Rendezvous with your driver in Belize City, and transfer west to the village of Cristo Rey. From here, we follow a meandering road to Crystal Paradise Resort, which is in a picturesque setting and perched on a hill above the Macal River. You have time to settle in and explore the property.

After an early breakfast, the drive deep into the most remote rainforest location in Belize, to the ancient Mayan city of Caracol.  Today’s drive takes us through breathtaking scenery through the Mountain Pine Ridge, over a series of creeks and rivers, and descending into the lush tropical rainforest of the Chiquibul Rainforest Reserve. The ancient Mayan city of Caracol dates back to the classic period and is believed to be one of Belize’s largest Mayan settlements of that era.  The city walls contain over 35,000 known structures, including five plazas, four palaces, three temples, 24 stelae, two ball courts, reservoirs, causeways, and an astronomical observatory. Upon our return from Caracol, we stop at Rio Frio Caves and a refreshing dip into the Rio On Pools for a swim. Here, you can immerse yourself in the refreshing waters, swim in the serene pools on the edge of the mountain pine ridge. 

Today’s extraordinary adventure takes us deep underground and into the Mayan underworld known as Xibalba, a mythical realm inhabited by spirits, powerful gods and sacred rituals. We hike, wade, ford, swim, and climb into the sacrificial chambers to witness first-hand artifacts deep in the Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM) caves system.  We find evidence of ceremonial offerings, and sacrifice.  As we climb the underground river system to the high chamber, it ends at the top with the Crystal Maiden, skeletal remains that have been calcified into the flowstone.

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 and white sand cayes before arriving at Belize's furthest island group. Upon arriving at Half Moon Caye, your guide team will orient you to the island and settle you into your accommodations. You will then enjoy a late lunch followed by an introduction to one of the many marine activities we offer.

Over the next few days you will have many options to explore and discover everything this area has to offer. The guides will present activities each day based on the weather conditions, and the group's desires. Hammock surfing is an official activity for those looking to relax with a book and a cold beverage.

Guided marine activities will be offered in both the mornings and afternoons on both these days. Local snorkels, kayaking, kayak-sailing, stand up paddle-boarding and fishing are some of the activities offered. In the mornings we host informative sessions on the history of Belize, its unique marine ecosystem and the local culture. Days 5 and 6 are the most likely days for our snorkelling trips to the Great Blue Hole, and the Lighthouse Aquarium. 

Our evenings at Half Moon Caye are filled with happy hour gatherings, cold beverages, cultural presentations and incredible Caribbean sunsets.  

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 island beaches.

After lunch, a motorboat charter picks everyone up for the return trip to the mainland. This return journey takes you through Turneffe Atoll across the Great Barrier Reef, and you'll arrive at the Belize City Biltmore lobby, usually by late afternoon.

Travel Notes: For travelers leaving Belize after this trip, we also strongly suggest spending a night in Belize City. International connections out of the country require a departure the next day.

Contact our Trip Planners for hotel reservations in Belize City, Flight & Hotel Packages or to extend your Belize itinerary by combining this trip with another Island Expeditions adventure or extension.