Final Up to date on January 11, 2024 by Nellie Huang
Solely have 1 week in Belize? Take a look at 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, however it positive packs a punch — it’s residence to the world’s second-largest barrier reef, tons of of islands with powdery white sand, historical Mayan temples that tower over lush jungles, complicated cave methods 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 just 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 you could simply see the highlights in a single week, good 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 completely different sides to town: first you’ll do a fast wander round hectic Belize Metropolis, then you definitely’ll take in island vibes on each Ambergris Caye (aka San Pedro) and Caye Caulker. The islands are good 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 may 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 very best of the nation and expertise how versatile and numerous the small nation may be.
Get to Belize
This Belize itinerary begins and ends within the capital metropolis, Belize Metropolis. The primary gateway to Belize is the Phillip S.W. Goldson Worldwide Airport (BZE). It serves many cities within the US. You may 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 also be surprisingly straightforward to get to from Mexico; we drove over from our residence in Playa del Carmen in Mexico and it took us simply over 5 hours to get to the Belize border. In case you don’t have your individual transport, there are buses that go straight from Chetumal to Belize Metropolis (take a look at buses right here). You can too take a water taxi from Chetumal to San Pedro or Caye Caulker. Learn extra about water taxis under.
Getting round Belize
By Water Taxi
Water taxis are the most well-liked approach to get from one island to a different in Belize. In case you’re touring to Belize from Mexico, the water taxis are probably the most handy approach to get from Chetumal to Ambergris Caye or Caye Caulker. The water taxis are typically medium-sized, sheltered boats with restricted seating they usually can get bumpy and tight.
They’re not low cost although, at round US$76 for a one-way trip 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. Ebook your water taxis right here.
By Automobile
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 certainly a straightforward approach to journey round Belize — roads in Belize aren’t the very best, however visitors is managable and it’s straightforward to search out your approach round. In case you’ve bought expertise driving overseas, it undoubtedly makes for an journey!
We all the time e book automotive rental on Uncover Automobiles, as they’ve constantly given us the very best charges and repair. A 1-week automotive rental in Belize prices round US$400, not together with insurance coverage. Ebook your automotive rental right here.
By Bus
In case you’re on a funds, buses are the most cost effective approach to get round Belize. In contrast to Mexico, Belize doesn’t have correct big-coach buses that go between cities. There are many rooster buses which can be actually low cost however unreliable. You can too take non-public shuttles between cities particularly if you happen to’re touring in a bunch and might get monetary savings by splitting the fee. Ebook your shuttle switch.
Belize Itinerary Day 1: Land in Belize Metropolis
Many vacationers are likely to keep away from Belize Metropolis because it doesn’t have the very best repute. Truthfully it’s fairly tough across the edges and there aren’t loads 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 town heart for US$16. Ebook 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 under), 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 choice providing snug lodging. It’s identified for its pleasant workers and clear rooms. Whereas it might not have all of the facilities of higher-end inns, it gives a very good worth for budget-conscious vacationers. Test charges right here.
Mid-Vary: Radisson Fort George Lodge and Marina
Situated proper on the waterfront, it is a mid-range choice with a waterfront location. It provides snug rooms, a swimming pool, and numerous facilities. The resort is conveniently located close to key sights in Belize Metropolis. Test charges right here.
Luxurious: Shaka Caye All Inclusive Resort
Situated outdoors of Belize Metropolis proper on the seashore, this upscale resort provides beachfront lodging, superb eating, a spa, and a variety of leisure actions. With its high-end furnishing, it gives an expensive seashore 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 go 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 Aircraft?
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 normally small and house is tight, however they go away commonly and are environment friendly.
However when you’ve got the funds, I like to recommend flying there in your approach there. Flights are round US$84 per individual a method and the views on the flight are completely spectacular! The flight is in a tiny, tremendous informal-feeling airplane, gliding over water in probably the most stunning shades of inexperienced and blue possible. Flights are cheaper if you happen to e book them prematurely on Maya Island Air’s web site.
Wander round Ambergris Caye
When you’ve settled in San Pedro, contemplate renting a golf cart to discover the island. It’s value visiting the mangrove forests or the Marco Gonzalez Maya Website, an historical Maya buying and selling and fishing outpost. Guided excursions can be found to supply insights into the wealthy historical past of the area.
You can too drive all the way in which to Secret Seashore, which is now not a secret anymore. Secret Seashore has shallow spearmint waters, good for swimming and enjoyable. You possibly can even go fishing right here together with your spinning reel and revel in some quiet time.
The place to Keep in San Pedro
Price range: Drift Inn
Situated within the coronary heart of San Pedro, Drift Inn provides budget-friendly lodging with out compromising on consolation. With a central location, it gives quick access to the city’s sights, eating places, and seashores. Test charges right here.
Mid-Vary: SunBreeze Lodge
We stayed at SunBreeze Lodge, an awesome mid-range choice located on the beachfront, providing snug rooms and a variety of facilities. We cherished the handy location and straightforward seashore entry. Test charges right here.
Luxurious: Victoria Home Resort & Spa
For an expensive expertise, contemplate Victoria Home Resort & Spa. This upscale resort is understood for its elegant lodging, stunning beachfront setting, and high-end facilities. It provides 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. In case you’re a PADI-certified diver, don’t miss diving within the Blue Gap, a legendary submarine cave that pulls scuba divers from around the globe. The round Blue Gap is over 330m in diameter and 120m deep, and it was shaped when the roof of a limestone cave system collapsed through the ice age.
Sadly diving right here is just not for learners; 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 prospect to see the Blue Gap. If you’re licensed, take a look at Scuba College and Household Dive Heart, which has the very best critiques on TripAdvisor.
Alternatively, you may as well 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 enormous 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 might get and snorkeling situations are near good. 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 trying out is The Truck Cease, a meals truck park with quite a lot 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 provides a extra budget-friendly and laid-back expertise in comparison with Ambergris Caye. It’s only a 30-minute water taxi trip away; a one-way ticket prices US$21 per individual. Ebook 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 once 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 gentle winds, gentle music and the infinite sea.
Take a look at my really helpful issues to do on Caye Caulker.
Chill on the Cut up
Spend your time swinging away on the hammocks by the Cut up, on the northern finish of the caye. The Cut up was shaped in 1961 when Hurricane Hattie hit, splitting Caye Caulker in two. It’s change into a well-liked place to relax, snorkel and hang around. The shallow waters are clear, refreshing and filled with marine life. Plus there are seashore bars proper on the facet of the Spit, so you may actually pull your seashore benches out and sit within the water whereas ingesting an ice chilly beer.
Kayak to the Northern Mangroves
You can too hire 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 if you happen to don’t have any expertise. Ebook their journeys right here!
The place to Keep on Caye Caulker
Price range: Popeye’s Seashore Resort
On our first journey to Belize, we stayed at Popeye’s Seashore 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 Lodge
Tropical Paradise Lodge is a mid-range choice providing snug rooms and a soothing environment. Located near the seashore and central areas, it gives a handy location for exploring the island. The resort options facilities akin to a pool and a pleasant workers, making it a good selection for these in search of 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 buddies on our current journey and actually loved the pool and the good campfire space with cozy benches and hammocks. Whereas the rooms are small, the resort is situated proper on the seashore 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 trip again to Belize Metropolis. It’s only a 1-hour boat trip (US$21 a method). When you arrive on the ferry terminal, both choose 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 gives 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 rooster or Creole fish.
See the Inexperienced Iguanas
After lunch, drop into San Ignacio Resort Lodge to take a look at the Inexperienced Iguana Conservation Venture. They run guided excursions of their amenities commonly all through the day, and the information gives enjoyable and attention-grabbing 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 go 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 huge 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
Situated on the town, Mana Kai provides an reasonably priced eco-friendly lodging choice in San Ignacio. Set inside a pristine pure atmosphere, this budget-friendly lodge gives friends with an in depth 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 provides a variety of snug 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 in search of an expensive 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 provides friends a high-end retreat that includes superb 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 very best for final! Rise early to go on an adventurous tour of the ATM Cave (Actun Tunichil Muknal), one of the crucial well-known sights of Belize. Named one of the crucial 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 way of slim rock formations till unveiling a powerful, glittering atrium adorned with crystallized stalagmites and stalactites.
Nevertheless, 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 very best critiques.
Belize Itinerary Day 7: Again to Belize Metropolis
Sadly, your Belize journey has come to an finish and it’s time to go again to Belize Metropolis. Both catch a rooster 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 most effective time to go to Belize is through 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 out of doors 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 akin to snorkeling and diving. However notice that that is additionally the excessive season, leading to larger lodging costs and elevated crowds.
For these in search of 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 through the latter interval.
Is It Protected to Go to Belize?
Belize is mostly thought of a protected vacation spot for vacationers, particularly if you happen to observe the vacationer path. In line with international journey security stories, Belize has a reasonable crime fee, 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 dangerous occur to us. Working towards commonsense security measures, akin 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 Price?
Belize is among the pricier locations in Central America, aligning extra intently with the price of residing in Costa Rica and Panama than with its neighboring Mexico and Guatemala. However it’s doable to maintain to a low funds, particularly if you happen to persist with hostels and native diners.
Hostels normally are available in underneath $25 per evening, mid-range inns sometimes fall inside the $50-100 per evening vary, whereas luxurious choices value $150 and above per evening. Consuming in easy diners value $5-8 per meal and $15-20 in a restaurant. Take into account that these figures are approximate, topic to variation based mostly on elements just like the time of 12 months.
Day journeys are typically fairly costly, with half-day snorkeling excursions at round US$50 or extra. A caving tour within the ATM caves normally prices over $100, however it’s the spotlight of Belize and you’ll’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 a lot of 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 in helpful as you’ll be utilizing them alot right here. In case you’re planning to go fishing, you should definitely carry your spinning reels or different gear that you simply 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 huge, you may really see and expertise quite a bit in to 1 week in Belize. Be happy to bookmark this Belize itinerary in your cellphone and refer it to it as you go alongside.
Remember to go away a remark under when you’ve got any questions. We’ll be pleased to assist in any approach we will!
Disclaimer: This publish accommodates affiliate hyperlinks i.e. I’ll get a small fee if you e book something by way of my hyperlinks, at NO further value to you. I solely suggest firms I’ve personally used and loved.
Impressed? Pin it!
