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Final Up to date on January 11, 2024 by Nellie Huang

Solely have 1 week in Belize? Try my detailed Belize itinerary that packs within the nation’s greatest adventures.

Welcome to Belize, a rustic that straddles between the Caribbean Sea and the dense Central American rainforests. It could be the second smallest nation in Central America, but it surely certain packs a punch — it’s house to the world’s second-largest barrier reef, lots of of islands with powdery white sand, historic Mayan temples that tower over lush jungles, complicated cave programs that run underground, and a cultural heritage as wealthy as its landscapes.

We first traveled Belize as a part of a six-month backpacking journey, however we lately returned with our 8-year-old and located ourselves captivated as soon as once more by the the rhythm of Belize – a harmonious mix of laid-back Caribbean vibes, the decision of unique wildlife, and the heat of a novel tradition.

Belize is sufficiently small which you could simply see the highlights in a single week, excellent for a brief getaway! I’m sharing our 1-week Belize itinerary, that can carry you from the sun-kissed seashores of Caye Caulker to the mysterious depths of the ATM Cave.

Belize Itinerary & Information

Belize Itinerary on Map

This one week Belize itinerary will present you three totally different sides to the town: first you’ll do a fast wander round hectic Belize Metropolis, then you definately’ll absorb island vibes on each Ambergris Caye (aka San Pedro) and Caye Caulker. The islands are excellent for snorkeling, scuba diving and even deep-sea fishing!

My Belize itinerary finally brings you to inland to the jungles surrounding San Ignacio, the place you’ll be able to discover Belize’s most spectacular Mayan ruins, go to the legendary ATM caves, and keep in an eco lodge within the jungle. 

With this itinerary for Belize, you’ll get a style of the most effective of the nation and expertise how versatile and numerous the small nation may be.

 


Learn how to Get to Belize

This Belize itinerary begins and ends within the capital metropolis, Belize Metropolis. The principle gateway to Belize is the Phillip S.W. Goldson Worldwide Airport (BZE). It serves many cities within the US. You will get flights from Denver to Belize Metropolis for simply US$380 return and from New York for US$500 return. Seek for flights to Belize Metropolis.

Belize can be surprisingly straightforward to get to from Mexico; we drove over from our house in Playa del Carmen in Mexico and it took us simply over 5 hours to get to the Belize border. If you happen to don’t have your personal transport, there are buses that go straight from Chetumal to Belize Metropolis (try buses right here). It’s also possible to take a water taxi from Chetumal to San Pedro or Caye Caulker. Learn extra about water taxis beneath.

Getting round Belize

By Water Taxi

Water taxis are the preferred approach to get from one island to a different in Belize. If you happen to’re touring to Belize from Mexico, the water taxis are essentially the most handy approach to get from Chetumal to Ambergris Caye or Caye Caulker. The water taxis are usually medium-sized, sheltered boats with restricted seating and so they can get bumpy and tight.

They’re not low-cost although, at round US$76 for a one-way experience from Chetumal to Ambergris Caye. It’s extra reasonably priced to drive or take a bus to Belize Metropolis, then take a water taxi from there, which prices round US$31 for a one-way journey. E-book your water taxis right here.

By Automotive

We drove our personal automotive from Mexico overland into Belize Metropolis, parked it by the pier (whereas we had been on the islands) after which drove to San Ignacio and again to Mexico. Renting a automotive is unquestionably a simple approach to journey round Belize — roads in Belize aren’t the most effective, however site visitors is managable and it’s straightforward to seek out your method round. If you happen to’ve received expertise driving overseas, it undoubtedly makes for an journey!

We all the time e book automotive rental on Uncover Vehicles, as they’ve constantly given us the most effective charges and repair. A 1-week automotive rental in Belize prices round US$400, not together with insurance coverage. E-book your automotive rental right here.

By Bus

If you happen to’re on a funds, buses are the most affordable approach to get round Belize. Not like Mexico, Belize doesn’t have correct big-coach buses that go between cities. There are many hen buses which might be actually low-cost however unreliable. It’s also possible to take personal shuttles between cities particularly when you’re touring in a bunch and may get monetary savings by splitting the associated fee. E-book your shuttle switch.

Belize Itinerary Day 1: Land in Belize Metropolis

Many vacationers are inclined to keep away from Belize Metropolis because it doesn’t have the most effective status. Truthfully it’s fairly tough across the edges and there aren’t so much to see and do right here. I counsel spending a day or just some hours right here to get your bearings. First, catch a non-public shuttle from the airport to the town middle for US$16. E-book your switch right here.

Begin by exploring the historic Swing Bridge, the oldest swing bridge in Belize. Watch it rise above the murky waters to let water taxis move. This iconic landmark connects the north and south sides of Belize Metropolis. From there, stroll over to St. John’s Cathedral, the oldest Anglican cathedral in Central America, famend for its structure significance.

Afterward, make your approach to the Museum of Belize (pictured beneath), housed within the historic Belize Central Jail, providing insights into Belize’s historical past, tradition, and pure heritage. The museum is surprisingly insightful and the setting can’t be extra apt. Head to the Riverside Tavern for recent seafood or easy Belizean dishes.  take a stroll to the waterfront “Welcome to Belize” signal, capturing memorable images of your time in Belize Metropolis.

The place to Keep in Belize Metropolis

Price range: The Crimson Hut Inn

The Crimson Hut Inn is a budget-friendly possibility providing comfy lodging. It’s recognized for its pleasant employees and clear rooms. Whereas it could not have all of the facilities of higher-end motels, it supplies a very good worth for budget-conscious vacationers. Test charges right here.

Mid-Vary: Radisson Fort George Resort and Marina

Positioned proper on the waterfront, this can be a mid-range possibility with a waterfront location. It gives comfy rooms, a swimming pool, and numerous facilities. The resort is conveniently located close to key points of interest in Belize Metropolis. Test charges right here.

Luxurious: Shaka Caye All Inclusive Resort

Positioned outdoors of Belize Metropolis proper on the seaside, this upscale resort gives beachfront lodging, wonderful eating, a spa, and a spread of leisure actions. With its high-end furnishing, it supplies an opulent seaside escape proper within the metropolis. Test charges right here.

Belize Itinerary Day 2: Head to Ambergris Caye

After a day in Belize Metropolis, it’s time to move out to the cayes (small, low islands composed largely of coral or sand) that Belize is understood for! You’re going to first head to Ambergris Caye, the most important and hottest island in Belize. The city of San Pedro, situated on the southern a part of the caye, is a bustling hub with colourful buildings, energetic streets, and a various culinary scene.

Water Taxi vs Airplane?

The most affordable approach to get to San Pedro from Belize Metropolis is by water taxi; a one-way ferry ticket prices US$31 and it takes 1h30min. As talked about, water taxis are often small and area is tight, however they depart commonly and are environment friendly.

However you probably have the funds, I like to recommend flying there in your method there. Flights are round US$84 per particular person a technique and the views on the flight are completely spectacular! The flight is in a tiny, tremendous informal-feeling airplane, gliding over water in essentially the most stunning shades of inexperienced and blue that you can think of. Flights are cheaper when you e book them prematurely on Maya Island Air’s web site.

Wander round Ambergris Caye

When you’ve settled in San Pedro, take into account renting a golf cart to discover the island. It’s value visiting the mangrove forests or the Marco Gonzalez Maya Web site, an historic Maya buying and selling and fishing outpost. Guided excursions can be found to supply insights into the wealthy historical past of the area. 

It’s also possible to drive all the way in which to Secret Seaside, which is not a secret anymore. Secret Seaside has shallow spearmint waters, excellent for swimming and stress-free. You possibly can even go fishing right here along with your spinning reel and revel in some quiet time.

The place to Keep in San Pedro

Price range: Drift Inn

Positioned within the coronary heart of San Pedro, Drift Inn gives budget-friendly lodging with out compromising on consolation. With a central location, it supplies easy accessibility to the city’s points of interest, eating places, and seashores. Test charges right here.

Mid-Vary: SunBreeze Resort

We stayed at SunBreeze Resort, an awesome mid-range possibility located on the beachfront, providing comfy rooms and a spread of facilities. We liked the handy location and straightforward seaside entry. Test charges right here.

Luxurious: Victoria Home Resort & Spa

For an opulent expertise, take into account Victoria Home Resort & Spa. This upscale resort is understood for its elegant lodging, stunning beachfront setting, and high-end facilities. It gives a tranquil and indulgent retreat on Ambergris Caye. Test charges right here.

Belize Itinerary Day 3: Dive the Blue Gap

Ambergris Caye is famend for its proximity to the Belize Barrier Reef, providing distinctive snorkeling and diving alternatives. If you happen to’re a PADI-certified diver, don’t miss diving within the Blue Gap, a legendary submarine cave that attracts scuba divers from around the globe. The round Blue Gap is over 330m in diameter and 120m deep, and it was fashioned when the roof of a limestone cave system collapsed in the course of the ice age.

Sadly diving right here isn’t for freshmen; you’ll must have the PADI Superior Open Water license to scuba dive right here. We solely had the Primary Open Water license so missed out on the possibility to see the Blue Gap. If you’re licensed, try Scuba Faculty and Household Dive Heart, which has the most effective opinions on TripAdvisor.

Alternatively, you too can go for a sightseeing flight for aerial views of the Blue Gap. From the air, the spherical patch of darkish blue waters surrounded by shallow turquoise waters and coral reefs appears to be like unbelievable. It’s not low-cost in fact, at US$215 for a 1-hour flight.

Snorkel with Sharks at Hol-Chan Marine Reserve

Within the afternoon, e book your self on a snorkel tour within the Hol-Chan Marine Reserve close to Ambergris Caye. Marine life is excellent right here – we noticed large nurse sharks, bumphead parrot fish, and even an eagle noticed ray! It was a surreal expertise because the ray slowly glided previous us, so gently and relaxingly. Visibility within the water is as clear as it may possibly get and snorkeling situations are near excellent.  This was by far our favourite a part of this Belize itinerary.

Within the night, deal with your self to a beachfront dinner on the beachfront Blue Water Grill, which serves us hearty Belizean staples and freshly grilled seafood. One other spot value testing is The Truck Cease, a meals truck park with a wide range of choices. Benefit from the sundown views over the Caribbean Sea whereas savoring recent and scrumptious Belizean delicacies.

Belize Itinerary Day 4: Jump over to Caye Caulker

Only a hop away from San Pedro is Caye Caulker, the smaller sister island, which gives a extra budget-friendly and laid-back expertise in comparison with Ambergris Caye. It’s only a 30-minute water taxi experience away; a one-way ticket prices US$21 per particular person. E-book your water taxi right here.

With a quieter, low-key vibe, Caye Caulker appeals extra to the backpacker crowd with its laid again, reggae vibes. We completely love Caye Caulker — each after we had been younger backpackers 20 years in the past, and now with our 8-year-old child in tow. There aren’t any roads, no air pollution, no loud noises. Simply mushy winds, mild music and the infinite sea.

Try my advisable issues to do on Caye Caulker.

Chill on the Break up

Spend your time swinging away on the hammocks by the Break up, on the northern finish of the caye. The Break up was fashioned in 1961 when Hurricane Hattie hit, splitting Caye Caulker in two. It’s turn into a preferred place to relax, snorkel and hang around. The shallow waters are clear, refreshing and filled with marine life. Plus there are seaside bars proper on the facet of the Spit, so you’ll be able to actually pull your seaside benches out and sit within the water whereas consuming an ice chilly beer.

Kayak to the Northern Mangroves

It’s also possible to lease a kayak right here and paddle to the mangrove reserve within the distant northern half of Caye Caulker. It makes for a enjoyable tour, particularly within the mornings when birdlife is wealthy. Tsunami Adventures manage kayaking journeys for B$15 (US$7.50) within the first hour and B$10 (US$5) for subsequent hours. It’s very easy to kayak within the calm waters across the northern a part of Caye Caulker, so don’t fear when you don’t have any expertise. E-book their journeys right here!

The place to Keep on Caye Caulker 

Price range: Popeye’s Seaside Resort

On our first journey to Belize, we stayed at Popeye’s Seaside Resort and had the time of our lives hanging out with different backpackers and simply chilling. Quick ahead to fifteen years later, Popeye’s nonetheless stays an establishment, with dormitory-style rooms and a communal environment. Test charges right here.

Mid-Vary: Tropical Paradise Resort

Tropical Paradise Resort is a mid-range possibility providing comfy rooms and a calming environment. Located near the seaside and central areas, it supplies a handy location for exploring the island. The resort options facilities comparable to a pool and a pleasant employees, making it a sensible choice for these looking for a stability between affordability and luxury. Test charges right here.

Luxurious: La Isla Resort

There aren’t many luxurious resorts on Caye Caulker; however this is among the few nicer ones. We stayed right here with our pals on our current journey and actually loved the pool and the good campfire space with comfortable benches and hammocks. Whereas the rooms are small, the resort is situated proper on the seaside and in a quiet however central location. Test charges right here.

Belize Itinerary Day 5: Drive to San Ignacio

Begin the day brilliant and early with a morning water taxi experience again to Belize Metropolis. It’s only a 1-hour boat experience (US$21 a technique). When you arrive on the ferry terminal, both decide up your rental automotive or take a taxi to the bus terminal. It ought to take round 3 hours to get to the plush jungly inside of Belize.

When you arrive, test into your ecolodge and take a stroll round city. San Ignacio’s vibrant market supplies an genuine style of Belizean life. Have some fry jacks (puffy crisp deep-fried flour dough) on the market or duck into Cenaida’s Belizean Meals for some coconut hen or Creole fish.

See the Inexperienced Iguanas

After lunch, drop into San Ignacio Resort Resort to take a look at the Inexperienced Iguana Conservation Mission. They run guided excursions of their services commonly all through the day, and the information supplies enjoyable and fascinating details about the inexperienced iguana. You’re free to get pleasant with the inexperienced iguanas, the infants are particularly playful.

Discover the Mayan Ruins

It’s time to move into the jungle! San Ignacio serves as a gateway to quite a few archaeological websites, together with the famend Maya ruins of Xunantunich and Cahal Pech. We had been actually impressed by the sheer scale of Xunantunich (simply half-hour from San Ignacio) — the large Mayan complicated can rival Palenque in Mexico and Tikal in Guatemala when it comes to its magnitude and grandeur. The smaller Cahal Pech ruins are inside strolling distance from San Ignacio city.

 

The place to Keep in San Ignacio

Price range: Mana Kai Tenting and Cabins

Positioned on the town, Mana Kai gives an reasonably priced eco-friendly lodging possibility in San Ignacio. Set inside a pristine pure surroundings, this budget-friendly lodge supplies company with a detailed connection to nature whereas sustaining affordability. Test charges right here.

Mid-Vary: The Lodge at Chaa Creek

Located amidst a non-public nature reserve, this upscale lodge gives a spread of comfy lodging and upscale facilities whereas prioritizing eco-friendly practices. Additionally they supply guided nature walks, birdwatching, and discover the lodge’s dedication to environmental conservation. Test charges right here.

Luxurious: Ka’ana Resort

For these looking for an opulent eco-friendly expertise in San Ignacio, Ka’ana Resort is an upscale resort that mixes lavish lodging with a dedication to sustainability. Surrounded by lush landscapes, Ka’ana gives company a high-end retreat that includes wonderful eating, spa companies, and unique entry to Belize’s pure wonders. Test charges right here.

Belize Itinerary Day 6: Go Caving within the ATM Caves

We’ve saved the most effective for final! Rise early to go on an adventurous tour of the ATM Cave (Actun Tunichil Muknal), some of the well-known sights of Belize. Named some of the sacred caves on the earth by Nationwide Geographic, the ATM Caves is a must-visit for journey vacationers. Geologically, the cave extends over a kilometer, meandering by slim rock formations till unveiling a powerful, glittering atrium adorned with crystallized stalagmites and stalactites.

Nonetheless, what really distinguishes the ATM Cave is its position because the resting place for a number of human sacrifices. Inside its depths lie 14 partial and near-whole stays, notably the “Crystal Maiden” – a remarkably preserved skeleton adorned with crystals on the coronary heart of the cave. Amidst the human stays, the cave additionally homes quite a few pottery fragments, ceremonially shattered as a part of the sacrificial rituals.

The ATM caves can solely be visited on a guided tour, and it requires a sure stage of health. We didn’t do that as we had been touring Belize with our child, however this ATM cave tour appears to get the most effective opinions.

Belize Itinerary Day 7: Again to Belize Metropolis

Sadly, your Belize journey has come to an finish and it’s time to move again to Belize Metropolis. Both catch a hen bus from the bus station, or drive again to Belize Metropolis Airport (which ought to take slightly below 2 hours). Alternatively, e book this shuttle that’ll carry you out of your San Ignacio airport to the airport.

Belize Journey Information

Greatest Time to Go to Belize

The perfect time to go to Belize is in the course of the dry season, which generally spans from November to April. This era ensures favorable climate situations with decrease possibilities of rain, offering optimum alternatives for outside actions, exploration, and having fun with the pristine seashores and coral reefs.

The height vacationer season falls between December and April when Belize is blessed with nice temperatures, clear skies, and vibrant marine life for actions comparable to snorkeling and diving. However notice that that is additionally the excessive season, leading to increased lodging costs and elevated crowds.

For these looking for a stability between favorable climate and fewer vacationers, the shoulder seasons of late April to early June and September to early November supply good options, albeit with some potential for rain in the course of the latter interval.

Is It Protected to Go to Belize?

Belize is mostly thought-about a secure vacation spot for vacationers, particularly when you comply with the vacationer path. In response to international journey security stories, Belize has a reasonable crime charge, with most incidents occurring in Belize Metropolis. Most vacationers, together with ourselves, expertise a trouble-free keep.

We’ve been to Belize twice, and by no means had something unhealthy occur to us. Training commonsense security measures, comparable to safeguarding private belongings and being conscious of 1’s environment, contributes to a safe journey expertise in Belize.

How A lot Does This Belize Itinerary Value?

Belize is among the pricier locations in Central America, aligning extra carefully with the price of dwelling in Costa Rica and Panama than with its neighboring Mexico and Guatemala. However it’s potential to maintain to a low funds, particularly when you keep on with hostels and native diners.

Hostels often are available underneath $25 per night time, mid-range motels sometimes fall inside the $50-100 per night time vary, whereas luxurious choices value $150 and above per night time. Consuming in easy diners value $5-8 per meal and $15-20 in a restaurant. Needless to say these figures are approximate, topic to variation based mostly on elements just like the time of yr.

Day journeys are usually fairly costly, with half-day snorkeling excursions at round US$50 or extra. A caving tour within the ATM caves often prices over $100, but it surely’s the spotlight of Belize and you may’t miss it!

What to Pack for Belize

For this journey to Belize, you’ll be spending most of your time within the sea, so undoubtedly pack numerous sun-proof gear. KEEN footwear or regular sandals are additionally actually helpful to stroll on seashores strewn with seashells or corals.

Snorkel masks and fins will are available helpful as you’ll be utilizing them alot right here. If you happen to’re planning to go fishing, you’ll want to carry your spinning reels or different gear that you just won’t have the ability to discover in Belize.

Packing Record for Belize

Get pleasure from Your Belize Journey!

Are you able to discover Belize? Hope you discovered my Belize itinerary helpful! As a result of the nation isn’t too large, you’ll be able to truly see and expertise rather a lot in to 1 week in Belize. Be happy to bookmark this Belize itinerary in your telephone and refer it to it as you go alongside.

You’ll want to depart a remark beneath you probably have any questions. We’ll be glad to assist in any method we will!

Disclaimer: This put up incorporates affiliate hyperlinks i.e. I’ll get a small fee once you e book something by my hyperlinks, at NO additional value to you. I solely suggest corporations I’ve personally used and loved.

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