Tours To Belize
Belize Family Vacation:
9-Day Jungle & Beach Adventure
Outline Itinerary
Day 1 – Arrival in Belize City & Transfer to San Ignacio
Day 2 – Free Day in Cayo for Optional Family Activities
Day 3 – Horseback Riding & Xunantunich Archaeological Tour
Day 4 – Chocolate Tour & Maya Cooking Class
Day 5 – Explore St. Herman’s Cave & Transfer to Hopkins
Day 6 – Monkey River Wildlife Adventure
Day 7 – Free Day in Hopkins for Beach & Cultural Activities
Day 8 – Free Day in Hopkins to Relax or Explore
Day 9 – Flight to Belize City & International Departure
Enjoy a Belize Family Vacation with 9 days of inland thrills and beach time! Caving, horseback riding, wildlife, cooking, and coastal fun await.
Belize Tailor-made Tours
Belize Family Vacation
9-Day, 8-Night Jungle & Beach Adventure
Overview of the Belize Family Vacation Package
A 9-day family adventure through Belize’s jungle, culture, and coast — designed for comfort, excitement, and flexibility. From cacao roasting lessons to cave float trips and beach relaxation in Hopkins, this tour blends immersive experiences for all ages with premium logistics and expert guides.
Tour Highlights – Belize Family Vacation
Canoeing, hiking, birding, ATV, and yoga in Cayo
A thrilling yet flexible playground for families—choose jungle hikes, peaceful floats, or scenic rides that suit any pace.
Horseback ride to Maya ruins at Xunantunich
Ride along rivers and open fields before stepping onto a panoramic ridge to explore ancient Maya temples.
Chocolate & cooking experience with cacao farm visit
Trace chocolate from tree to table, roast beans with local tools, and cook a traditional Mayan lunch in a thatch house.
St. Herman’s Cave exploration
Walk through Spanish-colonial and Maya intact cave passages, float downstream on an inner tube back to the sun-lit entrance.
Monkey River wildlife cruise
Cruise through lush wetlands where howler monkeys, exotic birds, and crocodiles await—plus a jungle hike filled with medicinal plants.
Beach time in Hopkins
Savor the laid-back Caribbean life—beach lounging, snorkeling, kayaking, or just feeling the sand between your toes.
Places You’ll Visit
San Ignacio (Cayo District)
The perfect jungle base for active families, San Ignacio offers canoeing, wildlife spotting, and hands-on cultural experiences all in one lush destination.
Xunantunich
Ride a hand-cranked ferry and horseback your way to ancient Maya pyramids, where kids and adults alike can climb to views that stretch into Guatemala.
Cacao Farm & Thatch House
Unwrap the story of chocolate from bean to bar, then learn to cook a traditional Maya meal in a cozy, thatched kitchen surrounded by jungle.
St. Herman’s Cave
Enter a mystical underworld where Mayan priests once walked, this sacred cave is full of sparkling formations and ancient legends.
Hopkins Village
A laid-back Garifuna community where beach days, drumming lessons, and local flavors come together in a culturally rich coastal escape.
Monkey River
Cruise through mangroves and hike into the jungle to spot howler monkeys, tropical birds, and maybe even a tapir in this living wildlife documentary.
Day 1 – Arrival in Belize City & Transfer to the Cayo District
Welcome to Belize! A friendly representative from Authentic Travel will greet you at Philip Goldson International Airport and escort your family via private vehicle to the lush inland Cayo District. Along the scenic drive, you’ll pass small villages, rivers, and jungle views before arriving at your family-friendly jungle lodge nestled near the Tapir Mountain Nature Reserve. Settle in, explore the grounds, or enjoy a refreshing swim before dinner.
📍 Overnight in the San Ignacio area
Inclusions: Private airport transfer, welcome orientation, lodging
Day 2 – Choose Your Jungle Adventures in Cayo
Today is all about choosing your family’s pace. You might paddle along a quiet jungle river, take a guided birding walk, explore forest trails by bike, or unwind with yoga and a swim. Nighttime jungle hikes are also available — an exciting way to spot nocturnal wildlife like frogs, owls, or kinkajous. The lodge team will help plan the perfect mix of fun and relaxation.
📍 Overnight in the San Ignacio area
Inclusions: On-site activity options, meals at lodge (if applicable)
Day 3 – Horseback Ride & Xunantunich Maya Site
Saddle up for a morning ride through wide open farmland and forest trails along the Mopan River. Your destination: Xunantunich, one of Belize’s most iconic Maya cities, reached by a hand-cranked ferry. Climb El Castillo for sweeping views over Guatemala and learn about the ancient civilization through your guide’s stories of temples, rituals, and rulers.
📍 Overnight in San Ignacio area
Inclusions: Horseback ride, guided site tour, entrance fees, lunch
Day 4 – Chocolate-Making Experience & Cooking Class
Start the day with a hands-on chocolate and culinary journey. Visit a local cacao farm, learn how the ancient Maya cultivated and used cacao, and roast and grind your own chocolate. Then, join a local cook in preparing an authentic Maya meal. It’s a sensory-rich experience that brings culture, history, and food together—perfect for kids and adults alike.
📍 Overnight in San Ignacio area
Inclusions: Guided chocolate experience, cooking class, lunch
Day 5 – St. Herman’s Cave & Scenic Transfer to Hopkins
After breakfast, hit the road with a scenic drive toward the coast. Along the way, stop at St. Herman’s Cave, a mystical limestone cavern once used for Maya rituals. Equipped with helmets and lights, you’ll explore sparkling formations and underground chambers before tubing gently out along an underground stream. Later, continue to Hopkins, a laid-back Caribbean village and cultural heart of the Garifuna people.
📍 Overnight in Hopkins area
Inclusions: Guided cave tour and tubing, private transfer, lodging
Day 6 – Monkey River Wildlife Boat Tour
Board a motorboat and cruise along the southern coast before heading inland on the lush Monkey River. This guided expedition reveals Belize’s wild side: expect to see howler monkeys, iguanas, herons, toucans, and maybe even a crocodile. After a short jungle hike to learn about medicinal plants, return to Hopkins with the afternoon free for a swim or beach walk.
📍 Overnight in Hopkins area
Inclusions: River tour, wildlife hike, expert naturalist guide
Day 7 – Free Day in Hopkins: Beach or Excursions
Relax in paradise or opt into more adventures. Spend the day swimming, snorkeling, or biking around the village. Cultural experiences like Garifuna drumming lessons, fishing trips, or culinary tours can also be arranged. Or simply enjoy hammock time with a book as the kids play on the beach.
📍 Overnight in Hopkins area
Inclusions: Breakfast, optional tours available
Day 8 – Final Day to Explore or Relax
Savor one last slow morning by the Caribbean Sea. Let the kids run on the sand or take a guided kayaking trip before a special farewell dinner. Capture the family memories, enjoy tropical flavors, and toast to a meaningful Belize family adventure.
📍 Overnight in Hopkins area
Inclusions: Breakfast, optional activities
Day 9 – Flight from Hopkins to Belize City & International Departure
After breakfast, transfer to Dangriga Airstrip for your short domestic flight to Belize City. A guide will assist with check-in and ensure smooth connections for your international flight home.
📍 End of Tour
Inclusions: Domestic flight, airport assistance, transfer
Need Help Planning?
Connect with one of our friendly travel experts based in Belize. Get local tips, tailored suggestions, and answers to all your questions—at no cost.
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What’s Included in Your Belize Family Vacation
8 nights of carefully selected lodging
Private ground transport throughout
Domestic flight from Hopkins to Belize City
Professional English-speaking guide as scheduled
Entrances to all listed attractions
Daily breakfasts + select meals
Not Included: Lunch/dinner (unless noted), drinks, gratuities, optional tours/extras
What to Pack for Your Archaeological Journey
- Moisture-wicking clothing and hiking shoes
- Socks (mandatory for ATM Cave)
- Swimwear and water sandals
- Daypack, insect repellent, sunblock
- Valid passport (for Guatemala entry)
- Camera (note: not allowed inside ATM Cave)
- Travel insurance (recommended)
Ideal For
Families with younger children or teens seeking active cultural experiences
Multi-generational groups wanting comfort + exploration
Parents craving a mix of relaxation and local immersion
Travelers planning a Belize Family Vacation that’s enriching yet worry-free
Optional Add-Ons:
Mayan drumming and dance workshop in Hopkins
Snorkeling or paddleboard tour at the reef near Placencia
Beach picnic and bonfire at sunset
Wildlife night tour at community reserves or hidden mangroves
Mini cooking classes featuring Garifuna specialties
Belize Country Guide: Essential Travel Insights
Planning a Belize vacation? This expertly curated guide offers practical, up-to-date advice tailored for travelers seeking adventure, luxury, and cultural authenticity. From weather and entry requirements to electricity, languages, and access to money, we’ve covered every essential detail to help you plan with confidence.
Best Time to Visit Belize
Explore Belize’s ancient ruins, sacred caves, and tropical landscapes in the best seasonal conditions. Use this guide to plan your Belize Tikal Archaeological Tour with confidence.
| Month Group | Avg Temp (°C) | Avg Humidity (%) | Travel Conditions & Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| January – March | 21–28 °C | 76–82% | 🌞 Dry season. Ideal for Maya ruins, caves, jungle hikes. Peak season—book early. |
| April – May | 24–31 °C | 77–82% | ☀️ Hotter, mostly dry. Less crowded. Great for birding and early cave trips. |
| June – August | 28–32 °C | 80–84% | 🌿 Green season. Lush landscapes and river tours. Expect occasional rain. |
| September – October | 27–31 °C | 81–83% | 🌧️ Heaviest rain. Quiet season with great deals. Some delays possible. |
| November – December | 22–27 °C | 81–83% | 🍃 Start of dry season. Great for outdoor adventures & holiday travel. |
Expert Tip: Best time to travel is late November to April — dry weather, excellent accessibility, and lush scenery.
Sources: Climate-to-Travel, TimeAndDate.com, Weather-and-Climate.com
Languages in Belize
English is Belize’s official language, making communication seamless for most travelers. You’ll also encounter:
Spanish – Widely spoken in western Belize and urban centers.
Belizean Creole (Kriol) – A vibrant, informal lingua franca.
Garifuna & Mayan languages – Heard in specific cultural regions.
🧭 Cultural Note: Our bilingual guides make it easy to connect meaningfully with locals in diverse communities.
Time Zone & Timekeeping
Time Zone: Central Standard Time (CST), UTC -6
Daylight Saving: Not observed in Belize
Entry Requirements
To enter Belize, you’ll need:
A valid passport (6+ months validity)
Proof of onward or return travel
Sufficient funds for your stay
Visa-free access for most travelers from the U.S., Canada, the UK, the EU, and Central America. Always check the latest Belize Immigration updates before traveling.
What to See & Do in Belize
Whether you’re planning an adventure, cultural escape, or wellness retreat, Belize delivers unforgettable experiences:
🏛️ Maya Archaeology: Xunantunich, Caracol, Lamanai, and Tikal (in nearby Guatemala)
🌊 Marine Marvels: Belize Barrier Reef, Hol Chan, Shark Ray Alley, Blue Hole
🌿 Rainforest Adventures: Caving, ziplining, wildlife encounters, hiking
🎭 Cultural Connections: Garifuna music in Hopkins, Mayan crafts, Creole cuisine
🏝️ Island Life: Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker offer barefoot luxury & diving
🌐 Combine inland and coastal travel for the most rewarding Belize experience.
Why Belize Stands Out
✨ English-speaking Caribbean–Central American fusion
✨ Short travel distances between the reef, the jungle, and the ruins
✨ Boutique eco-lodges and wellness retreats in nature
✨ Authentic, immersive local experiences, not tourist traps
✨ Safe, stable, and exceptionally friendly
Water Safety
Tap Water: Treated and generally safe in most hotels and lodges.
Best Practice: Drink bottled or filtered water, especially in rural areas.
Ice: Usually safe in established resorts and restaurants—ask if unsure.
Electricity & Outlets
Voltage: 110V (same as U.S.) and occasionally 220V
Plugs: Type A/B (U.S. style)
Outages: Occasional in remote areas—premium lodges have generators
Tip: Bring a surge protector for sensitive electronics
Currency & Access to Money
Currency: Belize Dollar (BZ$), fixed at 2:1 with the U.S. dollar.
Credit Cards: Visa and MasterCard widely accepted (5% fee common).
ATMs: Found in cities, towns, and major tourist areas.
Cash: Useful for rural areas and local markets.
U.S. dollars: Accepted almost everywhere (in small denominations).
Travel Planning Tips
✅ Book archeological or nature-focused tours early in peak season.
✅ Carry a mix of USD cash and cards.
✅ Keep your passport with you for Guatemala crossings or domestic flights.
✅ Learn a few Creole or Spanish phrases—it enhances every experience.
Accommodation
Where You Stay Matters: Tailored Belize Accommodations
At Authentic Travel Belize, we help you choose the right place to stay — from boutique jungle lodges and charming inns to upscale beachfront resorts. Whether you’re seeking a rustic nature escape, family-friendly comfort, or romantic seclusion, we’ll match your preferences with handpicked properties that reflect the spirit of Belize.
We only work with trusted partners who meet high standards of comfort, safety, and service. Our local insight enables us to recommend the perfect base for your tour — from mid-range gems to high-end hideaways, always tailored to your travel style.
✔️ Personalized lodging recommendations based on your itinerary, pace, and interests.
Tour Guides
Meet Your Expert Guides
Our tour guides aren’t just knowledgeable — they’re passionate locals who bring Belize’s stories, landscapes, and heritage to life. Certified by the Belize Tourism Board, every guide is professionally trained in safety, history, and guest experience.
English is the official language of Belize, and most of our guides also speak Spanish, making it easy for travelers from diverse backgrounds to connect. Whether you’re exploring ancient Maya ruins, sacred caves, or vibrant local villages, you’ll gain authentic insight through enriching conversations and thoughtful storytelling.
✔️ Personalized, multilingual guidance to make every journey meaningful.
Transport
Private, Safe & Flexible Belize Transport
All our tours include private, door-to-door transportation in well-maintained, BTB-certified vehicles, operated by experienced and friendly local drivers. From SUVs and shuttles to 29-seat coasters for larger groups, we’ll arrange the ideal ride to suit your comfort and group size.
Traveling with gear or lots of luggage? No problem, we provide trailers on request. Whether crossing borders, navigating remote jungle roads, or arriving by air, we handle every detail to ensure your journey is smooth, safe, and punctual.
✔️ Relax — we take care of logistics so that you can focus on the experience.
Book with Confidence
The Belize Family Vacation Tour is a thoughtfully designed journey, where every moment — from wildlife encounters to cultural discoveries is perfectly planned to create unforgettable memories for all ages.
Explore More Belize Tour Packages
Extend your journey with curated travel experiences:
Belize Tikal Tour
7-Day Tour Package
Belize Adventure
9 Days Tour Package
