Best of Belize – Long Weekend Itinerary to explore this Caribbean Jewel

Belize exceeded all my expectations and has so much to offer! Explore Belize’s Barrier Reef for some of the best snorkeling or fly over the famous Blue Hole, island-hop between the different cayes, venture into the jungle to explore some of the oldest Mayan ruins or go spelunking under the earth to explore some sacred caves. And fun fact – Belize’s Barrier Reef system is the second largest in the world after Australia’s Great Barrier Reef.

Check out our itinerary: Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM) Cave – Xunantunich Mayan Ruins – San Pedro – Great Blue Hole

What You Need To Know

Things to see in Belize: Barrier Reef, Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM) Cave, Xunantunich Mayan Ruins, San Pedro, Great Blue Hole, Ambergris Caye.

Caves in Belize: Visiting the ATM (Actun Tunichil Muknal) Cave in Belize was a pure highlight and one of the top 10 things that I’ve ever done. You are visiting a sacred Mayan site and are spending around 3 hours in this tunnel system under earth while swimming, wading, hiking and crawling through the rocks. You will come across Mayan artifacts and remains of human sacrifices. It is truly a once in a lifetime experience and the tour is safe and well organized. Unfortunately, no cameras are allowed. Also, don’t forget your water shoes and you are required to wear socks in order to visit some parts inside the cave.

Best Time to visit Belize is during the dry season between January and May. We traveled in February and the weather was perfect.

How to get around: My favorite thing about Belize is the easy way of traveling within the country. Tropic Air Belize and Maya Island Air offer convenient and affordable ways to hop between islands, to visit the jungle or to book a scenic flight over the Great Blue Hole. We also rented a car to drive from Belize City to San Ignacio and driving in Belize is very safe and easy.

Entry Requirements: At the time of our visit we had to purchase a Belizean Travel Insurance ($18 for 21 days). The most updated travel updates are here.

What to pack: Water shoes, socks and dry fit clothes for your cave experience. Sunscreen and mosquito spray are a must.

Itinerary

Day 1 – San Ignacio & Cahal Pech Archaeological Reserve

After arriving at Belize International Airport, we rented a car and drove inland towards the boarder to Guatemala, to a town called San Ignacio (about 2 hours).

We stayed at the Falling Leaves Lodge for 2 nights and visited the Cahal Pech Archaeological Reserve next door on our first day.

Day 2 – Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM) Cave

The Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM) Cave is a real adventure and it is so distinct from any other cave that I’ve ever experienced. Access to the cave is only permitted through an organized tour and tours normally start early in the morning and leave from either San Ignacio or Belize City.

The first part of the excursion is an easy 40 minute hike to the entrance of the cave and then you will literally swim into it. You will be wading, swimming and hiking along a small river inside the cave for almost the entire time. In the last part, you will climb up a ladder, take off your shoes and and then walk on your socks through some of the chambers. And yes, you will stay wet for the entire time.

Tour Operator: We booked with Belize Caving Expedition

Day 3 – Xunantunich Mayan Ruins

We spend the day visiting the Xunantunich Mayan Ruins close to San Ignacio and right next to the boarder of Guatemala. They are stunning and less busy than some of the popular ones on the Yucatan peninsula.

The arrival to the site is also fun, as you get to cross a river on a hand cranked ferry. I also recommend hiring a local guide once you get to the ferry stop.

Lunch stop afterwards: Benny’s Kitchen

If you have additional time, then plan also for a visit to the Caracol Maya Ruins.

Day 4 – San Pedro & The Great Blue Hole

After the jungle comes the beach! We flew to St. Pedro where we stayed at the Matachica Resort & Spa for 2 nights. It was a dream and I’m hoping to visit again one day. My resort highlights where star gazing at night and seeing rays during my morning meditation.

During the day we booked a snorkel trip to the Hol Chan Marine Reserve and Shark Ray Alley and a scenic flyover the Great Blue Hole. Both were spectacular! Again, I love Belize and it should certainly be on your bucket list.

Restaurant in St. Pedro: Elvi’s Kitchen – they also exhibit and sell local art