500 species of fish and 60 species of coral . Since many of the dive sites are in the open ocean, most of the dives in this country take place from boats.

Belize City is the bustling port from which many of these tours depart. While diving is the main attraction, Belize City also offers many things for visitors to explore and do when they're off the boat.

Diving locations like Hol Chan Marine Reserve or Silk Caye allow visitors to swim with turtles and rays, depending on the time of year. For those who just want to snorkel, these sites also offer great snorkeling opportunities.

Belize's Barrier Reef is the second-largest in the world (after Australia). It spans over 190 miles and extends to Mexico and Honduras.

What's The Best Time for Diving In Belize?

The country's tropical climate plays a part in ideal diving conditions.

Incredible scuba diving doesn't happen by accident. It's the result of meticulous planning on the part of the diver. Belize has some of the most beautiful diving spots to visit around the world simply because of the depth of biodiversity in its coastal waters. However, when you visit makes a lot of difference in your experience. Diving in Belize can occur during one of three periods in the year:

• June to November: Diving during this period allows visitors to swim with the whale sharks which populate the cays, and enjoy the coral formations in the crystal-clear water. It's also possible to encounter hammerhead sharks in the coastal waters during this period.
• December to April: Peak diving season. Visibility is at its highest during this period, and many photographers take advantage of it for amazing underwater photography. This period is also when the Nassau grouper mates, allowing visitors a chance to witness it firsthand. The Blue Hole is best to check out during this time.
• April to June: Generally one of the best times to visit for diving. It's outside the peak period but still offers a great array of marine life to see. The water is clear, and the temperatures are still warm enough to make for comfortable diving. Most people who want to experience incredible scuba diving on a budget opt for this period.

These are just general outlines of what people can see when they visit Belize. The periods are rule-of-thumb suggestions, and it's hard to pin down a single "best" period to see the country's incredible scuba diving. It's likely that those who visit the country will want to come back to see what the other diving periods offer.

The Best Diving Spots in Belize

These locations are must-visits.

It's impossible not to see why Belize is such a great spot for diving. The country offers 185 miles (298 km) of coastline to explore, but along that coast are some of the most breathtaking dive sites anyone could imagine. Among the best dive spots in Belize include:

• The Great Blue Hole : Visitors to Belize would no doubt be aware of the country's most famous diving spot. The Great Blue Hole is a sinkhole in the middle of the ocean that descends to over 900 feet (300 m). Visitors can witness unique coral displays along with stalactites and stalagmites. It's a must-visit dive location for ocean lovers.
• Hol Chan Marine Reserve : Another one of the most popular dive sites in Belize, this one is populated by a lot of wildlife, including green turtles, rays, and nurse sharks. It's not a deep dive, only descending to 90 feet (30 m) at its deepest.
• Gladden Spit : For those visiting Belize during whale shark season, this is the best place to catch a glimpse of the gentle giants in their natural habitat. The depth of this area varies, but even in the off-season, the spit offers a wide range of wildlife to encounter.

Is Belize Worth A Trip For Diving?

Belize is certainly one of the best options for diving.

Belize has a reputation for incredible scuba diving, even though it's not an island. From the wildlife to the stunning coral forests that have existed for decades, the country offers dive sites for every experience level.

Not visiting this country for its diving would be a missed opportunity. With the way climate change is going, it might not be long before we lose many of this country's diving attractions.

Have you ever dived Belize's Blue Hole, or elsewhere in this coastal destination?

Flight search

• Adults Remove adult 1 Add adult
• Children Aged 2-11 Aged 2 to 11 Remove child 0 Add child
• Infants In seat Remove infant in seat 0 Add infant in seat
• Infants On lap Remove infant on lap 0 Add infant on lap
• Premium economy

Find cheap flights from Russia to anywhere Close dialog These suggestions are based on the cheapest fares to popular destinations in the next six months. Prices include required taxes + fees for 1 adult. Optional charges and bag fees may apply.

• Saint Petersburg

Useful tools to help you find the best deals

Popular destinations from russia.

Frequently asked questions

Everything you need to know about visas for Belize

Jan 11, 2024 • 4 min read

Find out what visa rules apply to you for travel to Belize © Robb Lanum / Getty Images

The secret is out about Belize , although seasoned globetrotters added the country’s vast mountain range and deep-sea wonders to their bucket lists years ago.

And as easy as it is to fly to the Central American country – most major US cities are two to three hours away – it’s just as quick to obtain a visa to enter. In fact, you may not even need one. Here’s our guide to make your entry to Belize smooth sailing from the moment the plane lands on the sun-drenched tarmac. 

If visiting for under 30 days, you may not need a visa

Many travelers visiting Belize on a short trip don’t need a visa. A valid passport is the only requirement for many nationalities, which includes travelers from the United States ,  Canada and the UK . Depending on your citizenship, you can stay in Belize for up to 30 days without needing an extension.

To find out whether your country qualifies for visa-free entry, visit Belize’s Immigration Department website . Travelers with valid multiple-entry Schengen visas may also be exempt.  

How to apply for a Belize visa 

For citizens from some countries, including India ,  Egypt and the Philippines , a visa is required to bask on the beaches of Belize. Travelers from these countries need to have a valid passport and then apply via a Belize consulate.

There are two separate visa categories – sponsored and self-sponsored. Each visa requires a different set of documentation. For more on the specific documents for these visa categories go to Belize’s immigration website . 

Visa fees vary depending on your citizenship

When it comes to visa fees, it all depends on which country you hail from. For instance, for a single-entry visa valid for six months, citizens from China need to pay BZ$3000, and people from India, Nepal , Thailand and a few other nations need to pay BZ$750 to apply. All other nationals need only pay BZ$200. 

It is possible to extend your visit beyond 30 days

A month may not be enough to become entrenched in Belize’s cultural diversity and robust wildlife – and we don’t blame you.

If you’d like to extend your stay, Belize offers a Visitor’s Permit Extension , where you gain an additional 30 days to ogle ancient Maya temples or snorkel in the world’s second-largest barrier reef. However, you’ll need to reapply every 30 days if you’d like to keep extending, and the fee costs BZ$200 each time.

There's a visa scheme for digital nomads and other remote workers 

Belize made the dream of having your Zoom beach background a reality with its “ Work Where You Vacation” program . 

With the rise of remote working, this Caribbean country opened its arms to digital nomads who are citizens of the EU, the UK, the US or Canada.

They can now spend their 9-to-5 plugging away at their laptops and 5-to-9 exploring the islands of Caye Caulker or Ambergris Caye on foot. The permit allows digital nomads to work in sun-dappled co-working spaces – or the comfort of their rental – for up to six months.

So, what are the requirements for a digital nomad visa in Belize ? For those without dependents, you need a minimum annual income of US$75,000 and employment outside Belize.

Those traveling with children must have a minimum annual income of US$100,000. For the latter, student permits are also granted so children can enroll in a Belizean school for the duration of their stay.

As for the cost, being part of the “Work Where You Vacation” program will set you back BZ$500 per adult and BZ$200 for children under 18. To learn about the application process, email the Belize Immigration Department . 

You'll need to show some documentation on arrival in Belize

Upon arrival, those eager to explore the country must provide a flight itinerary to the immigration officers at Belize’s only international airport. A date of departure is a must, and the officers will likely ask you to provide an intended address in Belize. While there’s no entry fee, there is a US$30 to US$60 departure tax.  

Belize may be pocket-sized compared to its flashier neighbors like Costa Rica and  Panama , but don’t let that fool you – with vibrant marine life rolling beneath the waves and towering forests cocooning national parks, there's plenty to do . The country’s fairly straightforward entry requirements make planning your trip much easier.

This article was first published Aug 7, 2023 and updated Jan 11, 2024.

Explore related stories

Jun 4, 2024 • 7 min read

Costa Rica and Panama offer a wealth of wildlife, untamed nature, and stunning beaches. So how do you choose which to visit? We can help you decide.

May 31, 2024 • 6 min read

May 29, 2024 • 8 min read

May 28, 2024 • 9 min read

May 27, 2024 • 7 min read

May 26, 2024 • 6 min read

May 26, 2024 • 7 min read

May 22, 2024 • 7 min read

May 21, 2024 • 11 min read

You are using an outdated browser. Upgrade your browser today or install Google Chrome Frame to better experience this site.

Destinations

Measles cases are increasing globally, including in the United States. The majority of measles cases imported into the United States occur in unvaccinated U.S. residents who become infected during international travel. A list of countries with confirmed measles outbreaks can be found on the Global Measles Travel Health Notice (THN) . Measles spreads rapidly in communities that are not fully vaccinated and may pose a risk to international travelers in places not included in the THN. CDC recommends all travelers get fully vaccinated against measles before traveling to any international destination.

If you need help finding travel information:

Message & data rates may apply. CDC Privacy Policy

Complete List of Destinations

• Afghanistan
• American Samoa
• Anegada (see Virgin Islands, British )
• Anguilla (U.K.)
• Antigua and Barbuda
• Austral Islands (see French Polynesia (France) )

⇧ Top

• Bahamas, The
• Barbuda (see Antigua and Barbuda )
• Bermuda (U.K.)
• Bora-Bora (see French Polynesia (France) )
• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• British Indian Ocean Territory (U.K.)
• Burkina Faso
• Burma (Myanmar)
• Caicos Islands (see Turks and Caicos Islands (U.K.) )
• Canary Islands (Spain)
• Cayman Islands (U.K.)
• Central African Republic
• Christmas Island (Australia)
• Cocos (Keeling) Islands (Australia)
• Congo, Republic of the
• Cook Islands (New Zealand)
• Côte d'Ivoire
• Curaçao
• Democratic Republic of the Congo
• Dominican Republic
• Dubai (see United Arab Emirates )
• Easter Island (Chile)
• El Salvador
• England (see United Kingdom )
• Equatorial Guinea
• Eswatini (Swaziland)
• Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas)
• Faroe Islands (Denmark)
• French Guiana (France)
• French Polynesia (France)
• Galápagos Islands (see Ecuador )
• Gambia, The
• Gibraltar (U.K.)
• Greenland (Denmark)
• Grenadines (see Saint Vincent and the Grenadines )
• Guam (U.S.)
• Guernsey (see United Kingdom )
• Guinea-Bissau
• Holy See (see Italy )
• Hong Kong SAR (China)
• Isle of Man (see United Kingdom )
• Israel, including the West Bank and Gaza
• Ivory Coast (see Côte d'Ivoire )
• Jersey (see United Kingdom )
• Jost Van Dyke (see Virgin Islands, British )
• Liechtenstein
• Macau SAR (China)
• Madeira Islands (Portugal)
• Marquesas Islands (see French Polynesia (France) )
• Marshall Islands
• Martinique (France)
• Mayotte (France)
• Micronesia, Federated States of
• Montserrat (U.K.)
• Moorea (see French Polynesia (France) )
• Myanmar (Burma) (see Burma (Myanmar) )
• Netherlands, The
• New Caledonia (France)
• New Zealand
• Niue (New Zealand)
• Norfolk Island (Australia)
• North Korea
• North Macedonia
• Northern Ireland (see United Kingdom )
• Northern Mariana Islands (U.S.)
• Papua New Guinea
• Philippines
• Pitcairn Islands (U.K.)
• Puerto Rico (U.S.)
• Réunion (France)
• Rota (see Northern Mariana Islands (U.S.) )
• Rurutu (see French Polynesia (France) )
• Saint Barthelemy
• Saint Croix (see Virgin Islands, U.S. )
• Saint Helena (U.K.)
• Saint John (see Virgin Islands, U.S. )
• Saint Kitts and Nevis
• Saint Lucia
• Saint Martin
• Saint Pierre and Miquelon (France)
• Saint Thomas (see Virgin Islands, U.S. )
• Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
• Saipan (see Northern Mariana Islands (U.S.) )
• São Tomé and Príncipe
• Saudi Arabia
• Scotland (see United Kingdom )
• Sierra Leone
• Sint Eustatius
• Sint Maarten
• Society Islands (see French Polynesia (France) )
• Solomon Islands
• South Africa
• South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands (U.K.)
• South Korea
• South Sandwich Islands (see South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands (U.K.) )
• South Sudan
• Swaziland (Eswatini) (see Eswatini (Swaziland) )
• Switzerland
• Tahiti (see French Polynesia (France) )
• Timor-Leste (East Timor)
• Tinian (see Northern Mariana Islands (U.S.) )
• Tobago (see Trinidad and Tobago )
• Tokelau (New Zealand)
• Tortola (see Virgin Islands, British )
• Trinidad and Tobago
• Tubuai (see French Polynesia (France) )
• Turkmenistan
• Turks and Caicos Islands (U.K.)
• United Arab Emirates
• United Kingdom
• United States
• Vatican City (see Italy )
• Virgin Gorda (see Virgin Islands, British )
• Virgin Islands, British
• Virgin Islands, U.S.
• Wake Island
• Wales (see United Kingdom )
• Zanzibar (see Tanzania )

File Formats Help:

• Adobe PDF file
• Microsoft PowerPoint file
• Microsoft Word file
• Microsoft Excel file
• Audio/Video file
• Apple Quicktime file
• RealPlayer file
• Zip Archive file

Exit Notification / Disclaimer Policy

• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) cannot attest to the accuracy of a non-federal website.
• Linking to a non-federal website does not constitute an endorsement by CDC or any of its employees of the sponsors or the information and products presented on the website.
• You will be subject to the destination website's privacy policy when you follow the link.
• CDC is not responsible for Section 508 compliance (accessibility) on other federal or private website.