I’m a Prime Journey Advisor, and Right here’s How I’d Spend a Luxurious, Motion-packed Week in Belize

As a local Belizean and a Journey + Leisure journey advisor, my excellent journey to this English-speaking Central American nation merges one of the best of the land with one of the best of the ocean. Hike by way of thrilling jungle terrain, discover a panoramic community of underground caverns, and rappel down a surprising waterfall with a heart-pounding descent into the Belizean rainforest. Then, sail alongside the world’s second-largest barrier reef on a personal yacht constitution, exploring picture-perfect Caribbean islands and crystal-clear blue water. 

Right here’s precisely the best way to spend seven superb nights in Belize.

Day One

With direct flights from 15 main hubs within the U.S. and two in Canada, Belize has turn out to be much more accessible in recent times, which implies your journey begins the second you arrive. One of the vital scenic introductions to the nation is taking a helicopter tour straight from the worldwide airport over the Maya Mountains and cascading waterfalls to the Valley Stream Personal Eden jungle lodge. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by your devoted concierge, chef, bartender, and housekeeper.

Day Two

Take pleasure in an early morning breakfast earlier than heading out on a full-day spelunking journey at Actun Tunichil Muknal Cave led by Dr. Rafael Guerra, a famend Belizean archaeologist and cave professional. Hike by way of the jungle, cross rivers, and swim into this sacred cave with an hourglass-shaped entrance. Climb by way of inside cathedrals housing ceramic and skeletal stays from historical sacrificial ceremonies. 

Prime off your journey with a conventional Maya five-course meal with a contemporary twist ready by the Tzib household from the Yucatec Maya neighborhood of San Antonio. Strive your hand at making corn tortillas and assist put the ending touches on the delectable dishes you’ll get pleasure from.

Day Three

On the third day, head south to Mayflower Bocawina Nationwide Park. Throughout your hike to Antelope Falls, you’ll encounter ample natural world as you traverse the verdant jungle. At 1,000 ft elevation, the highest of the waterfall offers a spectacular vantage level from which to absorb the gorgeous panorama of the neighboring valleys and mountains. Rappel 250 ft on the sting of the waterfall and rocky cliff. Then, get again to stable floor and funky off within the emerald pool beneath. 

Day 4

Helicopter from the plush inexperienced jungles to the azure waters of the Caribbean Sea. Land at Gladden Personal Island, the place you’ll board a non-public catamaran, outfitted with a captain and chef. The sail takes you to your subsequent cease at Silk Cayes Marine Reserve. Spend the afternoon snorkeling amongst an abundance of marine life, after which anchor for sundown at North Lengthy Coco Caye, an island that is lower than 40 acres.

Days 5 by way of Seven

In your remaining three nights, sail alongside tiny postcard-perfect islands, or “cayes,” beginning at Carrie Bow Caye, the place vibrant corals and colourful fish await. Proceed to the unique South Water Caye, a 12-acre paradise perched on the barrier reef. Snorkel with grunts, groupers, and eels, then unwind with a chilly Belikin beer. Sail on to Tobacco Caye, a captivating five-acre coral island fringed with palm bushes. Subsequent, discover the Colson Cayes, a magical assortment of mangrove islands house to manatees and dolphins, and expertise unimaginable snorkeling on untouched reefs. Take pleasure in your final Belizean sundown on the serene Rendezvous Caye, the place manta rays will come to shore to bid you farewell — till subsequent time, that’s.

Patricia Johnson is a member of Journey + Leisure’s A-Checklist and focuses on journeys to Belize. You’ll be able to create a tailored itinerary with Johnson by contacting her at patricia@absolute​belize.com.