Itinerary

Saturday, Day 1

Arrive at Belize International Airport, then grab a taxi to the Belize Biltmore Plaza Hotel for a 4:30 p.m. meeting in the lobby (the taxi ride is about 10-15 minutes). We leave for Maya Mountain Lodge no later than 5:00 p.m. Please note: it is important that your flight arrive no later than 4:30 p.m. in order to guarantee that you not miss your ride to western Belize. If you must land later than 4:30 you will have to catch up with the group (request Belize Adventure Week information sheet for If Late or Delayed). You may also meet us at Maya Mountain by 6:30 p.m. if you are already in the country. Orientation, dinner, and overnight at Maya Mountain Lodge, our base for the next three nights.

Sunday, Day 2

After breakfast we drive on back roads to Che Chem Ha Mayan Cave, one of the most impressive archaeological treasures in the region. This cavern was discovered a few years ago by a farmer who is also our guide.           

 

We hike about one mile to the entrance; entering we soon see hundreds of ceramic offerings left by Mayan shamans. Descending further, we reach a final ceremonial chamber.

 

After lunch we run a whitewater river. In the early season we drop into the lower gorge of the Macal River where we embark on a 5-mile run on sit-on-top kayaks. Later in the year during low water, we run 5 miles of the Mopan. Both are beginner level and on both we begin with a training session on river safety and basic kayak technique, then launch where numerous, easy rapids are encountered. The Macal is a deep gorge hemmed in by virgin rainforest. The Mopan goes through several villages and we wave to many locals along the way.

Monday, Day 3

Another early breakfast sees us off to the amazing ruins of Tikal in nearby Guatemala, the region’s most extensive archeological site. There a local guide leads us through the ruins, giving interpretive talks as we explore the many temples and buildings that cover several square miles. Tikal is also an excellent place to see wildlife, such as monkeys, exotic birdlife, and small mammals. We visit the park museum where an array of artifacts and carvings found at Tikal are displayed, and some excellent gift shops can be found on location as well. Tikal will leave a lasting impression. We return to Maya Mountain Lodge for a final night.

Tuesday, Day 4

This morning we pack up and head out to the Caves Branch River. After a short river orientation we launch on our underground journey in rafts and kayaks, navigating four caverns by headlamp. This unique trip combines caving and river running for an unusual, captivating ride.

Stops include short hikes up tributaries and a visit to a Mayan “totem pole” carved into a stalagmite. We also negotiate a quarter-mile portage on a jungle trail. This fabulous odyssey is arguably the best one-day adventure in the country, a must-do for any visit to Belize! Upon finishing this trip, we drive back to Belize City to our accommodations at the Belize Biltmore hotel, where we are joined by others on the Adventure Island at Glover’s Reef Second Half package. Before dinner, your guide covers information on the island and the boat ride coming up the next day.

Wednesday, Day 5

Time to hit the Caribbean! After breakfast we head out to our island, Long Caye, on our private shuttle boat (3 hrs). Arriving before noon, we tour the island, have lunch, and move into our cabanas. Soon after that we assemble for our first snorkel excursion, swimming into the reefs right from shore. Time permitting, some guests may want to try out kayak surfing if the waves are up before happy hour and dinner. You retire to your cabana on the shore where the sounds of the sea lull you to sleep.

Thursday, Day 6

Sea kayak orientation starts the day. Our guides are expert instructors and cover paddle strokes, entering and exiting the kayak from the water, and other basic techniques. This is our longest orientation, and takes all morning. Even expert kayakers often have not experienced getting in and our of the kayaks for snorkeling. After lunch we paddle to a nearby reef to snorkel from the kayaks. Deep sea diving is another option, whether you are a certified diver or want to try scuba for the first time. You may also choose "hammock surfing" (and by now you might be really ready for it!)

Friday, Day 7

We begin our last full day with windsurfing instruction. Guests may also choose between activities such as kayak rolling lessons, kitesurfing classes, scuba diving classes, paddleboarding, surfing, fishing, or snorkeling around the island. Fishermen are always pleasantly surprised to find out that we even pay for your fishing license, so there's no waiting around for the ranger before you can begin to fish!

Saturday, Day 8

Island activities in the morning. After lunch we return to Belize City, arriving in late afternoon. Our arrival time cannot be predicted since it depends on factors such as weather and the schedule of the group coming out to the island. Guests should not make other plans for Saturday night; hotel and dinner on the last night is included in the trip price. After checking into the Biltmore, we go out to our favorite restaurant.

Sunday, Day 9

Earliest day to fly home.

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