Guatemala to Belize

Intrepid Travel Premier
Has very high quality customer experiences and demonstrated commitment to responsible travel practices. read more
4.6 . Excellent
94%
Travel Style: Array Mixed
Physical Level: Walking or physical activity half to most of day - no carrying equipment. 2- Easy
Lodging Level: Mid-range budget with accommodations ranging from comfortable lodges, guesthouses, and homestays to three star hotels. Value (3*)
10 days
From: $ 1,183 $ 118 / day
Checking price

Overview

Highlights (Bullets)

  • Gaze in wonder at the jungle-shrouded limestone temples of Tikal, one of the most impressive Mayan sites in the whole of Central America, as howler monkeys call from the canopy.
  • Relax and recharge on the white sands of Caye Caulker, a tiny Belizean island made for beach BBQs, snorkel trips and lazy afternoons spent swinging in a hammock.
  • Explore Livingston: a one-of-a-kind riverside town where the local culture is heavily influenced by the Afro-Caribbean Garifuna population.
  • Walk along cobblestone streets and shop for local handicrafts in the tiny inland island town of Flores.
  • Dig deeper into Mayan history – visiting lesser-known ruins and a mystical Mayan cave complex – around San Ignacio, a vibrant market town near the Belize-Guatemala border.

Short Description

Wander the cobblestone streets of Antigua, admire ancient Mayan ruins and unwind on the laidback island of Caye Caulker on this 10-day adventure from Guatemala to Belize. This trip spans two captivating countries, with different languages, distinct cultures and varied landscapes – each with the capacity to inspire awe in those who visit. From volcano-studded highlands to the chilled-out charm of the Caribbean coast, this tour delivers a hearty dose of history and culture, plenty of epic scenery and some well-deserved downtime.

Style Small group tour
Off the beaten track trips will stretch your comfort zone. They don't always feature tourist highlights, but dive deeper into local life and culture.
Itinerary Focus Off the Beaten Path
Mid-range budget with accommodations ranging from comfortable lodges, guesthouses, and homestays to three star hotels.
Lodging Level Value (3*)
Flight & Transport Inclusions All internal ground transport
Start City Antigua
End City Caye Caulker

Destinations

Mexico Belize Guatemala

Activities & Interests

Culture Historic sightseeing

Age Requirement

15-99

No Single Supplement
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Itinerary

Day 1 Antigua

Hola! Welcome to Antigua. Surrounded by three volcanoes that dominate the skyline, this colourful city was the capital of Guatemala in the 16th century and was designated as a World Heritage site in 1979. Today, it’s a cosmopolitan hub filled with cool coffee shops and international restaurants that's often buzzing with live music. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm where you'll meet your tour leader and travel group. If you arrive with time to spare, why not get a taste of local tradition with a chocolate-making workshop in the ChocoMuseo, or strut your stuff with a salsa dance lesson?

Day 2 Antigua

As the seat of the Spanish colonial government, Antigua was once one of the most important cities in Central America. The city was destroyed by an earthquake in 1773, but many of the colonial-era buildings have been carefully restored. This morning, wander the quiet cobblestone streets with your leader, who will point out many fascinating markets and museums. The afternoon is yours to spend exploring the city and its surrounds. Prefer to take it easy? Grab a coffee on the main plaza and settle in for some people watching. Don't miss the chance to taste a tamale, a local dish served in a corn leaf. Or try pepian, a meaty dish of chicken, beef, pork, or all three at once, in a rich sauce. You’ll find the best value food next to the markets near the bus station.

Day 3 Rio Dulce

It’s a long day of travel today as you make your way to Rio Dulce by private vehicle. During the journey, learn a few handy phrases with an informal Spanish lesson from your leader, before arriving mid-afternoon. Rio Dulce, which means 'Sweet River' in Spanish, refers to both the Guatemalan river that flows from Lago de Izabal (Lake Izabal) to the Caribbean Sea and the town of Fronteras, which sits at the east end of the lake. Upon arrival, the rest of the day is free to enjoy at your leisure. Maybe stretch your legs on a jungle walk, rent a kayak and get out on the water or just laze in a hammock and enjoy the tropical surrounds.

Day 4 Rio Dulce

Join your group on a boat ride down the river to Livingston, a laidback Afro-Caribbean town that offers a unique taste of Garifuna culture in a far-flung corner of Guatemala. It’s located 30 kilometres (18 miles) from Rio Dulce and the boat ride is spectacular, taking you through waters laden with water lilies, past tropical forests and through a deep canyon replete with river birds. The Garifuna population in Livingston are descendants of a community forcibly removed from the Caribbean by the British in the late 18th century. Livingston was one of the towns the displaced Garifuna settled in, and its relative isolation means the culture has remained undiluted by Guatemalan norms. Spend a little time here and enjoy an included lunch of local specialties like tapou, a creamy soup made with fish.

Day 5 Flores

Travel to the township of Flores on Lago Peten Itza. On the way, pay a visit to Nuevo Horizonte, a ranch where 130 demobilised families settled after the signing of the Guatemalan Peace Accords in 1998. Beginning with no infrastructure and poor living conditions, the community cooperated to establish fish-farming, agriculture, reforestation and eco-tourism projects. Tour their nature reserve, have lunch on the ranch and speak to the locals about the origins of the community. Continue to Flores, where you’ll take an orientation walk with your group leader. Flores had a long history before it was colonised by the Spanish in 1697, most significantly as the capital of the Itza people after the fall of Chichen Itza. Spend your free afternoon wandering the island’s quaint streets or shopping for local handicrafts. Around 4 pm, the lakefront starts to hum with street food vendors, making it a good place to grab a bite.

Day 6 San Ignacio

Get up early for a guided exploration of Tikal National Park. Among the thick, evergreen jungle are some of the most significant remnants of the ancient Maya civilisation – plus an array of local wildlife, including coatis and howler monkeys. Wonder at the towering limestone temples and other monuments while pondering the mystery of the ancient city's demise. Spend a few hours playing archaeologist, and afterwards, say goodbye to Guatemala and head across the border to Belize. As the only English-speaking country in Central America, Belize is a great place to get chatting with locals. On your way to San Ignacio, take a break to learn the art of tortilla making!

Day 7 San Ignacio

This morning, you can choose whether you would like to relax in San Ignacio or take part in some of the other optional activities on offer, like a visit to the caves of Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM caves). A living museum of Maya relics, the ATM cave system is home to ceramic pots and crystallised skeletons, preserved by the natural processes of the cave for over 1400 years. If you choose to explore the cave system (and it is highly recommended), you’ll spend most of the day there. If not, there are always more local ruins to explore above ground, including Cahal Pech, which was once the residence of a wealthy Maya family. Nature lovers may be interested in a trip to the Green Iguana Conservation Project, where a number of the scaly – and surprisingly large – beasts are protected.

Day 8 Caye Caulker

If your idea of paradise is white sand, clear blue waters and palm trees, then you’re going to dig Caye Caulker. The island even has a motto: ‘go slow’. Arrive following a scenic boat ride and join your leader for an orientation walk, to help you get your bearings on the petite island. While the island is entirely walkable, you might like to hire a bike and cycle between beach bars and along quiet palm-lined streets. Can’t keep your eyes off those Caribbean waters? Get out there for a spot of standup paddleboarding, or if the mood strikes, join a sunset catamaran cruise for an unforgettable end to your first day.

Day 9 Caye Caulker

Your time in Caye Caulker is all about taking it easy, so do as much (or as little) as you want with another day here. If you’re keen to find the best snorkelling spots, opt to take a full-day boat tour (just remember to slather on sunscreen). After a day of swimming and lounging in the sunshine, you’re sure to get hungry. Belize is famous for its barbequed food, with some of the best meals cooked on the roadside. Caye Caulker is famous for its lobster – not the cheapest meal you'll ever buy, but so (so) good. Always make sure that you respect the season: lobsters can only be caught here between June and February. If you’re out of season, how about some grilled shrimp and a lovely rum and coke made with the local firewater?

Day 10 Caye Caulker

There are no activities planned for the final day and you are able to depart the accommodation at any time following check out. If you would like to spend more time in Caye Caulker, we’ll be happy to organise additional accommodation (subject to availability).

Availability

Checking price
Price From $ 1,183
Price Per Day: $ 118 per day
Checking price
Start DateFinish DateBase PriceAvailability 
Oct-12-2023Oct-21-2023$ 1,5217 spots left Reserve
Oct-19-2023Oct-28-2023$ 1,18314 spots left Reserve
Nov-02-2023Nov-11-2023$ 1,3699 spots left Reserve
Nov-09-2023Nov-18-2023$ 1,9105 spots left Reserve
Nov-23-2023Dec-02-2023$ 1,8259 spots left Reserve
Dec-14-2023Dec-23-2023$ 1,82514 spots left Reserve
Dec-16-2023Dec-25-2023$ 1,82511 spots left Reserve
Dec-23-2023Jan-01-2024$ 1,8757 spots left Reserve
Dec-28-2023Jan-06-2024$ 1,82511 spots left Reserve
Dec-30-2023Jan-08-2024$ 1,82513 spots left Reserve
Jan-04-2024Jan-13-2024$ 1,71014 spots left Reserve
Jan-06-2024Jan-15-2024$ 1,71012 spots left Reserve
Jan-27-2024Feb-05-2024$ 1,7758 spots left Reserve
Feb-01-2024Feb-10-2024$ 1,77512 spots left Reserve
Feb-08-2024Feb-17-2024$ 1,7409 spots left Reserve
Feb-22-2024Mar-02-2024$ 1,71012 spots left Reserve
Feb-29-2024Mar-09-2024$ 1,71015 spots left Reserve
Mar-02-2024Mar-11-2024$ 1,71016 spots left Reserve
Mar-07-2024Mar-16-2024$ 1,71016 spots left Reserve
Mar-09-2024Mar-18-2024$ 1,71016 spots left Reserve
Mar-14-2024Mar-23-2024$ 1,71014 spots left Reserve
Mar-16-2024Mar-25-2024$ 1,71016 spots left Reserve
Apr-04-2024Apr-13-2024$ 1,71014 spots left Reserve
Apr-11-2024Apr-20-2024$ 1,64516 spots left Reserve
Apr-18-2024Apr-27-2024$ 1,64514 spots left Reserve
Apr-25-2024May-04-2024$ 1,64514 spots left Reserve
May-09-2024May-18-2024$ 1,64516 spots left Reserve
May-16-2024May-25-2024$ 1,64516 spots left Reserve
May-23-2024Jun-01-2024$ 1,64515 spots left Reserve
Jun-13-2024Jun-22-2024$ 1,64516 spots left Reserve
Jun-27-2024Jul-06-2024$ 1,64516 spots left Reserve
Jul-04-2024Jul-13-2024$ 1,64516 spots left Reserve
Jul-11-2024Jul-20-2024$ 1,64516 spots left Reserve
Jul-25-2024Aug-03-2024$ 1,64516 spots left Reserve
Aug-08-2024Aug-17-2024$ 1,64516 spots left Reserve
Aug-22-2024Aug-31-2024$ 1,64516 spots left Reserve
Sep-12-2024Sep-21-2024$ 1,64516 spots left Reserve
Sep-26-2024Oct-05-2024$ 1,64516 spots left Reserve
Oct-03-2024Oct-12-2024$ 1,71016 spots left Reserve
Oct-10-2024Oct-19-2024$ 1,71016 spots left Reserve
Oct-17-2024Oct-26-2024$ 1,71016 spots left Reserve
Oct-24-2024Nov-02-2024$ 1,71016 spots left Reserve
Nov-07-2024Nov-16-2024$ 1,77516 spots left Reserve
Nov-14-2024Nov-23-2024$ 1,77516 spots left Reserve
Nov-21-2024Nov-30-2024$ 1,77516 spots left Reserve
Nov-28-2024Dec-07-2024$ 1,77516 spots left Reserve
Nov-30-2024Dec-09-2024$ 1,77516 spots left Reserve
Dec-05-2024Dec-14-2024$ 1,77516 spots left Reserve
Dec-07-2024Dec-16-2024$ 1,77516 spots left Reserve
Dec-12-2024Dec-21-2024$ 1,77516 spots left Reserve
Dec-14-2024Dec-23-2024$ 1,77516 spots left Reserve
Dec-26-2024Jan-04-2025$ 1,77516 spots left Reserve
Dec-28-2024Jan-06-2025$ 1,77514 spots left Reserve
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Check Current Availability, prices, specials with Intrepid Travel.

Prices may vary due to local taxes and trip seasonality. Click "Request Info" to inquire directly with the tour operator for the final trip price.

4,331 Intrepid Travel Travel Reviews & Ratings

94%
4.6 out of 5 (100+ reviews)
Excellent 3,259
Great 675
Average 140
Disappointing 77
Terrible 180
Value
4.6
Guide
4.6
Activities
4.6
Lodging
4.6
Transportation
4.6
Meals
4.6

Guatemala to Belize

A very exciting and educational trip

5.0
Details
Value5.0
Guide5.0
Activities5.0
Lodging5.0
Transportation5.0
Meals5.0
A very exciting and educational trip. If you have Malo as your guide, you’re in very safe hands, as he is awesome! Activities not to miss are the ruins at Tikal, the ATM caves, Snorkelling in Caye Caulker and Chichen Itza. They were all amazing. Would definitely recommend Intrepid, and plan to travel with them again
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Great trip good pace going

5.0
Details
Value5.0
Guide5.0
Activities5.0
Lodging5.0
Transportation5.0
Meals5.0
Great trip good pace going from destination to destination, not too many early mornings. Pyramids white sandy beaches and caves can all be yours

This trip is a perfect introduction to Central America

4.0
Details
Value4.0
Guide4.0
Activities4.0
Lodging4.0
Transportation4.0
Meals4.0
This trip is a perfect introduction to Central America. We loved the variety of the itinerary, and especially enjoyed Guatemala & Belize! Such a shame that Caye Caulker (island in Belize) is not on the itinerary from next year, as that was our favourite place! A couple of long travel days but it’s all part of it. Overall, the trip was awesome and has made us want to head back to Central America ASAP
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Awesome, fast paced trip that has a great balance

5.0
Details
Value5.0
Guide5.0
Activities5.0
Lodging5.0
Transportation5.0
Meals5.0
Awesome, fast paced trip that has a great balance of culture, relaxing beaches and wildlife. The ATM caves and Tikal ruins are must do's, and Caye Caulker snorkeling with sharks is amazing. There are a lot of optional extras so budget accordingly. Cristina our guide was awesome.
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This trip is a good introduction to Central America

5.0
Details
Value5.0
Guide5.0
Activities5.0
Lodging5.0
Transportation5.0
Meals5.0
This trip is a good introduction to Central America, it's geography, history and culture. Although there are some long travel days the pace of this trip is quite relaxed with plenty of opportunities to explore on your own or with the group or just chill, the scenery particularly in Guatemala was stunning. Highlight for us was the visit at sunrise to Chichen Itza (extra cost) which you won't want to miss. Hotel accommodation can be a bit basic and variable but is always clean. You also need to budget around $300 for additional trips such as snorkelling and cave
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An amazing trip

5.0
Details
Value5.0
Guide5.0
Activities5.0
Lodging5.0
Transportation5.0
Meals5.0
An amazing trip, great to explore 3 fantastic countries and experience a variety of cultures. Perfect for solo travellers who enjoy learning about other cultures and their history, adventure and great food!
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Details

Flight & Transport Inclusions

All internal ground transport Private vehicle,Public bus,Local bus,Taxi,Ferry,Shared boat

Group Size

Small Group - 24 max

Maximum Number of People in Group: 16

Accommodations

Hotel (7 nights),Lodge (2 nights)

Guides

All group trips are accompanied by one of our group leaders. The aim of the group leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. Intrepid endeavours to provide the services of an experienced leader however, due to the seasonality of travel, rare situations may arise where your leader is new to a particular region or training other group leaders. Your leader will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense, you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the places visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious, and social aspects. At Intrepid we aim to support local guides who have specialised knowledge of the regions we visit. If you are interested in delving deeper into the local culture at a specific site or location then your leader can recommend a local guide service in most of the main destinations of your trip.

Age Notes :

Min. Age: 15

Max Age: 99

Additional Information

Finish point

  • Caye Caulker Plaza Hotel
  • Avenida Langosta / Calle Al Sol
  • Caye Caulker
  • BELIZE
  • Phone: 501 226 0780

Trip ID#:

intrepid-QVSB

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