JUNGLES, RUINS & REEFS OF BELIZE

Day 1 Arrive Belize

On arrival in Belize City, transfer by private charter flight to the Ancient Maya city of Gallon Jug, tucked away amongst the heavy jungle. Under the protection of the Chan Chich Reserve, with 30,000 acres of protected nature reserve landscape, as well as a spectacular jungle lodge nestled in the heart. Staying at Chan Chich Lodge, with cosy cottages and casitas nestled in to the rainforest landscape. The perfect place to begin your Belize vacation, the luxury lodge is a marriage of luxury and rustic style and has pioneered private conservation of wildlife and the preservation of archaeological sites that pepper the reserve. With an array of activities, embrace the adventure of the jungle.

Overnight: Chan Chich Lodge

Day 2 - 3 Chan Chich & Tropical Jungles

Enjoy two days exploring the surrounding area of Chan Chich, walking the winding trails in search of colourful toucans and parrots, slinking jaguars and pumas and monkeys in their jungle playground. For those looking to broaden their Maya history, meet with the archaeological specialist and wander below the canopies passing ancient archaeological sites. Escape the hotel and spend a full day at Xunantunich, an extensive maze of plazas and temples and climb to the top of the Castillo for some of the most spectacular views above the tree-tops. When ready, return to Chan Chich Lodge for two evenings at leisure, enjoying the sounds of nature as you indulge in traditional Belizean dishes all served using the freshest local and organic produce.

Overnight: Chan Chich Lodge

Day 4 Chan Chich to Mountain Pine Forest Region

Tuck into one last delicious breakfast at Chan Chich Lodge, before taking a private charter flight to the Mountain Pine Forest in the gorgeous Cayo District, where tropical rainforest gives way to pine forests and winding cave systems. Staying at the renowned Blancaneaux Lodge, owned by the famed Coppola Family, surround yourself with nature and wildlife. Tucked in the jungle hillside overlooking the meandering Privasson River, the lodge offers a wealth of activities. Enjoy an equestrian adventure through the pine forests, looking out for the plethora of wildlife that calls this place home, or wander to hidden Maya ruins and jump in refreshing waterfalls hidden deep in the hills.

Overnight: Blancaneaux Lodge

Day 5 Mountain Pine Forest Region

Spend today doing as much or as little as you would like. Venture out along the river, passing by vibrant splashes of flora and fauna and looking out for hummingbirds tucking into a sweet meal. Within the heart of Mountain Pine Ridge are an abundance of streams that knot their way down the hill leaving tranquil lagoons and thundering waterfalls in their wake, creating some of the best place to immerse yourself in nature. For the adventurous, donning your swimwear, make your way to these paradisal pools and jump in, exploring the cool waters.

Overnight: Blancaneaux Lodge

Day 6 Caracol and Rio Frio Cave

Spend a day at Caracol and Rio Frio caves discover more hidden secrets of Belize. In the heart of the thick Belizean jungle, the ancient Maya site of Caracol sites, distinctly empty of the ponderous tourists that can assemble throughout the Caribbean and Latin America. Wander around the near empty site, and take in this quiet and undisturbed place. Caracol is still relatively off the radar and the perfect place to brush up on your Maya history in the thick quiet of the natural jungle landscape. Finish up at Rio Frio Caves, a snaking cave system that offers a cool respite to the hot Belizean temperature and the perfect place to finish up your jungle adventure.

Overnight: Blancaneaux Lodge

Day 7 Mountain Pine Ridge to Placencia

Say goodbye to the verdant jungle and transfer down to the coast to Placencia, a beach paradise framed by mangroves and the crystal clear Caribbean Sea. Where palm fronds nod to the sea breeze and locals kick their shoes off and wander languorously down the beach, this is the place to relax. Staying at the Turtle Inn, another magnificent creation of the talented Coppola family, with rustic beach huts hiding a wealth of colourful and luxury interiors, all a stone’s throw from the beach. Lacking the heady dose of tourists, this is where the famous come for Belize beach holidays to escape and where writers and artists come for inspiration.

Overnight: Turtle Inn

Day 8 - 9 Coast of Placencia

Spend your last two days at leisure, soaking up the glorious Belizean sun either relaxing with a book in hand, or diving head first into the cerulean sea. Home to the second largest Barrier Reef and a peppering of private Cayes, including one owned by Turtle Inn, the Placencia boasts vibrant coral reefs that are rich in marine life. Escape by boat with a snorkel in hand and explore this underwater utopia, discovering an entirely different world below the waves. Perhaps explore the mangroves by kayak on Monkey River, seamlessly gliding along the water passing birds in song and curious monkeys, before returning to the hotel for two evenings of delicious food and culture.

Overnight: Turtle Inn

Day 10 Depart

Enjoy your last breakfast in Belize listening to the waves and morning birdsong, before transferring to the airport. Take a domestic flight up to Belize City, where you will connect with your International flight home, remembering the incredible journey you have had.