Maya Ruins & Marine Life in Belize - 5 Days

Day 1: Arrive in Belize City, Transfer to San Ignacio

Welcome to Belize, a Central American gem known for its vast barrier reef, Maya ruins, and pristine beaches. You'll touch down in Belize City, where a driver will be waiting to transfer you two hours inland to your hotel in San Ignacio, located in the Cayo District of western Belize near the border with Guatemala. Check in at your hotel and spend the rest of the day settling in at your own pace. You could relax at the hotel or venture out to explore the area. A good place to start is the San Ignacio Market, where you can find everything from topical fruits and freshly baked goods to traditional Belizean crafts. 

Shop for souvenirs or indulge in local delights like tamales (steamed corn dough filled with meat, vegetables, or cheese) or fry jacks (deep-fried dough that can be eaten plain or with fillings like refried beans, cheese, or honey). If you're not too tired and want more of an adventure, consider booking a tour of Actun Tunichil Muknal, an extensive cave system. Hike through the jungle and cross a rushing river to get to the cave, where you'll wade through crystal-clear pools and marvel at the natural rock formations. 

Day 2: Horseback Ride to the Xunantunich Maya Ruins

Start your morning with a 40-minute transfer to the ancient Maya ruins of Xunantunich, which you'll be exploring today on horseback. Head to the stables, meet your riding guide, and then saddle up for the journey. Follow a well-maintained trail through a private farm and along the banks of the Mopane River. Cross the river on a hand-operated ferry and continue to the ruins of what was once a thriving ceremonial and administrative center of the Maya civilization. 

Dismount to explore more of the ruins on foot, starting with El Castillo (The Castle), the largest and most impressive structure at a towering 130 feet (40 m). Climb the steep steps to admire its pyramid-like structure and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding jungle and neighboring Guatemalan highlands. Back on the ground, wander past ancient temples, altars, residential areas, and a court that was used for a ritualistic ball game. Enjoy a delicious Belizean lunch before returning to the stables and transferring back to your hotel. 

Day 3: Transfer to Belize City, Ferry to San Pedro & Ambergris Caye

Say goodbye to San Ignacio this morning as you transfer two hours back to Belize City. On the way, stop at the Nohoch Che'en Caves Branch Archaeological Reserve to go cave tubing. Gear up with a helmet, waterproof headlamp, and inner tube, then follow your guide through the jungle along a flat trail for 45 minutes to get to one of the cave network's many entrances. Jump into the water with your inner tube and float toward the first of two cave passages, drifting under stalactites and stalagmites. While you float, learn about the cave system's ancient history and geology. 

Stop for a snack and a swim in a natural swimming hole before continuing through the last cave. Point your headlamp to the ceiling to try and spot the bats flying overhead or roosting in the cave's nooks and crannies. After exiting the cave, float for 20 minutes through the lush rainforest to a parking area, where your driver will meet you to complete the journey to Belize City. When you arrive, head to the dock for a 1.5-hour boat ride to San Pedro, a lively town on Belize's largest island, Ambergris Caye. Transfer to your hotel and check in, then head right to the beach!

Day 4: Snorkel or Dive in the Hol Chan Marine Reserve

Spend your penultimate day in Belize exploring part of the second-largest barrier reef in the Hol Chan Marine Reserve. Jump on a boat and cruise to different snorkeling/diving sites across the reserve. Don your gear and search the corals for marine life like parrotfish, angelfish, and snapper. If you're lucky, you may also spot larger species, such as nurse sharks and sea turtles. Don't forget to look into the tiny caves you pass as moray eels like hiding inside.

After 2.5 hours of snorkeling or diving, continue to Shark Ray Alley, famous for its shallow waters where you can swim with gentle nurse sharks and graceful southern stingrays. Dive into the turquoise waters and watch the rays and sharks glide effortlessly around you. Even if you're not comfortable swimming here, the water is so clear you can still enjoy an incredible look at the sharks and rays from the boat.

Day 5: Transfer to Belize City, Depart

After just five days in Belize, it's time to head home. Wake up early to explore a bit more of the island on your own. You could head to Secret Beach to soak up the sun, walk through San Pedro in search of souvenirs, or visit a local art gallery to admire Belizean pieces. Keep an eye on the clock so you can make it to the dock at least 15 minutes before your water taxi is set to depart. Jump on board and cruise for 1-1.5 hours back to Belize City to catch your flight home. Safe travels!