Itinerary
DAY 1: DEPART FOR BELIZE
You will depart the UK for the trip of a lifetime! If you have booked flights with us (option available for Bucket Lister + trips only), we’ll provide all the information you’ll need to meet your guide.
If you are arranging your own flights, have a safe journey!
DAY 2: ARRIVE IN BELIZE CITY, BELIZE
On arrival at Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport you’ll make your way to the accommodation. If you have booked transfers through us, we’ll send you the details before your trip.
DAY 3: DELVING INTO THE SACRED ACTUN TUNICHIL MUKNAL CAVE
After a hearty breakfast, we’ll be picked up for today’s cave exploration. Prepare to be amazed by Actun Tunichil Muknal, one of the most sacred caves in Belize and Central America. This cave boasts chambers filled with ancient Mayan pottery and human remains; remnants of sacrificial rituals from Belize’s ancient Mayan civilisation at its peak. This full-day adventure includes lunch, water, entrance fees, a knowledgeable tour guide, and all the necessary equipment.
DAY 4: THE BLACK HOLE DROP - AN ADRENALINE RUSH
Today’s adventure takes us to “The Mother of all Caves”… Actun Loch Tunich!
The day kicks off with a vigorous hike into the foothills of the Maya Mountains, leading to the mouth of the cave. The edge of the Actun Loch Tunich sinkhole looms over 300 feet above the basin below, and 200 feet above the rainforest canopy; despite its name, the sinkhole isn’t actually black, but its depths are initially obscured from view.
Fully trained caving guides will rig a system of abseiling ropes for our descent into the basin. The initial 10 feet will get our adrenaline pumping, the next 200 feet will provide an unforgettable experience and incredible sights, and the final 100 feet will take us down through the rainforest canopy. Once we reach the bottom, we’ll enjoy a well-deserved picnic lunch.
The next challenge? Climbing back out, of course!
After our adventure, we’ll be transferred back to our hotel.
Note: This adventure isn’t for the faint-hearted and requires participants to be reasonably fit, starting with a steep 90-minute uphill hike to the sinkhole’s edge.
DAY 5: TIKAL'S ANCIENT MAJESTY
Today, we’ll be temporarily leaving Belize.
After breakfast and check-out, we’ll be transferred to the Belize Western border. After the standard immigration process, a Guatemalan driver will be waiting on the other side to continue your journey to Tikal.
A knowledgeable tour guide will accompany us and share with us the rich history and beauty of Tikal. At its zenith, Tikal was one of the most powerful ancient cities, a fact evident in the sophisticated glyphs and structures left behind. After a long day of exploration, we’ll be transported to your accommodation on Flores, a small island on Lake Petén Itzá, connected by a causeway back to the mainland.
Note: A departure tax of $20 US per person must be paid on leaving Belize.
DAY 6: LAKE PETÉN ITZÁ, WILDLIFE RESCUE & SUNSET VIEWS
Lake Petén Itzá is the second-largest lake in Guatemala, and after breakfast, we’ll experience a boat ride on it.
We’ll then visit the ARCAS Project, a rescue centre founded in 1989 to help combat the illegal wildlife trade in the Petén region. The centre treats and rehabilitates trafficked wildlife, for example, macaws and monkeys. The centre is located on the edge of The Mayan Biosphere Reserve (MBR), a crucial part of Mesoamerica’s Maya Forest; the second largest remaining tropical rainforest in the Americas, stretching across Belize, northern Guatemala, and Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula.
Following our visit to the ARCAS project, we’ll enjoy lunch with our guide before heading to El Mirador Rey Canek for picturesque views and a chance to catch a beautiful sunset, before returning to our hotel.
DAY 7: FAREWELL FLORES, HELLO CAYE CAULKER
After breakfast, we’ll depart from the beautiful Flores Peten and return to the Belize Western border. Upon arrival, our driver will assist with our luggage and begin the transfer to Belize City’s Water Taxi Terminal. At the water taxi terminal, we’ll check in with the tickets provided by our driver and then wait for the next available boat to Caye Caulker. The boat ride takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, and upon arrival at the dock, a representative will be there to help us locate and check into our accommodation for the last 4 nights of your trip.
DAY 8: SNORKELLING ADVENTURES: HOL CHAN & SHARK RAY ALLEY
Get ready for some aquatic exploration! We’ll be picked up and taken from the resort to the dive shop to get kitted out with our equipment and meet our crew for the day. The first stop is Hol Chan (meaning “little channel” in Mayan), a marine reserve located approximately 4 miles south of the town of San Pedro on the neighbouring Ambergris Caye. Hol Chan boasts an incredible array of marine life, including over 160 species of fish, nearly 40 species of corals, various sponges, algae, sea grasses, 3 marine mammals, and 3 species of sea turtles.
Our next adventure is at Shark Ray Alley, just a 3-minute journey from Hol Chan. Here we’ll be greeted by nurse sharks and stingrays.
We’ll have the rest of the day and evening at leisure in Caye Caulker. Maybe visit the Iguana Reef Inn for the stingray feeding?
Note: It is against the law to touch or hold any marine life while snorkelling or scuba diving; do not touch or attempt to feed.
DAY 9: A BIRD'S-EYE VIEW OF THE BLUE HOLE
Today, we’ll witness one of Belize’s most magnificent wonders: the world-famous Blue Hole. This giant marine sinkhole is located near the centre of Lighthouse Reef, roughly 43 miles from the mainland and Belize City. The best way to truly appreciate this phenomenon is from above, and that’s precisely what we’ll be doing. We’ll be transferred to the airstrip for our flight over the Blue Hole and then back to our hotel.
This evening, we’ll join a shared Sunset Sailing Tour; we’ll depart Caye Caulker late afternoon for our 5 pm sailing (sailing tour duration approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes)
DAY 10: ENCOUNTERS WITH GENTLE GIANTS: THE MANATEE EXPERIENCE
We’ll depart early for a boat ride to the dock in Ambergris Caye, from where our manatee-spotting adventure departs. After a short boat ride, we’ll have an hour to snorkel with these gentle creatures before heading to Coral Gardens for a second snorkel stop, where we can admire the “dancing fans” of coral and the vibrant tropical fish.
We’ll have the rest of the day and evening at leisure in Caye Caulker. Maybe rent a bike, take the ‘split to split’ ferry, and explore the north side of Caye Caulker?
Note: To ensure the well-being of the manatees, please remember not to touch or attempt to feed them.
DAY 11: FLIGHT HOME
Alas, the hardest part of the journey has arrived…going home.
The day begins with breakfast, and after checking out, you’ll be transferred to the Water Taxi terminal. Upon arrival at the Belize City water taxi terminal, you’ll head to Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport for your international flight.
Note: If you are booking your international flights yourself, please ensure you book a late evening flight from Belize City to allow for the transfer from Caye Caulker.
Food & Accommodation
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Day 1 N/ABreakfast
Lunch Dinner -
Day 2 Hotel - Twin RoomBreakfast Lunch Dinner
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Day 3 Hotel - Twin RoomBreakfast
Lunch Dinner -
Day 4 Hotel - Twin RoomBreakfast Lunch Dinner
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Day 5 Hotel - Twin RoomBreakfast Lunch Dinner
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Day 6 Hotel - Twin RoomBreakfast Lunch Dinner
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Day 7 Hotel - Twin RoomBreakfast Lunch Dinner
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Day 8 Hotel - Twin RoomBreakfast Lunch Dinner
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Day 9 Hotel - Twin RoomBreakfast Lunch Dinner
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Day 10 Hotel - Twin RoomBreakfast Lunch Dinner
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Day 11 N/ABreakfast Lunch Dinner
What’s the Food Like in Belize & Guatemala?
Food in Belize and Guatemala is a brilliant reflection of the cultures you’ll travel through — fresh, flavourful and surprisingly varied.
In Belize, expect a real melting pot of influences. Caribbean flavours meet Central American staples, with plenty of fresh seafood along the coast. You’ll find dishes like grilled fish, coconut-based curries, rice and beans, fry jacks (a local fried dough), and tropical fruits served at most meals.
Crossing into Guatemala, food becomes heartier and more traditional. Think corn-based dishes, slow-cooked meats, fresh vegetables and warming stews. Meals often centre around tortillas, beans, rice and locally sourced ingredients, with regional specialities varying as you move through the country.
Vegetarian options are widely available, and dietary requirements can usually be catered for with advance notice. While some meals are included on the trip, you’ll also have the chance to eat at local restaurants and markets — a big part of experiencing the culture firsthand.
Simple, comforting and full of flavour, the food is exactly what you want after a day of exploring — and always best enjoyed with a cold drink and good company.
How Difficult Is It?
How Difficult Is the Best Of Belize & Guatemala?
We rate this trip as Challenge Rating 2, meaning it’s one of our more accessible and relaxed adventures, suitable for most travellers with general fitness and a willingness to explore.
This multi-destination journey across Belize and Guatemala combines cultural highlights, wildlife encounters and light activity rather than strenuous physical challenge. You’ll be walking on guided tours of Mayan ruins, exploring caves and snorkelling in calm waters, but there are no long hikes, high-altitude treks or strenuous climbs involved. Most sightseeing is done at a leisurely pace with opportunities to rest and enjoy your surroundings along the way.
Some activities — such as walking through archaeological sites or entering certain caves — require easy to moderate mobility (e.g. steps or uneven terrain), but the overall pace is gentle with plenty of downtime built into the itinerary. Transfers between cities and sites are typically by comfortable vehicle, and local guides are there to support you throughout.
In short, if you’re comfortable with day-to-day travel, getting on and off transport independently, light walking and snorkelling activities, this trip is both manageable and immensely rewarding.
What's Included?
What’s Included on the Best of Belize & Guatemala
Your Best of Belize & Guatemala adventure is designed to be immersive, varied and hassle-free, combining culture, wildlife and adventure across two incredible countries. Here’s exactly what’s covered:
All accommodation throughout the trip, from jungle lodges and island stays to comfortable hotels.
All transport within Belize & Guatemala as outlined in the itinerary (this excludes international airport arrival & departure transfers – unless added to your booking, or if you have added Group Flights to a BL+ trips).
Local guides for key experiences, including wildlife areas, cultural sites and historic ruins.
Included activities and experiences as outlined in the itinerary, such as snorkelling, jungle exploration, cultural visits and archaeological sites.
Selected meals as outlined in the itinerary.
All scheduled excursions and entrance fees listed in the itinerary.
A fully planned itinerary that balances adventure, culture, relaxation and wildlife.
- Support from The Bucket List Company team before and during your trip.
- Access to the Vamoos app with full itinerary, packing lists and key trip info.
- UK Bucket List Company Leader on all BL+ and TB departures.
What's Not Included?
What’s not Included on the Best of Belize & Guatemala
Travel insurance
Travel insurance is compulsory and must cover adventure travel. You’ll need to provide your policy details before departure.
International flights
Flights to and from Central America are not included in the base trip cost.
Airport Arrival & Departure transfersThese are excluded from the base cost of your trip but can be added to your booking. If you are booking Group Flights with us on a BL+ trip, then these transfers are included automatically.
Visa
Visa fees (if applicable) are not included.
Belize Departure Tax
Belize departure tax, to be paid when crossing into Guatemala ($20).
UK Leader on BL Trips
BL trips will have no UK Bucket List Company Leader present.
Meals not listed
Any meals not specified in the itinerary.
Personal expenses
Please budget for personal spending such as snacks, drinks, souvenirs, optional activities and laundry.
Tips
Tips are not included – trip-specific guidance will be provided.
UK Leaders on BL Trips
BL trips will not have a UK Bucket List Company Leader present.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need visas to enter Belize and Guatemala?
Because entry requirements can and do change, and because we have clients of many nationalities, we always recommend checking this with your own government’s website. Be sure to allow enough time to apply for any visas or permits required; don’t leave your checks until the day before!
What is a reef-safe sunscreen?
There isn’t an agreed definition of ‘reef-safe’, but it generally means the product doesn’t contain Oxybenzone or Octinoxate.
Look instead for mineral-based sunscreens, with either non-nano Titanium Dioxide or non-nano Zinc Oxide.
What vaccinations do I need?
These change, so it is important that you check with either a travel health clinic or your doctor’s surgery. You should allow plenty of time for this process, as some vaccines need multiple doses. The TravelHealthPro website is another useful source of information – https://travelhealthpro.org.uk/countries
How can I avoid roaming charges but still use my phone?
Your mobile provider might have reasonably-priced roaming add-ons, so it is worth exploring these. Or you could buy an eSim; these are often much cheaper than add-ons and are easy to activate and use. See our article for more information – https://thebucketlistcompany.co.uk/unlock-seamless-connectivity-with-esims-the-ultimate-travel-companion/
Can I drink the tap water?
It is OK to drink the tap water in Belize. The single-use plastic ban in Belize doesn’t apply to water bottles, but it is still appreciated if you carry a reusable bottle. As the tap water in Guatemala shouldn’t be drunk (or used for tooth brushing) a reusable bottle with a filter is an excellent idea.
Can you cater for different diets?
When you book you will receive a link to your portal, where you can fill in your passenger information, including dietary and medical requirements. These will be shared with our guides and providers (including airlines if you have also booked flights). Please provide this information as quickly as possible, so we can make any necessary arrangements for you.
Whilst we do our utmost to ensure your needs are met, in some locations options for very specific diets may be extremely limited; we therefore suggest bringing some suitable snacks.
If you have a severe food allergy please ensure you carry your medication at all times, and that we are made aware. We will pass this information on, but a conversation with your in-country guide on arrival will help them give you the best possible guidance regarding suitability or otherwise of foods.
If you have specific concerns we always suggest contacting us to discuss before booking.
How do the monthly payments work?
If you choose to pay for your trip monthly your payment plan will start the month after your booking is made, and will end a minimum of 28 days prior to departure. After deposit, the outstanding balance will be divided by the number of months available and we’ll charge this amount each month to the card of your choice. If you have a preferred date of the month for payments to be taken just let us know. If at a later date you wish to add an extra experience to your trip we can modifiy your payment plan to accommodate this.
