The Full Belize Experience: From the Reef to the Rainforest

Begin your trip in the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve, putting you in proximity to some of Belize’s most incredible, historical Mayan sites.

• ATM Cave: Swim and hike your way one mile into the ATM Cave on this guided adventure, ending at the sacred site of many Mayan rituals. Carefully step your way through preserved artifacts, including the fully intact skeleton of the “Crystal Maiden.” Note: this tour is extremely physical — prepare for a full day of hiking, swimming and bouldering through the cave system.

• Visit Caracol: The largest Mayan archaeological site in Belize is mostly unexcavated, but still offers visitors an up-close look at what used to be home to 150,000 Mayans. Climb to the top of pyramids, step into the bedroom of the Mayan kings and queens and imagine what life used to be like almost 3,000 years ago.

• Mayan cultural tour: Experience life in a historical village where local groups still practice ancient and more modern-day Mayan traditions. Make your own corn tortillas, clay pottery, corn porridge and even Ajaw chocolate before enjoying a local lunch and visiting the agricultural market downtown.

Continue your journey in one of the coastal villages right on the Caribbean Sea.

• Snorkeling: Most resorts in this area offer access to water activities such as kayaking and paddleboarding, allowing you to experience the crystal blue waters. Visit the second largest barrier reef in the world and share the waters with nurse sharks, sting rays and a wide variety of fish, coral and more.

• Deep sea fishing: Find a local tour guide who will bring you beyond the reef to fish in the deep blue waters, catching local delicacies like snapper, mahi mahi and even lobsters! Pull up to the shore and watch as your guide grills up your catch of the day, and experience one of the freshest lunches you will ever have.

• Relax and explore the local villages: After several days packed with incredible adventures, take some time to relax. Enjoy the blue Caribbean waters from the comfort of your resort. Borrow bikes or rent a golf cart to drive into town and explore local shops and restaurants.

• Montagna Ristorante: This Italian restaurant at Blancaneaux Resort in the Pine Ridge Forest is owned by Francis Ford Coppola, and focuses on serving up Coppola family recipes.

• Five Sisters Restaurant: At the Gaia Riverlodge, this restaurant serves upscale dishes with ingredients sourced right from the onsite garden. This is a do-not-miss spot that brings in guests from all the surrounding properties.

• Mambo Bistro: Located at Matachica, the sister property to Gaia Riverlodge, this restaurant also sources its ingredients from Gaia’s organic garden. Serving up more casual fare, it’s worth the visit for any meal of the day.

• Mambo Restaurant: Also onsite at Matachica, Mambo Restaurant is open for dinner only and offers a more elegant but relaxed atmosphere. If you are visiting during a holiday or special event, do not miss the prix fixe dining experience.