What to Expect

Maya Ruins
Belize shares a rich Maya heritage with Guatemala, Mexico, and Honduras, and is considered to have been the heart of Maya civilization during the Classic period of 250 AD to 900 AD, when the population is thought to have exceeded one million people. We visit Caracol, the largest known Maya center in Belize and cross into Guatemala for an overnight stay at Tikal (c. 200 BC), once the most important city in the Maya universe.

Rainforest
The rainforest is home to colorful toucans, butterflies, hummingbirds, parrots, howler monkeys, jaguars and towering trees. Experienced naturalist guides take us on invigorating walks on jungle trails and along gentle rivers.

Barrier Reef
Described by Charles Darwin as "the most remarkable reef in the West Indies," the Belize Barrier Reef is a 186-mile stretch of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System, the second largest reef on the planet. It is home to an astounding diversity of plants, coral, fish and other animals.

ACCOMMODATIONS
During this program we stay in unique and secluded lodges, ideally located in the rainforest, near the Maya ruins, and right on the reef. Their casual atmosphere and warm hospitality provide a relaxing environment.

POOK’S HILL LODGE
Pook’s Hill Lodge is located within a private 300-acre reserve of primary rainforest. The accommodations are in whitewashed cabanas that are spacious and cool, and form a circle around the ruins of a 1,200-year-old Maya plaza. All cabanas are built with high-thatched roofs, are fully screened, with two beds, electricity, and roomy bathrooms with hot water showers. The cool clean river flowing through the property is an ideal natural swimming pool.

TIKALS’ JUNGLE LODGE
The Hotel Jungle Lodge is located within walking distance of the Central Plaza of Tikal. Our comfortable bungalows include hot showers, two double beds, ceiling fans, and a private porch. The lodge has a swimming pool, perfect for cooling off while admiring the Keel-billed Toucans, Howler and Spider Monkeys.

PELICAN’S POUCH LODGE
Located directly on the Belize barrier reef, South Water Caye is a private 15-acre island paradise surrounded by diverse mangrove islands, tidal seagrass flats, and pristine coral reefs teeming with marine life. Our cottages are spaced around the main lodge, within just a few feet of the water. The rooms are colorful and spacious and designed to capture the cooling trade winds. Each has a private bath and veranda with a hammock offering spectacular views of the waves breaking on the offshore reef.