Luxury Remote Belize

Immerse yourself in the rainforests, waterfalls and coral reefs of Belize on this journey through the country whilst staying in top luxury, eco-conscious boutique hotels. Starting in the Mountain Pine Ridge Reserve, where the landscape encompasses a mix of pine forests, rainforests, numerous waterfalls, caves and creeks. Spotting the elusive jaguar is rare, but you are exploring its territory. Birds such as the orange breasted falcon and King Vulture can be spotted soaring in the thermals above the pine ridge and a trip to the less visited, but spectacular Caracol Mayan Ruins is a must do.

Then transfer to the remote and off-the-beaten-track Toledo Region in southern Belize, an area that combines primary rainforest, rivers, wildlife and mayan heritage. The forests and rivers are home to howler monkeys, toucans, and many birds, while its coastline and river systems support excellent fly fishing, especially for permit. Small Maya villages are scattered throughout the region, where traditional farming and daily life continue much as they have for generations. Nearby archaeological sites like Lubaantun and Nim Li Punit offer a glimpse into the region’s past, with partially excavated ruins set against forested hills.

Then take a few short propeller flights across the Caribbean Sea and Belize Barrier Reef to the popular island of Ambergris Caye where you will escape the busy San Pedro town to travel by speedboat north to the gorgeous Matachica beach resort with its brightly coloured collection of spacious, thatched beach cabanas with chic interiors. The resort is situated on a lovely stretch of beach and has views of the beautiful blue hues of the nearby barrier reef.

Day to Day

Below is an example day by day itinerary

Day 1

Fly from London to US. Overnight in nearby airport hotel (Room only).

Day 2

Arrive Belize City International Airport and transfer by vehicle to Gaia Riverlodge in the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve. Gaia Riverlodge is a luxury, eco-conscious boutique hotel that is Green Globe Certified and responsible tourism is embedded into their entire operation. Relax and re-energise at this stunning lodge that features natural pools below the Five Sisters Waterfall, their own hydroelectric tram will transport you from the rooms to the pools, where they can serve you organic food from their onsite Mayan garden. Hydro power generated from the Five Sisters Waterfall powers your electricity along with solar panels.

Day 3

Enjoy a guided visit the remote Caracol Mayan Ruins, located deep in the Belizean rainforest. The Mayan city of Caracol was once a powerful rival to neighbouring Tikal, and although not as well excavated, the high temple is still the tallest manmade building in Belize and offers incredible views across pristine forest, there are also other interesting residential buildings and a ball court. Wildlife such as howler monkeys, toucans and raptors can usually be observed. Overnight at Gaia Riverlodge (BLD).

Day 4

Enjoy the surroundings of the hotel with a guided rainforest and a night hike to learn about the local plants and wildlife. Relax in the natural pools onsite that are beneath the Five Sisters waterfall on the property. Or take mountain bikes and explore the area. Overnight at Gaia Riverlodge (BLD).

Day 5

Transfer along the Hummingbird Highway and then the Southern Highway to the less visited Toledo region. Up in hills on 16,000 acres of land is the luxury eco-resort of Copal Tree Lodge. Committed to protecting 12,000 acres of rainforest from deforestation and dedicated to conservation and local economic development this stunning resort offers relaxation in luxury rooms with views towards the rainforest and the Rio Grande river. There is also farm to table dining with local culinary influences. Overnight at Copal Tree Lodge (BD).

Day 6

Included in your stay is canoe/kayaking on the Rio Grande River, accessible onsite, where you can spot iguanas, howler monkeys, tropical birds, and rolling tarpons among the plethora of indigenous jungle creatures (guide available for a fee), there are also several moderate onsite hiking trails that you can explore self guided (or hire a guide) and you can also use their bikes to explore the narrow streets of Punta Gorda and surrounding villages. Overnight Copal Tree Lodge (BLD).

Day 7

Day at leisure. Overnight Copal Tree Lodge (BLD).

Day 8

Take a private transfer in an air-conditioned vehicle to the nearby airstrip to fly in small propeller plane to the island of Ambergris Caye via Belize City. On arrival you will be transferred by speedboat 5 miles north of the busy San Pedro town to the more remote Matachica Beach Resort. Matachica Beach Resort is a luxury resort spread across 10 acres to the north of Belize, it is the sister property of Gaia and sources much of its produce from their organic farm and garden. This adults only resort has individual thatched cabanas painted in different bright colours and feature soothing luxury decor and private balconies with hammocks. Cabanas are situated around the stunning pool or graduating back from the beach and ocean. From Matachica the differing hues of blue of ocean and barrier reef are clearly visible from the beach, adding to that sense of calm and relaxation the resort inspires. Overnight at Matachica (B).

Day 9

Spend a few hours on a guided snorkel tour of nearby site of Mexico Rocks, almost opposite the resort, where you will see beautiful purple fan corals, shoals of reef fish such as french grunts, sergeant majors and stoplight parrot fish. You may even see nurse sharks, moray eels, southern stingrays and lobster (B).

Day 10

Day at leisure. There is a lovely stretch of beach at Matachica, also a Spa, freshwater infinity pool, jacuzzi and ocean kayaks. It is possible to kayak to the reef to snorkel from the resort. *Optional excursions could include diving, snorkelling or fishing on the nearby barrier reef, diving/snorkelling the Blue Hole, catamaran trips and manatee spotting (B). Overnight at Matachica (B).

Day 11

Day at leisure. Overnight at Matachica (B).

Day 12

Transfer to Belize International airport by short propeller flight (15 mins) and connect to international flight back to UK via US (B).