Ruins Rainforests & Reefs in Guatemala and Belize
14 days from £3,933 pp
Over two weeks, discover Ruins, Rainforests and Reefs in Guatemala and Belize, blending local culture, beautiful landscapes and meaningful community connections throughout. Begin by wandering the cobblestone streets of Antigua, explore the Maya villages and dramatic scenery of Lake Atitlan. Uncover the mystical ruins of Tikal before crossing into the Belizean jungle, home to outdoor adventures, ancient Maya sites and extraordinary biodiversity. Conclude your journey on the white sands of Ambergris Island, snorkeling the Belize Barrier Reef and relaxing into laid-back island life.
Trip Highlights
- Explore Lake Atitlán with village visits, cultural workshops, and a stay at a sustainable cliff-side lodge
- Be wowed by Tikal, one of the largest Mayan complexes in Central America
- Escape the crowds in Belize’s Mayan Mountains
- Snorkel the world’s second largest barrier reef
Our Expert Tip
”For an unforgettable experience, escape the crowds and visit Tikal at sunrise. Watching the mist lift off the temples as the jungle comes alive with the roar of howler monkeys and birdsong is truly spectacular”
Sinead, Central America Expert
Detailed Ruins Rainforests & Reefs in Guatemala and Belize Itinerary
Day 1-3: Antigua
Arrive in Guatemala City and transfer to the UNESCO World Heritage city of Antigua, a beautifully preserved colonial town surrounded by volcanoes and Maya communities.
Stay in a locally owned boutique hotel and join your local guide on a walking tour wandering the cobblestone streets, bright plazas, and artisan markets.
Visit a bean-to-bar workshop, where you’ll craft your own chocolate while discovering cacao’s deep cultural roots in Guatemala.
Day 4-6: Lake Atitlán
Journey through the highlands to the majestic Lake Atitlan, framed by volcanoes and indigenous villages.
Check into your eco-friendly hotel, accessible only by boat and perched on a secluded cliff and spend your days navigating the lake and visiting nearby communities.
With time at leisure, swim, kayak and soak up the panoramic lake views.
Day 7-8: Flores
Return to Guatemala City and hop on a short flight to Flores. With a certified local guide, spend a full day exploring the legendary Mayan archaeological site of Tikal- a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the largest Mayan sites in Central America.
Nestled in the heart of the jungle, Tikal is alive with wildlife, including monkeys, macaws, and toucans.
Explore its plazas and temples and discover the history of this ancient Mayan civilisation. Thinking of extending your holiday and adding on a few nights in a more remote and beautiful area of Belize, escaping the typical route? Take a look at our Wildlife and Nature of Guatemala and Belize Holiday which includes the Orange Walk district for a true wilderness escape.
Day 9-11: Cayo District
Cross the border and travel to your jungle eco-lodge nestled in the dense rainforest of the Mayan mountains of Belize. During your stay explore the natural wonder of Barton Creek and canoe through its cave’s cathedral like chambers.
At leisure, explore one of the many jungle hiking trails at the lodge, river tube down the Macal river, wake early for a spot of bird watching or join a tour to one of the many nearby Mayan ruins such as Caracol or Xunantunich.
Day 12-15: The Cayes
Conclude your Ruins Rainforests & Reefs Guatemala and Belize Holiday with a stay at a laid-back tropical hideaway on the island of Ambergris Caye.
Check into your boutique eco-hotel- Belize’s first Island Certified Green Globe Property, perfectly positioned with uninterrupted views of the Belize Barrier Reef.
Snorkel Hol Chan Alley and swim with nurse sharks, sting rays and turtles and soak up island life, relaxing on the white-Caribbean sands.
When to Go
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Need More Inspiration?
Want to combine multi-countries, take less flights, or include a hike in Patagonia? Thinking of a longer sabbatical holiday, or staying in some luxury yurts? It’s all possible; all our holidays are tailor-made with a focus on responsible travel. Take a look at more ideas below, and contact our experts.
