Around Belize in 4 days
Last updated February 2024
Mission impossible, you would say? Well, we've done it! Despite the intensity of our getaway, we made countless memories in such a short time that it feels like we've been on this trip for weeks. I love that feeling of discovering a time loop hole.
Alright, let's dive in!
Our adventure in Belize was packed with experiences, and I picked up a few lessons along the way. My main goal here is to share some tips to help make your stay as smooth as possible.
Before you go
The optimal period to visit Belize falls within the dry season, spanning from January to May. While warm temperatures prevail throughout the country, the weather conditions vary by region. Anticipate clear, sunny days in the Cayo District and on the Cayes.
I highly recommend splitting your stay between two different locations: spend 2 nights in Belize City and 2 nights in San Pedro. This approach will allow you to save time on transportation while experiencing the diverse attractions Belize has to offer. (Alternatively, if you prefer to start with relaxation and end with activities, you can reverse this itinerary.)
Part I - Relax
If you're seeking a laid-back start to your journey, I recommend staying in San Pedro. This vibrant island offers stunning white sand beaches and a lively atmosphere, perfect for unwinding. On the other hand, Belize City is strategically located central to many activities, allowing you to experience the best of both worlds during your short stay.
On your first day, take the opportunity to relax on the beach, explore the local eateries, and get acclimated to your new surroundings. If your hotel has a private beach, like the Mahogany Bay Resort where we stayed, it's a great bonus. While not every beach is suitable for swimming, Secret Beach is a popular spot for beachgoers. For dining options in San Pedro, I recommend Elvi’s and El Fogon.
On the second day in San Pedro, I highly recommend booking a snorkeling trip to the Belize Barrier Reef, the second largest coral reef system globally, stretching 300 kilometers within the 900-kilometer-long Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System. This tour typically offers the incredible experience of swimming with nurse sharks, which is an unforgettable adventure.
If you're a certified diver, consider spending a day exploring the depths of the Great Blue Hole.
Part II - Action
On the third day, you'll arrive in Belize City and settle into your new accommodation. Waste no time and make the most of the day by exploring Mayan ruins!
There are quite a few to choose from:
Lamanain (2 h 11 min / 124 km away from Belize City)
Cahal Pech (1h 49 min/ 115 km away from Belize City)
Altun Ha (53 min / 50.2 km away from Belize City)
Lubaantun (1h 5 m/ 78.8 km away from Belize City)
Cerros (2h 4 m/ 129 km away from Belize City)
Nim Li Punit (3 h 11 min / 229 km away from Belize City)
We chose Altun Ha because it was closer to our location.
Also, we had the chance to see and hear howler monkeys while we were there—a pretty incredible experience. I recommend inquiring about where you can see them.
On your last day of stay, do the Actun Tunichil Muknal Tour (ATM for short). It's an absolutely incredible experience straight out of an Indiana Jones movie—you'll traverse a tropical forest, cross a jungle river, swim in a cave, learn about Mayan rituals of sacrifice, and see remains of sacrificed Mayas up close, so close you can accidentally step on them. Unfortunately, people can't take pictures at this location anymore as previously some photographers dropped their device on a skull and cracked it.
Within the cave, over 1400 artifacts have been found and cataloged. Among these artifacts are ceramic pottery, water vessels, tools, and weapons that have been dated to about AD 250-909, making the newest one still 1,108 years old.
I'm sure that after experiencing all of this, you'll feel incredibly satisfied and have many wonderful memories to cherish on the way back home. Have an unBELIZEble trip!
Keep on roaming,
Polina
