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A Week in Belize's Wild Heart

Caves, Jungles, and Ancient Maya from Belmopan

Trip Overview

This seven-day adventure immerses you in the natural and archaeological wonders surrounding Belize's capital, Belmopan. From exploring ancient Maya ruins and mysterious underground cave systems to encountering jaguars and tropical wildlife, this itinerary balances active exploration with moments of relaxation. You'll venture into the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve, tube through underground rivers, discover hidden waterfalls, and walk among howler monkeys in pristine rainforest. The pace allows for full-day adventures while building in time to absorb the laid-back Belizean atmosphere. Perfect for those seeking authentic Central American experiences away from beach resort crowds, this journey showcases the incredible biodiversity and cultural heritage that make inland Belize unforgettable.

Pace
Active
Daily Budget
$120-180 per day
Best Seasons
November to April (dry season)
Ideal For
Adventure seekers, Nature enthusiasts, Archaeology lovers, Wildlife photographers, Active travelers

Day-by-Day Itinerary

1

Arrival & Wildlife Introduction

Belmopan and vicinity
Ease into Belize with a visit to the country's premier wildlife facility and explore the cultural offerings near the capital.
Morning
The Belize Zoo and Tropical Education Center
Begin your Belizean adventure at this renowned rescue and rehabilitation center, home to over 150 native animals including jaguars, tapirs, scarlet macaws, and harpy eagles. Unlike traditional zoos, all residents are rescued animals that cannot be returned to the wild. The naturalistic enclosures and knowledgeable guides provide excellent introduction to the wildlife you may encounter during your week. Arrive early to see the animals at their most active.
3-4 hours $15-20
No advance booking required, but arrive by 9am for the best experience
Lunch
A local restaurant serving traditional Belizean rice and beans with stewed chicken
Belizean Creole Budget
Afternoon
Guanacaste National Park
This small but beautiful park at the confluence of Roaring Creek and the Belize River offers easy jungle trails perfect for your first day. Walk among massive guanacaste and mahogany trees, spot iguanas basking in the sun, and listen for howler monkeys in the canopy. The park's interpretive trail system includes a historic mahogany logging camp. It's an easy introduction to Belize's tropical ecosystems without the intensity of deeper jungle treks.
2 hours $5
Evening
Settle into Belmopan and dinner
Explore a casual eatery in the capital serving fresh grilled fish or Belizean-style tacos, and rest up for tomorrow's adventure

Where to Stay Tonight

Belmopan (Mid-range guesthouse or small hotel in the capital)

Central location provides easy access to early morning departures for surrounding attractions throughout the week

The Belize Zoo offers night tours on select evenings where you can see nocturnal animals like kinkajous and ocelots - worth checking if available during your visit
Day 1 Budget: $100-130
2

Underground Wonders

St. Herman's Cave and Inland Blue Hole
Discover Belize's remarkable cave systems and swim in a stunning jungle cenote.
Morning
St. Herman's Blue Hole National Park
Start with a refreshing swim in the Inland Blue Hole, a stunning sapphire cenote surrounded by jungle where you can cliff jump from various heights or simply float in the crystal-clear water. Afterward, explore St. Herman's Cave, one of Belize's most accessible cave systems. Wade through underground streams and marvel at ancient stalactites and stalagmites. The cave was sacred to the ancient Maya, and you'll see pottery shards and ceremonial artifacts. Bring a headlamp and water shoes.
4-5 hours $8-10 park fee
Self-guided is possible, but hiring a guide at the entrance enhances the experience significantly
Lunch
Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at the park's facilities near the Blue Hole
Packed lunch Budget
Afternoon
Caves Branch Outpost area exploration
Head to the Caves Branch area for an afternoon of cave tubing through underground river systems. Float on inner tubes through illuminated caverns adorned with limestone formations, learning about the geological forces that created these spectacular formations over millions of years. The gentle current carries you through cathedral-like chambers where the Maya once conducted ceremonies. This quintessential Belizean adventure combines relaxation with exploration in one of nature's most dramatic settings.
3-4 hours $60-80 with guide and equipment
Book through tour operators in Belmopan the day before
Evening
Return to Belmopan for dinner
Try a family-run restaurant serving traditional dishes like hudut (fish in coconut broth) or garnaches

Where to Stay Tonight

Belmopan (Same accommodation as Day 1)

Maintaining your base in Belmopan minimizes packing and unpacking while keeping you central

Wear clothes you don't mind getting muddy and wet - cave tubing is messy but exhilarating. Waterproof bags for phones are essential
Day 2 Budget: $120-150
3

Maya Mysteries & River Adventures

Cahal Pech and Barton Creek
Explore ancient Maya palaces and paddle into a sacred ceremonial cave.
Morning
Cahal Pech Archaeological Reserve
Wander through this compact but impressive Maya site perched on a hilltop overlooking the jungle. Dating to 1200 BC, Cahal Pech features seven plazas surrounded by 34 structures including temples, residential buildings, and a ball court. The site's name means 'Place of Ticks' in Mopan Maya, though the area is well-maintained. Climb to the top of the main plaza for panoramic views. The small museum provides context about Maya civilization and daily life in this ancient city.
2-3 hours $5
Lunch
A casual spot near San Ignacio serving Belizean comfort food like fry jacks and beans
Belizean Budget
Afternoon
Barton Creek Cave Reserve
Paddle a canoe deep into this enormous cave system that served as a Maya ceremonial center. Your guide will navigate through the darkness using headlamps while sharing stories of Maya rituals and pointing out ancient pottery, ceremonial vessels, and even human remains visible on cave ledges. The cathedral-like acoustics and ethereal beauty of this underground river create an unforgettable experience. The stillness and spiritual atmosphere make this one of Belize's most moving archaeological adventures.
3-4 hours $70-90 including guide and transportation
Book through reputable tour operators; this requires experienced guides
Evening
Dinner and relaxation
Enjoy dinner at a riverside restaurant with views and live music if available, sampling grilled meats or seafood

Where to Stay Tonight

Belmopan or San Ignacio area (Comfortable lodge or guesthouse)

Staying in this area positions you perfectly for tomorrow's early departure to Mountain Pine Ridge

Cahal Pech is especially atmospheric at sunset when most tourists have left and the howler monkeys begin their evening chorus
Day 3 Budget: $130-160
4

Mountain Pine Ridge Expedition

Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve
Venture into Belize's unique pine forest ecosystem to discover waterfalls and river pools.
Morning
Rio On Pools and Rio Frio Cave
Start your Mountain Pine Ridge adventure at Rio On Pools, a series of stunning granite waterfalls and swimming holes where you can spend the morning jumping from rocks and relaxing in natural jacuzzis. The smooth granite formations create perfect pools in this pristine mountain stream. Then visit the massive Rio Frio Cave, one of Belize's largest cave openings at 65 feet high. Walk through this impressive natural arch carved by the river, exploring the cool interior and emerging to spectacular views on the other side.
3-4 hours $5 reserve entry
Lunch
Pack a picnic to enjoy at Rio On Pools or bring supplies from Belmopan
Packed lunch Budget
Afternoon
Thousand Foot Falls
Visit Belize's tallest waterfall, plunging 1,600 feet into a lush gorge. While you view it from an observation deck rather than hiking to the base, the sight of this ribbon of water cascading down the mountainside into dense jungle is spectacular. The surrounding pine forest creates an unexpected landscape that feels more like the American West than Central America. The cool mountain air and panoramic views provide a refreshing contrast to the lowland jungle humidity.
1-2 hours $5
Evening
Return to accommodation
Early dinner at a lodge restaurant in the Mountain Pine Ridge area, enjoying the cool evening temperatures

Where to Stay Tonight

Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve (Rustic lodge or eco-resort within the reserve)

Staying overnight in the mountains lets you experience the unique ecosystem at dawn and positions you for tomorrow's Caracol adventure

The drive through Mountain Pine Ridge on rough roads takes time - allow at least 90 minutes from Belmopan. A 4WD vehicle is highly recommended
Day 4 Budget: $140-180
5

Ancient Maya Metropolis

Caracol
Journey deep into the jungle to explore Belize's largest and most impressive Maya site.
Morning
Caracol Natural Monument Reservation
Depart early for the long drive to Caracol, once one of the most powerful Maya cities with over 120,000 inhabitants. Climb the 140-foot Caana pyramid, still the tallest man-made structure in Belize, for breathtaking jungle views stretching into Guatemala. Explore vast plazas, ball courts, and residential complexes while your guide explains Caracol's defeat of mighty Tikal. The site's remote location means you'll share it with relatively few visitors. Listen for howler monkeys and watch for toucans in the surrounding jungle canopy.
5-6 hours including travel $15 entry plus $80-120 for guided tour with transportation
Must book with a licensed guide; solo visits not permitted due to remote location
Lunch
Pack a substantial lunch as no facilities exist at Caracol
Packed lunch Budget
Afternoon
Return journey with stops
The return journey offers opportunities to stop at any Mountain Pine Ridge attractions you missed yesterday or want to revisit. Consider a refreshing swim at Rio On Pools if time permits. The afternoon light creates beautiful photography conditions on the granite formations. Take your time on the rough roads and enjoy the changing landscapes as you descend from the pine forests back into tropical jungle.
2-3 hours Included in morning tour
Evening
Celebratory dinner
Enjoy a well-deserved dinner at an upscale lodge restaurant, toasting your Caracol achievement with Belikin beer

Where to Stay Tonight

Mountain Pine Ridge or return to Belmopan (Comfortable lodge)

Either stay another night in the mountains or return to Belmopan depending on your preference and energy levels

Bring insect repellent for Caracol - the jungle mosquitoes are persistent. Also pack plenty of water as it's a long, hot day
Day 5 Budget: $150-200
6

Jungle Thrills & Wildlife

Jaguar Paw area and Cockscomb Basin
Experience adventure activities and visit the world's first jaguar preserve.
Morning
CHUKKA Eco-Adventure Outpost at Jaguar Paw or Jaguar Paw Belize Cave and Jungle Expeditions
Start with an adrenaline-filled morning of zip-lining through the rainforest canopy, offering bird's-eye views of the jungle and Caves Branch River below. Follow this with more cave tubing if you loved it on Day 2, or try waterfall rappelling for an extra thrill. The combination of activities showcases the jungle from multiple perspectives - soaring above it, floating beneath it, and climbing within it. Professional guides ensure safety while sharing ecological insights about the surrounding forest.
4-5 hours $80-120
Book 2-3 days in advance during high season
Lunch
A casual spot along the highway serving Belizean-style barbecue or burritos
Belizean Budget
Afternoon
Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary
Visit the world's first jaguar preserve, home to the highest density of jaguars in the world, though these elusive cats are rarely seen. Hike through pristine rainforest on well-maintained trails, swimming in natural pools and watching for wildlife including tapirs, peccaries, armadillos, and over 300 bird species. The sanctuary's rivers and waterfalls provide cooling relief. Even without spotting a jaguar, the knowledge that you're walking through their protected territory makes every rustling leaf exciting.
3-4 hours $10 entry
Evening
Return to Belmopan
Final dinner at a favorite spot from earlier in the week, reflecting on your adventures

Where to Stay Tonight

Belmopan (Return to your original accommodation)

Back in the capital for easy departure access tomorrow

At Cockscomb, take the trail to the small waterfall - it's less crowded than the main paths and offers excellent swimming
Day 6 Budget: $140-170
7

Cultural Connections & Departure

Belmopan area
Explore local culture and artisan crafts before your departure.
Morning
Art Box - Belize Artisan Store & Cafe
Spend your final morning browsing authentic Belizean handicrafts, artwork, and souvenirs created by local artisans. This is the perfect place to find meaningful gifts and mementos - hand-carved wooden items, traditional textiles, local hot sauces, and artwork depicting Belizean life. The attached cafe serves excellent Belizean coffee and breakfast, providing a relaxed atmosphere to reflect on your week's adventures. Chat with staff about the artists and craftspeople whose work you're admiring.
2 hours $20-50 for souvenirs
Lunch
A final meal at a local favorite serving traditional Belizean cuisine before departure
Belizean Mid-range
Afternoon
Banana Bank Lodge & Jungle Horseback Adventures or Old Belize
If time permits before your departure, choose between a horseback ride through jungle trails at Banana Bank Lodge, where you'll cross rivers and ride through pristine forest, or visit Old Belize for a cultural and historical overview of the country with exhibits, a beach area, and local cuisine. Either option provides a fitting conclusion to your Belizean adventure. Alternatively, simply relax and prepare for departure, perhaps with a final swim if your accommodation has a pool.
2-3 hours $40-60
Only if your flight schedule permits; don't rush
Evening
Departure
Transfer to Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport near Belize City, about 90 minutes from Belmopan

Where to Stay Tonight

N/A (Departure day)

End of itinerary

If you have an early flight, consider staying near the airport the night before rather than rushing from Belmopan in the morning
Day 7 Budget: $80-120

Practical Information

Getting Around

Renting a 4WD vehicle is highly recommended for this itinerary, as many attractions require navigating unpaved roads, especially in Mountain Pine Ridge. Rental costs approximately $60-90 per day. Alternatively, book guided tours from Belmopan that include transportation - this is often more expensive per day but eliminates driving concerns and provides expert guidance. Local buses connect major towns but don't reach remote attractions. Taxis and shuttles are available for shorter trips. Gas stations are limited outside towns, so fill up in Belmopan or San Ignacio.

Book Ahead

Book Caracol tours at least 3-4 days ahead as guide availability is limited. Reserve zip-lining and adventure activities 2-3 days in advance during high season. Accommodation in Mountain Pine Ridge should be booked a week ahead. Car rentals should be arranged before arrival for best rates.

Packing Essentials

Waterproof bag for electronics, sturdy water shoes for caves and rivers, quick-dry clothing, strong insect repellent, high SPF sunscreen, headlamp with extra batteries, reef-safe toiletries, basic first aid kit, reusable water bottle, lightweight rain jacket, and binoculars for wildlife watching

Total Budget

$850-1,200 for the week (excluding international flights and accommodation)

Customize Your Trip

Budget Version

Stay in budget guesthouses throughout ($30-50/night), prepare your own lunches from local markets, join group tours instead of private guides, skip the adventure activities in favor of self-guided hikes, and use local buses where possible. Focus on free or low-cost attractions like Guanacaste National Park, Cahal Pech, and swimming holes. This reduces daily costs to $70-100 per day.

Luxury Upgrade

Stay at upscale jungle lodges like those in Mountain Pine Ridge ($200-400/night), book private guides for all activities, arrange helicopter transfers to Caracol, enjoy fine dining at resort restaurants, add spa treatments and sunset cocktails, book the night safari at The Belize Zoo, and arrange private cave expeditions. Include a stay at a luxury eco-lodge with gourmet meals and premium adventure packages. Budget $300-500 per day.

Family-Friendly

Base yourselves in one location to minimize packing, choose The Belize Zoo and Guanacaste National Park for easier wildlife viewing, opt for the larger Rio Frio Cave over tight cave systems, spend more time at swimming holes like Rio On Pools where kids can play safely, skip the long Caracol journey in favor of closer Cahal Pech, book family-friendly adventure tours with age-appropriate activities, and build in downtime at your accommodation's pool. Many lodges offer family suites and children's programs.

Book Activities for Your Trip

Tours, tickets, and experiences in Belmopan

Continue Planning Your Trip

Things to Do

Top attractions and activities for Belmopan

Budget Guide

Trip costs and money tips for Belmopan

Getting Around

Transport options and tips for Belmopan

Where to Stay

Accommodation guide for Belmopan

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