Visit the Crooked Tree Wetlands, followed by a remote Basecamp Adventure exploring the rich coral reefs and white sand cayes of Lighthouse Atoll
Trip Highlights
- Snorkel, dive and paddle amongst the best reefs in the Caribbean on this signature trip to Lighthouse Reef Atoll.
- Spend six nights at Half Moon Caye, voted in 2019 the most beautiful caye in Belize!
- Paddle and snorkel the ‘Aquarium’ and Jacques Cousteau’s legendary ‘Great Blue Hole’, the largest undersea sinkhole in the world.
- Outstanding walk-in snorkeling from the beaches of Half Moon Caye.
- Contribute in a meaningful way to the conservation and protection of tropical coral reefs.
- An overnight at Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary, with a sunrise boat tour and birding in the wetlands.
Trip Itinerary
Meals: Dinner is included on this night
Upon arrival at the Belize International Airport, you will be welcomed by an Island Expeditions representative and whisked away to the Bird's Eye View Lodge in the Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary. This area is renowned for its extensive wetlands, and four main lagoons which are home to hundreds of species of birds and other fauna.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
We rise early, and with a coffee in hand, take a motor boat birding tour of the Crooked Tree Lagoon. After breakfast, we travel back to Belize City, make a quick stop at a local shop and head to our waiting motor boat charter. We travel by boat 56 miles out to sea, passing through mangrove ranges, white sand cayes, arriving at Belize's furthest island group, on Lighthouse Reef Atoll. Upon arriving at Half Moon Caye, your guide team will orient you to the island and camp to settle you into your accommodations. You will then enjoy a late lunch, a session of sea kayak and snorkeling instruction before heading out on the water.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
“If there’s a heaven on earth, then this must be it” one guest wrote of Halfmoon Caye. You’ll find empty beaches, untouched coral reefs and sleep with breathtaking views of a billion stars over the ocean. Fifty miles from the mainland, the protected waters of Halfmoon Caye Marine Reserve are exceptionally clear with abundant fish and colorful corals.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Each day presents a variety of activity choices; sea kayak or paddleboard to a shipwreck washed on the reef, snorkel the shallow waters of the ‘Aquarium’ and in the evening beachcomb along the deserted western beaches of Half Moon Caye.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
The great ’Blue Hole’ of Jacques Cousteau fame, is today’s big adventure. We sail and paddle our kayaks to this extraordinary underwater sinkhole known for its profusion of fish and towering coral formations. Snorkeling at the ‘Blue Hole’ is a top favorite among our guests.
On our way back to camp we stop at Half Moon Wall for a drift snorkel over an undersea wall. Our farewell night features tropical drinks, a special dinner and lots of Garifuna drums, dance and songs.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
The choice is yours for your last morning at Lighthouse Reef Atoll. Snorkel your favorite patch reefs, walk the island trails, and swing in a hammock or beach comb along the immaculate island beaches. After lunch, a motor charter arrives, and you'll begin to prepare for your trip back to the mainland.
Meals: n/a
This last day is yours to enjoy at your leisure before you fly home or continue on your travels. Relax by the pool or investigate the optional tours offered by the hotel activity desk.
The Places We Stay
We are privileged by special arrangement to stay within the Halfmoon Caye Natural Monument. Our basecamp within this pristine marine park is designed to provide maximum comfort with a minimal ecological footprint.
Sleep in seaside tent-cabanas furnished with wood-framed beds, nightstand, lighting and room to store your personal gear. Tents can accommodate singles, doubles and families.
Meals are served in our comfortable dining room with spectacular view of the Caribbean Sea. Our central bathhouse has modern eco-sensitive composting toilets, running water and solar warmed showers.
A special location on the shoreline of the Crooked Tree Lagoons, Birds Eye View lodge offers a stunning encounter with nature matched with heartfelt Belizean hospitality. Superb local naturalist guides, clean and comfortable accommodations and the historic nearby Creole Village of Crooked Tree combine to make this a favorite lodge we have partnered with for close to 30 years.
The Belize Biltmore Plaza, close to the Municipal and International airports is the perfect jumping off point in Belize City. Located just north of the city center, the Biltmore has modern rooms, restaurant, bar and a lovely inner courtyard with inviting pool.
Dates and Prices
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Extensions
Add to your trip experience with these trip extensions
Maya World Extension
3 Days - 2 Nights
A three day inland adventure into the Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary,the New River and Mayan ruins of Lamanai.
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Rainforest Canopy Extension
3 Days - 2 Nights
Fly through the rainforest canopy, descend a jungle waterfall, and explore he wonders of Mayflower Bocawina National Park.
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Cayo Caves & Temples Extension
3 Days - 2 Nights
Descend ancient ceremonial caves, and climb towering Mayan temples, combined with exploring the beautiful town of San Ignacio and it's vibrant market.
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