Belize and Guatemala Wonders
Overview
Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site of the Belize Barrier Reef, the world’s second-largest coral reef, and hike through savannah and jungle in search of jaguars, howler monkeys and crocodiles. As you cruise amongst the many islands and bays of this Central American paradise you will also have the opportunity to learn about indigenous Mayan and Garifuna cultures, kayak through mangroves, visit the world’s first jaguar sanctuary and embrace the colour and flavour of the Caribbean.
Highlights
- Kayaking through mangroves and snorkelling at the UNESCO Belize Barrier Reef
- Visiting the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, the world’s first jaguar sanctuary
- Discovering Mayan ruins and modern day Indigenous culture
- Wildlife encounters on land and under water
- Meeting the researchers at the Smithsonian Marine Field Station
- Hiking through verdant jungles surrounded by a cacophony of birds
- Informal presentations from expert guides
What's Included
- Shipboard accommodation
- All breakfasts, lunches & dinners on board
- Shore landings and skiff cruises
- Snorkelling, kayaking and paddle-boarding excursions
- Experienced guides on board
- 24 hour emergency assistance from our team during your holiday
- No surcharge guarantee
- Full financial protection
Full description
As you explore the vibrant coastlines of Belize and Guatemala, your on-board expedition guides will be on hand to provide explanations about the surrounding flora, fauna and history. Your adventure begins with the chance to snorkel or kayak at the Belize Barrier Reef and discover the region’s cayes and national parks. In Guatemala you’ll paddle through mangroves and explore local villages before delving deep into Mayan history as you journey back into Belize.
Wildlife abounds: throughout your expedition you’re likely to spot countless bird species, marine wildlife including sea turtles, manatees and colourful tropical fish, and jungle inhabitants such as howler monkeys, white deer and maybe even the elusive jaguar. You will even have the unique opportunity to observe Smithsonian scientists carrying out essential marine research, before returning to Belize City and the end of your Caribbean cruise.
Prices & Dates
Prices are per person, based on a twin Master cabin
Departure | Duration | Vessel | Price |
---|---|---|---|
31 Oct 2020 | 8 days | Safari Voyager | £4,046 |
07 Nov 2020 | 8 days | Safari Voyager | £4,046 |
14 Nov 2020 | 8 days | Safari Voyager | £4,046 |
21 Nov 2020 | 8 days | Safari Voyager | £4,046 |
28 Nov 2020 | 8 days | Safari Voyager | £4,046 |
05 Dec 2020 | 8 days | Safari Voyager | £4,046 |
What's Included
- Shipboard accommodation
- All breakfasts, lunches & dinners on board
- All skiff transfers, cruising & shore landings
- Guided snorkelling, kayaking and paddle-boarding excursions
- Presentations by the on-board team of guides
- Return airport-ship transfers
- All miscellaneous entry fees, service taxes and port charges
- 24 hour emergency assistance from our team during your holiday
- No surcharge guarantee
- Full financial protection »
Itinerary & Accommodation
Itinerary & Accommodation
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.
Safari Voyager
Grade: Standard
Type: Expedition Ship
A home away from home in the tropical climes of Costa Rica and Panama, the Safari Voyager is equipped for adventure on and in the water.
Discover MoreFind a holiday idea or suggested itinerary that inspires you, then send an enquiry or call us
Your dedicated travel specialist will create a quote based on your preferences
Together we’ll refine your itinerary until you’re happy and ready to book
From the moment you book until you return home we’re here for you no matter what
You may also like
Costa Rica and Panama Discovery
Baja California Explorer
Cruise the Hawaiian Islands
- Experienced destination experts
- Dedicated travel specialist throughout
- Flexible and hassle free
- Tailor made holidays to suit you
- First-hand destination experience
- Inspirational and authentic itineraries
- Local award winning guides
- Honest, trustworthy, established
- 24-hr support whilst on holiday
- Full financial protection
- No surcharges
- Travel disruption protection