Itinerary

DAY 1 :  ARRIVE IN BELIZE
Arrive at the Belize International Airport and receive a warm welcome from our private local guide. We set off across the Belizean countryside, quickly leaving the city on a 2 hour drive to the rain forests of the Cayo District. Our base here is Cohune Palms, a Belizean run lodge overlooking the Mopan River on the outskirts of the friendly little town of Bullet Tree Falls. Overnight at Cohune Palms. [D]

DAY 2 :  CAVE TUBING AND XUNANTUNICH
Get prepared for an unforgettable day inner tubing though an expansive limestone cave system at Caves Branch. Pass through citrus orchards to the river's edge where a short float trip carries you into a massive cavern with underground waterfalls, limestone formations, and an incredible crystal cathedral chamber. No experience is needed since the trip does not involve technical caving. Eat lunch before heading off to visit the Maya ruins of Xunantunich or "Maiden of the Rock". The dominant structure of this ruin rises 130 feet, providing an amazing view of the surrounding forest and ancient city below. Explore the ruins and picture ancient Mayan life while your guide gives a detailed description of the historical events surrounding this fascinating area. Return to the lodge for another savory dinner while listening to the sounds of the rain forest. Stay overnight at Cohune Palms. [BLD]

DAY 3 :  BARTON CREEK CAVES AND ZIP LINE, NIGHT WALK
This morning we have a special cooking lesson as we visit a local Mayan home to learn to make tortillas. Corn tortillas form the base of the Mayan diet and children not only love to make them, they love to eat them! Our Maya experience continues as we delve into Xibalba (she-bal-ba), the Mayan underworld. The Maya believed that caves served as a connection between the living world and underworld. Our guide takes us into the Barton Creek cave system, one of Belize's most extensive, with over 4 miles of underground tunnels. The cave was formed by the Barton Creek and so we explore by canoe equipped with high powered lights amongst giant stalactites, stalagmites, and impressive calcite crystal formations. Learn about the rituals that archaeologists believe were performed here and the cave's importance to the ancient Maya people. Hop out of our canoes and head up to Calico Jack's zip line course set into the side of the Mayan Mountains. Choose from a variety of courses ranging from 4 platforms and 1,000 ft. to 15 platforms and 2,700 ft. of pure zipping enjoyment (activity not included and to be paid directly). After dinner this evening we'll take an optional (included) night walk near the lodge looking for nocturnal creatures such as bats, owls, and fascinating insects that are most active after the sun sets. Stay overnight at Cohune Palms. [BLD]

DAY 4 :  CARIBBEAN COAST MANATEES AND SOUTHWATER CAYE
After a fortifying breakfast, settle into the van for one of the most scenic drives in Belize as you travel along the Hummingbird Highway through the Maya Mountains to Hopkins on the Caribbean Coast. Boarding a boat we'll head north up the coast towards Gale's Point and the Southern Lagoon, a reserve for the endangered West Indian manatee as well as one of the largest nesting grounds for the hawksbill sea turtle. The brackish water is perfect haven for peaceful giants as well as numerous species of lagoon birds including white ibis, great egret, the blue and boat billed herons, ospreys, sand pipers, cormorants, and pelicans. Next stop is the tranquil Southwater Caye Marine Reserve and your home for the remaining days of your Belizean Vacation. Kick off your shoes, unpack and settle into your beach cabana located on Southwater Caye, a private 15 acre island located right on the Belize Barrier Reef. Step outside your door to see wonderful ocean views and pristine white sands. Head out snorkeling directly from the beach, grab a fishing pole and try your hand at catching snapper, permit or maybe a tarpon. Whichever way you choose to spend your days you can always simply relax in a hammock under the swaying palms and let your cares drift away. Overnight at Pelican Beach Resort Southwater Caye. [BLD]

DAYS 5-7 :  BELIZE BARRIER REEF AND FREE DAYS
Check out the strange coral formations and swim amongst a variety of brilliantly colored tropical fish as you explore the marine environment on a half-day snorkeling and swimming excursion. The Belize Barrier Reef is the longest unbroken barrier reef in the world. Your guide will swim along with you pointing out the dazzling array of tropical fish, hydrocorals, sea fans, feather plumes, sponges, and sea cucumbers. Return to the lodge for lunch, and enjoy the rest of the day relaxing at the beach. Don't forget the sunscreen! The remainder of your stay is at your leisure. Additional tours and activities can be worked out with the lodge manager during your stay. Overnight at Pelican Beach Resort Southwater Caye. [BLD]

DAY 8 :  DEPART
Enjoy a last dip in the ocean and shake out the sand before packing up and returning to Dangriga to board your short flight to the Belize International airport in time for your international departure. (Local flight included.) Laugh about your good times on the way home and start planning your next family adventure! [B]

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