Inspiration
Wild Belize: From River to Reef
Discover the untamed beauty of Belize with this unforgettable journey from the depths of the jungle to the dazzling reef-lined coast.
Jungle temples and coral dreams
You’ll begin your adventure in the remote wilderness of the Orange Walk District, exploring lush forests and ancient Maya ruins by boat, foot and kayak.
Then, head into the cultural heart of the country in San Ignacio, where caves, ruins and rich rainforest wildlife await. Finally, unwind on the golden shores of Ambergris Caye, diving into the Caribbean Sea to explore the second-largest barrier reef in the world.
With intimate lodges, expert guides and a perfect balance of nature, culture and relaxation, this journey blends wild adventure with understated luxury in one of Central America’s most captivating destinations.
- Belize
- Orange Walk District
- San Ignacio
- San Pedro
- Actun Tunichil Muknal
Pauline Duffin
Pauline specialises in designing highly-personalised adventures, guided by her decades of travel expertise. With a focus on India, South East Asia and South America and a deep love of African safaris, she's renowned for her finely-tuned ability to create experiences that reflect your unique interests.
Orange Walk District
Your journey begins in northern Belize, deep in the Orange Walk District – an unspoiled region of savannah, lagoon and jungle. Arriving at your lodge, you’ll swap airport bustle for birdsong and rustling palms. Set beside a shimmering lagoon and surrounded by ancient Maya ruins, you’re placed at the heart of a region rich in biodiversity and cultural intrigue.
Days here move to the rhythm of nature. Rise early for a tranquil canoe trip across the mirror-like lagoon as the sun breaks over the water, spotting herons, crocodiles and colourful toucans along the shoreline. Take guided jungle walks to uncover medicinal plants, howler monkeys and the haunting call of distant birds.
Cruise the New River to reach the Lamanai Maya ruins, a dramatic site where temple pyramids rise above the forest canopy.
As dusk falls, join a night spotlight safari to catch glimpses of nocturnal creatures emerging from the shadows, or relax by the fire, enjoying the stillness of the surrounding wilderness. From sunrise to stargazing, each moment here invites you to slow down, tune in, and rediscover the quiet wonder of the natural world.
San Ignacio
From the quiet remoteness of the north, journey southwest to the vibrant Cayo District – Belize’s cultural and adventure capital. Your base is a celebrated eco-lodge set within a 400-acre private nature reserve along the banks of the Macal River. Surrounded by dense jungle and the hum of wildlife, it’s the perfect gateway to both Belizean heritage and heart-pumping outdoor pursuits.
Spend your days discovering the region’s many layers. Hike or horseback ride through forest trails to reach Cahal Pech, an atmospheric Maya site perched above town, or take a guided day trip to Xunantunich, known for its towering temple and panoramic views across Guatemala.
For a deeper adventure, explore the famous ATM Cave (Actun Tunichil Muknal) – a sacred underworld site filled with shimmering pools, limestone chambers and the eerie remains of Maya offerings.
Between excursions, enjoy tubing down the river, biking forest paths or relaxing at the lodge’s jungle spa. Whether you’re scaling ancient ruins or floating beneath cathedral-like caverns, this leg of the journey brings you closer to Belize’s complex past and its vibrant present.
Drift Through the Sacred Caves of ATM
Step into the underworld of the ancient Maya on an extraordinary cave expedition unlike any other. At Actun Tunichil Muknal, known as the ATM Cave, you’ll wade through cool underground rivers, scramble through limestone chambers and float through shimmering caverns to reach a site once used for sacred rituals and offerings. Deep inside, your guide will illuminate centuries-old pottery, crystalline rock formations and the haunting skeletal remains of Maya sacrifices. Equal parts archaeological marvel and physical adventure, it’s a journey that’s as humbling as it is unforgettable.
San Pedro
From the inland jungle to the Caribbean coast, your final stop is the sun-drenched island of Ambergris Caye, just off Belize’s eastern shoreline. After a short flight, arrive in San Pedro, a laid-back beach town with a colourful soul and a postcard-perfect setting.
These last few days are yours to slow down, soak up the sunshine and explore the underwater wonders that make Belize so magical. The island lies along the second-largest barrier reef in the world, offering exceptional snorkelling and diving just minutes from shore.
Spend your days swimming among nurse sharks and stingrays in the Hol Chan Marine Reserve, drifting over the vibrant coral gardens at Mexico Rocks, or diving into the iconic Blue Hole – a natural marine sinkhole teeming with sea life. For those who prefer to stay above the waves, the hotel can arrange catamaran sails, beach picnics on secluded cays and paddleboard sessions across crystal-clear lagoons.
Between aquatic adventures, wander the sandy streets of San Pedro, where beach bars, local art studios and seafood grills line the shore. Or just relax (cocktail in hand) by the pool or on your private veranda, listening to the sea breeze rustling through the palms. However you spend your time here, the island’s rhythm has a way of making you feel worlds away.
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