Guatemala to Belize

Guatemala to Belize

10 Days Starting in Antigua and ending in Caye Caulker

Visiting: Antigua, Rio Dulce, Flores, San Ignacio, Caye Caulker

Tour operator:

Intrepid Travel

Tour code:

QVSB

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

1 - 16

Physical rating:

Low

Age range:

15-99 years

Tour operated in:

English

Interests:

Cultural

From: $1930 $1448 Operator discount: -$482 -25%

NB: Prices correct on 04-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Wander the cobblestone streets of Antigua, admire ancient Mayan ruins and unwind on the laidback island of Caye Caulker on this 10-day adventure from Guatemala to Belize. This trip spans two captivating countries, with different languages, distinct cultures and varied landscapes – each with the capacity to inspire awe in those who visit. From volcano-studded highlands to the chilled-out charm of the Caribbean coast, this tour delivers a hearty dose of history and culture, plenty of epic scenery and some well-deserved downtime.

Highlights

  • Gaze in wonder at the jungle-shrouded limestone temples of Tikal, one of the most impressive Mayan sites in the whole of Central America, as howler monkeys call from the canopy.

  • Relax and recharge on the white sands of Caye Caulker, a tiny Belizean island made for beach BBQs, snorkel trips and lazy afternoons spent swinging in a hammock.

  • Explore Livingston: a one-of-a-kind riverside town where the local culture is heavily influenced by the Afro-Caribbean Garifuna population.

  • Walk along cobblestone streets and shop for local handicrafts in the tiny inland island town of Flores.

  • Dig deeper into Mayan history – visiting lesser-known ruins and a mystical Mayan cave complex – around San Ignacio, a vibrant market town near the Belize-Guatemala border.

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Antigua

Location: Antigua

Accommodation: Hotel

Hola! Welcome to Antigua. Surrounded by three volcanoes that dominate the skyline, this colourful city was the capital of Guatemala in the 16th century and was designated as a World Heritage site in 1979. Today, it’s a cosmopolitan hub filled with cool coffee shops and international restaurants that's often buzzing with live music. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm where you'll meet your tour leader and travel group. If you arrive with time to spare, why not get a taste of local tradition with a chocolate-making workshop in the ChocoMuseo, or strut your stuff with a salsa dance lesson?

Optional Activities:
-Antigua - Salsa-dance Lesson (per hour)
-Antigua - Chocolate-making workshop at ChocoMuseo

Day 2: Antigua

Location: Antigua

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

As the seat of the Spanish colonial government, Antigua was once one of the most important cities in Central America. The city was destroyed by an earthquake in 1773, but many of the colonial-era buildings have been carefully restored. This morning, wander the quiet cobblestone streets with your leader, who will point out many fascinating markets and museums. The afternoon is yours to spend exploring the city and its surrounds. Prefer to take it easy? Grab a coffee on the main plaza and settle in for some people watching. Don't miss the chance to taste a tamale, a local dish served in a corn leaf. Or try pepian, a meaty dish of chicken, beef, pork, or all three at once, in a rich sauce. You’ll find the best value food next to the markets near the bus station.

Included Activities:
-Antigua - Informal Spanish Lesson
-Antigua - Leader-led Orientation Walk

Day 3: Rio Dulce

Location: Rio Dulce

Accommodation: Lodge

Meals Included: breaksfast

It’s a long day of travel today as you make your way to Rio Dulce by private vehicle. During the journey, learn a few handy phrases with an informal Spanish lesson from your leader, before arriving mid-afternoon. Rio Dulce, which means 'Sweet River' in Spanish, refers to both the Guatemalan river that flows from Lago de Izabal (Lake Izabal) to the Caribbean Sea and the town of Fronteras, which sits at the east end of the lake. Upon arrival, the rest of the day is free to enjoy at your leisure. Maybe stretch your legs on a jungle walk, rent a kayak and get out on the water or just laze in a hammock and enjoy the tropical surrounds.

Day 4: Rio Dulce

Location: Rio Dulce

Accommodation: Lodge

Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch

Join your group on a boat ride down the river to Livingston, a laidback Afro-Caribbean town that offers a unique taste of Garifuna culture in a far-flung corner of Guatemala. It’s located 30 kilometres (18 miles) from Rio Dulce and the boat ride is spectacular, taking you through waters laden with water lilies, past tropical forests and through a deep canyon replete with river birds. The Garifuna population in Livingston are descendants of a community forcibly removed from the Caribbean by the British in the late 18th century. Livingston was one of the towns the displaced Garifuna settled in, and its relative isolation means the culture has remained undiluted by Guatemalan norms. Spend a little time here and enjoy an included lunch of local specialties like tapou, a creamy soup made with fish.

Included Activities:
-Livingston - River boat trip to Garifuna town

Day 5: Flores

Location: Flores

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch

Travel to the township of Flores on Lago Peten Itza. On the way, pay a visit to Nuevo Horizonte, a ranch where 130 demobilised families settled after the signing of the Guatemalan Peace Accords in 1998. Beginning with no infrastructure and poor living conditions, the community cooperated to establish fish-farming, agriculture, reforestation and eco-tourism projects. Tour their nature reserve, have lunch on the ranch and speak to the locals about the origins of the community. Continue to Flores, where you’ll take an orientation walk with your group leader. Flores had a long history before it was colonised by the Spanish in 1697, most significantly as the capital of the Itza people after the fall of Chichen Itza. Spend your free afternoon wandering the island’s quaint streets or shopping for local handicrafts. Around 4 pm, the lakefront starts to hum with street food vendors, making it a good place to grab a bite.

Included Activities:
-Flores - Leader-led orientation walk
-Santa Ana Vieja - Cooperativa Nuevo Horizonte visit

Day 6: San Ignacio

Location: San Ignacio

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch

Get up early for a guided exploration of Tikal National Park. Among the thick, evergreen jungle are some of the most significant remnants of the ancient Maya civilisation – plus an array of local wildlife, including coatis and howler monkeys. Wonder at the towering limestone temples and other monuments while pondering the mystery of the ancient city's demise. Spend a few hours playing archaeologist. Afterwards, learn the art of tortilla making and enjoy lunch together. Then say goodbye to Guatemala and head across the border to Belize. As the only English-speaking country in Central America, Belize is a great place to get chatting with locals.

Included Activities:
-Flores - Tortilla Making Workshop
-Tikal National Park - Archaeological site (Entrance fee, Guide & Transport)

Day 7: San Ignacio

Location: San Ignacio

Accommodation: Hotel

This morning, you can choose whether you would like to relax in San Ignacio or take part in some of the other optional activities on offer, like a visit to the caves of Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM caves). A living museum of Maya relics, the ATM cave system is home to ceramic pots and crystallised skeletons, preserved by the natural processes of the cave for over 1400 years. If you choose to explore the cave system (and it is highly recommended), you’ll spend most of the day there. If not, there are always more local ruins to explore above ground, including Cahal Pech, which was once the residence of a wealthy Maya family. Nature lovers may be interested in a trip to the Green Iguana Conservation Project, where a number of the scaly – and surprisingly large – beasts are protected.


Optional Activities:
-San Ignacio - Cave tubing (incl. entrance, guide & transport)
-San Ignacio - Iguana Conservation Project (entrance fee)
-San Ignacio - Xunantunich Ruins entry
-San Ignacio - Cahal Pech Ruins entry
-San Ignacio - Actun Tunichil Muknal Caves (Incl. entry, guide, transport & lunch)

Day 8: Caye Caulker

Location: Caye Caulker

Accommodation: Hotel

If your idea of paradise is white sand, clear blue waters and palm trees, then you’re going to dig Caye Caulker. The island even has a motto: ‘go slow’. Arrive following a scenic boat ride and join your leader for an orientation walk, to help you get your bearings on the petite island. While the island is entirely walkable, you might like to hire a bike and cycle between beach bars and along quiet palm-lined streets. Can’t keep your eyes off those Caribbean waters? Get out there for a spot of standup paddleboarding, or if the mood strikes, join a sunset catamaran cruise for an unforgettable end to your first day.


Optional Activities:
-Caye Caulker - Sunset Sailing
-Caye Caulker - Stand-up paddleboard hire (per hour)
-Caye Caulker - Bicycle Rental (per day)

Day 9: Caye Caulker

Location: Caye Caulker

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

Your time in Caye Caulker is all about taking it easy, so do as much (or as little) as you want with another day here. If you’re keen to find the best snorkelling spots, opt to take a full-day boat tour (just remember to slather on sunscreen). After a day of swimming and lounging in the sunshine, you’re sure to get hungry. Belize is famous for its barbequed food, with some of the best meals cooked on the roadside. Caye Caulker is famous for its lobster – not the cheapest meal you'll ever buy, but so (so) good. Always make sure that you respect the season: lobsters can only be caught here between June and February. If you’re out of season, how about some grilled shrimp and a lovely rum and coke made with the local firewater?


Optional Activities:
-Caye Caulker - Full day Catamaran snorkeling tour in Hol Chan Marine Reserve-(gear, guide and transport included)
-Caye Caulker - Full day speed boat-(gear, guide and transport included)

Day 10: Caye Caulker

Location: Caye Caulker

Meals Included: breaksfast

There are no activities planned for the final day and you are able to depart the accommodation at any time following check out. If you would like to spend more time in Caye Caulker, we’ll be happy to organise additional accommodation (subject to availability).

What's Included

  • Accommodation
    Hotel (7 nights), Lodge (2 nights)

  • Antigua - Informal Spanish Lesson

  • Antigua - Leader-led Orientation Walk

  • Livingston - River boat trip to Garifuna town

  • Flores - Leader-led orientation walk

  • Santa Ana Vieja - Cooperativa Nuevo Horizonte visit

  • Tikal National Park - Guide for Ruins (per group)

  • Flores - Tortilla Making Workshop

  • San Ignacio - Tikal National Park - Archaeological site (Entrance fee, Guide & Transport)

  • Meals

    5 breakfasts, 1 lunches

  • Tikal National Park - Archaeological site (Entrance fee, Guide & Transport)

What's Not Included

  • Tipping and Gratuities

  • International Travel

  • Airport Transfers at Destination

Included Activities

  • Leader-led Informal Spanish Lesson
  • Antigua - Leader-led walking tour
  • Livingston - River boat trip to Garifuna town
  • Flores - Leader-led orientation walk
  • Tikal National Park - Archaeological site (Entrance fee, Guide & Transport)
  • Tortilla Making Demonstration
  • Tulum - Leader-led orientation walk
  • Playa del Carmen - Leader-led Orientation Walk

Transport

  • Private vehicle , Public bus , Local bus , Taxi , Ferry , Shared boat

Accommodation

  • The style of accommodation indicated in the day-to-day itinerary is a guideline only and may change. On some occasions, alternative arrangements may need to be made due to the lack of availability of rooms in our preferred accommodation. In these cases, we will use a similar standard of accommodation.
  • Throughout the trip, we request that our properties prepare rooms in time for our arrival, especially if we're arriving prior to normal check-in time. However, this isn't always possible which means we won't be able to check-in immediately on arrival at some hotels. Instead, we can store our luggage and explore our new destination or on some trips, have use of shared day rooms until all rooms are available.

Important Information

  • 1. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm on Day 1. There are no activities planned for the final day so you may depart at any time.
  • 2. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.
  • 3. Please be careful when booking flights to Antigua; make sure you fly into Guatemala City Airport [GUA]. Guatemala City Airport is the closest airport to Antigua. Please do not book flights to Antigua & Barbuda Airport [ANU] as this is an island in the Caribbean.
  • 4. On your final day, you’ve got the power to choose where your adventure takes you. If you like, you can stay in Caye Caulker for another couple of nights relaxing beachside – we’ll be happy to organise additional accommodation (subject to availability). Otherwise, jump on an included water taxi transfer from the Caye Caulker ferry port back to Belize City where you can also book additional nights’ accommodation, or where your leader can assist you to catch a taxi from the port to the airport for an onward connection. You will need to make your own way from your hotel in Caye Caulker to the ferry port. To allow for transfer times, please book a flight after 12 pm (midday).

Mode of Transport

  • Private vehicle , Public bus , Local bus , Taxi , Ferry , Shared boat

Check out our Q&As

  • Is this trip right for you

    The tropical climate of Central America means conditions can be really hot and humid. Always carry plenty of water with you and stay hydrated, especially on walking tours.

    As this trip covers destinations across two countries, you'll need to make a border crossing. While this is usually straightforward, please prepare to be patient.

    While your leaders on this trip will bridge any language gaps you have along the way, you'll find meeting locals easier the more Spanish words you know. Attempting to communicate in Spanish is a great way of showing you care.

    This trip involves some long days of travel, some of it by local transport. This may be a little more rustic than you are used to, but it's worth it to encounter local life in a real way.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Intrepid Travel has been taking travellers around the world for over 30 years

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    Since 2002, The Intrepid Foundation has supported over 130 organisations across the world. We’re creating positive impact through the joy of travel, community and connection.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    Over 50% of traveller travel solo with Intrepid. You can choose to share a room with another solo travelle of the same sex for no additional charge, or choose to pay a single supplement if you’d like your own room. Please request this when booking, and we will secure you a single supplement wherever possible. Please note, if you are booking a last-minute trip, it may be harder for us to secure a single room

Reviews of this operator

Maroochy Dazza (Google Reviewer)  

Just leaving a review to...

24-Aug-2023

Just leaving a review to share how much I enjoyed my Central America trip. I thought the guide, Aura was so knowledgeable and organised and clearly a great ambassador for Intrepid. She gave us lots of information on each region, helped us organise anything we needed and dealt with queries from passengers very well and diplomatically. She made the trip run smoothly. She was also keen to explain the Intrepid vision and how the company values making a difference to locals and is a credit to your company. I did Guatemala and beyond and thoroughly enjoyed it - very fast paced, lots to see and do and a great overview of the region. I would definitely recommend 👍

LivvyGrace 4 (Google Reviewer)  

I just completed my first...

15-Jul-2024

I just completed my first Intrepid tour which was 33 days travelling around Central America - I had the time of my life! It was great to have the benefit of a guide (Fluffy was amazing!) and be able to ask questions at any point, but I also liked the freedom that you were permitted throughout. The group tour made boarder crossings seamless and the whole process felt easy - there was never one hiccup. As a solo female traveller, I felt safe throughout, and I cannot recommend Central America enough - the people, the food, the sun and the activities were just amazing :) Can't wait to book my next adventure soon!

V Open (Google Reviewer)  

I have just come back...

26-Oct-2022

I have just come back home after doing Intrepid's 10-day Vietnam Express Northbound tour. What a SUPERB tour. We saw lots and did lots, it was jam-packed full of sights and activities. Our tour leader, Tam, was the best ever. Very knowledgeable, organised and lots of fun too. The other 10 people on the group were all lovely. The places we visited were very interesting. We even visited local homes and ate just like the local people do. I highly recommend Intrepid to anyone considering touring a new country. This was my 5th tour with them and they have consistently been fantastic.

Jack Edwards (Google Reviewer)  

I have travelled with Intrepid...

03-Jun-2024

I have travelled with Intrepid a number of times now and can't recommend them enough. The trips are always exciting, full of history and immersive in the culture and environment. The office staff are great too and always happy to help with any questions you might have. Everywhere I have gone with the company has been different but the guides and itinerary have always been excellent and full of knowledge and passion for their country. Add in the social responsibility angle the company has and it top quality ethical practice and you can't go wrong

Jo Clayton (Google Reviewer)  

I recently went on an...

15-Mar-2024

I recently went on an 11 day tour of India with Intrepid and was impressed with every aspect of the tour, the tour leader and the organisation behind the scenes. I always travel alone so it was a big deal to join a tour, I didn't want to feel less independent or ferried about. I loved being part of a group and the things we saw and did on the tour, I would never have known about or seen if I had been by myself. I loved it from start to finish. Yes the overnight trains were not easy to sleep on, but I managed. Meeting locals on board was a high light for me. English is widely spoken in India and its amazing who you strike up a chat with. I had two problems on the tour - one my own fault and one hotel related. The support from Intrepid was amazing. I cannot thank them enough for going the extra mile to support me. I recommend Intrepid 100% and have gone from thinking an organised tour is for people who don't know about Lonely Planet and can't do solo stuff, to realising its a faster, better, more fun way to get to know a country truly and deeply whilst on a bit of a budget. I will book again and again with Intrepid. I loved it that much! Big thanks to tour leader Daddy H. Devender for his help on day one, and Nick in the Oz office for his fab customer care skills. Also the person who staffed the emergency whatsapp in India - you saved my sanity helping me get there a day late! THANK YOU ALL X

Nicole  

North American Adventure

12-Oct-2021

This was my first international solo trip, but I never felt “alone” - there was always someone to go shopping, hike, or grab a quick bite with. The itinerary was a great balance between organized activities, while still allowing free time for exploring. Each location was unique and charming in its own way. Spending the night in the holy city of Moulay Idriss and wandering the winding streets of Chefchaouen were especially memorable. Thank you Mustapha and Intrepid for an incredible adventure!

Alice Norton (Google Reviewer)  

I have just completed a...

29-Feb-2024

I have just completed a 12 day food tour of Vietnam, and had an amazing time. Our tour leader was great, knowledgeable and kind, who helped throughout the trip with recommendations for places on our free days, and spas. All the food we tried was delicious. It is a very fast paced tour, and Bon tried to maximise our experiences for the best.

Henry Guy Robinson   United Kingdom

Cambodia Discovery

22-Jan-2024

The overall experience was fantastic. V good tour leader. All places visited had something special to do or see. I would book a tour with this company again. Only one negative tour hub is not I repeat not available to contact direct by phone.

Merouane Harkat   Uk

Explore Southern Africa

08-Mar-2024

Best trip ever was, 2 things I didn't like the black mamba stop was wasting day and village ,so 2 night I think was just wasting, I could do 2 days in Kruger, and one more night in delta

Alan Perrott (Google Reviewer)  

We had a fantastic time...

13-Aug-2024

We had a fantastic time on the Botswana Highlights tour recently. We chose Intrepid because it seemed to suit what we wanted - well planned itinerary, small group, comfortable without being overly luxurious (and pricey), and supportive of the local community and environment. We weren't disappointed, and as we met with other like-minded travellers then we all had a great time. We are already planning our next Intrepid tour - maybe Vietnam & Cambodia :-)

1 Select your preferred date

Thursday - Saturday

Nov 21, 2024 - Nov 30, 2024
$1930 $1640

Operator discount: -$290

Thursday - Saturday

Nov 28, 2024 - Dec 07, 2024
$1970 $1674

Operator discount: -$296

Saturday - Monday

Nov 30, 2024 - Dec 09, 2024
$2040

Saturday - Monday

Dec 07, 2024 - Dec 16, 2024
$1930 $1448

Operator discount: -$482

Thursday - Saturday

Dec 12, 2024 - Dec 21, 2024
$1930 $1448

Operator discount: -$482

Thursday - Saturday

Dec 26, 2024 - Jan 04, 2025
$2240

Saturday - Monday

Dec 28, 2024 - Jan 06, 2025
$2240

Saturday - Monday

Jan 04, 2025 - Jan 13, 2025
$2290

Saturday - Monday

Jan 11, 2025 - Jan 20, 2025
$1990

Saturday - Monday

Jan 18, 2025 - Jan 27, 2025
$1990

Saturday - Monday

Jan 25, 2025 - Feb 03, 2025
$2130

Saturday - Monday

Feb 01, 2025 - Feb 10, 2025
$2030

Thursday - Saturday

Feb 13, 2025 - Feb 22, 2025
$1920

Saturday - Monday

Feb 15, 2025 - Feb 24, 2025
$1920

Saturday - Monday

Feb 22, 2025 - Mar 03, 2025
$1920

Saturday - Monday

Mar 01, 2025 - Mar 10, 2025
$1920

Saturday - Monday

Mar 08, 2025 - Mar 17, 2025
$1920

Saturday - Monday

Mar 15, 2025 - Mar 24, 2025
$1920

Saturday - Monday

Mar 22, 2025 - Mar 31, 2025
$2015

Saturday - Monday

Mar 29, 2025 - Apr 07, 2025
$1920

Saturday - Monday

Apr 05, 2025 - Apr 14, 2025
$1920

Thursday - Saturday

Apr 17, 2025 - Apr 26, 2025
$1920

Saturday - Monday

Apr 19, 2025 - Apr 28, 2025
$1920

Saturday - Monday

Apr 26, 2025 - May 05, 2025
$1920

Saturday - Monday

May 03, 2025 - May 12, 2025
$1845

Saturday - Monday

May 10, 2025 - May 19, 2025
$1845

Saturday - Monday

May 24, 2025 - Jun 02, 2025
$1845

Saturday - Monday

May 31, 2025 - Jun 09, 2025
$1845

Saturday - Monday

Jun 07, 2025 - Jun 16, 2025
$1845

Saturday - Monday

Jun 14, 2025 - Jun 23, 2025
$1845

Saturday - Monday

Jun 21, 2025 - Jun 30, 2025
$1845

Saturday - Monday

Jun 28, 2025 - Jul 07, 2025
$1845

Saturday - Monday

Jul 12, 2025 - Jul 21, 2025
$1845

Saturday - Monday

Jul 19, 2025 - Jul 28, 2025
$1845

Saturday - Monday

Jul 26, 2025 - Aug 04, 2025
$1845

Saturday - Monday

Aug 02, 2025 - Aug 11, 2025
$1845

Saturday - Monday

Aug 09, 2025 - Aug 18, 2025
$1845

Saturday - Monday

Aug 23, 2025 - Sep 01, 2025
$1845

Saturday - Monday

Sep 06, 2025 - Sep 15, 2025
$1845

Saturday - Monday

Sep 20, 2025 - Sep 29, 2025
$1845

Saturday - Monday

Oct 04, 2025 - Oct 13, 2025
$1920

Saturday - Monday

Oct 11, 2025 - Oct 20, 2025
$1920

Saturday - Monday

Oct 25, 2025 - Nov 03, 2025
$1920

Saturday - Monday

Nov 01, 2025 - Nov 10, 2025
$1990

Saturday - Monday

Nov 08, 2025 - Nov 17, 2025
$1990

Saturday - Monday

Nov 15, 2025 - Nov 24, 2025
$1990

Saturday - Monday

Nov 22, 2025 - Dec 01, 2025
$1990

Saturday - Monday

Nov 29, 2025 - Dec 08, 2025
$1990

Saturday - Monday

Dec 06, 2025 - Dec 15, 2025
$1990

Thursday - Saturday

Dec 11, 2025 - Dec 20, 2025
$1990

Saturday - Monday

Dec 13, 2025 - Dec 22, 2025
$1990

Saturday - Monday

Dec 20, 2025 - Dec 29, 2025
$1990

Thursday - Saturday

Dec 25, 2025 - Jan 03, 2026
$1990

Saturday - Monday

Dec 27, 2025 - Jan 05, 2026
$1990

Book with Confidence

  • Free Date Changes

    Intrepid Travel allows you to make 10 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 56 days before the start of the tour.

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    Intrepid Travel allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform intrepid travel, 56 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    Intrepid Travel requires a minimum deposit of 400 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 56 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of intrepid travel charges.

    Up to 56 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 55 days before tour starts: Forfeit 30% of booking price.

    At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 60% of booking price.

    At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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