Trip Details
Stretching more than 180 miles along the Caribbean coast, Belize’s Barrier Reef system is one of the world’s remarkable natural wonders. Set out by kayak to explore its pristine coral atolls, mangrove islands, and white-sand beaches. Snorkel in crystal-clear waters and discover the astonishing diversity of marine life just below the surface. Spot rainbow-colored tropical fish, eels, rays, turtles, and dolphins. At Half Moon Caye, a protected marine reserve, sleep in starlit tents and discover the island’s colony of rare red-footed boobies. Then explore an extraordinary Maya cave system and delve into the UNESCO World Heritage site of Tikal National Park, where Maya temples poke through a jungle canopy. Along the way, stay in tropical lodges ideally situated for spotting birds and wildlife.Trip Highlights
Itinerary - 10 Days
Day 1 — Belize City/Turneffe Atoll
Arrive in Belize City and meet your trip leader for a boat transfer to the Caribbean coast. Board our charter boat to Blackbird Caye, located on the eastern side of Turneffe atoll. After settling into our lodge, gather for an orientation and welcome dinner in a thatched-roof palapa overlooking the water.
Blackbird Caye Resort (D)
Day 2 — Turneffe Atoll
This morning, embark on our first sea kayaking expedition at Turneffe atoll, the most biologically diverse coral atoll in the Western Hemisphere. Paddling through crystal-clear waters, explore mangrove-lined lagoons and an incredibly rich reef ecosystem. Don your snorkel to explore up-close the kaleidoscope of coral formations, home to eels, rays, turtles, and an array of tropical fish. (4-8 miles paddling, 4-6 hours)
Blackbird Caye Resort (B,L,D)
Day 3 — Turneffe Atoll
Kayak along shallow lagoons and secluded cays that are a natural nursery for exotic fish including the rare whitespotted toadfish. Snorkel and explore an underwater habitat of tube sponges, sea fans, and vast coral gardens. (6-8 miles paddling, 4-5 hours)
Blackbird Caye Resort (B,L,D)
Day 4 — Lighthouse Reef/Half Moon Caye
After breakfast, depart by boat for Lighthouse Reef at the furthest edge of the Belize Barrier Reef. Settle into our comfortable base camp at Half Moon Caye, a pristine nature reserve of littoral forest and white-sand beaches. Numerous bird species nest here, including a colony of rare red-footed boobies. Spend the afternoon kayaking the sheltered waters and snorkeling offshore reefs where parrotfish, angelfish, and grouper hide in coral grooves. (4-6 miles paddling, 3-4 hours)
Camping on Lighthouse Reef (B,L,D)
Day 5 — Lighthouse Reef/Half Moon Caye
This morning, discover the island’s diverse wildlife, including red-footed boobies, spiny-tailed iguanas, and the endemic Belize atoll gecko. The rest of the day offers numerous options for exploration. Snorkel the coral lagoon, take to the sea in specially outfitted sailing kayaks, or cruise to outlying reefs for excellent fishing. Tonight, enjoy a dinner of fresh seafood and Belizean specialties. (4-8 miles paddling, 4-6 hours)
Camping on Lighthouse Reef (B,L,D)
Day 6 — Lighthouse Reef Atoll/Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary
Enjoy a final day among the serene beauty of Belize's coral atolls. If you wish, rise early for a sunrise yoga session or fishing expedition. Or spend the morning snorkeling at your favorite coral patch. This afternoon, return by boat to the mainland and transfer to the Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary, a lush habitat of lagoons, creeks, and tropical forest. (3-6 miles paddling, 2-3 hours)
Bird’s Eye View Lodge (B,L,D)
Day 7 — Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary/Lamanai/Cayo District
Rise early to enjoy one of the best birding spots in Belize. From kingfishers and egrets to snail kites and jabiru storks, the logwood thickets teem with birds and wildlife. After breakfast, we’ll set out by boat along the New River to explore the Mayan ruins of Lamanai. One of the largest archaeological sites in Belize, Lamanai features ancient pyramids, vine-draped temples, and artifacts dating back to at least 1500 B.C. Later this afternoon, travel to the Cayo District of western Belize and settle into our jungle lodge overlooking the Macal River.
Black Rock Lodge (B,L,D)
Day 8 — Actun Tunichil Muknal
Spend a relaxing morning amid the lodge’s stunning rain forest surroundings. This afternoon, set out for Actun Tunichil Muknal, an extraordinary cave system in Tapir Mountain Nature Reserve. Descend into a Maya underworld of cathedral-like caves and ceremonial chambers. Leave the caves this evening and embark on a jungle night walk, keeping an eye out for Belize’s numerous nocturnal species. Tonight, enjoy dinner on your own and a chance to try some local specialties in San Ignacio. (3-5 miles hiking, 4-5 hours)
Black Rock Lodge (B,L)
Day 9 — Tikal National Park
After breakfast, travel across the border to Guatemala and explore the archaeological wonders of the ancient Maya city of Tikal, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Marvel at the magnitude of this sprawling city built on the backs of Maya laborers. Explore some of the more than 3,000 spectacular stone structures, from pyramids and plazas to temples piercing the jungle canopy. Return to our lodge for a festive farewell dinner. (4-6 miles hiking, 4-5 hours)
Black Rock Lodge (B,L,D)
Day 10 — Belize City/U.S.
At the Belize Zoo this morning, get better acquainted with endemic wildlife including jaguars, tapirs, and toucans. Then transfer to the airport for your return flight home.
(B)
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National Geographic Adventures are unique, active itineraries for intrepid travelers that combine spectacular places, cultural interaction, and physical challenge. You'll explore fascinating, off-the-beaten-path places with top guides, and wherever possible, meet National Geographic experts in the field.
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GROUP SIZE: 8–16
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Activity Level
Belize’s sheltered waters are ideal for sea kayaking, while its atolls and reefs offer exceptional snorkeling. This trip is suitable for beginner and expert kayakers alike; no previous experience is necessary. We will be paddling stable, two-person kayaks for an average of 2 – 6 hours a day, which includes snorkeling time. We will camp 2 nights in well-equipped cabana-style tents located in the heart of a protected marine park. We will stay 7 nights in comfortable lodges and hotels that combine ideal locations and local charm.
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