Curator’s statement
Set sail for adventure in Belize, where lush rainforests, ancient ruins and pristine coral reefs beckon cruise travelers to explore its shores. With an array of shore excursion options ranging from snorkeling and diving in the Belize Barrier Reef to exploring Mayan archaeological sites like Altun Ha and Xunantunich, Belize offers a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be discovered. Join us as we unveil the top cruise shore excursions in Belize, inviting you to delve into its rich cultural heritage and natural wonders.
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Private Belize Zoo and Belize City Tour
Explore the diverse wildlife of Belize at the Belize Zoo, housing large cats, primates, reptiles and birds all in one location. Guided tours offer close encounters with the animals, including Junior Buddy - a jaguar raised at the zoo. Afterwards, enjoy a tour of Belize City, discovering its historical sites like the Colonial Governors Mansion and St. Johns Cathedral, with insights from your local Belizean guide.
Altun Ha Mayan Site
Take part on a half-day journey to Altun Ha, a significant Maya archaeological site just thirty miles north of Belize City. Your guide will lead you through the central precinct, offering insights into Maya history and culture, before ascending the tallest temple for panoramic views of the jungle and the site's impressive monuments, including the renowned jade head dedicated to the sun god Kinich Ahua.
Belize Zip Line Canopy Tour
Embark on an exhilarating zip-lining adventure through the lush rainforest canopy at Belize Zoo, reaching speeds of up to thirty mph, and heights of one hundred feet above the forest floor. With nine zip lines to navigate, including one over the cave branch river and the option to rappel from a platform sixty feet high, this tour promises an adrenaline-fueled experience suitable for all adventure seekers. Whether as a standalone adventure or combined with a cave-tubing tour, this thrilling excursion offers an unforgettable way to immerse yourself in Belize's natural beauty.
Community Baboon Sanctuary
Discover an unforgettable eco-tour at the Community Baboon Sanctuary, the ultimate experience for nature enthusiasts. Encounter black howler monkeys in their natural habitat and learn about the successful conservation efforts led by local communities. With a knowledgeable guide, explore the sanctuary's trails, listen to the monkeys' distinctive howls and even have the chance to feed them, making it an enriching and rewarding excursion for families and wildlife lovers alike.
Private Altun Ha and Belize City Tour
Embark on a guided tour starting in historic Belize City, where you'll visit notable landmarks like St. John's Cathedral and the House of Culture Museum. Then, journey thirty-one miles north to Altun Ha, one of Belize's most renowned Mayan sites, known for its impressive temple, the Green Tomb and the discovery of a remarkable jade head. With a one-hour city tour, followed by a guided exploration of Altun Ha, this itinerary offers a comprehensive experience of Belize's rich history and cultural heritage.
Belize City Tour
Immerse yourself in a captivating archaeological exploration of Belize City, uncovering its rich history and colonial heritage. Highlights of the tour include visits to the oldest Anglican Cathedral in the region, the historic Belize City Swing Bridge, and the Government House, providing insights into Britain's colonial influence in Central America. Guided by a knowledgeable local, this experience offers a comprehensive understanding of Belize's past while showcasing the warmth and hospitality of its residents.
Private Cave Tubing Adventure
Embark on an unforgettable cave tubing adventure at Nohoch Che'en, delving into the ancient Mayan underworld where sacred rituals once took place. After a scenic one-hour drive from Belize City, your knowledgeable guide will lead you through dramatic landscapes, including mangroves, forests and local villages, before immersing you in the exhilarating experience of cave tubing.
Private Tour Cave Tubing and Zipline
Participate in the ultimate adventure with a Cave Tubing and Ziplining combination tour in Belize City, top-rated for thrill-seekers. Drift lazily through mysterious caves along the Caves Branch River, then glide like birds through the lush rainforest canopy on a thrilling zipline adventure. With safety as the utmost priority, professional guides guarantee an exhilarating and unforgettable experience, making it a must-do excursion for all adventure-seeking travelers.
Cave Tubing Tour
Experience the awe-inspiring adventure of cave tubing in Belize's mainland, a must-do activity for visitors. Journey through lush rainforests, float through caves adorned with ornate rock formations and delve into Mayan history. With comprehensive facilities and knowledgeable guides ensuring safety and comfort, this excursion offers an unforgettable exploration of Belize's natural wonders.
The Belize Zoo
The Belize Zoo offers a unique wildlife sanctuary experience, focusing on animals rescued and rehabilitated from Belize. Founded with a vision of compassion by Sharon Matola, the zoo is now a prominent part of the country's natural heritage, showcasing indigenous species like jaguars, spider monkeys and the national bird, the keel-billed toucan, in their natural habitats. This is ideal for wildlife enthusiasts, it's a must-visit attraction embodying dedication to animal welfare and education.
Need to know
Experience an unforgettable journey with these captivating cruise shore excursions in Belize, promising a blend of adventure, culture and natural beauty. Whether diving into the crystal-clear waters of the Belize Barrier Reef, trekking through ancient Mayan ruins, or immersing yourself in the vibrant culture of local communities, Belize offers something for every traveler's taste. With its diverse ecosystems, rich history and warm hospitality, Belize stands as a premier destination for cruise shore excursions, leaving travelers with memories to last a lifetime.
This trip report is part of our ongoing series on travel to Belize. In need of further inspiration? Check out Anne Travous’s guide, From Rainforest to Reef: The Best of Belize in 7 Days.
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Gillian Spatz
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