Belize and Guatemala Wonders

Day 1 Embarkation in Belize City

On arrival in Belize you will be met and transferred to the Safari Voyager, and the start of your Belize and Guatemala expedition cruise.

Day 2 Belize Barrier Reef

Explore Ranguana Caye, a private island ideally suited for snorkelling, swimming, and paddle boarding. Alternatively you can kick back in a hammock under swaying palms and watch the fishermen off shore. Continue to Laughing Bird Caye National Park, named after Belize’s iconic laughing gull. Here you can kayak or snorkel amongst the colourful angelfish, parrotfish, tangs, sea sponges, and elkhorn, staghorn, and brain coral of the Belize Barrier Reef. As the sun sets, circle back to Ranguana Caye where an under-the-stars beach party celebrates all things Caribbean.

Day 3 Payne’s Creek National Park, Belize

Set off early on a birdwatching skiff cruise, a hike through Payne Creek National Park’s savannah, or a guided kayak excursion through the mangroves. Black howler monkeys, white tail deer, crocodiles, and over 300 species of birds may join you along the way, and you may even be lucky enough to spot a manatee. At Punta Negra, a class on coconut or baked goods acquaints you with the local culture in the most delicious way. This afternoon there will be time for kayaking or snorkelling at Frenchman's or West Snake Caye.

Day 4 Rio Dulce and Livingston, Guatemala

Discover Guatemala via its ‘sweet river’, the Rio Dulce. Glide past limestone cliffs where North American and Caribbean plates meet and jungles of howler monkeys and toucans tower above. Take it all in or grab a kayak and paddle through mangroves of lily pads, past thatch-roofed homes. Stretch your legs in charming Livingston, a town perched on a hill lined with palms and packed with bustling shops and Caribbean flair. Go for an amble or enjoy an optional hike from town to The Seven Altars waterfalls.

Day 5 Punta Gorda, Belize

Visit the colourful markets of Punta Gorda, where you can find wooden and woven crafts, fresh produce, chillies, and tamales. Try a ripe mango or taste the local cassava as you stroll past brightly painted buildings and hear a jumble of languages and dialects from the locals. For lunch, sample Mayan flavours paired with a cacao or coconut demonstration. Delve deeper into history with a trip to nearby Mayan ruins. Later, return to the white sand cayes and snorkel with sergeant major, purple reef fish, and damselfish, while pelicans swoop overhead.

Day 6 Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, Belize

This protected jungle offers a range of hikes to suit all fitness levels, yet all boasting incredible wildlife. Hear the call of a crested guan, red-capped manakin, black-headed trogon, or Amazon kingfisher. Look up at the arching palms and heart-shaped leaves tumbling from the trees or scour the forest floor for leafcutter ants on the move. A paw print on the path could be a sign of the elusive jaguar. After your trek, drift on a lazy river in an inner tube or find out more about the sanctuary’s flora and fauna at the museum. Your day ends with a visit and cultural demonstration from the local Garifuna people.

Day 7 Carrie Bow Caye, Belize

Sail through the outer reef marvelling at the colours of the water below: a blanket of turquoise is covered in giant, bright green patches marking the sand and seagrass beneath the surface. At Carrie Bow Caye you will have the chance to observe scientists at work in this Smithsonian Marine Field Station, dedicated to the study of coral, seagrass, snails, and sea turtles. There will also be time for one last chance to snorkel, kayak or paddle board, before enjoying a Captain’s Farewell Dinner back on board the ship.

Day 8 Disembark in Belize City

After breakfast bid farewell to your fellow-adventurers and the ship’s crew, before you disembark and transfer back to Belize City Airport.