Highlights of Guatemala & Belize

Central America is a treasure trove of mysterious Mayan ruins, tropical jungle and idyllic beaches. Explore the highlights of Guatemala & Belize on this adventurous itinerary, staying at luxurious boutique properties and ending with some beach time for a spot of rest & relaxation to finish.

1. Fly to Guatemala City

2. Days 1-3: Antigua

   Begin your Central America journey in the charming colonial city of Antigua, the perfect introduction to the colourful cultures of Guatemala and easily reached from Guatemala City. A rainbow of crumbling buildings and cobbled streets are surrounded by the dramatic peaks of three volcanoes, and its timeless character is enough to keep visitors charmed for several days.

   Accommodation: Posada del Angel (2 nights)

3. Days 3-5: Lake Atitlan

   Travel by road to Lake Atitlan, a shimmering lake with a backdrop of volcanoes, its shores dotted with charming villages which each have their own unique character. Spend two nights at Casa Palopo, which boasts amazing views, and spend your days visiting nearby markets and getting to know the fascinating cultures which are still ever present.

   Accommodation: Casa Palopo (2 nights)

4. Days 5-7: Tikal

   From here, fly to Flores before a scenic drive to reach the shores of Lake Petén Itzá where you will find La Lancha, a member of Francis Ford Coppola's portfolio of hotels and stunning, intimate retreat, boasting just a handful of guest rooms. Here, enjoy exploring the shores of the lake or the surrounding forests and the impressive Mayan ruins of Tikal which pierce through the jungle canopy nearby.

   Accommodation: La Lancha (2 nights)

5. Days 7-10: Mountain Pine Ridge, Belize

   Following three nights in this stunning lakeside location, it's time to cross over into Belize, heading for the forested highland region of Mountain Pine Ridge. Endless adventures await you here, with nature trails surrounding you, caves and more Mayan ruins to be explored, horseback riding and mountain biking trails to excite and even ancient Mayan burial sites to visit. Base yourself at Blancaneaux Lodge, staying in one of the rustic yet luxurious cabanas set deep within the jungle.

   Accommodation: Blancaneaux Lodge (3 nights)

6. Days 10-14: Ambergris Caye, Belize

   Head east to the Caribbean shores of Ambergris Caye, where powdery white sand separates sparkling turquoise waters and vast coral reefs from dense jungle. Here, the rustic-chic beach retreat, Matachica, awaits. Experience some of the world's best scuba diving or snorkelling in the surrounding waters, paddle across the glassy surface in a kayak or enjoy fly-fishing or wildlife excursions nearby. Spend four nights here and unwind to your heart's content, before returning to Belize City for your flight back home.

   Accommodation: Matachica Resort and Spa (4 nights)

7. Fly home

• Authentic Mayan village visit

  Located in the hills above Lake Atitlan, San Jorge La Laguna is a small Kaqchiquel town that's a 10-minute drive from Panajachel, the lake's main hub.

  READ MORE

• Temples of Tikal

  Experience one of the Maya world's most impressive and evocative temple complexes, Tikal, and feel like a true Indiana Jones. Tikal is arguably the greatest of all Mayan cities. Enjoy a fascinating private guided tour with your very own archaeology guide.

  READ MORE

Antigua, Tikal, Mountain Pine Ridge & Ambergris Caye