guatemala and belize trip

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The Best of Belize and Guatemala: A Two-Week Travel Itinerary

by Kirstie Jeffries · Published April 11, 2017 · Updated September 15, 2022

Belize and Guatemala, two absolute gems in Central America. I’ll admit I had never given much thought to them before planning my Latin America itinerary this year. However, two weeks of traveling the region made one thing very clear: this is a part of the world you have  to see!

Flores, Guatemala

Planning a trip to Belize and Guatemala? Whether you’re dedicating a trip solely to these neighboring countries or as part of a larger Central America, Latin America, or global trip, these countries are truly un-Belize-able. (Sorry, couldn’t help myself). Here are my tried and true suggestions for how to spend two weeks in Belize and Guatemala.

My Belize and Guatemala Itinerary

Day 1 – arrival in belize city.

Begin your Central American adventure by flying into Belize City, Belize. You’ll need to take a taxi to the city center at a fixed price of $25 U.S. or $50 Belize ($1 U.S. = $2 Belize — easy enough to remember).

There aren’t a ton of budget accommodations in Belize City, so I’d recommend either finding a place through Airbnb (follow that link for $40 of free credit!) or staying at Safe Haven Hostel . Safe Haven was opened recently and is small and basic, but the owner is super friendly and helpful, it’s centrally located, and it’s probably the cheapest you’ll find in Belize City.

Welcome to Belize

Belize City isn’t a massive tourist hotspot, but use this day to catch up on rest and wander around the city a bit. Pay a visit to the colorful Belize sign pictured above and watch the sun set over the ocean.

Day 2 – Caye Caulker

It’s time to head to paradise, the gorgeous Belizean island of Caye Caulker ! Ocean Ferry Belize has water taxis leaving from their office near the Belize Swing Bridge. A round-trip ticket will set you back $14.50 U.S.

Ferries leave at 8am, 10:30am, 1:30pm, 3pm, and 5:30pm and take about 45 minutes. Or if you want to guarantee a seat on the ferry by booking in advance (especially if you’re traveling during peak season!), GuateGo  offers ferries and buses with routes all over both Belize and Guatemala, including Belize City to Caye Caulker.

Caye Caulker

Once you arrive at Caye Caulker’s port, everything on the island is fairly walkable. I recommend  Bella’s Backpackers , which is centrally located, comfortable, and social without being too noisy.

Day 3 – Explore Caye Caulker

Caye Caulker is a small island that won’t take long to explore, but their motto is “Go slow,” so spend day three doing just that. Take in the views of crystal clear water (you’ll find the bluest water at The Split on the north side of the island), relax with a beer over the sea, feast on inexpensive lobster, and enjoy paradise.

And don’t miss the sunsets!

Day 4 – Snorkeling in Caye Caulker

Caye Caulker is more about rest and relaxation than adventurous activities, but the one activity you can’t miss is a snorkeling trip. If you walk up and down the island’s main street, you’ll find tons of companies offering half-day and full-day snorkeling tours. Most offer similar trips and are right around the same price.

I personally recommend Caveman Tours . Their full-day tour, at $65 U.S., is the cheapest I found on the island and includes gear, lunch, fruit and water. Their half-day tour (with gear, fruit, and water) is just $35. I opted for the full day and totally recommend it, as some of the best snorkeling destinations are only reached on the longer tour. The owner, who calls himself Caveman, is an absolute delight.

Aboard the Caveman boat

I’ll admit I was hesitant to pay $65 for snorkeling when I had recently experienced shockingly inexpensive snorkeling trips in Indonesia’s Gili Islands and The Philippines’ Dumaguete, but within three minutes of jumping in the water, I knew I had made the right choice. If the stunning Caribbean Sea views weren’t enough, I had sea turtles swimming within arm’s reach and got up close and personal with sharks, stingrays, colorful fish, magnificent coral, and more.

Snorkeling friends

several people also recommended  Ragamuffin Tours  to me. Their full-day snorkeling tour is $70 U.S. but it includes unlimited rum punch on the ride home, so if you’re looking for more of a party atmosphere, they’re the way to go.

Day 5 – Caye Caulker to San Ignacio

Strap yourself in for a long travel day — but the destination will be well worth it! San Ignacio, Belize, sometimes referred to as Cayo, is a great spot from which to access fascinating ruins and a perfect stop on the way to Guatemala. To get from Caye Caulker to San Ignacio, you’ll first need to hop on a ferry back to Belize City. Ocean Ferry Belize leaves Caye Caulker at 6:30am, 8:30am, 10:30am, 1:30pm, and 4:30pm.

My bus from Belize City to San Ignacio

From there, you have two options: private or public bus. Private buses will pick you up directly from the Ocean Ferry terminal and will cost about $25 or $30 U.S. I personally recommend taking a public “chicken” bus.

Throughout Central America, chicken buses are converted U.S. school buses that tend to be the cheapest mode of transportation. They can be crowded and chaotic, but the bus from Belize City to San Ignacio was easy, I had plenty of space, it runs more frequently than the private bus, and it cost only $4.50 U.S. to cross the country. You’ll just need to make the 10-15 minute walk from the ferry terminal to Belize City’s bus terminal, and once there you can ask anyone for the next bus to San Ignacio (most will terminate in Benque, at the border with Guatemala).

You’ll likely arrive in San Ignacio in the afternoon, so take it easy and explore the small town a bit. Bella’s Backpackers in Caye Caulker was a hit, and their San Ignacio hostel was even better — big, clean rooms and a great rooftop common area with hammocks.

Day 6 – Xunantunich Ruins

Belize’s most popular Maya ruins date back to the sixth century AD and are located just outside of San Ignacio. Though smaller than some of Central America’s other ruins, Xunantunich wound up being my favorite because you’re free to roam around on your own, and the lack of crowds can really brings the history of the place to life.

Xunantunich

The cheapest way to get to Xunantunich is to hop on a local bus going toward Benque, cross the river on a free hand-cranked ferry, and then hike about a mile to the ruins. You can also negotiate with taxi drivers to get a fair rate directly to the site.

No need to pay extra for a return trip, as you can hail a less expensive cab from the site or the main road (the walk back is mostly downhill) or catch the bus. Alternatively, Hanna Stables  offers horseback riding tours to Xunantunich.

Day 7 – ATM Cave

Many go to San Ignacio specifically to visit Belize’s ATM Cave , and it truly can’t be missed. Tours aren’t cheap (the best price I could find was $95 U.S.), and tourists can only visit with an official guide, but don’t let the price tag stop you. This was definitely one of the coolest things I experienced in Central America.

Buried deep within the cave is an ancient Maya sacrificial burial site with loads of relics and remains that have been left where they were first found two decades ago. As interested as I was in seeing this bit of history, what I didn’t expect was the total adventure of getting to it. I took a tour with Carlos the Caveman Tours, who I would 100% recommend for the price, Carlos’ knowledge, and the overall quality.

Traveling through the ATM Cave (cameras are no longer allowed inside, so photo credit )

Exect a full write-up soon, but after traveling by van 45 minutes from San Ignacio, you’ll hike through mountainous forests, swim across rivers, and then arrive at the cave, where you’ll swim through dark crevices sometimes only inches wider than your body, scale waterfalls, and crawl around rock formations to reach the burial site. Pure adventure!

Day 8 – From Belize to Guatemala: San Ignacio to Flores

Belize is not an easy country to say goodbye to, but Guatemala is calling, and there’s oh so much to do there !

If you’re on a strict budget, to get to Flores, you can take the public bus to the border, cross the border by foot, pick up another bus to Santa Elena, and then take a tuktuk to Flores Island. Since border crossings can be complicated, I always suggest taking a shuttle that can guide you through the process. I used Mayan Heart World , which can get you from San Ignacio to Flores in a relatively comfortable shuttle for $25 U.S. (I was initially quoted $70, so be sure to insist on the $25 price.) Or to make booking even simpler and avoid bartering, I again recommend GuateGo for getting around Guatemala.

Can I please live here?

Most travelers use Flores simply as a base from which to visit the ruins of Tikal, but it’s an absolutely charming place on its own. It’s located on a tiny island within Lake Petén Itzá and its cobblestone streets lead you through colorful colonial houses and views of the surrounding lake. Exploring Flores won’t take long,  but use your afternoon to wander around and book the following days’ activities (more on where to do that in a minute).

I stayed at Hostel Yaxha , which was just fine and serves good food, although it’s not very social. If you’re looking for something more social, I’ve heard positive reviews of  Los Amigos .

Day 9 – Tikal

Notice that tourism in this region is massively Maya-centric? You can’t pass through northern Guatemala without visiting the archaeological site of Tikal. This UNESCO World Heritage Site was, as long ago as 400 BC, an ancient Maya city, and its sprawling grounds and massive, restored pyramids are well worth a visit. Though you can explore the ruins on your own, I’d recommend hiring a guide, as it’s easy to get a bit lost and understanding the history of the place really enhances the experience.

Travel agencies around Flores will arrange transportation and guides for you. I recommend Tayasal . The owner, Luis, is extremely knowledgeable about the area, speaks perfect English and Spanish (he spent many years in the U.S.), and really cares about his clients. I booked several parts of my trip through him, and, each step along the way, he messaged me to make sure everything had worked out smoothly.

I’d also mention here that, though I didn’t have enough days in Guatemala to experience it, I heard wonderful things about the Yaxha ruins a few hours from Flores. Definitely check those out if you have some extra time in the area.

Day 10 – Flores to Lanquín

The upside to Guatemala is it’s a diverse country with lots to experience. The downside is it can take quite a while to traverse and transportation isn’t the best, so be patient. Chicken buses are the cheapest way to get around the country, but often getting from one place to another involves a combination of various chicken buses and taxis. Shuttles (vans or minibuses), though often cramped and hot, can make your life a lot easier.

Sunset in over Lake Petén Itzá

Lanquín is a small town in the middle of Guatemala that doesn’t have a lot to offer on its own, but it’s the main town near the popular natural pools of Semuc Champey and a good stop between Flores and Antigua. Prepare yourself to an eight or so hour shuttle ride from Flores to Lanquín, but don’t worry — the fun will start tomorrow! The shuttle can be booked at travel agencies around Flores. I booked mine in advance through Luis at Tayasal.

I stayed at El Muro Hostel for the price and proximity to the center of Lanquín, and it has a nice bar and restaurant area (social but not too loud) and beautiful views over the jungle valley. Zephyr Lodge is also popular among backpackers looking to party.

Day 11 – Semuc Champey

I almost skipped Semuc Champey during my Guatemala trip, figuring it was too far out of the way just to see some natural pools. But when I realized it broke up the trip from Flores to Antigua and that shuttles were fairly straightforward, I thought I’d give it a try.

Adventurous Kate wrote that it was her favorite day in Central America , and my expectations weren’t nearly  that high, but guess what! I think this was my favorite day in my two and a half months in Central America too.

Overlooking Semuc Champey

Semuc Champey  can be visited on its own, but to make the most of your visit, I definitely suggest booking a full day tour through your hostel. It should cost around $25 U.S., and it’s a completely action packed day. After riding, standing up, in the back of a rickety pick-up truck, you start with a steep hike to a viewpoint overlooking the pools, then you climb back down to experience the pools first-hand, wading, swimming, sliding down waterfalls, and exploring mini caves.

After lunch comes my favorite part of the day: armed with candlesticks to light the way, you head into a bigger cave, where you’ll be up to your waist in water crawling through the spooky crevices and climbing underground waterfalls. Then, to wrap it all up, you jump in innertubes and float down the river. Gotta love the crafty locals who approach you in their own tubes selling beer!

River tubing near Semuc Champey

Day 12 – Lanquín to Antigua

The two weeks are flying by, and there’s just one destination to go: Antigua. Located half an hour from Guatemala City, this is a much better option for travelers than the capital, as it’s safer and much more charming. It may feel like a massive city after the rural spots you’ve come from, but it’s all completely walkable and has a ton of small-town charm.

The easiest way to get from Lanquín to Antigua is by shuttle. These are less frequent than the ones from Flores to Lanquín, so book yours in advance. I was able to book mine back in Flores, also through Luis at Tayasal. It’s another long ride, but the 6am shuttle will skip the traffic you may hit on the later one.

Wander around Antigua this day. Visit its local market and souvenir shops, watch street performers, have a typical and inexpensive Guatemalan meal at Rincón Típico, and sample mezcal at the candlelit Café No Sé. Matiox Hostel is a bit farther from the center than some other hostels, but it’s also one of the nicest, cleanest, and most comfortable hostels I’ve ever stayed in.

Day 13 – Antigua and Pacaya Volcano

Spend your morning enjoying more of Antigua, and use the afternoon to visit Pacaya Volcano. Matiox (or most other hostels) can book this tour for you, which includes transportation and a guide. You’ll take a steep hike up an active volcano (tiring, but it will pay off! or you can pay extra to go on horseback), and at the top you can roast marshmallows right on the steaming lava rocks.

When I went, the volcano was shrouded in dense fog, but just as we reached the top, the clouds cleared and we had spectacular views of the surrounding, still-erupting volcanoes and the valleys below.

The view from Pacaya

Day 14 – Adiós, Guatemala!

All good things must come to an end. From Antigua, you can get a van transfer directly to the Guatemala City airport for about $10 U.S. Most hostels and travel agencies in Antigua should be able to book this. Just make sure to give yourself plenty of time before your flight, as traffic in the capital can be nasty.

A Few General Tips for Your Belize and Guatemala Trip

• If you’re traveling during peak season (December-February is popular among backpackers), be sure to book accommodation and transportation in advance whenever possible. It fills up fast!
• See if you can check out an important celebration while you’re traveling through the region! This guide to Guatemala’s best festivals may help.
• Central America doesn’t have the best reputation in the world in terms of safety, but I felt very safe throughout both Belize and Guatemala. Nonetheless, use common sense. Don’t wander alone late at night, and keep your valuables close or leave them locked up at your hostel.
• English is the official language of Belize, although you’ll also hear Creole and Spanish. Many Guatemalans in the tourism industry speak English, but picking up some key phrases in Spanish can go a long way.

• Keep an eye out for wildlife, especially when exploring Xunantunich and Tikal! You’re likely to spot monkeys and exotic birds, and my guide at Tikal says he’s even seen a jaguar there.
• It’s tough to see all of both countries in just two weeks, but if you have extra time, I’ve heard excellent things about Lake Atitlán in Guatemala.
• Both countries are generally very hot and humid, but it can get chilly in places, especially around Antigua, so pack a jacket and a pair of jeans.

Oh “Guat” (stop cringing!) wonderful countries Belize and Guatemala are. Enjoy your travels, and be sure to share any and all suggestions you have in the comments below!

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links, and I was partially hosted by Carlos the Caveman Tours, but all opinions are entirely my own, as always!

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Tags: Belize Guatemala

23 Responses

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I’m impressed with the relationship with the trip. Tez wants to visit, but I’m afraid to go to the other end of the world. Greetings from Poland

Don’t be afraid! I definitely encourage you to go!

This is the post I was looking for 🙂 Thanks for all your great suggestions! Were the buses brutal, or were they decent? I’m trying to decide if a plane ride would be worth it (Belize to Guatemala), but then it sounds like I’d miss out on your favorite day trip in Guatemala!

That’s great to hear! The chicken bus I took from Belize City to San Ignacio was pretty basic (just a converted school bus, no air conditioning), but it was a short ride, so I didn’t mind. There are also options for air-conditioned coaches for a little more money. Within Guatemala, the vans were pretty crowded (they’ll fill every space, including the jumpseats), which made them less comfortable. Air conditioning is rare, although open windows keep it pretty cool. Some agencies will offer “luxury” vans, but, unless you’re splurging on a private transfer, these don’t seem to be much of a step up. The vans are definitely not as nice as coaches, since you don’t get as much space and the seatbacks are usually too low to lean back, but they aren’t dreadful or anything.

The biggest thing issue is the length of the bus/van rides. If I recall correctly, Flores to Lanquín and Lanquín to Antigua were both about eight-hour trips, and there aren’t a whole lot of destinations between those to break up your travel time. So I think it really comes down to how much time you have to spend in Guatemala and how much patience you have for transportation! I personally enjoy the long rides, because, when I’ve been traveling at a hectic pace for a while, they give me a day to relax, catch up on reading, watch a few TV shows, etc., but these rides can be draining for others. I also enjoy observing the countryside and small towns.

Hope that helps a bit! Think about how much time you have, which destinations you want to prioritize, and how much tolerance you have for less-than-comfortable transportation, and that should help you decide. Let me know if I can answer any other questions, though!

So lovely post. I like it. Thanks so much for the good post.

Thank you, Sarah!

Inspiring and very informative description of your trip, It was what I was looking for. Thank you Kirstie! I’m planning a 3 -4 weeks in Guatemala and the region around (still pondering whether doing Belize or part of Mexico that I haven’t been yet), but I guess that making the same route as you did at a slower pace, and maybe add some attractions would fill my plan.

Glad you found it helpful, Amit! That sounds like an amazing trip. I would have loved to have a few extra weeks to explore. You’ll have a fantastic time!

Hi !!! I was wondering how much it cost for your trip (without the plane)??

Unfortunately I don’t have any notes about my budget during that time. I was definitely able to see both countries on a backpacker budget, though! You can find good deals for lodging and food especially.

Hope that helps!

Any downside to replicating this trip in the reverse order? We like to start our vacations with big activities and end with a few beach days in a tropical location.

Not that I know of! This direction worked well for me because I found a cheap flight to Belize City and was continuing south through Central America, but I imagine the reverse would be equally fantastic!

By far the best post I’ve seen for Belize / Guatemala itinerary. Love it.

I’m using this to plan out my trip in October (if the world has returned to normal by then).

Thank you 🙂

And Happy travels

Wonderful! Thank you for this. What month of the year did you travel? Your photos depict the perfect weather. I am hoping to go in July 2021 and hope it’s sunny and dry then.

I’m glad you enjoyed it! I was there in January, which worked out well! I’m not sure how July’s weather is, but I’m sure you’ll have a great time! Stay safe!

Spelling out your itinerary has greatly helped me with mine—thank you! Any idea if night buses are available/recommended for those eight-hour legs?

Hi, sorry I missed this earlier! I believe the buses I took were during the day, but there might be something available! Schedules may be limited during COVID, so I would check with the transportation companies.

Hi I noticed the link for Tayasal doesn’t work are there other transportation agencies you recommend. How much would you recommend budgeting for the two weeks for budget travel?

[…] Rica. My big travel adventure continued in January and February in Central America, exploring Belize, Guatemala, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, and Panama. While in Costa Rica, I visited the idyllic hippie beach town of […]

[…] is known for its cathedrals, monuments, ruins, and Mayan sites – people often opt to visit Belize and Guatemala in one trip. Honduras is often visited for its parks, lakes, and volcanos primed for […]

[…] region stretching from southeastern Mexico, through Belize and Guatemala, and to El Salvador and Honduras, was once home to the Maya civilization, which ruled the region as […]

[…] stop: Belize, where I spent a week visiting Belize City, the stunning island of Caye Caulker, and the inland town of San Ignacio […]

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The ultimate 2.5 weeks guatemala and belize itinerary [2024].

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Guatemala and Belize are two neighbouring countries, located in Central America , that are often visited on the same trip. In Guatemala, you can explore the ruins of Tikal, one of the most impressive archaeological sites in the world. You can also visit the city of Antigua, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. And if you’re looking for some relaxation, you can take a day trip to Lake Atitlán, a beautiful lake surrounded by volcanoes. In Belize you can find archaeological sites, caves and some of the most beautiful beaches.

This blog post will outline a two and a half week itinerary that will take you to some of the best that Guatemala and Belize have to offer. Whether you’re interested in Mayan culture, natural beauty, or relaxing beach days, this itinerary has something for everyone.

This itinerary starts and ends in Guatemala City. However, if you have the chance to fly back from Belize City instead, then you can plan this out much more conveniently. Rather than make your way back by land, you could of course also fly from Belize City back to Guatemala City.

This is the exact itinerary I followed during my trip to Guatemala and Belize . And while I know there is quite a bit of travelling from place to place involved, I also know that it is totally doable.

But before we start, here is a quick summary of my Guatemala and Belize itinerary

• Day 1: Arrival in Guatemala City
• Day 2-4: Discover Panajachel, Lake Atitlán
• Day 4-6: Relax in Santa Cruz La Laguna, Lake Atitlán
• Day 6-10: Antigua and hiking volcano Acatenango
• Day 10: Take the night bus to Flores
• Day 11 Spend the day in Flores
• Day 12-15 Relax on Caye Caulker, Belize
• Day 16: San Ignacio, Belize
• Day 16-18 Tikal Tour and Flores
• Day 18: One last day in Guatemala City
• Day 19: Fly back home

Day 1: Arrive in Guatemala City

Like you have probably heard beforehand, Guatemala City is not the safest city, and you are best off not spending more time here than necessary. However, if you are flying to Guatemala from Europe, chances are that you arrive in Guatemala City late in the evening .

And while it is certainly possible to Uber to Antigua as it is only an hour away, if you want to have a night of rest first before your next leg of travel, I’d recommend just spending one night in Guatemala City, close to the airport. You can then continue your trip in the morning.

I had stayed at Hostal Villa Toscana , just a 5-minute Uber ride away from the airport.

Of course, if you arrive earlier, then just skip this night in Guatemala City and move on to your next destination a day earlier.

Discover the beautiful Lake Atitlan

Day 2: take a shuttle to panajachel and get a first glimse of the lake.

There are 3 shuttles a day going from Guatemala City to Panajachel . They will pick you up right from your hotel, so you don’t need to worry about having to go to the bus station in Guatemala City.

If you are still jet-legged, you might as well take the first shuttle at 6am , so you can get to the beautiful lake as soon as possible. Make sure to book this beforehand to secure your spot.

The trip to Panajachel takes about 5 hours and could be that you need to switch shuttles in Antigua quickly, but there is barely any waiting time involved.

Take the rest of the day to check out Panajachel, the markets, the food and of course, the stunning views of Lake Atitlán.

Day 3: Discover the different towns around lake Atitlan

While Panajachel is the most visited, and busiest town around the lake, there are several other towns that are worth visiting, and each of them has a completely different vibe to it. This day would be the perfect day to discover some different towns, such as San Pedro, San Juan or San Marco.

Just head to the water terminal and take one of the public water taxis. If you aren’t sure which boat to take, just ask someone at the terminal and they will point you to the correct boat. You will figure out the different routes in no time.

Day 4: Nature Reserve and move to Santa Cruz La Laguna

About a 10-minute Tuk-Tuk ride from the centre of Panajachel, you can find the Nature Reserve. Here you can find some hiking trails with stunning views of the lake, a butterfly enclosure, hanging bridges, a waterfall and beautiful nature. There are also opportunities to do some ziplining. And the highlight: coatis and monkeys!

After some time in nature at the Nature Reserve, pick up your luggage and take a water taxi to Santa Cruz La Laguna and check in at the Free Cerveza Hostel .

This hostel is located right by the lake, with some incredible views, some nice areas to relax, and a communal dinner, so you can mingle and meet some other travellers.

Book your stay at the Free Cerveza Hostel now!

Day 5: Relaxing day by the lake

As tomorrow will be another travel day, take this last full day by the lake to maybe rent a SUP-board or a kayak and have some more quality time by the lake. Or if you still want to check out another town along the lake, then today would also be one of the last opportunities to do so.

The incredible city of Antigua and climbing a volcano

Day 6: travel to antigua.

When you want to travel from Santa Cruz La Laguna to Antigua , you first need to take a water taxi back to Panajachel, from there you can take an easy 3-hour shuttle to Antigua . After, you’ll still have a bit of time to discover the city.

Wondering if it is safe to travel to Guatemala as a solo female traveller ? Read all about my experience!

Day 7: Full day in Antigua

Antigua is a city that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. With its stunning landscapes, incredible architecture, and delicious cuisine, this city is a must-visit destination for anyone travelling to Guatemala .

Spent the day wandering around Antigua, but also make sure to take it easy as you will want some rest before the hike the next day.

Day 8: Overnight Hike to Volcano Acatenango

For many, the hike to the Acatenango volcano is the highlight of their trip to Guatemala . I have even met people saying that this was the best day in their entire life .

During the hike you will reach heights up to 3,976 m above sea level, with the highlight of overseeing the active Fuego volcano. The hike is demanding, you might have to battle some altitude sickness, and deal with freezing temperatures at night, but it most likely will also be one of the most incredible experiences.

Disclaimer: I have not actually done the hike, as I got quite sick in Antigua. I had it booked, but needed to cancel two days in a row because of being quite ill. I’m still quite upset about it, as this was what I was most excited about.

Day 9: Arrive back from the Volcano, rest

After waking up on the top of a volcano, you probably want to participate in the sunrise hike before everyone starts making their way down the volcano once again. Then you will probably arrive back at your accommodation in Antigua around noon and after a much-needed shower want to spend the rest of the day napping and resting.

Planning a trip to Guatemala? Find the cheapest flights to Guatemala with Skyscanner . Looking for accommodation? Here you can find the best hotels in Antigua ! I booked all my transportation within Guatemala through GuateGo , so check that out as well! And would you like to improve your Spanish beforehand? Sign up for italki and talk to a native speaker! Get started with $5 of italki credits for free !

Day 10: Day trip from Antigua, night bus to the North of Guatemala

Today maybe you are either still recovering from the volcano hike, want to spend another day just hanging around Antigua, or want to embark on a day trip near Antigua, such as the Hobbitenango attraction park. The choice is yours!

In the evening, start travelling to Flores. Therefore, you first need to take a shuttle to the bus stop in Guatemala City and from there the night bus will take you all the way to Flores in about 10 hours.

Day 11: One day in Flores, sort out your Tikal tour

You always think that when you arrive early in the morning at a new destination, that you will have the whole day to discover your new city, and it will be super amazing since you’ve been awake so early already. At least that is what I always think!

And then in the end you’ll just spend the entire day exhausted! When you arrive with the night bus from Guatemala City , take a 5-minute Tuk-Tuk from the bus station to your accommodation on the island of Flores.

If you have a dorm booked, they probably won’t let you check in earlier, but maybe if you book a single room you can be lucky and already enter your room earlier.

You can use this day to sort out some shuttles and tours for the upcoming days and wander around Flores. The island of Flores itself is very small and can be seen within an hour or so. But beware, it is pretty hot in Flores, so you might not feel like walking around the entire day anyway.

Relax on the beautiful island of Caye Caulker Belize

Day 12: it’s time for belize cross the border and travel to caye caulker.

Caye Caulker must be one of the most beautiful places on the planet. This Caribbean island, just an hour off Belize city, is a must-see destination in Central America .

Snorkel with sharks and sting rays, enjoy some cocktails by the sea and just enjoy the island vibes. There is no way you won’t fall in love with this island.

It isn’t the biggest island, so accommodation is limited and books out very early in advance. So, if there is one place in this Guatemala/Belize itinerary that you should book in advance, then that would be Caye Caulker.

Just as easily as you can travel with shuttles throughout Guatemala, you can travel with these shuttles between countries in Central America. If you want to travel to Caye Caulker, you will need to take an early 6am shuttle from Flores which will bring you all the way to the ferry terminal in Belize City.

From there, you will need to purchase a $21 US ferry ticket ($37 US return) and hop on the next available boat to Caye Caulker . The conversion rate between the Belize dollar and the USD is pretty simple, 2 Belize dollars equal 1USD. You can pay with both Belize dollar and USD!

Day 13-14 Relax on Caye Caulker

One of the most popular things to do in Caye Caulker is to go on a snorkelling tour. You will find plenty of tour offices in pretty much every corner of the island offering full day and half day snorkelling tours.

There are also options to go scuba diving, as near Caye Caulker you can find some of the best scuba diving spots in Belize . Or if you are willing to spend the money on it, take a helicopter ride over the famous blue hole, which is supposed to be one of the most incredible experiences.

A quick stopover in San Ignacio

Day 15: travel to san ignacio.

After some relaxing time on the beautiful island of Caye Caulker, it sadly is time to leave paradise and go back to the main land of Belize. Take the ferry back to Belize City and from there hop on a shuttle to San Ignacio.

San Ignacio is a small town close to the Guatemalan border, which is known for multiple Mayan ruins that you can visit in the area, beautiful nature, caves and the Iguana rescue centre.

Where to stay in San Ignacio? I stayed at the Old town hostel in San Ignacio which I enjoyed a lot. (They also have the cutest hostel cat and dog!)

Day 16: Go to the Iguana Rescue Centre and travel back to Flores

If you manage to get up early, there are quite some tours you can do in and around San Ignacio. Depending on, of course, also when your shuttle back to Flores is leaving. Similar to Flores, it gets incredible hot in San Ignacio, so don’t expect to be going on hour long walks.

However, if you rather do something not too time-consuming, I’d recommend going to the Iguana Rescue Center , just a couple of minutes walk from the city centre. It is located in the San Ignacio Resort Hotel, and you will just need to walk up to the reception, book the tour, which is 15USD per person, and an employee from the Rescue Center will come up and take you to the back.

Here, you will learn about Iguanas and why they are endangered, and get to ask any questions you have. I even had a tour by myself, as I was the only one that had come to the rescue centre at that time, which was also nice.

The famous Mayan Ruins of Tikal

Day 17: tikal tour and night bus back to guatemala city.

A trip to the North of Guatemala isn’t complete without a visit to the ancient Mayan city of Tikal. While it might get fewer visitors than the archaeological site of Chichen Itza in Mexic o , a lot of people I met actually seem to prefer Tikal. I have visited both, and I can see why that would be the case.

The different temples are deep in the jungle, and you actually have to do a bit of hiking to get from one place to another. But it’s all worth it, as the ruins are truly impressive. And if you’re lucky, you might even spot some howler monkeys, parrots or toucans in the trees.

I recommend taking the sunrise tour. It’s a bit more expensive, but it’s worth it to see the park before the crowds arrive. You’ll also get to experience the magic of waking up in the jungle, surrounded by the sounds of nature. (But be prepared to wake up at 3am for this)

Once you’ve finished exploring Tikal, you will head back to Flores. Spend the rest of the day relaxing, enjoying some delicious food, and doing some souvenir shopping, before taking the night bus back to Guatemala City in the evening.

Where to stay in Flores? I stayed at the Los Amigos Hostel , probably one of my favourite hostels!

The end of your two and a half week Guatemala and Belize itinerary

Day 18 one day in guatemala city.

The night bus is scheduled to arrive at the bus terminal in Zona 1 in Guatemala City at 8am, but it could also be the case that you already arrive at 6am. It isn’t the safest area, so best to quickly call an Uber to your accommodation.

Best to email the accommodation beforehand to see if there is the possibility to pay for an extra half a night and check in already once you arrive.

Now, if you are brave enough, you can do some sightseeing in Guatemala City during the day. But instead, I would recommend to just Uber to a safe place where you can spend some hours and hopefully get some food as well, such as Oakland mall (which is what I did) or the zoo.

If you have a flight in the evening rather than the next day, and you don’t have any accommodation booked, then it’s probably best to head straight to the airport. Maybe there is an opportunity to leave your luggage there for a bit while discovering another part of the city, otherwise you can just spend the day at the airport waiting for your flight back as well.

Day 19: Fly back home in the morning

And it’s time to say goodbye to Guatemala and fly home or to your next destination.

Now, this completed my 19-day Guatemala and Belize itinerary. Or more like 17 day-Guatemala/Belize itinerary, if we don’t count the late-arrival and early morning leaving day.

While I think it would have been nice to have a couple of days more to also see more of Belize, I believe, I managed to fit as much as possible in this Guatemala and Belize itinerary. Unfortunately, I got quite ill on my first night in Antigua, so I didn’t get to do all the activities I was planning on doing. And while you can certainly spend many more days in Guatemala alone, it is small enough to see a lot in a short amount of time. And the same is true for Belize, of course!

Are you planning a trip to Guatemala and Belize?

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Becky is a business graduate, working full-time in Marketing and trying to travel whenever possible. She has travelled to 45+ countries, most of them solo, and lived in 6 out of those countries.

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Two weeks in Guatemala: the ultimate Belize and Guatemala itinerary

Written by Maartje

Two weeks in Guatemala is just perfect to explore its volcanoes, Maya cities, colonial villages, hippie villages, historic ruins, blue lakes and lush jungle. Guatemala is a one-of-a-kind bucketlist destination. Two – or maybe even three weeks – will give you enough time to explore this magical country and even include some of the best Caribbean beaches in Belize.

This blog will give you the perfect travel itinerary for two weeks in Guatemala, including both well-known highlights and more off-the-beaten-track destinations. Continue reading to learn about the ultimate Belize and Guatemala itinerary!

How much travel time do you need for Guatemala?

You can explore Guatemala in one week . We spoke with travelers who travel throughout South and Central America in six months, while only visiting Guatemala for a week.

A week will give you enough time to explore the famous Mayan temples in Tikal, Lake Atitlan and Antigua, which are the three best places to visit in Guatemala . But Guatemala has much more to offer and if you’re traveling for three or two weeks in Guatemala, you can see more sides of this versatile country.

When planning, it is important to realize how close and how far apart the destinations in Guatemala are. The destinations in the southwest of the country are close together, so you can easily travel between them without spending a lot of time on travel days. But the famous Mayan site Tikal is in the far north of the country, so it takes quite some time to get there from other Guatemala destinations.

In addition, we highly recommend completing your Guatemala trip with some relaxing beach days. The relatively small neighboring country of Belize is easy to combine with Guatemala and has beautiful Caribbean beaches and islands. If you want to add some days in Belize to your itinerary, we recommend that you set aside at least three weeks for your Guatemala trip.

How to travel around Guatemala

Guatemala has many forms of transportation for travelers. For the longer distances, we recommend the comfortable tour buses . For smaller distances you have the choice between taxis, minibuses, Uber and the local chicken bus.

A rental car is an option as well and we personally always love the freedom of having our own car. But Guatemala has so many great and affordable options for public transport, we actually never heard of someone choosing a rental car for their Guatemala trip.

We combined all types of transport to get around in Guatemala. We especially loved using the Uber . We noticed that a private ride with an Uber is not expensive at all in Guatemala. For three or more people it can even be cheaper for some journeys than other forms of public transport and much cheaper than a taxi. If you don’t have an Uber account yet, you can easily register via our  link  and receive a discount on your first ride.

We also traveled with minibuses for tourists. You can find them in all tourist destinations and they usually take you directly from A to B. The chicken bus, on the other hand, is less comfortable and easy, but it is cheaper and it offers a much more authentic way of getting around. These buses are a great option for short distances, as they travel very slowly and you often have to change buses several times for longer distances.

Read more : do you want to know more about the costs of transport in Guatemala? And of volcano bikes, Maya temples, places to stayand food? We wrote this blog about the cost of traveling in Guatemala .

The best time to visit Guatemala

Guatemala is great to visit all year round. The country is close to the equator, so there are no major seasonal differences. The rainy season is a possible factor that you want to take into account. That runs roughly from April to September.

For some travelers, experiencing a sunrise or sunset at a Mayan temple is also an important highlight. Then take into account the times for sunset and sunrise, so check the daylight times.

In June, the sunrise is already around 5:30 am and around that time (before the regular opening time of 6:00 am) you can only visit the Mayan city of Tikal with a fairly expensive sunrise ticket (150 quetzal). The sun also sets at 6.30 pm, so half an hour after the closing time of the Yaxha temples, for example. During our December trip, sunrise was around 6:20 am and sunset was around 5:40 pm. This allowed us to see the sunrise in Tikal within normal opening hours and a beautiful sunset from the sunset temple in Yaxha, making the winter a great season to visit Guatemala.

Read more: visiting Mayan city Yaxha , including the best place for sunset.

The perfect itinerary for 2-3 weeks in Guatemala

We already mentioned that 2 to 3 weeks in Guatemala allows you to visit not only the famous highlights, but also some more hidden gems. We put together the ultimate itinerary, which will bring you to majestic volcanoes, Mayan temples, colorful villages and the largest river in the country. We also give you tips to expand your itinerary to tropical Belize and some more off-the-beaten-track destinations.

#1 Guatemala City (1 day)

As travelers usually arrive at the airport near capital of Guatemala, we welcome you first to Guatemala City. Most Guatemala itineraries will immediately lead away from this raw gem and send you straight to beautiful Antigua. We chose to spend a day and night in Guatemala City and can wholeheartedly recommend that. We discovered cool street art, historic buildings and hip hotspots in this underrated destination in Guatemala.

Read more: best things to do in Guatemala City .

Guatemala City is built in a grid with multiple zones. For you as a traveler, Zona 1, 4, 10 and 13 are the most interesting places to visit in Guatemala City. Zona 1 has the most historic buildings, squares and the Guatemala City cathedral .

Another attraction is the indoor local market. Are you visiting the capital to learn more about Guatemala? Then Zona 10 and 13 offer the most important museums and are also the more luxurious areas of the city.

Our favorite place to visit in Guatemala City was Zona 4 . The district is often referred to as the Brooklyn of Guatemala because of its urban, industrial, artistic and upcoming vibe.

It is filled with street art and it has the highest concentration in Guatemala of trendy hotspots and restaurants. Our favorite places in Zona 4 are food court La Esquina, coffee and murals at 4 Grados Norte and coffee near Coffee District.

#2 Antigua (2-4 days)

Antigua is one of the most popular and beautiful  places to visit in Guatemala . The colonial town is known for its small-town atmosphere, pastel-colored buildings, great restaurants and beautiful surroundings with some of the most famous volcanoes in Guatemala.

Read more:   best things to do in Antigua .

The  picture-perfect streets of Antigua  are characterized by low-rise buildings, pastel-colored facades, cozy squares, ancient monastery ruins and small streets. Well-known and not to be missed are the much-photographed Santa Catalina Arch and the richly decorated, yellow Iglesia de la Merced.

Although the colorful city is one of the most visited highlights of Guatemala, you hardly notice this popularity in the streetscape. Although every street has at least one trendy restaurant and great hotel and many facilities are aimed at tourists, the town does not seem to be overrun by travelers.

One of the best things to do in Antigua is a day trip or multi-day excursion to the  volcanoes of Antigua . The most famous volcanoes in the area are the Acatenango and Pacaya, two of Guatemala’s three active volcanoes. We recommend visiting at least one of them during your days in Antigua for an unforgettable travel experience.

Read more: the overnight hikes to the Acatenango volcano and the Pacaya volcano .

#3 Lake Atitlán (2 days)

Lake Atitlan is one of the most popular  places to visit in Guatemala  because of the clear blue lake, surrounded by volcanoes, mountains and charming villages. This beautiful landscape offers fun activities on the lake, unique and beautiful hotels and hostels, and great places to relax by the water.

Read more:   hippie village San Marcos La Laguna  and  the best things to do at Lake Atitlan .

As Atitlan is extremely popular with travelers, it offers many great restaurants, fun excursions on the lake and beautiful places to stay. The  best things to do at Lake Atitlan  include exploring the villages, hiking to beautiful viewpoints, shopping at local markets, kayaking on the lake and enjoying the great restaurant scene. The easiest and most fun way to get around is by the boat that connects most Atitlan villages like a bus would do.

#4 Optional: Quetzaltenango (1-2 days)

The city of Quetzaltenango – also called Xela – will probably rarely be included in itineraries for Guatemala. The second city of the country may not be a bustling metropolis and certainly not a tourist destination, but that is precisely why we would recommend you to visit Xela. At this off-the-beaten-track town, you can experience the more authentic city life of Guatemala, while being surrounded by beautiful landscapes for great day trips.

Read more:   best things to do in Quetzaltenango .

The best thing to do in Quetzaltenango is visiting the  volcanoes  in the area. To us, the volcanoes are the main reason to visit Xela. The city is a great base for lovers of nature and hikes, with climbing one of Guatemala’s impressive volcanoes being the absolute highlight.

You can go on a multi-day hike to the Tujimal, the highest volcano in the country, or go camping at the top of Santa Maria. We also highly recommend the half-day trip to Santiaguito, one of Guatemala’s three still active volcanoes.

Others  highlights of Quetzaltenango  are the authentic city center, the volcanic hot springs, the hip hotspots, the impressive cemetery and the fun day trips in the area.

#5 Optional: Semuc Champey (1-2 days)

From both Lake Atitlan and Xela it is quite a long bus ride to Tikal in the north. Champey is right in the middle of the country, making this the perfect place to visit in between if you have the time. But even without that practical location, this nature destination is one of the most beautiful sights in Guatemala because of its green surroundings with naturally formed water basins with clear blue water.

A visit to Semuc Champey revolves around the natural park where a beautiful river with clear blue water runs through. One of the literal highlights is a – fairly short, but quite steep – climb to the  viewpoint  over the river.

It offers that famous view over the limestone water basins of the river filled with turquoise water. The view is surrounded by lush nature, which makes this a magically beautiful picture. Be sure to descend to the limestone baths themselves as well. You can take a swim and enjoy the beautiful nature park.

#6 Flores and Tikal (3 days)

Pastel-colored facades, coble-stoned streets, dazzling sunsets and famous Mayan temples draw all travelers in Guatemala eventually to the Flores peninsula.

Isla de Flores is a well-known base from which to explore northern Guatemala, with the Mayan ruins of Tikal being the best-known and most popular day trip. Another more off-the-beaten-path Mayan site is also near Flores and we definitely recommend you to visit these temples of Yaxha .

Read more:   best things to do in Isla de Flores .

Even though Flores is extremely popular with travelers, it is quite small and there is not that much to do on the island. But that is actually the biggest charm of this destination! There is a relaxed vibe around the peninsula and you don’t have much to do other than relax.

The  best things to do in Flores  – besides visiting the famous Mayan temples of Tikal of course – are wandering through the colorful streets, walking on the promenade along the water, enjoying the great restaurant scene, taking a boat trip to the viewpoint over the lake, kayaking and relaxing on the beach. Flores has the most beautiful sunsets and the atmosphere is wonderfully relaxed. It is one of those places where many travelers linger a bit longer than originally planned and you will understand that immediately after spending a few days in Flores.

#7 Optional: Belize’s bounty beaches (2-7 days)

From Flores (or Tikal or Yaxha) you can easily travel to neighboring Belize, so this is the perfect moment in your travel itinerary to add some days in tropical Belize!

You can choose to visit one Caribbean beach destination in Belize, which would most likely be the island of Caye Caulker or the bounty beach of Hopkins. Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere, the Caribbean beaches and the impressive Great Belizean Reef where you can snorkel and dive.

Do you have more time and would you like to see more of Belize? Then plan for at least a week to explore the country.

Read more: 10 best places to visit in Belize .

There are direct buses from Guatemala to the border with Belize and you can even book a direct bus from Flores to Belize City, where you could take the ferry to Caye Caulker or the bus to any other Belize destination.

If you want to see more of the country, the jungle city of San Ignacio is a logical first stop. The town is just across the border and is known for its Mayan temples, waterfalls, lush jungle and bucketlist jungle lodges .

Then add one of Belize’s Caribbean beaches to your itinerary – Caye Caulker or Hopkins – and head south via the Cockscomb Jaguar Reserve to the jungle destination of Punta Gorda . From Punta Gorda you can cross the border with Guatemala by boat, ending up in Livingston in the Rio Dulce area.

#8 Rio Dulce (2-3 days)

The beautiful area of jungle, lakes and the Rio Dulce River is a totally different side of Guatemala. Forget the colonial villages and volcanoes and spend a few days in a beautiful jungle paradise full of tropical birds and noisy howler monkeys. The tropical atmosphere and beautiful nature make this area one not to miss on your trip.

Read more:  best things to do at Rio Dulce .

The highlight of the Rio Dulce region is the river of the same name. You can visit the San Felipe Castle, the Finca El Paraiso waterfalls, the Seven Altars, the hot springs Agua Caliente and Playa Blanca in the area, but in the end it’s all about the  Rio Dulce River .

The best way to explore the area – and therefore also the main attractions in the region – is from the water. You can book a boat tour or arrange a private boat, but it is best to go out on the water yourself or with a guide in a kayak or canoe. We paddled through the jungle via tributaries without a guide and loved every second of it. We even spotted a pod of howler monkeys high up in the trees!

Scattered through the jungle and along the water of the river you will also find some extraordinary  places to stay at Rio Dulce . Think of charming wooden cabins with thatched roofs, cabanas hidden in the lush jungle or ecolodges surrounded by howler monkeys. Some of the best places to stay are  Boatique Hotel & Marina ,  Dreamcatcher Ecolodge  and  Hotellito Perdido .

#9 Guatemala City

After three or two weeks in Guatemala and Belize, this itinerary comes to an end. You fly back home from the international airport in Guatemala City.

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The Ultimate Belize & Guatemala Travel Itinerary

Ever heard of the expression ‘to kill two birds with one stone’? This Guatemala-Belize itinerary is a traveler’s version to just that, combining two very unique countries into a once-in-a-lifetime holiday.  Whilst neighboring countries, Guatemala and Belize couldn’t be more different. The former is steeped in native Mayan and Spanish colonial tradition. Whilst, the latter, is a truly laid-back Caribbean country. In addition, the native language in Belize is English. For those travelers, eager to experience the best of both countries, the famed Family Coppola Hideaways has created a 10 day Central American Safari . Here all the details of this ultimate Belize and Guatemala Travel Itinerary.

  This Central America Safari offers 10 days of once-in-a-lifetime local experiences.

This ten-night escape allows you to see the best of Guatemala and Belize. This includes snorkelling the world’s second largest barrier reef, stepping back into history at the ancient Mayan site of Tikal, and exploring the abundant wildlife in the lush rainforests. Even better, throughout the trip, guests get to experience three of the Coppola’s award-winning hideaways – La Lancha , Blancaneaux Lodge , and Turtle Inn .

The Central America Safari Package Includes

Photo by Duarte Dellarole

• Two nights at  La Lancha  in Guatemala, four nights at  Blancaneaux Lodge  in Belize, and four nights at  Turtle Inn in Belize. Plus receive ground transfers between each hideaway.
• At La Lancha, enjoy daily breakfast, a full tour of the legendary  Maya ruin of Tikal , and lunch on the day of your tour.
• At Blancaneaux Lodge, enjoy daily breakfast, a memorable  horseback ride  to Big Rock Falls where you can take a dip in the cascading waterfalls, enjoy a canoe tour through  Barton Creek Cave , and experience an exhilarating  zip lining tour  on the day of transfer to Turtle Inn (lunch included on all tour activities).
• At Turtle Inn, enjoy daily breakfast, a full day of  snorkeling  in the Caribbean Sea, a sunset cruise, and a visit to a  Wildlife Sanctuary  and Preserve (lunch included on all activities).

More About The Hideaways

La lancha – guatemala.

Image courtesy of La Lancha

Set in the rainforest high above the shores of Lago Petén Itzá is La Lancha. The quaint, 10-room lodge is decorated with furniture, fabrics, and carvings from Guatemala personally selected by the Coppola family. Nearby is Tikal, the epicenter of Maya spirituality. Buried deep within the rainforest, the ruins include more than 3,000 structures. Here moss clings to the steps of ancient temples and plazas. With its beautiful lakeshore setting, relaxed ambiance, and close proximity to the lost world of Maya, La Lancha is an ideal destination to both enjoy a languid pace and explore the many adventures of the Petén region.

Blancaneaux Lodge – Belize

Blancaneaux Lodge within Mountain Pine Ridge.

In the early 1980s, Francis Ford Coppola visited Belize, immediately fell in love with the location. So he purchased this abandoned lodge. For more than a decade the hideaway was used as a family retreat. Finally, Francis opened his tropical paradise to the public in 1992. Today, the lodge is a 20-room luxury hideaway. Here waterfalls tumble into turquoise pools above the jungle canopy. Its remote mountain setting allows guests to explore the ancient civilization of the Maya and to return to their own thatched roof dwelling. Each is rich with Guatemalan décor and nestled in the foliage of the Mountain Pine Ridge.

Turtle Inn – Belize

Photo via Instagram @alagreutaphotography

Francis and Eleanor Coppola acquired this beachside hideaway in 2001. They created an idyllic refuge for those seeking a relaxing or adventure-filled getaway to Belize. This 25-room seafront escape delights guests with individual thatched cottages. Each is decorated with handcrafted Balinese furnishings, naturally cooled by the ever-present sea breezes. Just steps beyond your private deck, the white-sand beach dissolves into the clear Caribbean Sea. In addition to offering an ideal location to experience the sea, Turtle Inn is located a short bicycle ride or walk from the charming sea-front fishing village of Placencia. Here local artisan shops and dining spots can be enjoyed.

Spring and Summer 2021 rates for this package are now available. For more information or to book this Belize & Guatemala itinerary, visit the Coppola website .

Cover picture credit: Duarte Dellarole

Caribbean Lifestyle Editorial Team

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Itinerary Inspiration: Two Weeks in Belize and Guatemala

The anywhere experts highlight the best destinations and experiences for a belize and guatemala trip to remember..

A trip to Belize and Guatemala is the perfect blend of tropical relaxation and outdoor adventure!

Mexico’s two southern neighbors, Belize and Guatemala , are two very different Central American destinations that make a perfect travel pair. In Belize, you have tropical beaches on the Caribbean Sea and one of the region’s most spectacular reefs, not to mention the pristine jungles of the interior. Guatemala also boasts beautiful rainforests, as well as volcanos, lakes, waterfalls, and cloud forests. Both nations have ancient Mayan ruins to explore and unique modern cultures to engage with. Let’s take a look at how best to fill two weeks in Guatemala and Belize.

Belize and Guatemala Travel Itinerary: Arrival

Your adventures in Belize and Guatemala begin the moment you arrive. You may be jet-lagged, so don't forget to schedule time to sleep!

The following itinerary can easily be traveled in reverse, depending on when you want to enjoy some beach time. Some travelers like to start with the beach and take the first few days of their vacation to unwind and settle into a new rhythm, while others like to get stuck in with sightseeing and exploring straight away. Let’s pretend you are the former kind of traveler.

Days 1-4 on the Belize coast.

This isn't a postcard — Ambergris Caye, Belize is really this picturesque.

Take one of the many flights leaving the USA for Belize City and then head straight to the coast. Ambergris Caye , Caye Caulker , and the Turneffe Atoll are all within a couple of hours of the capital and offer white-sand beaches, clear waters full of life, and plenty of hotel options. Spend your time laying on the sand, snorkeling in the shallows, and enjoying a slower pace of life to start your trip to Belize and Guatemala.

Days 4-6 in the Belize rainforest.

Have fun exploring the colorful city of San Ignacio on foot.

From the coast of Belize, head inland to San Ignacio , which sits almost on the border with Guatemala. This is the Belize adventure capital on the edge of the Mayan Mountains and the Macal River. From the comfort of an ecolodge, you can go tubing on an underground river and explore one of the country’s most important Mayan sites, Xunantunich. Raging waterfalls and canopy-high zip lines entice the adventurous.

For even more adventure during your time in Belize, check out these "Belize River Tours For Earth Conscious Adventure Junkies."

Days 6-7 exploring guatemala’s mayan ruins..

Experience the imposing magnificence of Tikal up-close!

From Belize, travel over the border into Guatemala and head straight to Tikal , your second set of awe-inspiring Mayan ruins. This sprawling ancient site sits within a protected national park; spending at least a night here allows you to enjoy views of the temples and jungle at sunset and sunrise. An alternative is to base yourself in the charming island town of Flores on nearby Lake Petén Itzá.

Tikal is a classic, but new discoveries are still being made. Read about this ruin uncovered in 2018...

Days 7-8 chasing waterfalls..

Semuc Champey offers a fun surprise — after admiring waterfalls, you can swim in several refreshing and vibrant pools.

Guatemala is much bigger than Belize and thus you’ll have to deal with longer travel days — if you find traveling exhausting, consider switching this itinerary and ending your trip with a little less travel.

Your next stop in Guatemala is the central town of Lanquin which is the launching point for tours to Semuc Champey , some of Central America’s most impressive waterfalls. The cascades here don’t fall from a great height, but rather fall lazily from one large, turquoise pool to another. Tours will take you on a short hike to view the falls from above, as well as for a dip in the cool waters.

Days 8-10 in the city.

The Spanish-Colonial streets of Antigua offer beauty as far as the eye can see. Take a peek through that archway...

Take a break from the jungle with a few days in the historic city of Antigua , Guatemala. A breathtaking backdrop of towering volcanoes and lush highland hills surround the colorful, colonial buildings of La Antigua, offering beautiful views on almost every cobblestone street. Take your time to wander the city slowly and soak in the vibrant atmosphere.

Days 10-13 by the lakeshore.

Enjoy the waters of Lake Atitlán and the shores of Panajachel.

For your final few days in Guatemala, spend your time on the shores of Lake Atitlan gazing up at the steep slopes of volcanoes and mountains. Base yourself in the town of Panajachel for the best choice of hotels and then take day trips to the Mayan villages that surround the lake. Hiking, biking, and canoeing are all fantastic ways to continue exploring the lake and surrounding hills.

Day 14 departure.

Whilst in Guatemala City, take some time to visit the extraordinarily beautiful Iglesia Yurrita (Yurrita Church).

Make your way back to Antigua or Guatemala City and enjoy one last cup of Guatemalan coffee before traveling back home.

This jam-packed travel itinerary for Guatemala and Belize takes in the very best destinations these two countries have to offer and aims to show you just how diverse they both are. It provides the perfect mix of nature, history, culture, and relaxation and we believe it is a vacation winner! Does it sound good to you?

Jade House, Anywhere Contributor

Jade House is a freelance writer who has spent the last few years living in Asia and exploring as much as possible. This year you'll find her closer to home, taking camper van adventures across Europe with her fiancé and their dog. Follow the day by day journey on Instagram (@jade_house) and read more from her at journey-count.com.

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Backpacking Guatemala and Belize – 14 Day Itinerary with Map (2023)

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2 countries, 1 trip. Spend 10 days backpacking Guatemala and 4 days backpacking Belize on this roundtrip. See the highlights of both countries like the Acatenango volcano, Tikal, and Lake Atitlan in Guatemala as well as the ATM Cave and the Caribbean beaches of Belize.

When planning a Guatemala backpacking trip, you should consider adding backpacking in Belize to your Guatemala itinerary!

If you’re planning a trip to Belize and Guatemala you can see the highlights of two countries. Let’s be honest: Guatemala does a lot of things great. The Acatenango volcano is truly the highlight of any Central America trip and the Tikal ruins are amongst the most impressive we’ve visited. Other things it does not do that great. The Caribbean beaches of Livingston and co pale against their Belizean counterparts. So why not combine both countries in one itinerary to get the best of both worlds?

This two week Guatemala and Belize itinerary provides you with the bare minimum of time you’ll need to explore the two countries. In places like Hopkins, Belize, or Lago de Atitlan, Guatemala, you might be very much tempted to prolong your stay - and we encourage you to do so if you have the time!

• How to get around in Guatemala

Like so many travellers, we resorted to shuttles in Guatemala. They are easy to book, frequent in between the major tourist destinations, and relatively cheap. Most of the time, you can just walk into a local travel agency and book your shuttle for the next leg of the trip - it’s also much more affordable than booking online.

• How to get around in Belize

Unlike in Guatemala, there is no well-established shuttle infrastructure in Belize. You’ll mostly find private shuttles for some steep prices. But also unlike in Guatemala, the public buses are easy to navigate and hence an affordable alternative. There are two main routes: the NorthSouth route and the East-West route which meet in the capital Belmopan. The Belize bus schedule can be found here.

• Budget Guatemala

Depending on your style of travel, you need to budget around 50 USD per person and day for this trip - both for Guatemala and Belize. Admittedly, we haven’t done Guatemala on a super tight budget (especially avoiding the local buses) but it’s still not a super budget-friendly destination as many other travellers confirmed. Having a transfer or tour almost every second day adds up but you also get to see a lot.

The majority of this cost for Guatemala will be:

• Accommodation: 15 USD
• Food: 10 USD
• Transfers or tours: 25 USD, tours are cheaper than in Belize but of course, transfers are more expensive than public buses
• Budget Belize
• Transfers or tours: 25 USD, tours are much more expensive than in Guatemala but you can save a lot of money by using public buses.

How to get from Guatemala Airport to Antigua

How to get from antigua to the acatenango and fuego volcanoes, day 4 - relax in antigua, how to get from antigua to rio dulce, how to get from rio dulce to livingston, how to get from livingston, guatemala to punta gorda belize, how to get from punta gorda to hopkins, day 7 - relax in hopkins, how to get from hopkins to san ignacio with public transport, how to get from san ignacio to the atm cave, how to get from san ignacio, belize to flores, guatemala with public transport, how to get from flores to tikal, day 12 - explore flores and its surroundings, how to get from flores to lake atitlan, how to move around lake atitlan with public transport, day 1 - explore antigua.

Antigua is a great first stop to arrive in Guatemala. It offers great food and drinks - from craft beer and artisanal coffee to traditional cuisine and street food. Wonder the streets, if you have time take a walking tour, settle in and relax after a potentially long travel day.

Here are some of our favourite food and drinks options:

• Best coffee: Fat Cat
• Best local food: The market
• Best bar: Antigua Brewing Company

The easiest answer is Uber. It costs around 20$ and takes around 2 hours depending on the time of day - allow some extra time for heavy traffic.

Day 2 and 3 - Hike Acatenango and Fuego volcanoes

This will be one of the highlights of your trip! The hike up takes around 6 hours (depending on your fitness) with an extra 5-hour hike to Fuego (only go there if you’re incredibly fit). It’s a 1500 m (1 mi) elevation gain on very gravelly, slippery ground. The reward of your struggles? An amazing view from Acatenango to Fuego, which normally erupts around every 15 minutes. At night, you can see lava flowing if you’re lucky.

Easy. Take a tour.

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As the hike to the volcano is super tough, we would recommend an extra day to relax in Antigua. We also found that the sleep at 3.7 km (2.3 mi) elevation is not as restful as one might think after such a strenuous hike... You can just continue your food tour or book a relaxing massage.

Day 5 and 6 - Guatemala to Belize - Antigua to Hopkins

This will be the longest travel of your entire trip but it will be very straightforward and you can interrupt it in a beautiful place like Rio Dulce. If you have more time, this is another great place to stay a day or two longer.

Easy and straightforward: Take a shuttle 😉

It depends on when the shuttle arrives in Rio Dulce. Currently, three boats a day (9:30 am, 1:30 pm, and 4:00 pm) leave from Rio Dulce to Livingston. The early shuttles should drop you off in time for the last boat. If not, you can easily spend a night in Rio Dulce which we found to be quite charming.

Warning: If you spend the night in Rio Dulce, you’ll either have to spend another night in Livingston as currently, the only boat from Livingston to Punta Gorda leaves at 7:00 am. You can also rent a private boat which will be much more expensive.

The boat from Livingston to Punta Gorda currently does not leave every day so you might catch the boat from Puerto Barrios as an alternative.

As the boat leaves at 7 am and takes around an hour, you can easily catch a northbound bus from Punta Gorda to Dangriga. Jump out at Hopkins section and take a shared taxi (10 BZD) into town.

Hopkins is our favourite place in all of Belize . The beach is long, clean and beautiful. You can also experience Garifuna culture - how about a drum circle or a cooking class? For us, it’s the better alternative to just visiting Livingston in Guatemala. In our opinion, it’s also the better alternative to Caye Caulker as the beach is actually sandy and there are more things to do - how about an off-the-beaten-path bioluminescent lagoon or the world’s only jaguar reserve ?

The food options here are delightful as well. From Garifuna dishes at Queen Bean to Western cuisine at Peer’s Place, there’s everything your stomach could desire - including coconuts on the beach.

Day 8 - Way to San Ignacio

San Ignacio is the adventure hub in western Belize. Here, you can visit waterfalls, Belize’s biggest Mayan ruin Caracol, and caves. If you ask us, the ATM cave is a must on your Belize trip!

San Ignacio is also the town in Belize where we found the cheapest and most abundant street food. If you’re there on a Saturday, don’t miss the market! Burns Avenue offers a lot of nice bars and restaurants.

Hop back on the northbound bus to Dangriga and further to the capital Belmopan. Here, change to a westbound bus to San Ignacio. You might have to wait a bit if the next bus is already fully booked.

Day 9 - Day trip from San Ignacio to the ATM Cave

This might be controversial but we recommend going to San Ignacio / the ATM cave instead of Semuc Champey and the Kanba Caves, Guatemala. The way to Semuc Champey is very long and windy. Although in another country, San Ignacio can be much easier reached from Flores.

Additionally, we have learned that walking through the Kanba Caves in Guatemala with candles is really detrimental to the ecosystem. In contrast, the tours in Belize are very environmentally conscious. They can only enter with socks so you don’t contaminate the cave floor. You’ll get all the same adventure but with some additional Mayan artefacts as a bonus.

If you are also craving the pools of Semuc Champey, San Ignacio has the Rio On Pools to offer. You can bathe and slide in picturesque pools with small waterfalls - completely without the crowds! On our visit, we were the only tourists - almost unheard of in Semuc Champey. You just have to budget another day, but in San Ignacio, that’s easily possible.

You need a guide to enter the cave so it’s easiest to book a tour. The experience is totally worth it. We loved our guide JC from Mayawalk Tours.

17 Amazing San Ignacio Belize Tours (2023)

The best tours in San Ignacio Belize from caves to Mayan ruins and so much more!

Day 10 - Belize Guatemala border - from San Ignacio to Flores

If you leave early in the morning, you’ll have half a day enjoying Flores. You can swim in Lake Peten, take a lancha out, or feast in one of the amazing restaurants.

Take a taxi to the border. We took Silent Lion Shuttle for 15 USD and were really happy with the service. After you have completed all the border formalities, you can easily walk to the colectivo station (we marked it on the map) - don’t let tours tell you otherwise.

Day 11 - Day trip from Flores to Tikal

The Tikal Mayan ruins are amazing. You can easily spend a whole day or even more there. The city covered an area greater than 16 square kilometres (6.2 sq mi) and included about 3,000 structures. Even if You’re not the biggest history buff, the Great Plaza with its two great pyramids as well as the North and Central Acropolis will impress you. Don’t miss the Star Wars Temple: Temple IV was featured in (you guessed it) Star Wars Episode IV. And the view is impressive even if you’re not a Star Wars nerd. Our second favourite viewpoint is the pyramid in the Mundo Perdido. This is also the second area we recommend you not to miss.

The easiest way is taking a shuttle or a tour.

The Best Tikal Tours from Flores (2023)

Tours to Tikal Guatemala combine transfers and guides to make your experience hassle free and convenient.

Flores and its surroundings are easily beautiful enough to spend a day. You can do a lot of things.

• Rent a kayak
• Take a lancha to Museo Santa Barbara, Jorge’s Swing Rope, or Playa Chechenal
• Walk around the island (this should only take you 30 minutes)

Day 13 - Way to Lake Atitlan

Even when you leave super early, you’ll lose a whole day in the shuttle. Most shuttles will drop you off in Panajachel which is easily nice enough to spend one night. The morning views of the lake are spectacular here.

We recommend a shuttle again. The trip takes at least 15 hours (also depending on where you want to go on the lake) so it will not be possible to do it in one go during the daylight hours.

Day 14 - Relax at Lake Atitlan

If you’re not seriously into shopping, Panajachel is not the place for you. We have personally explored several towns and can recommend:

• San Pedro for a backpacker scene, parties, and language schools
• San Marcos for spirituality, yoga, vegan food, and rock climbing
• Santa Cruz for great views, nice hostels, and scuba diving

Other places that have been recommended to us:

• Tzununa for a more low key version of San Marcos
• San Juan for a local feel with loads of arts and crafts (outdoors and in shops)

Easy - you move around Laka Atitlan by boat or Lancha. Just go to the dock we marked on our map in Panajachel and hop on the next boat to the destination of your choice. They leave very frequently during the daylight hours.

More backpacking Central America resources:

Belize Backpacking – Belize 2 Week Itinerary (2024)

Our itinerary for Belize features Orange Walk Town, Caye Caulker, Hopkins, Dangriga, Tobacco Caye, and San Ignacio. This Backpacking in Belize guide includes the highlights and hidden gems: from the beaches of the atolls in Belize to the waterfalls and caves of the mainland.

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How to Travel the Caribbean Coast of Nicaragua on a Budget (2023)

If you’re backpacking Nicaragua, the Caribbean coast belongs to the best places in Nicaragua you can visit. Our complete travel guide to the Nicaragua Caribbean coast gives you travel tips for the best beaches, the best places, and the best Caribbean islands in Nicaragua - all on a budget and mostly with public transport.

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Complete Panama itinerary - 14 - 21 days, 5 - 8 stops

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Interested in personal updates and honest travel guides? Sign up for our biweekly bucketlist2life newsletter for exclusive behind the scenes looks into our travel planning!

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The Best of Guatemala and Belize

Lake Atitlan

Cayo District

Ambergris Caye

A 16-day discovery of Guatemala and Belize’s highlights - colonial towns, Maya ruins, lively culture, lush rainforest and Caribbean beaches

Personalised journeys from start to finish

Every trip helps support Conservation

Every detail taken care of

What's included

At a glance.

Explore the very best of Guatemala and Belize on this luxury 16-day adventure, experiencing the diverse landscapes and cultures of these quintessential Central American countries.

Begin you journey in Antigua, an enchanting little city, ringed by three volcanoes, with perfectly preserved colonial and Baroque architecture from its time as the Spanish capital of Central America. Here, you’ll taste the best local street food and hike up the active Pacaya volcano.

Next, venture to the beautiful shores of tranquil Lake Atitlan, taking private tours to uncover the rich culture of area, visiting villages and a bustling market where Maya traditions are still strongly felt.

Then enjoy three nights at Francis Ford Coppola’s La Lancha lodge by the astounding ruins of Tikal, an ancient Maya citadel surrounded by jungle and the site of the tallest pre-Columbian structure in the Americas.

You’ll also get to visit Yaxha, a lesser frequented site in an area rich with wildlife for an unforgettable sunset. From here, cross the border into Belize and the rainforest of the Cayo District. Spend a full day on an expedition into the Actun Tunichil Mukna cave system, an enigmatic Maya archaeological site that includes skeletons, ceramics and stoneware.

Your final three nights will be spent on Ambergris Caye, Belize ’s largest island, relaxing on its sandy beaches, snorkelling in its warm Caribbean waters and soaking up the wonderfully laid back atmosphere.

Example trip itinerary

Private transfer from Guatemala airport to your hotel in Antigua

Accommodation in Antigua

One of the most comfortable and luxurious boutique hotels in Antiqua, El Convento takes its name its location just next to the historical Convent.

Built in a Colonial style the rooms are very spaciously constructed with private patio walled patio areas, large bathrooms and luxury fittings.

The hotel has a courtyard area, restaurant, bar and rooftop terrace.

• Swimming pool
• Lakeside solarium

You’ll find this luxury Relais & Chateaux hotel tucked away in a beautiful six-acre garden, just a short drive from the centre of Antigua. Villa Bokéh’s building combines classic Guatemalan colonial architecture with contemporary design with private terraces and pretty secluded gardens. The property has 15 rooms for you to choose from. There is plenty to do here when you’re not out exploring the region. Spend time in the billiard room, fully-equipped gym, outdoor swimming pool and spa. Villa Bokéh offers full room service, but you can also choose to enjoy the sunlit, gourmet-style dining room for tasty Guatemalan breakfasts, or the open kitchen which serves fresh pastries and fruit throughout the day.

The inviting pool area is surrounded by mature palm trees, has hot and cold Jacuzzis and charming daybeds. At the poolside grill you’ll discover a summery menu including ceviche, pizza, and piña colada. The spa has an array of treatments inspired by Mayan traditions. Villa Bokéh is surrounded by one of the largest hotel gardens in Antigua; the lush landscape has paths which wind around the lake, river, and picturesque lily ponds. Spend time enjoying the tropical flowers, picturesque gazebo, lakeside solarium and tranquil waterfalls – all framed by views of the Volcano Agua.

The San Rafael is a grand colonial property set on a cobblestone street in Antigua’s historic centre, a lengthy restoration retaining the grandeur of its original features.

Seven rooms can be found off of two peaceful courtyards, each of which has a fireplace, ornate fabrics and rustic interiors along with modern comforts such rainfall showers and the larger suites with living areas.

Breakfasts can be enjoyed on the patio or in the lofty dining room which is also a great space to be in the evenings with a glass of wine.

Spend your days in this enchanting city strolling through avenidas, plazas and calles, soaking up the baroque architecture and lovely atmosphere. Explore the central market and artisan workshops and then head up to the Hill of the Cross for impressive city panoramas. Your travel designer will give you our top recommendations for culture, dining and shopping so that you can make the most of your time here.

Discover the local cuisine on a tour that takes in some of Antigua’s best street food. You’ll visit several stalls, each with their own speciality, and enjoy sampling delicious morsels along the way.

This private tour begins with an hour's morning transfer taking you to the foothills of the active Pacaya volcano. Here you will hike through lovely pine forest to the tough volcanic ash section and then to the sulfur smoking cone. During the hike, which is fairly strenuous, you may even see little eruptions and lava flow and when at the summit take in the amazing views of the northern volcanoes, pacific lowlands and El Salvador. On your return down you will stop for a picnic lunch with grand volcanic views and once you are back at the base you will be privately transferred back to either Antigua or Guatemala City.

Private transfer from Antigua to Lake Atitlan

Accommodation in Lake Atitlan

• Three-bed villa room
• Restaurant - indoor and outdoor dining
• Indoor and outdoor lounge
• Small solar powered infinity pool
• Horseback riding
• Nature reserve
• Volcano hikes
• Village tours
• Spa services available if requested in advance

The stunning hotel provides guests with splendid views of three magnificent volcanoes. Casa Palopo is also the only Relais & Chateaux hotel in Guatemala.

Casa Palopo stands as one of the most beautifully designed luxury hotels in the country; each of the 15 rooms are spacious and reflect the country’s unique décor and design, with each suite being different from the next. 12 of the rooms are located in the main hotel, while the luxurious villa boasts three rooms. Half of the rooms in the main hotel were added in 2018 and feature a more contemporary style, though they are still very Guatemalan in their design. Guests can enjoy the spacious lounge areas inside and out and exquisite food and wines are served in the hotel’s top restaurant, where guests can enjoy their meals in elegant and sophisticated surroundings with spectacular views.

This is the perfect base for exploring the Guatemalan highlands, visiting the traditional and authentic villages to learn about Mayan culture, or hiking up the heights of one of the volcanoes (Toliman, Atitlan, and San Pedro), with a local guide.

Spend your time at Lake Atitlan taking in the incredible scenery and exploring this outstanding area of natural beauty. The tranquil atmosphere of this location means that it's the perfect place to relax for a few days.

Transfer to San Juan La Laguna Village where you can visit a local textile cooperative to see the back strap loom in use and to see how they still dye with natural dyes. You can also visit the home and workshop of local naïf painters before boarding the boat onto Santiago Village for lunch. After lunch walk with your guide to find the house where the Maya God Maximon is living. Each year a different "brotherhood" has the privilege of taking care of their God so his location changes. Once with Maximon you may see local shaman performing rituals for local people and if you wish you can ask your guide to help you hire the services of a shaman for you to have a personal ceremony performed. After visiting Maximon guests can visit the local church and learn about the history of this very traditional town and also see the market and learn about the distinctive textiles and primitive art that is famous from this area. When you are ready you will be transferred back to your hotel.

You will be met at your hotel by your private driver & guide for the 1hr transfer out to the highland town of Chichicastenango. Along the way you will pass through the central highland region and see the local Maya people in their traditional dress going about their daily lives - working in the fields, collecting firewood, travelling between markets, selling their wares. Upon arrival at Chichicastenango your guide will take you to explore this famous market both the local areas of the fruit & vegetables & everyday items as well as the craft area where you can find endless variety of beautiful textile, wooden & ceramic crafts. You can also visit the famous St Tomas Church where local Maya people come to perform Maya rituals within the Catholic church - demonstrating the interesting way the two faiths have combined in recent times. If you want to you can also hike up the hill to the Pascaul Abaj ritual site to see if any local shaman are performing rituals and/or to the cemetery on the outskirts of town. Lunch is provided in the Hotel St Tomas.

Private Transfer from Lake Atitlan to Guatemala City

Flight from Guatemala City to Flores

Transfer from Flores airport to your hotel

Accommodation in Tikal

Nestled deep within the Guatemalan jungle, minutes from the magical Maya world is Las Lagunas: a rustic and romantic wildlife hideaway.

Overlooking the Quexil Lagoon, your comfortable wooden bungalow and private jacuzzi offers the perfect spot to drink in romantic natural views.

Besides waterside beauty, a wealth of activity is also provided here. Spend your days on exciting eco adventures from trekking to birdwatching to kayaking to ATV 4×4 rides. Wildlife experiences can then be enhanced with a visit to the property’s own private reserve which boasts a breeding facility for native species. What’s more, cultural pursuits come in bundles with the spectacular Tikal, Uaxactun and Yaxha ruins just moments away.

• An intimate camp with nine spacious, raised tents
• Dine on traditional meals in the home of those in the community
• Relax with a morning coffee in the communal area
• Learn how the jungle sustains the community
• Explore the historical ruins

Uaxactún Camping is an experience like no other. Set deep in the jungle of Tikal National Park , this camp is part of the village of Uaxactún, where mysterious ruins dating back to the Pre-Classic Mayan period and the village community of around 400 are your only companions. It is a truly secluded stay in the depth of nature.

The spacious nine tents here sit on wooden platforms and include their own bathrooms, although showers are found in the communal block, along with large, comfy beds. Within the camp there is a large hang-out area for you to relax in, either with a morning coffee or an evening drink after a long day exploring the ruins. The camp is a truly cosy and intimate stay.

For dining, you’ll enjoy all your meals in the homes of members of the community. During your time with the villagers you’ll also get to see how the surrounding jungle sustains the community by providing two important exports: chicle, an elastic byproduct of tree sap used in chewing gum, and xate, a fern with perfectly symmetrical leaves that’s used in floral arrangements.

Settle into deck chairs outside your tent as the tropical birds and howler monkeys in the nearby trees greet the break of dawn, or admire the twinkling lights above as owls and other nocturnal creatures fill the night sky with their chatter.

Owned by Francis Ford Coppola this is the most comfortable and well-serviced lodging option in the Tikal area.

La Lancha sits overlooking Lake Peten just a short drive from the entrance to the Tikal National Park. Service is attentive and friendly with many of the staff receiving extra training from abroad.

Decoration with a mixture of local and Balinese textiles and handicrafts. Accommodation is in air-conditioned casitas, the best of which enjoy views of the lake with a private balcony.

Head to Yaxha National Park where you’ll enjoy a private guided tour of this lesser visited site. The city was once home to around 40,000 people and its 400-plus structures include five acropolises, two astronomical towers and three ball courts. The area is rich in wildlife and you’ll enjoy the sights and sounds of howler and spider monkeys as well as colourful tropical birds. Enjoy sunset drinks at the end of the tour on top of the main temple, with views over the surrounding rainforest and nearby Lake Yaxha. You’ll then trek back through the jungle with torches as it starts to get dark, perhaps spotting some nocturnal wildlife along the way.

Enjoy a private guided tour of the Tikal site with its fabulous temples that rise up through the jungle canopy. History will come to life as you discover the ruins, which are dominated by five enormous pyramids, rising to more than 60m. Many structures are wrapped in giant roots and partially hidden beneath mounds of earth, making this site ripe for exploring. Keep your eyes peeled for tropical birds and monkeys. After a restaurant lunch, explore the museum before heading back to your hotel.

Private transfer to the Belize border at Melchor de Mencos and on to your hotel in the Cayo District

Accommodation in Cayo District

• Access to Chaa Creek's 400-acre nature reserve
• 10% of Chaa Creek's accommodation revenue funds environmental and community projects
• Infinity Pool
• Butterfly House

Started more than twenty years ago, Chaa Creek has grown organically to be one of the very best eco-lodges in Belize with a real sense of place, character and history. The lodge is set in a 365-acre private nature reserve on the banks of the Macal River.

There are just twenty three rooms ranging from garden suites to the jacuzzi cottage, all are ample in size and tastefully appointed with local hardwood furnishings and textiles. The lodgings are arranged around beautiful lush gardens dotted with royal palms and brimming with exotic birdlife. At the centre is a large infinity pool, bar and restaurant. There is also a large spa area atop the hill with an extensive range of treatments on offer. The lodge is well-positioned to explore the attractions of the surrounding area from Mayan ruins to Cave systems. Service is friendly, knowledgeable and very professional.

The impact of your stay:

• The lodge champions sustainability through the implementation of green energy practices, ensuring the property operates in harmony with the environment. This dedication to running the lodge sustainably reflects a conscientious effort to protect and preserve the delicate ecosystems that thrive within the reserve.
• Their ‘Butterfly on the Road’ project is an inspiring initiative that extends beyond the boundaries of the lodge, connecting with primary schools in nearby communities. This educational initiative highlights the captivating life cycle of butterflies, underscoring their vital role in the environment. Students benefit from hands-on experiences that provide valuable insights into the significance of butterflies in pollination and maintaining ecosystem balance.
• The lodge contributes 5% of room revenue to social and environmental causes. These include an annual river cleanup, a successful partnership with the Yerkes Primate Institute and Foundation for Wildlife Conservation for the reintroduction of Howler Monkeys to the 400-acre preserve, and a yearly scholarship programe providing monetary aid for tertiary and secondary students’ tuition fees.

• Wine Cellar
• Organic Garden

This boutique resort is for those seeking a more polished hotel-style experience in the Cayo district.

Located just a short drive to San Ignacio. All rooms are comfortable and equipped with all the modern luxuries one would expect from a hotel such as air-conditioning, flat screen televisions and iPod docks.

Accommodation is in large rooms or private casitas. The hotel has a pleasant outdoor pool, spa, bar, and a good restaurant. Service is excellent, very attentive and helpful.

Spend your days exploring the lush interior area of Cayo and where you can truly get stuck into some outdoors activities, hiking the rainforest, birdwatching, horseriding, kayaking, to happening upon hidden Mayan ruins and cave rivers.

Your guide and instructor will collect you from your hotel and drive you to the Actun Tunichil Mukna caves for a full day's exploration of them with picnic lunch.

Transfer to San Ignacio airstrip

Flight from San Ignacio to Ambergris Caye

Shared transfer from San Pedro (Ambergris Caye) to hotel

Resorts in Ambergris Caye

• 7 private bungalows
• Full room service
• Snorkelling
• Bird watching

The island is set three miles away from San Pedro and has just six villas with all services completely private (even meals are served in your villa meaning you have total privacy). Service and the quality of the rooms here is exemplary, with the fully private activities tailored to your requirements making this an ideal place for honeymooners. The island also has spa facilities with an on-site massage therapist.

A wonderful and romantic beachfront option on the more secluded northerly shores of Ambergris , Portofino is owned and run by a friendly European couple who really add a personal touch to the feel and service of this boutique resort. Design is based around the idea of simple comfort with whitewashed walls, spacious rooms and handmade furniture.

There is a pleasant pool area and all room and cabanas offer views of the Caribbean. The onsite restaurant and bar serves excellent euro-caribbean fusion and the option to take a romantic meal on the pier.

The hotel is close to an excellent snorkelling area which can be reached by boat or even on your own using the hotel’s kayaks.

Access to the town of San Pedro is via water taxi and there are several good restaurants within walking distance.

Set on a secluded stretch of natural white-sand beach looking out to the vast barrier reef, Matachica offers a choice of 31 intimate villas, including 30 single casitas and 1 two-bedroom villa. Vibrantly coloured with thatched roofs, the villas are spacious and privately located from each other with traditional mosaic bathrooms, air-conditioning, private patios and hammocks.

There is a welcoming bar, and drinks can be brought to you, poolside or on the beach, while the award-winning Mambo restaurant is considered one of the best in the country and offers locally inspired flavours and some surprising combinations.

As well as relaxing on the serene beach or in the Jade Spa, you can explore both land and the reef with complimentary use of sea kayaks, bicycles, snorkel gear and fishing tackle. The buzzing little town of San Pedro is just a short water taxi away and the lush jungles of Belize’s interior are also within reach.

Located a short drive away from the main town, Victoria house is an wonderfully elegant beachfront property with beautiful gardens and pool area.

Service is very professional and helpful and the gardens and beach are immaculately manicured. On-site services include a dive-shop, massages, bar and a good restaurant. There are a range of different accommodations on offer from private casitas, to beachfront houses suitable for families or groups of friends.

The country's most popular beach destination, for good reason when you see its calm Caribbean beaches, chic island hotels and warm tropical waters. Spend your days here winding down and soaking up the sun, to some excellent snorkelling, diving, water sports and days out on a chartered boat.

Take a boat up the coast from Ambergris Caye to Mexico Rocks where an beautiful collection of Star, Elk Horn Coral, and Staghorn corals are colonised by lobsters, rays, eels and colourful juvenile fish. Shallow and protected by the barrier reef from ocean swells, this site is great for novice snorkellers with excellent visibility. Lunch is will be a wonderful BBQ cooked up on the beach.

Enjoy your day of leisure at Ambergris Caye swimming, snorkelling and diving in the warm Caribbean seas, on a trip to the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef or simply relaxing at your luxury hotel.

Transfer from Ambergris Caye hotel to San Pedro airport

Flight from Ambergris Caye to Belize City

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Guatemala to Belize Border Crossing: The Complete Guide (2024)

Have you explored the Tikal Ruins, and now you need to get from Guatemala to Belize? I’ve got good news for you. The Guatemala Belize border crossing was the easiest and quickest border crossing I’ve done anywhere in Latin America!

There is only one land border crossing between Guatemala and Belize. It’s called Melchor de Mencos, and it’s easy to do this border crossing by either shuttle or public transport. I used public transport, despite not finding any information about this route online ahead of time.

I’m writing this article so you can learn how to get from Guatemala to Belize by public transport like we did, or opt for a tourist shuttle instead. The point is, by the end of this article you’ll have all the information you need to make the right decision for you!

NOTE |   I will do my best to keep this article updated. If you find this guide helpful, please comment below with any changes or updates! Together, we can help future travelers navigate the Guatemala Belize border safely.

Check out my other border crossing guides…

Belize to Mexico Border Crossing Guide

Honduras to Guatemala Border Crossing Guide

Guatemala to Honduras Border Crossing Guide

El Salvador to Guatemala Border Crossing Guide

Nicaragua to El Salvador Border Crossing Guide

Costa Rica to Nicaragua Border Crossing Guide

Panama to Costa Rica Border Crossing Guide

Ecuador to Colombia Border Crossing Guide

Peru to Ecuador Border Crossing Guide

Sailing the San Blas Islands to Cross From Colombia to Panama (Coming Soon!)

Guatemala Belize Border Crossing Locations

Guatemala’s eastern border shares Belize’s western border. There is only one land border crossing location between the two countries. However, it’s also possible to travel by boat, although this is less common.

The main Guatemala to Belize border crossing locations are:

• Melchor de Mencos:  This is the only land border crossing between Guatemala and Belize, and it can be traveled by shuttle or public transport. Melchor de Mencos is the name of the closest town on the Guatemalan side. Many people travel the route from Flores, Guatemala to San Ignacio, Belize. It’s usually paired with popular tourism activities of Tikal Ruins (in Guatemala) and the ATM Caves (in Belize).
• Boat:  It is possible to take a boat from Puerto Barrios, Guatemala to Punta Gorda, in southern Belize.

Keep reading for more details on both of those options.

Travel Requirements at the Guatemala Belize Border

Before you complete this border crossing, you should also be prepared with some important items or details.

These travel requirements include:

• Pre-booked accommodation in Belize: When entering Belize, you are required to report where your first night of accommodation is, so be sure to pre-book that. I highly recommend Yellow Belly Backpackers in San Ignacio… it’s the best hostel we stayed in throughout Central America! They have both private and dorm rooms with AC (a must in San Ignacio!).
• Six-months passport validity:  It’s best to have minimum six months passport validity and at least two empty pages in your passport, before you cross any border. Some countries will deny you entry without this.
• Check entry requirements:  It’s different for every nationality, so check on your government website.
• Check health requirements:  As you probably know, things are constantly changing regarding COVID-19 travel rules. When we crossed this border, there were no health checks at all. You should check your country’s embassy page for the most reliable information.

Below, I explain all of these steps in detail, as well as our personal experience crossing the Guatemala Belize border at Melchor de Mencos by public transport! However, your journey starts before that…

Where to Begin Your Journey in Guatemala

Your very first step when planning your border crossing is to decide where to spend the night before your border crossing!

By Boat – Livingston or Rio Dulce

If you plan to travel the boat route, then you’ll need to stay in either Livingston or Rio Dulce in southeast Guatemala (I loved Rio Dulce, we stayed at Boatique Hotel and Marina ). However, this border crossing is a lot less common so I won’t focus on it too much here.

Melchor de Mencos – Flores or Tikal

It’s more likely that you’re planning to cross the Melchor de Mencos border and travel onward to either San Ignacio or Belize City. If that’s your plan, the best place to stay the night before is Flores , a cool town on Lake Peten with an island you can stay on!

Flores is an ideal jumping off point for visiting Tikal, or booking a shuttle to Belize. There is also a public bus that leaves from Flores directly to the border (more instructions further down this post!).

We stayed in this Airbnb in Flores, but if that’s booked up, then Los Amigos is undoubtedly the best hostel on the island (we visited Tikal with them).

Of course, you probably want to visit Tikal Ruins while in this part of Guatemala. Some people decide to stay the night in Tikal. Even though it’s closer to the border than Flores, I actually wouldn’t advise this, if you plan to go by public transport at least. Tikal is remote and it’s hard to get a public bus – your only option will be a shuttle.

We stayed in Flores and I’ll give you detailed directions further down this post. If you do this border crossing from Tikal, leave me a comment below with any tips of your own!

Guatemala to Belize Border Crossing: The Complete Guide

For the vast majority travelers, you will be crossing at Melchor de Mencos. This border crossing is well trodden by “gringo” travelers and connects two quite popular destinations.

Some more adventurous travelers may be attempting the boat border crossing from Livingston/Puerto Barrios, so I’ll also include some brief information on that, too.

How the Boat Border Crossing Works (Less Common)

Like I mentioned, this border crossing between Guatemala and Belize is rather unique as you need to take a boat from Puerto Barrios, Guatemala to Punta Gorda, Belize.

From my research, it looks like the company Requena’s Charter Service and Water Taxi runs this route, departing Puerto Barrios at 2pm on week days from the Shell Gas Station next to the Municipal Pier.

UPDATE 2024 | Good news! It seems that Requena’s has increased to daily runs! Contact them to confirm.

The boat is a panga that fits about 35 people, and apparently it can be a quite bumpy 1-hour ride. You may want to wrap your valuables in plastic bags for water protection.

The ticket price is the kicker here, coming in at a whopping $50 USD with a possible $10 USD unofficial “exit fee” (AKA scam). I got those prices from other backpackers.

Saying all that, I did not do this route myself so you may be best to ask around once you’re in Livingston, or give Requena’s a message on their Facebook or by email ( [email protected] ). If you do this journey, leave me a comment below with what you discover!

How the Melchor de Mencos Border Crossing Works (Most Common)

If you’re like me, you’re trying to get from Flores to San Ignacio. There are lots of shuttles that run this route, but I actually think it’s more convenient to go by public bus. Below are directions for each option.

Shuttle is the more expensive option, but a lot of people prefer it for the perceived convenience. However, be aware that “shuttle” does not equal “comfortable” in Central America. These buses can be cramped with no AC, and not necessarily any nicer than public buses.

In addition, if you travel by shuttle, you will have to spend time waiting for every member of your party to pass through immigration before you move on, which can take a while.

Finally, the shuttle from Flores to Belize usually departs around 6:30am. Why, you ask? Well, it is actually not a long journey at all. The real reason the shuttle leaves so early is because they are also transporting passengers to Chetumal, Mexico, and they just lump everyone in together.

I don’t know about you, but I value my sleep and after the 2am wakeup call for sunrise at Tikal the day prior, I preferred to sleep in and go by public bus, instead!

Some of the Flores-Belize shuttle companies include:

• Crasborn Travel Agency : This is a well-rated travel agency with a physical storefront on Flores island, and personally the only place I’d book a shuttle through. Flores is known for its scams, and this is the one legit place according to reviews and staff at the well-regarded Los Amigos Hostel . To book a shuttle, send them a message on their Facebook or visit their office in person. It shouldn’t cost more than $25 USD per person.
• Adrenalina Tours : Shuttle Flores to San Ignacio. Departs 7am daily, $25 USD per person.
• Adrenalina Tours : Shuttle Flores to Belize City. Departs 7am daily, $30 USD per person.
• Gekko Trails Explorer : Shuttle Flores to San Ignacio. Departs 6am daily, $26.99 USD per person.
• Gekko Trails Explorer : Shuttle Flores to Belize City. Departs 6am daily, $26.99 USD per person.

One company I’d personally go out of my way to avoid is Getaway Travels . They are known all across Flores for their scams. When we went to their office in person the vibe was very strange and uncomfortable. Later, I heard many warnings to avoid them, and saw some awful reviews online.

By Public Transport

Getting from Guatemala to Belize by public transport is so easy. I recommend this option to anyone.

In order to complete the Guatemala to Belize border crossing by public transport, you’ll need to follow this route:

• Tuktuk to Fuente Del Norte bus station
• Collectivo bus to Melchor de Mencos
• Exchange money (optional)
• Exit Guatemala
• Enter Belize
• Taxi to San Ignacio (alternatively: taxi to Benque, then bus to San Ignacio – but this isn’t actually cheaper)

Below, I’m sharing a step-by-step guide to navigating this border by public transport, based on my experience!

How to Get From Guatemala to Belize by Public Transport

This is the very first travel guide detailing how to get from Guatemala to Belize by public transport. I’m surprised nobody has written about this before, because I found this journey relatively easy! In fact, I’ll say it: this is the easiest border crossing anywhere in Latin America!

I actually think the Guatemala Belize border crossing is easier (not to mention way cheaper) to do by public transport than by shuttle. Even if you don’t consider yourself a “backpacker,” I’d encourage you to try this border crossing by public transport because I think you’ll actually find it more convenient than the tourist shuttle. I’ll explain myself below.

1. Tuktuk to Fuentes Del Norte Bus Station

I’m not going to lie. We had a lazy start to our day which involved sleeping in, coffee and a big breakfast at our Airbnb in Flores, and finally packing up our bags. By the time we finally left our Airbnb to begin the journey to Belize, it was 11am!

At 11am, we walked toward the bridge on Flores, and got a tuktuk to the Fuente Del Norte bus station (location pin linked). It cost us 10 GTQ per person, and the drive only took about 5 minutes.

Cost:  10 GTQ / $1.28 USD per person

Time:  5 minutes

2. Buy Tickets to Melchor de Mencos

The Fuente Del Norte bus station is not as big as I was expecting, and I got a little worried that we’d have trouble finding a bus to Melchor de Mencos. Not to worry! Once you walk through and into the big parking lot, you’ll see tons of collectivo vans.

On our way through the station, however, we met a tout who quoted us 60 GTQ per person for the collectivo to Melchor de Mencos. I’d seen the price of 50 GTQ in the Backpacking Central America Facebook group , so I asked for that price instead and he said “okay, but don’t tell anyone else on the bus…” like it was some great deal we were getting (yeah, right).

He walked us out to the collectivo, which we easily could’ve just walked to ourselves, where we paid the 100 GTQ (for the both of us) directly to the driver, who then gave the tout a cut.

Seeing as the tout got a cut, I bet we could’ve saved even more by just saying “no, gracias” to him originally and walking straight to the driver. But, he did walk us to the correct collectivo and a few bucks for us is his livelihood so personally I didn’t really care.

Cost:  50 GTQ / $6.41 USD per person

Time:  10 minutes

3. Drive to Melchor de Mencos

At 11:15am, within about five minutes of stuffing our big backpacks into the back of the collectivo van, we were off to Melchor de Mencos. The van was quite empty apart from Dan and I, a German backpacker couple (who we kept running into throughout our time in Belize!), and two Belizean ladies who were on their way home.

On our way out of Flores, we did stop at the central market for about 20 minutes where it was stifling hot, and we got bombarded with people selling fruits, plastic-bagged juices, and various greasy snacks through the windows.

Soon enough, though, we were driving toward Melchor de Mencos. Overall the drive was quite hot, but thankfully it never got too crowded and by 1:25pm we’d arrived near the Guatemala Belize border.

Time:  2 hours 10 minutes

4. Change GTQ to BZD

Once at Melchor de Mencos, we were immediately met with some money changer men, and we decided to just get this part over with.

You can also exchange money once you pass through to the Belize side, but they give a similar rate so my advice is just do it whenever is convenient. You definitely do want to exchange money here as you’ll need it for onward travel in Belize – they won’t accept GTQ there.

We got a rate of about 100Q to 25 BZD. That’s a rate of 4 whereas the market rate at the time was about 3.87. So, good enough for us.

5. Exit Guatemala

Next, we walked toward the border, which is past some shops and just a few minutes from where the collectivo dropped us off. There is a double bridge and we crossed on the left one, which was more pedestrian-friendly.

Once at the border it was similar to the dozen-or-so other Latin American borders we’ve encountered: a strange mix of dusty road, stray dogs, shack-type restaurants, and people milling about selling ice creams and other cold treats.

The Guatemala immigration building is on the right-hand side. It’s quite small and looks like it’s falling apart. It was 1:40pm by the time we entered the building, and 1:52pm by the time we’d officially exited Guatemala.

The whole process was simple. We got our passports stamped at one desk, then went to another desk where some military guys (toting massive rifles) wrote down our passport numbers and searched our bags. Actually, they wrote down the wrong number for Dan’s passport (they were looking at his old ESTA visa, not his actual passport page).

We explained the mistake to them and honestly, they didn’t give a crap and so we just left… that’s Guatemala for you in a nutshell. Adios!

Cost:  $0. No border fees or taxes.

Time:  22 minutes

6. Enter Belize

After exiting Guatemala, we walked a few minutes across “no man’s land” toward a separate building where we would enter Belize. Things already looked a bit cleaner and more organized.

Inside Belize immigration, we were given a form to fill out with our personal information and travel plans. They do require the name and address of where you’re staying your first night in Belize.

I recommend Yellow Belly Backpackers in San Ignacio – this is where Dan and I stayed for three nights and it was truly my favorite hostel anywhere in Central America. I highly recommend it (and splurge $2 for the AC rooms, if you can!).

After that, we showed our passports to the immigration agent, who stamped them without asking any questions. And like that, at 2:05pm, we were officially in Belize… our final country in Central America!

Time:  13 minutes

7. Onward Travel to San Ignacio (Taxi vs. Collectivo)

The final step is onward travel within Belize. For us, and for most people, the first stop was San Ignacio. This is the “adventure town” of Belize and I highly recommend spending a few days here! It’s most known for the epic ATM Caves, but there are so many other things to do in San Ignacio, too.

You have two options for onward travel to San Ignacio :

Option 1: Taxi to Benque (5 BZD per person), then catch a collectivo bus to San Ignacio (7 BZD per person).

Option 2 (recommended): Taxi directly to San Ignacio (10 BZD per person).

As you can see, it’s actually more expensive to take the public transport option. This is the rare case where a taxi is both cheaper and more convenient!

There are some things to know about taxis in Belize and, specifically, at the Guatemala Belize border:

• All registered taxis in Belize have a GREEN license plate. If the license plate is not green, don’t get in.
• Taxis at the border are all part of an association. This means, they shouldn’t be competing with each other nor scamming you. You should get the same price no matter who you ask (what a nice change from the rest of Latin America, right?).
• These are “collective” taxis and they charge per person. You may have to wait for them to pick up additional passengers, but you shouldn’t have to wait long as people are always trickling through the border who want to go to San Ignacio.

The drive to San Ignacio from the border is easy and fast. We left the border at 2:15pm and got dropped off at Yellow Belly Backpackers at 2:35pm!

Cost:  10 BZD / $5 USD per person

Time:  30 minutes

Onward Travel in Belize

Congrats! At this point you’ve officially made it into Belize. Maybe your Belize itinerary’s already planned out, or maybe you’re looking for some inspiration. Below are a few of the top destinations in Belize and how to get around.

San Ignacio

As I mentioned, we spent a few days exploring San Ignacio directly after our border crossing from Guatemala. This is what most people do, and I recommend you do, too!

Stay at Yellow Belly Backpackers (or San Ignacio Resort Hotel where the famous green iguana project is, if you’ve got a higher budget!). While you’re here, crawl through ATM Caves, explore waterfalls and cliff jumping at Mountain Pine Ridge Reserve, go cave tubing, visit the Green Iguana Conservation Project, and grab (at least one) incredible coffee from Cafe de Los Mayos.

Caye Caulker and San Pedro (via Belize City)

If you want to go straight to the world-class snorkeling and island vibes of Caye Caulker or San Pedro islands, then you’ll need to first get to Belize City and then catch a ferry to the islands.

Buses to Belize City regularly leave from San Ignacio. The public “chicken bus” leaves every half hour during the week or every hour on Sundays. As we discovered, sometimes it only leaves every hour in the middle of the day, too.

Wait at the main Cayo Welcome Center bus stop in San Ignacio, or alternatively wait a bit further up the road at this bus stop nearby Yellow Belly Backpackers .

The bus should cost 11 BZD per person and take about 2.5 hours. Once there, you can either walk 15 minutes or take a taxi to the water taxi terminals (this is what Dan and I did after our days in San Ignacio).

More Belize Destinations

Of course, there’s even more to see in Belize!

Other destinations in Belize to add to your itinerary include:

• Hummingbird Highway:  If you have time, it’s worth it to rent a car and spend 2-3 days driving this scenic highway.
• Caye Caulker:  The smaller yet still tourist-centric of Belize’s two most famous Caribbean islands. We spent 5 days here, loving life! The snorkeling, crystal blue waters, and overall vibes are incredible.
• San Pedro: The larger and more developed of the Caribbean islands. You can get more tourist amenities, higher end hotels, and fancier restaurants. Lots of people visit both islands.
• Tobacco Caye: A tiny island off the coast of southern Belize. I didn’t get a chance to go here but it’s on my bucket list to stay at this overwater bungalow !
• Palencia: A beachy destination in southern Belize.
• Hopkins: Another beachy destination south of Belize City. If you want the possibility of seeing a jaguar, this is where tours depart from.

Guatemala Belize Border Crossing Overview

Everyone’s border crossing experience is going to be different. My experience is based on using public transport to travel from Flores, Guatemala to San Ignacio, Belize. I found this route to be super easy, quick, and straight-forward.

Total time:  3 hours 35 minutes

Total cost:  $12.69 USD per person

Final Thoughts on the Guatemala to Belize Border Crossing

I really hope this guide was helpful to any fellow travelers attempting the Guatemala to Belize border crossing either at Melchor de Mencos or by boat!

To my knowledge, this is the very first article explaining how to do the Guatemala to Belize border crossing by public transport.

Wouldn’t it be nice if all Central America border crossings were this easy?!

If you find this guide helpful for your own border crossing journey, please consider leaving me comment below. Keep me posted on any updates or changes in buses and pricing. As with all my border crossing blog posts, I’ll keep this as updated as possible, so it remains useful for everyone!

Pin it for later…

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Your posts and guides are simply amazing. It is insane the amount of details you provide. In the name of every traveler, thank you so much for this high quality content.

Glad to help!

Lovely blog, really descriptive and everything laid out so nicely to follow. As a backpacker myself who has been travelling for the last year through South America and Central America, And has crossed every land border by foot and using public transportation. If you are crossing from Flores to Belize, I would HIGHLY recommend to use the shuttle service as it will drop you to Belize city. It is cheaper and way more convenient. Guatemala is the most strangest country in Central America when it comes to using public transport, one would think they would be cheaper but they actually are very expensive. For example we took a public bus from chiquimula to Flores for 200 quetzal per person and it took more than 10 hours. After generally enquiring from the locals the shuttle van is same price and way more quicker.

Just putting it out there for any other travellers.

Lastly be extra cautious and careful of this lady who will jump on your mini van as you get close to Flores, she has scammed so many people by selling them tours for twice the price only because she speaks half decent English and people have fallen for it as she is very persuasive and aggressive in her approach.

Enjoy travelling, it’s beautiful.

Agree, the shuttle could be easier for going all the way to Belize City! But, I think this route in my post is better for people going to San Ignacio, since it’s just across the border and it would be hours of backtracking to go all the way to BC then back to San Ignacio. And, we found the public transport super super easy! Although I agree, elsewhere in Guatemala public transport is a nightmare!

And good warning about the lady on the bus if you’re going to Flores. We were taking a shuttle from Semuc Champey to Flores and had the same thing, luckily we didn’t book anything with her as just seemed like lots of red flags, but other people on our shuttle definitely got scammed!

What a thorough and detailed write up. I agree I did not find any others that described how to go from Flores to Belize as you did. We are yet to travel, but I’m surely going to use your write up as the bible when we make it across the border 🙂

One question for you: How much of a walk was it at the border (on both sides)? It’s very likely we will have a checkin suitcase to lug around and I wanted to know how painful it would be.

It wasn’t far at all, probably the shortest walk of any of the borders we crossed in Central America. You should be fine with luggage I think.

Good article. Wil. Be going from Belize to Tika and back in a couple of weeks. Will update on anything new. ??Question though.. when are the boarders open/closed? Weekends, holidays, nights? Hours daily? Thanks, Steve

I’m sorry I don’t know that info but I would avoid crossing at night for safety in general. I definitely crossed some borders on weekends so that should be fine.

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Guatemala and Belize itinerary for 2 to 3 weeks

Home » Central America » Guatemala and Belize itinerary for 2 to 3 weeks

Guatemala and Belize are perfect countries to combine in an itinerary of about 3 to 4 weeks. They are also two very different countries with very different cultures and nature reserves. From the majestic temples of Tikal in Guatemala to the paradise island of Caye Caulker in Belize. With this itinerary you will travel past all the special highlights that both countries have to offer. I tell you exactly how best to travel through both countries.

In this article:

• Guatemala itinerary (1,5 – 2 weeks)
• Belize itinerary (1 – 1,5 week)
• Best time to travel
• How many weeks of traveling

Antigua ➤ (El Paredon) ➤ Lake Atitlan ➤ (Lanquin/Semuc Champey) ➤ Flores ➤ San Ignacio ➤ Caye Caulker ➤ Hopkins ➤ Placencia ➤ Livingston ➤ Rio Dulce ➤ Antigua

Guatemala (1,5 – 2 weken)

This itinerary starts in Guatemala, but basically you are making a round trip, so you can also start in Belize. The first destination in Guatemala is Antigua , a charming colonial town surrounded by volcanoes. Here you can explore historic architecture, stroll through cobblestone streets and climb the nearly 4,000-foot Acatenango volcano!

From Antigua you can continue by bus to El Paredon , a laid-back surf destination on the southern coast. But you can also travel directly by bus to the impressive Lake Atitlan surrounded by volcanoes. Here you can explore the various villages in a relaxed manner, enjoy nature and the fantastic views from various viewpoints.

From Lake Atitlan you can choose to travel directly to Flores , or also include Semuc Champey . On the map, it may look like a nice stopover, but you end up spending extra time traveling. The bus trip to Semuc Champey takes about 10 hours. Semuc Champey is one of the most beautiful natural sites in Guatemala. Located in the Alta Verapaz region, this hidden paradise offers multiple turquoise-colored natural pools surrounded by verdant jungle.

From Lake Atitlan, it is a hefty journey to Flores by night bus of about 12 hours, or 9 hours from Semuc Champey. Flores is known for its magnificent Mayan ruins, the most famous of which is Tikal, located some 60 km from the city. The old center is located on an island in Lake Peten Itza and you can enjoy beautiful green views and warm sunsets.

Detailed Guatemala itinerary

Traveling from Guatemala to Belize

From Flores you can easily travel across the border into Belize. I arranged my trip with GetAway travels in Flores . This travel company provides you with all the necessary information and helps you get your documents in order.

A trip from Flores to San Ignacio takes only 3 hours and costs about 125Q. You could also travel directly from Flores to Belize City in 5 hours for 150Q, or to Caye Caulker for 275Q including water cab.

Belize (1 – 1,5 week)

San Ignacio is a small village, near the border with Guatemala, that is surrounded by lush jungle. It has a relaxed atmosphere and is a paradise for nature lovers. You can explore caves and tubing on the river and, above all, unwind with the sounds of the jungle.

From San Ignacio, continue your journey via Belize City to the tropical island of Caye Caulker in the middle of the Belize Barrier Reef. Caye Caulker is a very relaxing island with nice restaurants and hidden gems, such as a beach where stingrays swim right up to your feet.

From Caye Caulker you can travel back to Belize City and from there take the bus to the fishing village of Hopkins . But what’s even cooler is a three-day sail across the Belize Barrier Reef to the village of Dangria , then travel to Hopkins. Hopkins is a small village where you can explore the beaches, as well as several national parks such as the Mayflower Bocawina National Park.

Traveling further south, you will arrive in Placencia which is known for its beautiful beaches. It has numerous nice bars and restaurants and, with luck, you can spot many special wildlife such as whale sharks and manatees.

Detailed Belize itinerary

Traveling from Belize to Guatemala

To travel from Placencia further south you will first have to go to Independence . To do this, you can take the Hokey Pokey watertaxi that leaves at least 7 times a day from a small port in Placencia . Once you arrive by boat, you can walk or take a cab to the James Bus Company Terminal . A friendly local showed me the way on foot while enjoying his life story.

At the terminal you can catch a bus to Punta Gorda, all the way in southern Belize. You buy tickets on the bus from the driver for 10 BZD and it’s about a 2-hour ride.

Punta Gorda ➤ Livingston

From Punta Gorda in Belize you can travel to Livingston in Guatemala. Boats from Punta Gorda leave at 9:00 and 14:00 Monday through Friday. The 9:00 am boat costs 81 BZD and the 2:00 pm boat is 100 BZD. Good to know: there are no boats on weekends.

Tickets for the boat can be purchased at a small office about a 2-minute walk from immigration in Punta Gorda. Once you buy your boat ticket, walk to the immigration office where you fill out a form and pay the exit fee of 40 BZD.

If you want to exchange your extra Belize Dollars for Guatemalan Quetzal, do so before paying the exit fee at the immigration office. When I was there, there was a man inside the immigration gate exchanging money. The exchange rate here should be better than in Guatemala.

Boats always sail first to Livingston and then to Puerto Barrios . The crossing takes about 15 minutes in a speedboat that fits 20-30 people.

Livingston is a small town with a mix of Mayan, Latino and Garifuna culture. Once you arrive at the pier, you must get your own passport stamp at an immigration office in town. Walk slightly up the hill and follow the signs that say “migración.” A few minutes later everything is taken care of and you can explore the city.

Livingston ➤ Rio Dulce

You can choose to spend a night in Livingston, or you can continue the same day by boat to Rio Dulce if you took the early 9:00 a.m. boat from Punta Gorda.

The boats from Livingston take a scenic route down the Rio Dulce River and go every day of the week at 9:30 and 14:30. Tickets can be purchased at the same pier for 125 Q. It’s about an hour boat ride to the end of the Rio Dulce River, but you can also get off earlier. In fact, there are several accommodations along the river and it is definitely worth staying here for 1 night. Give the boatman a call and tell them your accommodation.

If you choose to travel not to Livingston, but to Puerto Barrios , then from Puerto Barrios you can continue by bus to Rio Dulce or to Antigua. These minibuses are just not super comfortable and the boat ride from Livingston to Rio Dulce is many times more scenic.

Can I travel from Placencia to Rio Dulce in 1 day?

This is something I wanted to try during my Guatemala and Belize itinerary. But unfortunately, it’s not possible to travel from Placencia (in Belize) to Rio Dulce (in Guatemala) in one trip. To make the trip from Belize to Guatemala, you will have to spend a night in Punta Gorda so that you can take the boat at 9:30 a.m. to Livingston and then the boat at 2:30 p.m. to Rio Dulce. Or you will be able to stay a night in Livingston if you take the 14:30 boat from Punta Gorda.

I can recommend spending the night in Livingston since there is practically nothing to do in Punta Gorda. In addition, I found it a bit shady at night with drunk men on the streets. So I would try to travel directly to Livingston or stay there for 1 night at most so you can take the boat the next day. Livingston is a lot nicer to stay in.

Can I travel this route in reverse?

It’s also possible to travel from Livingston to Punta Gorda. To do so, first go to the immigration office in Livingston where you will get your exit stamp for Guatemala and have to show it at the boat. For the boat from Livingston to Punta Gorda you pay 300 Q. In Punta Gorda you arrive right at the immigration office where you have to fill out a form and get your stamp for Belize.

Best time to travel Guatemala en Belize

In Belize, the dry season is from January to April and in Guatemala from November to April. So the best time to plan this Guatemala and Belize itinerary is approximately January through April if you want to avoid the rain.

The dry season is also the high season, so it is definitely advisable to book some accommodations in advance.

How many weeks for this itinerary?

For a Guatemala and Belize itinerary, you will need to calculate at least 3 weeks. Keep in mind that 3 weeks is quite tight for ALL the places mentioned above. You will have to make choices as to which places you will skip.

If you would like to visit all the mentioned destinations in Guatemala and Belize or if you just prefer to take it a bit slower, then I can definitely recommend 4 weeks for this itinerary.

All posts about Central-America ⇒

Hi! Welcome to Mijn Reiservaring. Here I share my travelstories, useful travel tips and info about various destinations to make you ready for your next travels and awesome adventures. I hope to inspire you with my travel stories. Enjoy!

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Best of Belize & Guatemala Vacation Tour in Seven Days

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• Trip Overview

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Countries Visited

Places visited, suggested duration, customizable itinerary, san ignacio – arrive at your lush jungle lodge.

Your flight descends into Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport in Belize City. Look out the window and see where the Caribbean Sea touches the jungle. Board your connecting flight, and continue deep into Belize’s west, an area of the country lush with tropical trees and vivacious wildlife. Your plane lands at San Ignacio Airport, a small municipality named for its proximity to San Ignacio. The city is home to Belize’s only suspension bridge, connecting the town village of Santa Elena located on the eastern bank of the Macal River.

A small museum next to the Town Hall exhibits images of the region’s history and vibrant culture, along with providing a space for artists to display their work and musicians to play long into the night. Your private transfer awaits your arrival at the airport and escorts you along the pebble-paved road to your secluded and luxurious jungle lodge. The concierge will greet you in the lobby and offer cold juice made from berries picked from the hotel’s organic farm. Press a cool peppermint towel to your neck and face and the aroma, along with the temperature, is refreshing. The trickling sound of the infinity pool blends with the movement of the nearby river.

What's Included:

San Ignacio – Explore the Waters and Caves at Nohoch Chen Archaeological Park

The Nature Reserve around the property encompasses 356 acres of land where more than 300 birds nest year round. In the morning, the blue-crowned motmot fills the trees with a calm hoot. Stand on your private deck and see one tucked into the treetops. The blue shades along their tail stand out from the emerald leaves; the ends of their tail feathers dangle below the branches like tassels. After breakfast, your guide will meet you at the lobby and escort you to Nohoch Chen Archaeological Park, which locals refer to as Caves Branch. The river shines emerald green and winds beneath the open mouths of different limestone caves.

Jump into the cove water and board an inner tube to follow the intricate watery maze beneath the rocks. The caves open up into cathedral-like spaces, and you can hear the water rushing along the rocky walls. The sound echoes as you travel along the river network of more than four miles, encompassing five separate caves. The Mayan believed that the caves were an entrance into the underworld, linking the human realm with the spirit world. Stalactites dangle from the ceiling and vines move in the gentle cross breeze as you follow in the footsteps of the Mayan and gain a bit of understanding into their beliefs, noticing archways and formation where ancient rituals once took place.

San Ignacio – Full Day Snorkel Tour along the Great Belize Barrier Reef

In the morning, search the trees for interesting avifauna, listening for distinct calls and the vibrant plumage standing out against the canopy. Emerald toucanets perch on thin branches, their precious plumage blends into the leaves but their large bill radiates yellow and black. Their tail feathers shine a rusty red. After breakfast, make your way along the Hummingbird Highway, a scenic drive through the Maya Mountains. The aroma of citrus emanates from the orange and lime groves.

Your driver points out the banana trees growing alongside the highway. A specific mountaintop resembles a large face, earning it the name “The Sleeping Giant.” Arrive at the traditional Garifuna town of Dangriga, located at the mouth of the North Stann Creek River. The culture of the city stems from shipwrecked slaves and natives of the Caribbean. Step onto a boat at the marina and venture out onto the water to explore a sample of the 170-mile living coral reef, the second largest reef in the world.

The ecosystem includes 70 different types of hard coral and more than 500 species of fish. The water is cool on your skin and crystal clear as the sunlight spreads across the seafloor, illuminating the niches and hidden aquatic life along South Water Caye. Spotlight parrotfish glow with red, green, and yellow hues. Their clear water accentuates the parrotfish’s colors, which can grow longer than one foot and contains the same sense of drama as the pink and orange coral rising from the sand.

Tikal – Transfer to Tikal in Guatemala and Discover the Mayan Ruins

At breakfast, the aroma of roasted coffee drifts beneath the thatched roof of the open restaurant as you hear the birds calling out in the cool morning air. The scent of fresh flour tortillas blends with the aroma of papaya. After breakfast,  your private transfer escorts you to Guatemalan border. Your escort meets you on the opposite side to continue your journey to the coveted grounds of Tikal, taking you deeper into the jungle. Goats and cows graze on the undulating hills encircling small towns as you pass sporadic waterways sparkling in the sunlight. You stop at the entrance gate Tikal.

Signs tell visitors to watch out for snakes, jaguars, and wild turkeys as the guard checks your ticket into the park. Suddenly, you realize that you are standing in an area holding ten square miles of Mayan ruins. The limestone jungle allowed the trees and brush to swallow the abandoned former massive city due to its fast- growing vegetation. Your guide points out a tarantula clinging to a tree as a group of coati, animals similar to raccoons, roam through the lush grass in search of food. Sporadic steles rise out of the ground, edging thick stone staircases.

The scale of the city comes clear in the Great Plaza, where Temples I and II face each other from across the square. Temple I, known as the Great Jaguar Temple, was erected in the 8th century AD and stands 154 feet tall. A large collection of human and animal bones, along with jade and shell ornaments, was discovered inside the tomb in the 1960s. The steep incline draws attention to the three-roomed structure, and the roof comb crowning the edifice. You have seen the iconic large central stairway leading to the pyramid plateau in photos, but the photos do not do the pyramids’ grandeur justice.

Antigua – Fly from Flores to Guatemala City and Settle in Colonial Antigua

Your connecting flight takes you from Flores to Guatemala City, the capital of Guatemala, where your private transfer awaits your arrival. Descending into Guatemala City is an experience in and of itself. High-rises tower above the urban sprawl, attempting to reach the heights of the surrounding volcano peaks. Meet your private transfer at baggage claim and make your way to the colonial city of Antigua. The city acted as the capital of Guatemala until the 18th century after an earthquake devastated the community. Pastel facades line the cobblestone streets as men pull carts along the avenues selling different types of nuts.

Church spires tower above the understated, tile-roofed structures. Three volcanic peaks enclose the cityscape. A large cross crowns Cerro de la Cruz, devoted to Antigua’s patron saint. Immediately fall into the city’s charms, from the brimming plazas to the bustling markets. The aroma of fresh, decadent coffee drifts out of the favored cafes; indulgent chocolate displays fill the Chocolate Museum. Demonstrations provide visitors with tricks and techniques on how to utilize the various flavors of the chocolate in numerous dishes. Visit the Santo Domingo del Cerro Cultural Park for an exclusive look at the contemporary highland culture of Guatemala. The park contains sculpture galleries and murals dedicated to the works of Efrain Recinos, the Picasso of Guatemala. Recinos designed whimsical pieces that told stories of Guatemala’s history and blended heritage with the contemporary world. Each mural depicts a different form of communication, a recurring theme for the late artist.

Lake Atitlan – Relish the Scenic Drive and Tranquil Region of Lake Atitlan

Your private transfer will meet you at the hotel and escort you along the switchback roads into the mountains to reach the main lakeside port town of Panajachel. Art stores and craft tables line the main road leading to the water. Stunning paintings depicting daily life along the highlands and traditional wood-carven images provide artistic insight into the heritage of the region, and the continued vibrant aesthetic. Small villages speckle the hillsides leading to the water’s edge, reachable only by boat.

Wildflowers bloom against the thriving emerald canopy. The aroma of fresh tortillas drifts as a woman shapes the flour before placing it on the heated stone. Board your boat, and travel to the shores of Santa Cruz, a vertical town climbing the hillside. Your accommodation is located at the edge of the river. The wake is mild, and the wind blows through your hair, at times carrying mist from the freshwater.

Your hotel overlooks the lake with its pier jutting out from the shore. The small balcony and tranquil common area is filled with hammocks and cushioned seats, providing a perfect view of the lake. Your room is located above the trees, offering an unforgettable panorama of the blossoming wildflowers, towering peaks, and cobalt water. Take a tuk-tuk to the top of the vertical town of Santa Cruz to find the traditional Mayan culture. At Cave Sabor Cruceno, meet your instructor to learn how to produce tantalizing Guatemalan fusion cuisine.

Antigua – Visit the Villages around the Lake to see Mayan Culture

The treasures of the lake brim from the local villages and emanate from the absorbing natural beauty. For breakfast, sit on the balcony of the restaurant and listen to the water lap against the wooden posts beneath you as little blue heron graze on the soft edges of the water. After your meal, venture out to explore the spectacular waters and its borders. In the village of Santiago, find the Cojolya Association of Maya Women Weavers.

A small museum exhibits the history and artistry of backstrap loom weaving. Demonstrations provide insight into the full process of weaving, from spinning the cotton fibers to producing a finished textile. A local artisan, using traditional weaving and dying methods and native to Santiago, made each product on display in the shop. The association helps pass down the traditions of weaving from generation to generation, along with ensuring a safe and friendly working environment for women and girls in the region.

Friars erected the Colegio de San Jeronimo in the 18th century. The king of Spain took over the edifice and decreed it a Royal Customs House. Today, the site acts as an open-air museum; an octagonal fountain stands at the heart of the cloister. Occasional cultural performances enhance the beauty of the structure and showcase its connection to the greater city. The country is filled with incredible culture and a deep connection to its heritage, whether Pre-Columbian or Spanish.

Outside of Lago Atitlan, the remnants of Kaqchikel’s 15th-century capital stand in a serene park-like setting in an area known as Iximché. Pilgrims from around Guatemala come to pay homage to the ceremonial site where more than 160 structures have been uncovered and mapped. The Great Palace I was a residential complex with three separate phases of construction. The first edifice covered 5,400 square feet and formed the core of the palace with four long single rooms encircling a courtyard. After your exploration of Atitlan and its surroundings you return to Antigua for the evening.  When you are ready, your private transfer escorts you from Antigua to La Aurora International Airport in Guatemala City for your flight home.

Trip Highlights

• Discover the unforgettable, powerful, prestigious, and inspiring Mayan structures in the great city of Tikal
• Dive into crystal clear water and witness the spectacular marine life of the Great Belize Barrier Reef
• Drift down a subterranean emerald river coursing through caves and highlighting regional Mayan culture
• Explore the tranquil villages along the blissful shores of Lake Atitlan, an isolated region in the Guatemalan highlands
• Visit a chocolate museum and relish a demonstration on how to make sweet and savory dishes using the popular ingredient 
• Visit a women’s cooperative around Lake Atitlan to learn about the Mayan tradition and how the community works to save their heritage
• Indulge in comfort and luxury throughout your trip with accommodations focused on providing the best experience possible
• Learn the secrets of Guatemalan cuisine during a private cooking lesson fusing traditional flavor with modern techniques 

Detailed Description

Belize is more than beaches, and Guatemala is more than its largest city. Your 8-day vacation tour immerses you in the Mayan world, and the natural wonders are brimming from the countries’ borders. Emperors coveted shells from the ocean floor; pyramids struck visitors with a sense of awe, limestone hills provided fertile grounds for farming. Step along the Mayan trail with your arrival in Belize City and board your connecting flight to San Ignacio Airport. Your private transfer meets you at the airport and escorts you to your luxurious resort situated in the lush jungle hills. Next day, venture into Nohoch Chen National Park for a day of inner tubing down a cool river, weaving through caves.

Mayan shamans once used these caves for ceremonies and left behind trinkets buried in the sandy outlets. Make your way to South Water Caye along the Great Belize Barrier Reef to search for celebrated marine life along the largest reef in the Western Hemisphere. Your private transfer then escorts you to the Belize-Guatemala border.  After you cross the border, continue by private transfer to the magnificent grounds of Tikal. Relish the majestic scenery and inspiring pyramids of the ancient civilization that once ruled the region, then fly from Flores to Guatemala City.

You have time to visit one of the celebrated museums of Guatemala’s capital, including the Museo Popol Vuh, which celebrates Pre-Columbian history, before continuing to the colonial city of Antigua. Stroll along the charming cobblestone streets and immerse yourself in the elegant ambiance of the European style buildings.  Wake up early to travel by mountain roads to Lake Atitlan. Various villages along the shores are only accessible by boat. Settle into your remarkable hotel overlooking the water before you visit the town of Santa Cruz.

Enjoy your private cooking instruction at a delightful café known for blending traditional Mayan cuisine with contemporary methods. Spend the day discovering the treasures of Lake Atitlan by boat, jumping from village to village for an exclusive tour of the local culture. A Mayan city outside of Atitlan continues to highlight the brilliance of archeology and design as you return to Antigua in the evening to enjoy one of the many rooftop restaurants. Next day, your private transfer meets you at the hotel and escorts you to the La Aurora International Airport in Guatemala City for your flight home.  

Starting Price

$3,180  per person (excluding international flights)

Your Zicasso trip is fully customizable, and this sample itinerary is a starting place for your travel plans. Actual costs are dynamic, and your selection of accommodations and activities, your season of travel, and other such variables will bring this budget guideline up or down. Throughout your planning experience with your Zicasso specialist, your itinerary is designed around your budget. You can book your trip when you are satisfied with every detail. Planning your trip with a Zicasso travel specialist is a free service.

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• Some or all activities and tours
• Expert trip planning
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Your final trip cost will vary based on your selected accommodations, activities, meals, and other trip elements that you opt to include.

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Best of Guatemala and Belize

15 days | explore the rich culture in the hearts of guatemala and belize.

Looking for a Central American trip that dives into the hearts of colourful Guatemala and untouched Belize? Take a 15-day trip from colonial Antigua and dive into the rich cultural blend of Catholicism and traditional Mayan religion in the Guatemalan Highlands. Meet the deity-with-vices at the Temple of San Simon, soak in volcanic hot springs, hop on a chicken bus to local markets and take a boat ride on Lake Atitlan. Then, laze in the tropics of Rio Dulche, explore a laidback Afro-Caribbean town and witness the ancient ruins in Tikal National Park. End it all in paradisical Caye Caulker, where you’ve got loads of free time to ‘go slow’ and relax on the white sands, take a day trip or snorkel in the Belize Barrier Reef.

Trip overview

• Take an elaborately decorated chicken bus to a local market and witness the larger-than-life vegetables this region’s known for – decide for yourself whether it’s the result of the fertilizer or the blessings from God. 
• Gaze in wonder at the jungle-shrouded limestone temples of Tikal, one of Central America's most impressive Mayan sites, as howler monkeys call from the canopy.
• Relax and recharge on the white sands of Caye Caulker, a tiny Belizean island made for beach BBQs, snorkel trips and lazy afternoons spent swinging in a hammock.
• Explore Livingston – a one-of-a-kind riverside town where the Afro-Caribbean Garifuna population heavily influences the local culture.
• Take a scenic boat ride on Lake Atitlan to Santiago Atitlan, with 95% of the population of Mayan descent, and meet the shamanic keepers of Maximon and share a bottle of local spirits with them as they tell you stories of local life. 
• By travelling on this trip, you’ll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, Eden Reforestation Projects. Donations help them provide local employment opportunities and tackle climate change one tree at a time as they restore forests across 10 different countries.   
• The tropical climate of Central America means conditions can be hot and humid. Always carry plenty of water and stay hydrated, especially on walking tours.
• As this trip covers destinations across two countries, you'll need to make a border crossing. While this is usually straightforward, please prepare to be patient.
• While your leaders on this trip will bridge any language gaps you have, you'll find meeting locals easier the more Spanish words you know. Attempting to communicate in Spanish is an excellent way of showing you care.

Welcome to Guatemala! Your trip starts in the colonial city of Antigua – surrounded by volcanos, the views from this city are all you need to make the trip. Antigua is known for its Spanish buildings, many restored after the 1773 earthquake that ended Antigua’s status as Guatemala’s capital. Your trip starts with a welcome meeting at 6 pm, followed by an optional group dinner.

• Hotel (1 night)

There are no meals included on this day.

It’s very important that you attend the welcome meeting as we will be collecting insurance and emergency contact details at this time. If you are going to be late please let your travel agent or hotel reception know. Ask reception or look for a note in the lobby for more information on where the meeting will take place.

This morning after breakfast, travel to San Andres Itzapa in Chimaltenango. The Guatemalan Highlands are the best place to see the result of Mayan culture and Catholic religion coming together. Witness the unique culture firsthand with a shamanic ceremony at the Temple of San Simon. San Simon, the chain-smoking saint also known as Maximon, is a somewhat morally ambiguous deity. As few Mayan gods survived Spanish colonialism, scholars now think that San Simon is a symbol of numerous lost deities. After leaving your rum or tobacco offering (which can be purchased at the on-site liquor store), you’ll stop for a group lunch, before heading to Las Fuentes Georginas – volcanically heated hot springs in Xela. Surrounded by ferns, these luxurious hot springs are also the entrance to the forest reserve, with trails to the Zunil volcano. When you start to prune, you’ll carry on Quetzaltenango, where you spend the night.

• Xela - Las Fuentes Georginas Hotsprings
• San Andres Itzapa - San Simon shamanic ceremonies

Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.

Early this morning before breakfast, you’ll hop on a chicken bus – a truly local experience, chicken buses are a source of national and personal pride. This popular transport option unique to Guatemala has little to do with actual chickens – they are old American school busses passed down to new owners who decked them out in bright colours and decorations. Each bus is unique to the independent driver, many of whom have made this their sole business. The chicken bus will take you to a local market – Almolonga – famed for its giant vegetables, which some believe were blessed by God. Whether you believe the vegetables are a gift from above or due to the high amounts of fertiliser used by locals, this colourful market is a great place to rub shoulders with the locals and maybe pick up a giant carrot. Afterward, return to your hotel for breakfast.

• Western Highlands - Almolonga vegetable market
• Quetzaltenango - Chicken Bus Experience
• Quetzaltenango - Chocolate Museum - USD5
• Quetzaltenango - Mayan Cooking Class - USD55

As Guatemala is home to many markets, today’s adventure is a great contrast to yesterday’s Almolonga. After breakfast, you’ll head to Chichicastenango market (nicknamed Chichi), home to textiles, wooden handicrafts and jade jewellery. This is one of the largest outdoor markets in Latin America and Guatemala’s most historic. Surrounded by mountains, you’ll explore the market with an expert local leader who knows all the best spots and walk among thousands of locals and tourists who hit these stalls weekly. Maybe grab some souvenirs or a huipils for yourself – a traditional garment worn by the Indigenous girls and women of the area. You can also pick up some handmade jewellery, pottery, incense, tablecloths, a ceremonial mask used in traditional Mayan dances or some leather goods. Tonight, spend the night in Panajachel on the shores of Lake Atitlan, where you’ll have a free evening for dinner.

• Chichicastenango market visit

Your travel time today will be approximately 3.5 hours.

This morning after breakfast, head for hop on a boat (called a lancha) on Lake Atitlan – surrounded by volcanoes, rolling hills and Mayan villages, this is definitely one of the most beautiful lakes in the world (as said by Aldous Huxley). Take the scenic ride to Santiago Atitlan, taking in the sweeping views from the water. Although this is the largest town on the lake, it sees far fewer tourists, making it the perfect spot to find authentic Guatemalan people, culture and activities. Here, you’ll visit the current shrine of Maximon (San Simon), where the local shamans keep watch. Your group will bring a gift of local spirits to share with the shamans, and while you drink, you’ll discuss the holy shrine, the perplexing deity and local life on the lake. Tonight, take a minibus back to Antigua.

• Santiago Atitlan - Shamanic Keepers of the Shrine of Maximon
• Lake Atitlan - Boat to Santiago Atitlan

Your travel time today will be approximately 4.5 hours.

Enjoy a free day to explore the city, with nothing scheduled until a meeting to welcome any new travellers joining you on your adventure. Maybe grab some roasted beans from a street vendor and munch them while you stroll around. If you’ve got a historical bent, perhaps check out the 18th-century ruins of the Monastery of Santa Clara. Why not get a taste of local tradition with a chocolate-making workshop in the ChocoMuseo, or strut your stuff with a salsa dance lesson?

• Antigua - Salsa-dance Lesson (per hour) - GTQ105
• Antigua - Chocolate-making workshop at ChocoMuseo - GTQ236

As this is a combination trip, the travellers in your group and your group leader are likely to change today. There will be a welcome meeting to discuss the next stage of your itinerary and to meet new travellers joining you. It’s important that you attend the meeting as your new leader will be collecting insurance details and next of kin information. Ask reception or look for a note in the lobby for more information on where the meeting will take place.

As the seat of the Spanish colonial government, Antigua was once one of the most important cities in Central America. The city was destroyed by an earthquake in 1773, but many of the colonial-era buildings have been carefully restored. This morning, wander the quiet cobblestone streets with your leader, who will point out many fascinating markets and museums. The afternoon is yours to spend exploring the city and its surrounds. Prefer to take it easy? Grab a coffee on the main plaza and settle in for some people watching. Don't miss the chance to taste a tamale, a local dish served in a corn leaf. Or try pepian, a meaty dish of chicken, beef, pork, or all three at once, in a rich sauce. You’ll find the best value food next to the markets near the bus station.

• Antigua - Informal Spanish Lesson
• Antigua - Leader-led Orientation Walk

It’s a long day of travel today as you make your way to Rio Dulce by private vehicle. During the journey, learn a few handy phrases with an informal Spanish lesson from your leader, before arriving mid-afternoon. Rio Dulce, which means 'Sweet River' in Spanish, refers to both the Guatemalan river that flows from Lago de Izabal (Lake Izabal) to the Caribbean Sea and the town of Fronteras, which sits at the east end of the lake. Upon arrival, the rest of the day is free to enjoy at your leisure. Maybe stretch your legs on a jungle walk, rent a kayak and get out on the water or just laze in a hammock and enjoy the tropical surrounds.

• Lodge (1 night)

Today’s driving time is approximately 7 hours.

Join your group on a boat ride down the river to Livingston, a laidback Afro-Caribbean town that offers a unique taste of Garifuna culture in a far-flung corner of Guatemala. It’s located 30 kilometres (18 miles) from Rio Dulce and the boat ride is spectacular, taking you through waters laden with water lilies, past tropical forests and through a deep canyon replete with river birds. The Garifuna population in Livingston are descendants of a community forcibly removed from the Caribbean by the British in the late 18th century. Livingston was one of the towns the displaced Garifuna settled in, and its relative isolation means the culture has remained undiluted by Guatemalan norms. Spend a little time here and enjoy an included lunch of local specialties like tapou, a creamy soup made with fish.

• Livingston - River boat trip to Garifuna town

The boat trip's duration is approximately 45 minutes.

Travel to the township of Flores on Lago Peten Itza. On the way, pay a visit to Nuevo Horizonte, a ranch where 130 demobilised families settled after the signing of the Guatemalan Peace Accords in 1998. Beginning with no infrastructure and poor living conditions, the community cooperated to establish fish-farming, agriculture, reforestation and eco-tourism projects. Tour their nature reserve, have lunch on the ranch and speak to the locals about the origins of the community. Continue to Flores, where you’ll take an orientation walk with your group leader. Flores had a long history before it was colonised by the Spanish in 1697, most significantly as the capital of the Itza people after the fall of Chichen Itza. Spend your free afternoon wandering the island’s quaint streets or shopping for local handicrafts. Around 4 pm, the lakefront starts to hum with street food vendors, making it a good place to grab a bite.

• Flores - Leader-led orientation walk
• Santa Ana Vieja - Cooperativa Nuevo Horizonte visit

Today's driving time is approximately 4.5 hours.

Get up early for a guided exploration of Tikal National Park. Among the thick, evergreen jungle are some of the most significant remnants of the ancient Maya civilisation – plus an array of local wildlife, including coatis and howler monkeys. Wonder at the towering limestone temples and other monuments while pondering the mystery of the ancient city's demise. Spend a few hours playing archaeologist, and afterwards, say goodbye to Guatemala and head across the border to Belize. As the only English-speaking country in Central America, Belize is a great place to get chatting with locals. On your way to San Ignacio, take a break to learn the art of tortilla making!

• Flores - Tortilla Making Workshop
• Tikal National Park - Archaeological site (Entrance fee, Guide & Transport)

The use of an air conditioner at tonight’s hotel comes with an additional fee of approximately USD 20. Electricity in Belize is incredibly expensive so most hotels charge an extra rate to use the air conditioning. We’ve decided to leave the decision to use air conditioning here up to travellers as some opt not to use it.

Today's driving time is approximately 3 hours.

This morning, you can choose whether you would like to relax in San Ignacio or take part in some of the other optional activities on offer, like a visit to the caves of Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM caves). A living museum of Maya relics, the ATM cave system is home to ceramic pots and crystallised skeletons, preserved by the natural processes of the cave for over 1400 years. If you choose to explore the cave system (and it is highly recommended), you’ll spend most of the day there. If not, there are always more local ruins to explore above ground, including Cahal Pech, which was once the residence of a wealthy Maya family. Nature lovers may be interested in a trip to the Green Iguana Conservation Project, where a number of the scaly – and surprisingly large – beasts are protected.

• San Ignacio - Cave tubing (incl. entrance, guide & transport) - BZD200
• San Ignacio - Iguana Conservation Project (entrance fee) - BZD24
• San Ignacio - Xunantunich Ruins entry - BZD11
• San Ignacio - Cahal Pech Ruins entry - BZD10
• San Ignacio - Actun Tunichil Muknal Caves (Incl. entry, guide, transport & lunch) - BZD263

If your idea of paradise is white sand, clear blue waters and palm trees, then you’re going to dig Caye Caulker. The island even has a motto: ‘go slow’. Arrive following a scenic boat ride and join your leader for an orientation walk, to help you get your bearings on the petite island. While the island is entirely walkable, you might like to hire a bike and cycle between beach bars and along quiet palm-lined streets. Can’t keep your eyes off those Caribbean waters? Get out there for a spot of standup paddleboarding, or if the mood strikes, join a sunset catamaran cruise for an unforgettable end to your first day.

• Caye Caulker - Sunset Sailing - BZD126
• Caye Caulker - Stand-up paddleboard hire (per hour) - BZD44
• Caye Caulker - Bicycle Rental (per day) - USD8

Today's travel time is approximately 6 hours.

Your time in Caye Caulker is all about taking it easy, so do as much (or as little) as you want with another day here. If you’re keen to find the best snorkelling spots, opt to take a full-day boat tour (just remember to slather on sunscreen). After a day of swimming and lounging in the sunshine, you’re sure to get hungry. Belize is famous for its barbequed food, with some of the best meals cooked on the roadside. Caye Caulker is famous for its lobster – not the cheapest meal you'll ever buy, but so (so) good. Always make sure that you respect the season: lobsters can only be caught here between June and February. If you’re out of season, how about some grilled shrimp and a lovely rum and coke made with the local firewater?

• Caye Caulker - Full day Catamaran tour-(gear, guide and transport included) - BZD242
• Caye Caulker - Full day speed boat-(gear, guide and transport included) - BZD242

There are no activities planned for the final day and you are able to depart the accommodation at any time following check out. If you would like to spend more time in Caye Caulker, we’ll be happy to organise additional accommodation (subject to availability).

An open-dated round-trip water taxi ticket is included on your trip. To take the water taxi from Caye Caulker ferry port back to Belize City you will need to arrive at the ferry terminal 1 hour prior to departure. You will need to make your own way to the ferry port from your hotel in Caye Caulker. Your hotel can provide the ferry schedule. The journey takes around 1 hour and transfers from the port to our Belize City Hotel or the airport can be booked in advance. Please contact your booking agent should you require transfers or additional accommodation.

10 breakfasts, 2 lunches

Private vehicle, Public bus, Local bus, Taxi, Ferry, Shared boat

Hotel (12 nights), Lodge (2 nights)

Dates and availability

Important notes.

1. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm on Day 1. 2. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. Please speak to your booking agent for further information. 3. Please be careful when booking flights to Antigua; make sure you fly into Guatemala City Airport [GUA]. Guatemala City Airport is the closest airport to Antigua. Please do not book flights to Antigua & Barbuda Airport [ANU] as this is an island in the Caribbean. 4. On your final day, you’ve got the power to choose where your adventure takes you. If you like, you can stay in Caye Caulker for another couple of nights relaxing beachside – we’ll be happy to organise additional accommodation (subject to availability). Otherwise, jump on an included water taxi transfer from the Caye Caulker ferry port back to Belize City where you can also book additional nights’ accommodation, or where your leader can assist you to catch a taxi from the port to the airport for an onward connection. You will need to make your own way from your hotel in Caye Caulker to the ferry port. To allow for transfer times, please book a flight after 12 pm (midday). 5. An open-dated round-trip ticket to return to Belize City from Caye Caulker's ferry port is included on this trip. If you are travelling from Caye Caulker to Belize Airport please ensure you do not book a flight before 12pm to allow for travel time.

Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.

Check back later or explore reviews for similar trips.

Discover Guatemala and Belize

Map & expenses

Similar trips

Discover Guatemala and Belize, two remarkable gems you must visit in Central America; since they are wildly different travel destinations, this trip certainly promises many unforgettable experiences.

Guatemala is an excellent melting of Mayan and natural treasures. An exceptional historical heritage and rich biodiversity offer travelers an authentic and unique experience. The varied colors of Mayan markets and the fine needlework of their local clothing are the perfect setting for the breathtaking background of the volcanoes, lakes, and endless mountain ranges. In Belize, explore caves and forests and snorkel in the fascinating Barrier Reef Reserve System, the largest barrier reef in the northern hemisphere.

Lake Atitlan

Living Mayan Culture

UNESCO World Heritage Site

Antigua Guatemala

Caye Caulker

Caribbean Ocean

A perfect vacation package to enjoy the beauty of colonial cities, discover one of the most beautiful lakes in the world, explore jungles, impressive Mayan Ruins, hike active volcanoes, and visit indigenous villages. In Belize, swim in the Great Barrier Reef, and relax on its beautiful white sandy beaches. To sum up, Guatemala and Belize are a part of the world you cannot miss.

Upon your arrival, a guide will welcome you in the international airport of Guatemala City. You will drive today to Lake Atitlan. Three volcanoes and rolling mountains paint an unforgettable landscape of Lake Atitlan, considered one of the most beautiful lakes in the world.

No trip to Guatemala is perfect without time to experience Lake Atitlan, proclaimed by Lonely Planet as “the closest thing to Eden on Earth.” Your driver will take you to Panajachel, where you will take a boat transfer across the lake to your hotel, located in a small town bordering Lake Atitlan.

Today, you will take a boat tour to explore Lake Atitlan and the indigenous towns along its shores. These towns are beautiful for their colorful streets and crafts but also for their breathtaking views. While you enjoy the unparalleled views of this natural wonder, you can also have a closer look at the living Mayan culture, exploring some of the many beautiful little villages on the lake basin.

Even when its inhabitants have had to adapt to modern life, these towns preserve their traditional costumes, ancestral traditions, and culture. Their friendly people, handicrafts, and traditional cuisine will make this experience unforgettable.

To put the cherry on the cake, the experience today will culminate with an authentic Mayan cooking class. A local Mayan instructor will take you on an exciting journey through traditional Mayan cuisine, from the ingredients to the final plate. Learn how to make a Guatemalan dish and enjoy delicious food made with your own hands.

Today, we will drive to Chichicatenango. Every Thursday and Sunday, the largest market in Central America takes place. In the Chichicastenango market, its streets are packed with color and variety. This traditional market offers the most extensive variety of Guatemalan handmade goods, sold directly from the hands of its producer, from crafts to medicinal plants or even chickens. Later we will drive to Antigua Guatemala, where you will have a free evening.

To begin the day, you’ll go on an exciting tour of a coffee farm and taste the best organic coffee in the world. You’ll hike through coffee fields, learn to process and roast your favorite beverage, and finally, make your fresh cup of coffee.

You’ll discover Antigua Guatemala, a jewel of colonial and modern urban architecture that maintains all the characteristics of a magnificent colonial city stopped in time. Antigua is famous for its well-preserved Spanish architecture and many stunning ruins of colonial convents and churches that will amaze your senses.

Its churches, ruins, cobblestone streets, and the city’s famous cathedral will make you feel like you are in another era. Besides the beautiful architecture, its three volcanoes form a majestic background to this unique city.

To conclude this exciting and varied day, you will have a Chocolate mini-workshop. Chocolate is very special to the Mayan culture because it was a ceremonial drink reserved for the kings, and you will learn today how to make your handmade chocolates, a delicious way to end the day.

You’ll explore colonial towns surrounding Antigua and experience these small towns and their colorful streets and friendly locals. Besides offering an exciting look at Guatemala’s traditions and unique culture, you will enjoy some of the most beautiful textiles and woodwork. Their unique handicrafts made by Mayan hands, especially women who inherit their techniques from generation to generation, make them special.

After a delicious traditional lunch, we will drive to Guatemala City, where you will take a one-hour domestic flight to Flores Island.

Today we will discover the hidden ruins of Yaxha, the third-largest known Mayan city in the lowlands of Guatemala and one of the oldest. Located north of the Yaxha Lagoon, the park combines biodiversity and pre-Hispanic cultural heritage.

Its lagoons are the most important water bodies of the Maya Biosphere Reserve, and its wetlands are essential for their global importance as a refuge for several migratory birds.

Yaxha contains massive clusters with pyramidal temples, more than 500 structures at its center, 40 steles, commemorative altars, several temples, ball courts, palaces, and domestic residential complexes.

A guide will pick you up from the hotel in the morning and take you to Tikal National Park to explore the largest excavated site on the American continent. The ruins at Tikal are known for the numerous structures that still stand firm, a quality that visitors to the Plaza of the Seven Temples will genuinely appreciate. This high degree of preservation is a credit to the builders of Tikal.

The tree-covered temples and palaces frequently encountered at Tikal have been preserved this way for almost a millennium. Located in the nucleus zone of the Mayan Biosphere Reserve and containing some of the fascinating archaeological remains of the ancient Mayan civilization, Tikal is undoubtedly captivating for anyone.

The sight of its impressive temples in the middle of a tree sea has fascinated characters like George Lucas, who even used the Tikal landscape as one of the settings for the movie “Star Wars, Episode IV.” After Tikal, you may choose to return to Flores Island or visit the National Park Ixpanpajul. This park offers several activities, such as horseback riding or a canopy tour.

The Mountain Pine Ridge reserve has streaming rivers and mysterious limestone cave systems. First, we’ll drive to Belize, after we’ll take a two-and-a-half-hour ride from San Ignacio up harsh dirt roads, passing through small Mayan settlements and dramatic surroundings, we will enter the reserve.

This reserve is undoubtedly the most stunning landscape in the Cayo District, if not Belize. The route will take you through pine woods, cascading water pools over granite stones, and the distant Maya mountains.

Explore scenic waterfalls and immaculate woods, visit the mystic river Frio, and swim in a series of natural pools. We’ll stop for a picnic lunch before going to Big Rock Falls, a 150-foot (46-meter) waterfall that gives a refreshing spray of mist as it goes down into a bright, deep swimming hole. At the end of this expedition, your driver will take you back to your jungle lodge.

This incredible experience will take you on a journey into the Mayan underworld into a geologically beautiful cave with crystal clear waters, a natural museum of Mayan artifacts, and a sacred burial place.

After a short hike through the jungle, you will find the cave entrance; you will swim to the other side before continuing. Once across, you will see several Mayan treasures and the bones of sacrifices in a ceremony by the Mayans; this cave tour promises to be one of the most epic and unique experiences of your life.

Today, you will have an early birdwatching tour in your jungle lodge. Later, you’ll go to Belize City, where you will take a domestic flight to one of the dazzling Cayes of Belize.

There are more than 400 little islands in the Barrier Reef of Belize, the world’s second-longest reef. The islands are known as Cayes; you can include the lively Ambergris Caye or the laid-back and smaller Caye Caulker in your itinerary.

Today you will take a sailing and snorkeling tour. This fantastic tour includes a few different stops and an excellent opportunity to see waving corals, brightly colored tropical fish, and aquatic plants. You will have the chance to look for over 350 species of fish.

These all lie along the most significant barrier reef in the northern hemisphere. Swimming near friendly sharks and feeding rays in the clear blue tropical waters of the Caribbean will undoubtedly be an experience you will not forget.

The Cayes of Belize offer great locations for snorkeling and diving trips. If you have a diving certification, you can take a dive tour to venture into Belize’s best deep-sea diving.

You’ll take a domestic flight to the international airport of Belize for your international flight back home. Today marks the final day of your journey to discover Guatemala and Belize, but it doesn’t have to end just yet. Perhaps you would like to try Spanish language lessons or continue north to explore the Riviera Maya in Mexico. Contact one of our knowledgeable agents to begin customizing your tour vacation package today.

map, expenses & price

Discover Guatemala and Belize.

Expenses included: -Ground transportation and domestic flights -Thirteen nights of hotel accommodations. -Local professional guides. -All park entrance fees. -Tours and excursions as listed. -Daily breakfast (except in Caye Caulker).

The overnight hike to Volcano Acatenango is the best plan to experience the volcano as it allows climbers to take in astonishing nightfall views of flowing lava. Although challenging for even the most seasoned hiker, search no further than this hike to have the best that Guatemala offers adventure-seekers. Hiking Volcano Acatenango to watch a nearby Volcano de Fuego erupt through the night is an epic experience and a must-do when traveling to Guatemala.

The Great Blue Hole is a UNESCO World Heritage Site; it is nearly altogether circular; it measures 300 meters (984 feet) across and 108 meters (354 feet) deep; it is in the Lighthouse Reef – a magnificent coral atoll. It is the most fantastic sea hole in the world. Recognized divers have described the Blue Hoel as one of their preferred dive sites. In 2012 the Discovery Channel ranked the Blue Hole as the number one most incredible place on the planet.

This is an unprecedented adventure to explore the most isolated parts of the Belize barrier reef to experience some of the best snorkeling areas. This fantastic expedition is an island-hopping adventure for all who want to explore this unoccupied Caribbean heaven.

22 days & 21 nights

14 days & 13 nights

7 days & 6 nights

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The Best of Guatemala and Belize

• Itineraries
• Guatemala & Belize

Guatemala & Belize Combo Tour

Visit antigua, lake atitlan, tikal and ambergris caye on the belize caribbean coast 10d/9n starting at $3149 per person.

• Detailed Itinerary

Start with two nights in Antigua and a day to wander the streets or explore on a guided tour.  In addition to our recommended Antigua excursions you can tour the Antigua Valley on foot or mountain bike, visit local artisan workshops or climb the Pacaya Volcano.

Then, transfer by private car to Lake Atitlan where you will spend two nights. On your full day you can kayak, mountain bike, visit lakefront villages and local markets.

Return to Guatemala City, visiting the Chichicastenango Market en route. Fly to Flores and spend two nights at a hotel on Lake Peten Itza.  The following day you will explore the ruins of Tikal with your expert guide. 

Finish your trip on the island of Ambergris Caye, a short flight from Belize City. San Pedro, the only town, is a laid-back home to a variety of restaurants, cantinas, shops and grocery stores.

This trip can be booked with mid-range, superior or luxury properties.

Lost World Adventures itineraries can be tailor-made according to your plans and preferences: budget, hotel selections, travel dates, optional excursions, length of trip, etc.

Day 1: Guatemala City - Antigua

On arrival in Guatemala City you will be met by your local driver and guide and transfer about 45 minutes to Antigua.

Overnight at an Antigua hotel, breakfast included - 2 nights.

Day 2: Antigua

Two suggested optional excursions:

Fairly Traded Coffee Tour - Half-Day You will be met at your hotel by your bilingual driver for a short transfer to the small town of San Miguel Escobar, just outside of Antigua.

You will be met in town by a local guide from 'As Green as it Gets' (AGAIG), a charity working to support small independent coffee producers and promoting environmentally responsible agriculture in Guatemala.

This tour takes you to visit some of the families supported by this organisation where you can work side-by-side with small coffee farmers in their daily coffee processing: picking, pulping, fermenting, washing, drying, trilla, sorting, grading the coffee (depending on the season), roasting coffee over an open fire and grinding by hand on a grindstone before sampling their handiwork.

Coffee season is November to March. This tour includes a donation to AGAIG which the Viaventure Foundation also supports on an annual basis. Afterward, you will be transferred back to your hotel. Includes private transfers.

Antigua Walking Tour Half Day You will be met at hotel by your private guide to begin your half day walking tour of Antigua. Your tour will cover the architectural and historical highlights of this colonial city with a behind-the-scenes look at some of the many ruined churches, convents, and cathedrals. Entrances are included to the Iglesia San Francisco, the Cathedral, Central Park, and La Merced Church.

This tour is flexible and if you have specific sites that you wish to see please notify your guide. If you wish to visit other monuments you will need to pay the entrances directly. At the end of the tour your guide can accompany you back to your hotel or take you to a place of your choosing.

Entrances to monuments included.

Day 3: Comalapa Market, Iximche Site With Transfer To Lake Atitlan

You will be met at your hotel by your private driver and depart for the 1-hour transfer to the town of Comalapa. On arrival you will see the famous painted mural that the school children of the town painted depicting mayor events in Guatemala's history up to the signing of the peace accords in 1996.

From here you will visit some local painters who continue the tradition of naïve paintings that the town is so famous for.

You can then visit the wonderful authentic market of Comalapa where the local people go about their daily life buying produce and goods for the rest of the week still dressed in the traditional textiles of the area.

You can also visit the small museum dedicated to the composer who wrote Guatemala's national anthem who came from Comalapa. Guests will enjoy a local lunch before heading off to explore the Mayan ruins of Iximiche. After exploring the site you will continue by car to Lake Atitlan.

Includes private transfer, bilingual driver, entrance fees to Comalapa and Iximiche site, donation to painters, lunch.

Overnight at a Lake Atitlan hotel, daily breakfast included - 2 nights.

Day 4: Lake Atitlan - San Juan & Santiago Full Day Lake Tour

You will be picked up from your hotel and transfer to San Juan La Laguna Village where you will visit a local textile cooperative, see the back strap loom in use and see how natural dyes are used.

You may also visit a local medicinal nursery where natural medicines, soaps and shampoos are produced. Following the cooperative visits, you will board the boat to the village of Santiago for lunch.

After lunch you will go with your guide to the house where the Maya God Maximon is living. Each year a different "brotherhood" has the privilege of taking care of their God so his location changes.

Once with Maximon you may see local shaman performing rituals for local people and if you wish you can ask your guide to help you hire the services of a shaman for you to have a personal ceremony performed (at additional cost).

After visiting Maximon guests can visit the local church and learn about the history of this very traditional town and also see the market and learn about the distinctive textiles and primitive art that is famous from this area. Afterward, you will transfer back to your hotel.

Lunch and entrance fees are included.

Day 5: Panajachel - Guatemala City - Flores

Chichicastenango Market With Transfer To Guatemala City This morning you will be pickup up at your hotel by your private driver and guide for the 1.5 hour transfer out to the highland town of Chichicastenango.

Along the way you will pass through the central highland region and see the local Maya people in their traditional dress going about their daily lives - working in the fields, collecting firewood, traveling between markets, selling their wares.

Upon arrival at Chichicastenango your guide will take you to explore this famous market both the local areas of the fruit & vegetables & everyday items as well as the craft area where you can find endless variety of beautiful textile, wooden & ceramic crafts.

Guests can also visit the famous St Tomas Church where local Maya people come to perform Maya rituals within the Catholic church - demonstrating the interesting way the two faiths have combined in recent times.

You may also hike up the hill to the Pascaul Abaj ritual site to see if any local shaman are performing rituals and/or to the cemetery on the outskirts of town.

Lunch is included. Afterward, you will transfer to the Guatemala City Airport for your flight to Flores.

Flores Airport reception and transfer to your hotel.

Overnight at a Flores or Lake Peten Itza hotel, breakfast included - 2 nights.

Day 6: Tikal Day Trip

You will be picked up at your hotel and transferred to Tikal National Park for a privately guided tour.

Tikal is the grandest of all Mayan Ruins, and the stunning beauty of this tropical paradise will leave you breathless. Along with your private guide you will tour the ruins. Lunch at a local restaurant is included.

Perhaps the most visually stunning and impressive of all Maya sites, Tikal’s five monolithic temples pierce the jungle canopy (Temple IV reaching a height of almost 230 feet) and ancient plazas, stelae and ball courts tell of a rich and powerful history when Tikal’s population reached almost 100,000.

By the beginning of the Classic Period (AD 250) Tikal was competing for regional domination with Uaxactun and Calakmul, and later Tikal was briefly conquered and subjugated by a powerful alliance of Caracol and Calakmul between AD 562 until AD 682.

From AD 682 onwards Tikal flourished again under Lord Ah Cacau and continued to dominate the region into the 9th Century. Today the site is justifiably recognized as one of the archeological wonders of the Americas.

Its unspoiled jungle setting within the Tikal National Park makes it a paradise for birders, nature lovers and amateur archaeologists.

While here, climb to the top of the "Temple of the Jaguar" rising above the jungle to overlook the many temples and main plaza to imagine yourself in the hey-day of this thriving ancient city.

Your guide will give you an excellent overview of the discoveries made here, an insight into the Mayan way of life, and the historical significance of the ruin. You will also encounter many species of birds and the rich flora of tropical hardwoods like mahogany and teak, along with countless ornamentals and edibles flourishing here.

Optional Yaxha Sunset Tour This afternoon you will be met at your hotel and transferred with guide and driver to Yaxha, a seldom-visited Mayan city. Yaxha is the third largest Mayan site in Guatemala, and has only just been extensively investigated; though little has yet been restored. The view from the top of Temple 216 over the jungle lagoon is inspiring.

Sunset drinks are then enjoyed at the end of the tour on top of the main temple with views over the surrounding rainforest and nearby lake Yaxha.

You will then trek back through the jungle with torches as it starts to turn dark - perhaps spotting some nocturnal wildlife along the way - and return to your hotel.

Day 7: Flores - Belize City - San Pedro (Ambergris Caye)

Transfer to the Flores Airport for your flight to San Pedro, with connection in Belize City. 

You will be met at the airstrip and escorted to Victoria House.

Casual elegance is the very essence of Victoria House, one of the premiere resort hideaways on beautiful Ambergris Caye. Set amongst mature stands of coconut trees and extensive gardens planted with hibiscus, bougainvillea and oleander, the resort offers an ideal mix of seclusion and easy accessibility to San Pedro and the rest of beautiful Belize.

Home of the world's second-largest barrier reef (surpassed only by Australia's Great Barrier Reef), Ambergris Caye is world-renowned for its superb Scuba diving and snorkeling opportunities, including the Hol Chan Marine Preserve.

The town of San Pedro consists of three sandy streets lined with small shops and truly "laid-back" restaurants and bars.

Daily breakfast included.

Days 8, 9: Ambergris Caye

Days at leisure.

Day 10: Flight to Belize City - Int'l Departure

Depart on the short flight to Belize City, connect with your int'l flight.

"I am very satisfied with the work that this Guatemala travel company did in planning my trip."

Their partner travel company on the ground in Guatemala did a great job in carrying out the planned itinerary.

- Wayne C, Mar 2013

Wayne C, Mar 2013

Interested in this trip, not sure where to begin get in touch now and one of our expert trip consultants will be happy to help..

800-999-0558

Memorize your passport number, as you will likely be asked for it on numerous occasions throughout your adventure.

Belize: Discovering the Hidden Jewel of the Caribbean

• By Cameron J. Rhodes
• July 24, 2024

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The sun crested the horizon and climbed above the stretch of river and thick rainforest below. As howler monkeys and parakeets sounded across the cascading trees, the hillside lit up in a coral glow. Above me, a troop of busy toucans hopped from limb to limb, feeding on berries between beak-to-beak brawls. The Belizean landscape exploded with a kaleidoscope of color and activity as I left the jungle canopy behind to fish the country’s southernmost coast.

Introducing the Jewel

Belize—often called the hidden jewel of the Caribbean—is wedged firmly between Mexico and Guatemala along the eastern coast of Central America. Although it’s relatively small, with a mainland roughly 180 miles long and 68 miles wide, Belize boasts the second-largest barrier reef system in the world, offering divers and anglers access to some of the planet’s most pristine marine ecosystems.

Naturally, Belize is a popular vacation spot for those interested in ecotourism and cultural experiences such as jungle tours, dive and fishing trips, and visits to Mayan ruins. English is the country’s official language, and the exchange rate between Belizean and US dollars is an attractive two to one. It’s understandably a convenient Central American destination for American travelers.

Aside from the influx of visiting tourists, Belize is a cultural melting pot all its own. Its languages, cuisines and festivals showcase the Mayan, Garifuna, Creole, mestizo, East Indian and European peoples living there. I once called Belize home for a very short time in my early 20s, and I distinctly recall marveling then at the number of diverse cultures celebrated as part of the Caribbean nation’s patriotic identity.

Belize’s natural diversity is just as remarkable. Mountain ranges carpeted in thick jungle and meandering rivers give way to stretches of agricultural fields producing sugar cane, cacao, cashews, corn, bananas, oranges and mahogany, the same plants you’ll also find growing in front yards. Along the coast and the cayes, the Earth has tried her hand at every imaginable shade of blue. Crystal clear waters with lively coral reefs are dotted with the reaching red roots of mangrove hammocks or dreamy islands with bright, white sand and shady palms. The country is also home to all manner of wildlife, such as whale sharks, jaguars, tapirs, manatees, sea turtles, hummingbirds, and, importantly for anglers, bonefish, permit, tarpon, snook, dolphin, wahoo, sailfish, blue marlin and reef fishes.

The Pursuit of Permit

Since Belize is a premier destination for an inshore slam on the fly, it only seemed fitting that while in Toledo—the southernmost district of the country—I spend some time pursuing the area’s most prized gamefish: the permit. Easy to spook and difficult to coax, the finicky species draws glutton-for-punishment anglers to Belize’s many lagoons and flats. Copal Tree Lodge —my home base in Toledo’s rainforest—kindly set me up with one of the best fishing operations around.

The tangerine, lavender and teal guest houses at Garbutt’s Fishing Lodge sit at the edge of the sea in the quiet fishing town of Punta Gorda. The four brothers who own and operate the business established it after years of guiding for others. The lodge specializes in permit trips in the nearby Port Honduras Marine Reserve and its maze of mangrove islands.

When I arrived at Garbutt’s, anglers from Ohio, Kentucky, Alaska and Florida were busy chatting with their guides, handing off rigged rods and piling into their assigned pangas. I quickly climbed onto Good Times with 20-year-old guide Kylon Garbutt, a strong and fit young man with a bright smile and a dry sense of humor. Together we set off for the mangrove maze under the golden-hour light of the morning sun. As we watched a guide and his angler methodically pole along the length of a mangrove hammock, Garbutt calmly announced several tailing permit ahead. The angler on the bow of the boat made careful casts with a crab fly, but the fish weren’t interested. Garbutt shared that this time of year, right after Easter, is often tough. Guides suspect that permit spawn then and therefore aren’t interested in eating. While the fishing proved challenging, the scenery was spectacular.

The other boats pushed farther into the lagoon to spend the afternoon looking for fish, but our time on the water was sadly up. Although Garbutt and I returned to the lodge without a bite to report, I walked away reinvigorated on the beauty of the Belizean landscape and with a refreshed desperation to someday go back and chase those fickle fish.

Meeting the Mayans

Belize also offers hiking, rafting and caving adventures farther inland. I ordinarily prefer private experiences, the types of tours that can be self-guided or accommodate one-on-one interaction. That kind of personal and cultural connection was certainly the format for the afternoon I spent at a Mayan family’s home in Santa Cruz Village.

Bruno Kuppinger, a German tour guide who has lived in Belize for the past 27 years, facilitated tours for me and drove me everywhere during my time in the south of the country. Some playfully call him Mr. Toledo, and I can absolutely understand why the name fits. He’s worn many hats in Belize, including farmer, real estate agent, adviser, lodge owner and carpenter.

Kuppinger’s passionate about responsible tourism, especially when supporting and respecting indigenous peoples. He works closely with Jose Mes, one of the leaders of the Mopan Maya people living in Santa Cruz, to host small groups at Jose’s home. Surrounded by thousands of acres of jungle, Santa Cruz is still somewhat tucked away from the rush of the outside world. Even so, Mayan communities struggle to balance their hold on tradition while embracing change.

Jose, his wife and their young daughter warmly welcomed me and Kuppinger into their square, hand-hewn home with a thatched roof. As his wife, Hilda, showcases the traditional methods for grinding corn and cacao, Jose offers detailed explanations of how villagers share the land, work in sync with the lunar cycle and make decisions as a community. He also shares the challenges his people endure regarding land rights, commercial markets and protecting their traditional seeds.

I watch as Hilda and her daughter skillfully knead round corn tortillas with their surgical hands. Hilda kindly hands me one so hot off the fire that I have to rotate it through my fingertips in between bites. I’ve eaten countless tortillas, and that one was unequivocally the best I’ve had. The snack was followed by a nice, energizing drink made from freshly ground cacao.

Afterward, I followed Jose outside to learn about the plants surrounding his home and their use in traditional medicines. As we walk the sloping hillside, I’m introduced to a plant that cures diarrhea and another that calms a toothache. We then make our way to a giant pile of cacao that Jose and his family recently harvested.

Belize isn’t a large-scale cacao producer compared with competitors; however, the country is known for an exceptional product. The chocolate shops around Belize are great proof of that. With two curious fawn-colored dogs happily at his side, Jose cuts into one of the fruits for me. I grip a slippery, flesh-covered seed and pop it into my mouth, first tasting the sweet and sour fruit and then the deep bitterness of the seed within. Right here, right on this hillside, is where chocolate is born.

I feel lucky to have been invited into the Meses’ home. Tourism without respectful boundaries has been a problem in other Mayan villages, so Jose maintains some exclusivity with the home visits that Kuppinger helps facilitate. In such an intimate setting it’s easy to appreciate and admire the romance of the traditional Mayan approach to land, culture and community. Jose hopes visitors like me will take that message with them.

Farewell Toledo

On my last day in the south, I visited Belize Spice Farm and Botanical Gardens for a wagon tour. The property, which has a restaurant, a store, and soon a pool and cabanas, is a popular destination among tourists looking for a sensory experience. Along the tour I was handed fragrant and delicate flowers and spices—some native to India, the Philippines and Singapore—to smell, touch and taste my way around the world.

I then returned to Copal Tree Lodge for a Copalli rum tasting and to enjoy my last evening on the mountain. The lodge, tucked away amid 16,000 acres of rainforest preserve in the Maya Mountain Range, is quiet and romantic. Amenities include pools, jungle trails, river access and a farm-to-table restaurant using produce grown right on the property.

With rustic accents influenced by its own rum distillery, the lodge’s open-air design feels upscale yet casual. My suite had a lovely screened-in balcony with a rainforest view and a colorful hammock. But the best part of the space was the rain shower covered in sage, olive and sea-foam stones, with a giant window overlooking the jungle. I got to shower with a view!

Later, I enjoyed a fresh cocktail and a curry shrimp dinner at the restaurant, savoring some of the spices I had learned about earlier. That evening, I fell asleep to the sounds of palm fronds gently reaching for each other and woke up ready to head north to Ambergris Caye.

I’ve always loved flying into San Pedro on Ambergris Caye. Although it’s a cramped experience, the view from those puddle jumper planes is unmatched. It’s also a great way to see the lengthy stretch of the Meso-American Reef that parallels the island.

San Pedro is a popular party town, sport-fishing epicenter and diving destination. Just in the past decade, the town has grown exponentially with new development. Once a low-key retreat, San Pedro’s bustling streets are now lined with golf carts and busy restaurants, bars and shops.

I arrived at Grand Caribe—a large resort with cascading swimming pools and a carefully combed beach—and was promptly handed a complimentary rum punch to settle into the island vibe. Home of the Deep Sea Classic Fishing Tournament, Grand Caribe works with Belize’s best bluewater guides. They set me up for a day of offshore fishing with Capt. Mike Hancock, the captain who won the tournament in 2023. I’d heard good things about the sailfish bite the week before my arrival but was warned that our fishing plans might change in the morning due to weather.

That night, I joined Belize Food Tours, which offers lunch and dinner tastings at various restaurants in San Pedro. It’s a great way to experience local spots that travelers might otherwise miss, and the food did not disappoint. Our group of ten popped into a lineup of restaurants serving up tacos, rice and beans, ceviche, fry jacks, empanadas and pupusas, a traditional Salvadorean dish. San Pedro’s restaurants mirror the cultural melting pot within Belize, and the bites we ate were yet another reminder of the country’s diversity.

The next morning, I met Hancock and angler Chevon Morrison at the dock. Hancock broke the news that we’d instead be snapper fishing on the lagoon side of the island since heading offshore wasn’t an option due to the weather. Fortunately, if your first choice of target species in Belize isn’t in the cards, there are many others available.

Hancock and Morrison spent the morning hooking lane and mangrove snapper using live sardines that Hancock cast-netted in the shallows. The bites were consistent as we hopped from one artificial reef to another. Once we had enough fish to feed the three of us, Hancock took us to an idyllic, shallow cove where groups of bonefish casually cruised along the sandy shoreline and electric-blue needlefish darted across the surface.

After anchoring up, Hancock prepared my favorite meal of the trip. First on the gunwale and then on one of the grills at the beach, he fixed a curry snapper with potatoes and rice and beans. While sitting beachside and listening to Hancock share the nail-biting details of the billfish tournament the year before, Morrison and I each washed the excellent meal down with a cold Belikin beer.

That day on the water was the perfect way to end my stay in Belize, a country that offers adventure in the same hour it instills rest and rejuvenation. I left the Caribbean jewel revived and ready to plan my next trip back. The hard part will be deciding where to go first.

Billfish in Belize

• Ambergris Caye, Belize City and Placencia are some of the best locations to book trips to fish for billfish in Belize.
• May, June, July and August typically result in the best sailfish and blue marlin bites throughout the year, although it’s still possible to raise fish in the spring and fall.
• Charter operations cover the spectrum, with some using bay boats to fish for billfish and others offering trips aboard sport-fishers.
• Belizeans often fish in tournaments in other countries, such as Mexico and Honduras, but also compete at home in the Grand Caribe Deep Sea Classic and the Belikin Blue Water Classic.
• More: Belize , Caribbean , Central and South America , Destination Billfish , Issue 283 , sailfish

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The Best Times to Visit Belize for the Ultimate Tropical Vacation

These are the best times to go to Belize for lower prices, beautiful weather, and more.

Tucked under Mexico’s Quintana Roo state on the east coast of Central America, Belize is a nature lover’s paradise. The tiny nation punches above its weight when it comes to all the tropical adventures found along its roughly 240 miles of Caribbean coastline and within its jungle interior. 

Belize has 400 islands and cays, including Caye Caulker, Ambergris Caye, and Half Moon Caye. The country’s vast stretches of protected barrier reef are part of the largest barrier reef system in the Northern Hemisphere, making the country a must-visit destination for scuba divers and snorkelers. Diverse animal species — including jaguars, pumas, and ocelots – dwell in the country’s wildlands and national reserves, including the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary. Plus, Mayan ruins offer a fascinating look into the area’s ancient history. 

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

Below, we’ve tapped local experts to determine the best times to visit Belize so you can start planning your tropical escape. 

• High Season: December to April
• Shoulder Seasons: April to May and October to November
• Low Season : June through September 

These are the best times to go to Belize for beautiful weather, fewer crowds, and more. 

Best Times to Visit Belize for Smaller Crowds 

Belize is busiest around the holiday season from late December to early January and during March and April. “November and May are great times to avoid crowds as most families are preparing for the holidays or back in school from breaks,” says Janet Woollam, managing director at Victoria House Resort & Spa , a 42-key property on Ambergris Caye with a private beachfront. “During these months, travelers can have a more relaxed experience visiting low-trafficked sites like ancient Mayan temples, joining rainforest expeditions, or zip-lining over jungle canopies teeming with adorable black howler monkeys,” she says. 

Best Times to Visit Belize for Good Weather 

While “good weather” can be subjective, it’s safe to say most travelers want to enjoy sunny skies and moderate temperatures and avoid tropical thunderstorms and stifling humidity. 

“January to March are the driest months to visit Belize, with prolonged periods of warm sunshine particularly in the north and central regions,” says William Allison, senior Belize specialist at Audley Travel . Woollam suggests February as a pleasant month to visit, too – but you won’t be the only one with Belize on your radar at this time of year when the temperatures are at their all-around nicest for spending time outside.

Best Times to Visit Belize for Lower Prices 

As long as you don’t mind the rain, June and July can be a good time to take advantage of discounted travel, Allison says. 

“The rainy season (in Belize) begins in June, and with it comes lower prices at hotels,” he says. “June and July are still rewarding times to visit, and the rain is rarely the persistent rainfall that is experienced later in the season, with sharp showers predominantly falling in the afternoon and at night.” 

Another perk of visiting Belize at this time of year, he says, is the start of Caribbean Spiny Lobster season, which kicks off in mid-June and runs through Feb. 15. “Placencia and Ambergris Caye are great places to try some tasty lobster dishes,” he suggests. 

Woollam points to September and October as the traditional sweet spot in Belize for landing lower prices outside of the hotter summer months but warns, “This can be somewhat skewed, as interest in travel is at a high since many would-be travelers weren’t able to go on holiday for the past few years.”

Alessandra Amodio/Travel + Leisure

Best Times to Visit Belize for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling 

With waters so blue and brilliant, almost everyone who visits Belize wants to spend some time splashing in the Caribbean Sea. You can snorkel and scuba dive year round in Belize with an average water temperature of around 80 degrees, depending on the season. Water and air temperatures are slightly cooler in Belize during the dry season, which starts in November and runs to July. 

To find diving and snorkeling tour operators, head to spots like Placencia, Ambergris Caye, and Caye Caulker. “Ambergris Caye also serves as a base to plan your offshore dive trips to the world-renowned Blue Hole dive site at Lighthouse Reef Atoll or the less-recognized but equally impressive Turneffe Atoll,” says Woollam, whose hotel arranges local scuba and snorkel tours as well as excursions further afield. 

For a truly special marine encounter, Allison recommends traveling offshore from Placencia to Gladden Spit. “It’s one of the few places in the world that snorkelers and divers can encounter the magnificent whale sharks,” he says, referring to the world’s largest (and very docile, filter-feeding) fish. “They commonly visit during the full moon periods of April and May.”

Worst Times to Visit Belize 

There really isn’t a terrible time to visit Belize, as long as you can handle some inclement weather. If you want to avoid the rain, steer clear of Belize from June through November, which is when hurricane season intersects the rainiest months of the year. While rainstorms during this period are unlikely to wash out an entire day’s worth of vacation fun, they can lead to canceled activities when there's a heavy enough downpour, so it’s something to consider as you plot out your trip.

“By early August, travel is more challenging in Belize as the wet season progresses, and there is a low risk of hurricanes” warns Allison. Travelers should also be aware that some businesses close up in September to perform annual maintenance, he says, so plan accordingly.

Related Articles

These 10 Destinations Allow For Cheap Travel All Year-Round

• Tourists can find affordable travel destinations all year round by exploring places like the Yucatán Peninsula in Mexico, Croatia, and Guatemala.
• These destinations offer a range of activities and attractions, from historic ruins to beautiful beaches, at budget-friendly prices.
• Other affordable destinations include Portugal, Belize, Morocco, Ecuador, Egypt, Peru, and the State of Mexico, offering historic sites, natural wonders, and cultural experiences for travelers on a tight budget.

World traveling for cheap is a balance of skills, common sense, insider knowledge, and good, old-fashioned luck. With times changing fast, it can be hard to strike a perfect balance. How can tourists know where to find an affordable travel destination during a time of great economic change? Luckily, there will always be places around the world where people can find great deals on flights, hotels, and food. But how can tourists discover where these places are?

Although cheap travel is often a game of discovering when a destination's off-season is, there are places around the world that are always affordable, even at the height of the tourist season. In this list, people will discover some of the top affordable destinations around the world that are not only cheap during the off-season but are cheap destinations all year round.

From the jungles of Central America to the mountainous Balkans, discover some of the most affordable global travel destinations that are budget-friendly year-round, no matter whether visiting in the peak tourist season or the low period.

Related: Budget Travelers: Here Are The Cheapest Countries Where You Don’t Have To Empty Your Pockets For A Great Time

Yucatán Peninsula, Mexico

For historic ruined cities, crystal blue water, and the abundance of rainforest, visitors on a budget should check out the Yucatán Peninsula in Mexico. This location is both fun and affordable for tourists, with lots of hiking, cultural activities, and delicious restaurants.

Seafood is especially affordable in this region, so visitors should be sure to try authentic Mexican-style ceviche or roasted octopus. Visitors should visit historic sites like Chichén Itzá and the Mayan ruins at Tulum. Sitting on the beach sipping a piña colada isn't a bad idea, either!

• Average flight cost from NYC: $250-400 to Cancun
• Budget hotel price per night: $19-150 per night

Cities like Tulum, Playa del Carmen, and Cancun are all trying to be more environmentally conscious, so many beach locations do not allow oil-based sunscreen.

Not only is Croatia among the cheapest countries to visit year-round, but this Balkan country also offers visitors ancient ruins, waterfalls, and Mediterranean beaches. While traveling here, tourists will get all the perks of the Mediterranean without having to break the bank.

Walking around the streets of Zahgreb or Trogir, lined with sierra roofs, will make tourists forget all their worries. Visiting the ancient palace of the Roman emperor Diocletian (the first Roman emperor to retire) is a must in this region. Seeing the stacked waterfalls pouring into green water at Krka National Park will also be an unforgettable experience!

• Flight cost from NYC: $640-1000 to Zahgreb
• Budget hotel price per night: $31-100 per night

Once the center of the mighty Mayan city-state of Tikal, the modern country of Guatemala offers tourists unique gastronomy, rich history, and the wonders of the rainforest. Visitors here should head to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Tikal National Park to see the towering gray-stone ruins for themselves.

For mountain views and great swimming, visitors should head to Lake Atitlán, the deepest lake in Central America. Not only is this country beautiful, but it's widely considered to be one of the most economical places for tourists to go to, with costs often being half as much as those found in the US and Canada.

• Flight cost from NYC: $148-400 to Guatemala City
• Budget hotel price per night: $15-130 per night

One of the cheapest European destinations year-round is Portugal. This mountainous country on Europe's Atlantic coast is the perfect place to explore Medieval history, delicious seafood, and cobblestone streets.

From riding cable cars in the seaside city of Lisbon to seeing historic castles like São Jorge, Portugal offers tourists a truly unique travel experience. With great weather almost all year round, this destination really is the perfect budget location.

• Flight cost from NYC: $500-900 to Lisbon
• Budget hotel price per night: $26-141 per night

Related: This European City Was Just Named The Most Budget-Friendly Destination To Travel To

Belize is not only one of the world's most amazing places to travel to in general, but it is also one of the cheapest vacation destinations year-round!

The mangrove forests and coral reefs that this Caribbean nation has to offer are sights like no other. With so many different biomes to explore, tourists have an abundance of nature to explore, from the Hol Chan Marine Reserve in the Belize Barrier Reef to the dense rainforests of Mayflower Bocawina National Park.

Not only that but the country is also known for the Ancient Mayan ruins of Xunantunich!

• Flight cost from NYC: $500-900 to Belize City
• Budget hotel price per night: $35-250 per night

See rich palaces, secret gardens, and bright blue architecture in the spectacular North African country of Morocco, one of the world's best vacation destinations that are cheap all year round.

In Marrakesh (called the heart of Morocco) alone, visitors can explore the 19th-century splendor of the Bahia Palace and the Renaissance wonder of the El Badi Palace ruins. The blue buildings of the Jardin Majorelle and the Pierre Bergé Museum of Berber Arts are also hot spots for travelers, so visitors should be sure to put that on their Morocco bucket list.

One truly spectacular sight in Morocco is Le Jardin Secret, a Saadian Dynasty garden that was originally built in the 1600s but was rebuilt in the 19th century. This garden offers tourists a unique mix of North African plants with water features, providing a haven of peace amid the busy city of Marrakesh.

• Flight cost from NYC: $800-1200 to Marrakesh
• Hotel price per night: $5-152 per night

Tourists on a budget should take a trip to the glorious mountain country of Ecuador, the home of the famous thirteenth Sapa Inca, Atahualpa.

One of the most rewarding places in Ecuador that travelers should head to is Ingapirca, the pre-Columbian Incan ruins. Like many Incan sites, this ancient city features the remains of an impressive Temple of the Sun. Today, this once-sacred location is roamed by brown and black camelids, who graze upon the site's bright green expanses of grass.

Ecuador also has a wealth of national parks, including El Cajas National Park, which is the perfect location for tourists to see endangered animals, like the many vibrantly-colored species of hummingbirds that Ecuador is famous for. It also boasts the world-famous Galapagos Islands; however, this wildlife hotspot can be expensive and hard to visit, so travelers on a tight budget may want to skip it.

• Flight cost from NYC: $300-500 to Quito
• Budget hotel price per night: $9-124 per night

Related: Is Ecuador South America's Most Breathtaking Country? Why Many Think So

One of the oldest human-inhabited lands in the world is Egypt. This truly historic region is one that every traveler should see at least once in their lives. From the rich and fertile Nile River to the Siwa Oasis out in the desert, Egypt is truly one of the world's most beautiful places.

The cultural legacy of Ancient Pharaonic Egypt, which lasted over 3,000 years, is still present in the modern experience of traveling here. Of course, seeing the Great Sphinx and the Pyramids is a must, but other locations, like Luxor and Abu Simbel, will offer rich historical experiences.

All in all, there are many world-famous and incredible historic sites in Egypt with fascinating stories , many of them within the budgets of travelers with less cash to spend.

• Flight cost from NYC: $750-1000 to Cairo
• Budget hotel price per night: $6-150 per night

For those who are interested in Ancient Incan history, Peru is the place to go! Considered by historians to be one of only a select few cradles of civilization, Peru is a land of ancient ruins, abundant coastlines, and massive mountains.

The main historic tourist spot is, of course, Machu Picchu, but other sites like Saqsaywaman and Tambomachay give tourists other unique options. For travelers headed to the Nazca Desert in the south, the famed Nazca Lines are visible from an observation tower.

Some of Peru's natural wonders include the blue lake at Huascarán National Park, the massive cave at Cueva de Las Lechuzas, and the protected natural reserve at Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve.

• Flight cost from NYC: $400-650 to Lima
• Budget hotel price per night: $11-49 per night

Related: 10 Things To Do In Lima: Complete Guide To The Seaside Capital Of Peru

The State Of Mexico, Mexico

Once the seat of the famous Aztec Empire, the State of Mexico is one of the most affordable places in the world to travel to as a tourist. Visitors can explore the sprawling ancient ruins and pyramids of Teotihuacan, such as the Pyramid of the Sun (Teotihuacan's largest pyramid) and the Pyramid of the Moon, the other giant Teotihuacan pyramid . There's also the Museo Nacional de Antropología and the Chapultepec Castle to check out.

Even just walking around the streets and markets of Mexico City is a blast! Visitors should also try to go to the Frida Kahlo Museum to see some of the 20th century's best art. Some of the natural wonders of this region include the forests in the Desierto de los Leones National Park, the reforested El Tepeyac National Park, and the twin peaks of the Popocatépetl and Iztaccíhuatl volcanoes.

• Flight cost from NYC: $350-500 to Mexico City
• Budget hotel price per night: $7-195

Related: Older Than Teotihuacan: Visit The Forgotten City Of Monte Albán & Its Ancient Pyramids Even if tourists are traveling on a budget, seeing historic archeological sites, visiting stunning gardens, and seeing incredible natural wonders are all within the realm of possibility. The world is full of exciting travel opportunities that are affordable on even the tightest of budgets. From South America to Europe, there are unique and affordable year-round destinations around the world for every traveler's taste.

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