Coast, Cayes and Culture: Highlights of Belize

Head back to Miami Airport this morning for your flight to Palencia via Belize City. When you land, you'll be met by your driver awaits who will whisk you to a villa nestled between the rainforest and Caribbean coast. Explore the village's bars and restaurants or unwind by the infinity pool with a Belizean Rum Punch - the perfect start to your tropical escape.

Today, you'll have the chance to dive into one of the healthiest spots in the Belize Barrier Reef Reserve - Silk Cayes. This vibrant reef system is a haven for colourful fish and is known for its crystal-clear waters and occasional shark sightings. Enjoy two dives and a tasty lunch, then return to your island resort for some well-deserved relaxation or inland exploration.

On today's agenda is a boat ride to explore the outer sites of Belize's main barrier reef. Discover beautiful coral islands teeming with diverse marine life, including octopuses, sharks, turtles and rays. With two dives, lunch and some scenic boat cruising, it's a day packed with underwater wonders and unforgettable moments.

Your last day in Palencia is yours to spend as you please. Dive into the shallow delights of Laughing Bird Caye for some fantastic snorkelling or opt for a guided tour to uncover the mysteries of local Mayan ruins. The choice is yours to make the most of your final day in this tropical paradise.

You'll be met by your driver today and driven three hours to San Ignacio. Along the way, stop off for a hike in St. Herman's Blue National Park. Explore the historic St. Herman's Cave, once a ceremonial site for Maya priests; follow an underground stream to the refreshing (inland) Blue Hole; and check out the mystical Crystal Cave, which is adorned with ancient Mayan wonders.

Relaxation awaits when you arrive in San Ignacio. Check into your hotel and climb into a hammock outside your cabin - the perfect spot to soak in the peaceful jungle setting and magnificent views over the Macal River.

Step back in time today as you embark on a private tour of Xunantunich, an ancient Maya archaeological site. While you're there, climb Belize's second-tallest ancient pyramid; enjoy the panoramic views from the 'El Castillo' temple; and explore the ruins of royal palaces.

Continue your adventure with a one-hour drive through modern Mayan villages to the entrance of Barton Creek Cave, an ancient Mayan ceremonial cave. Tours of the site are by canoe, and you'll have the chance to paddle through wide passages and cathedral-like chambers.

Meet your driver for a scenic two-hour journey through quaint Mayan villages and picturesque countryside to Caracol. This ancient archaeological site, once a monumental city, sits atop the Vaca Plateau in the Chiquibul Forest Reserve. Accompanied by a guide, explore the ruins and learn about the site's fascinating history.

Next, discover the wonders of the Rio Frio Cave, a one-hour drive away, which is hailed as one of Belize's finest caving systems. It's almost a-quarter-of-a-mile long and boasts an abundance of natural marvels, including fresh-water pools, waterfalls and mesmerising stalactite formations.

After yesterday's excitement, today is yours to enjoy at leisure. Kick back and relax at your hotel or head into Hopkins Village to experience the culture of the Garifuna people of Belize with a cooking class or a drumming lesson.

Head to the airport today and hop on a quick flight to San Pedro, located in the southern part of Ambergris Caye. When you land, a friendly hotel representative will greet you at the airport and escort you to your luxury hotel. Wander around the lush tropical gardens adorned with bougainvillea and hibiscus and enjoy the calming views of turquoise seas from one of the swaying hammocks.

For your last days in San Pedro, give yourself the gift of relaxation and tranquillity. Treat yourself to an indulgent spa treatment at your hotel and maybe go snorkelling in the turquoise waters. And if fishing is your passion, you're in the perfect place; San Pedro is the fishing capital of Belize. For a culinary treat, stroll into town and spend an evening at the Truck Shop, a food truck garden bursting with flavours and atmosphere.

It's time to say goodbye to this Caribbean paradise. Your transfer from the hotel to Belize International Airport marks the start of your journey back home via Miami. The journey takes around 13 hours, so get comfortable, enjoy a couple of in-flight movies, and hopefully catch a nap as you ease back into the 'real world'.