7-Day Itinerary in Belize for Adventurous Families

Advisor - Ashley Besic
Curated By

Ashley Besic

Icon Share

SHARE

  • Active Travel

  • Adventure Travel

  • Family Travel

  • Belize

  • Coastal

  • Local Culture

  • Sightseeing

A beach view of Belize with wooden lounge chair and umbrella.
Curator’s statement

Embarked on a 7-day journey through Belize, seeking thrilling activities and immersive experiences. You can get started in San Ignacio, where the kids will be thrilled as they float through mystical caves and zip through the treetops, creating lasting memories. Continue your adventure by visiting the ancient Maya ruins of Xunantunich, climbing the towering pyramid, and marveling at the panoramic views or spend a day in Ambergris Caye, where you can indulge in snorkeling at the Hol Chan Marine Reserve. Overall, rest assured that your family's Belizean adventure will combine thrilling activities, cultural exploration, wildlife encounters and relaxation, creating a truly memorable and enriching experience for everyone.

The Fora Difference

Book with Ashley to access exclusive perks and experiences on your trip.

[object Object]
Killer perks

Free upgrades, spa credits and more—we got you

[object Object]
Personalized recs

Customized travel planning for your style

[object Object]
Insider knowledge

Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there

Where to stay

Previous slide

Cayo Espanto

Luxurious and exclusive private island resort located three miles off the coast of San Pedro, Belize with dining, spa and activities perfectly tailored to your needs.

Gaia River Lodge

Invitingly isolated, this special ecolodge sits hilltop beside a waterfall, with treehouse-like social spaces and unforgettable rainforest views.

Fora Perks
  • Food and beverage or spa credit.

  • Welcome treat in room on arrival.

  • Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.

Itz'ana Belize Resort & Residences

A luxurious coastal paradise combining Mayan-inspired design, pristine beaches, and world-class amenities for an unforgettable tropical retreat.

Next slide

Day 1: Arrival in Belize City and Transfer to San Ignacio

A beach view with a transportation vehicle

If you’re flying to Belize, you may want to consider arriving at Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport in Belize City. If you’re able, prearrange a private transfer to the town of San Ignacio, located in the Cayo District and check into your accommodation. Spend the rest of the day exploring the town: check with your concierge to confirm safety protocols and norms while out. While you’re out, check out these tasty eats:

Guava Limb Café: Known for its delicious Belizean and international cuisine, this cozy restaurant offers a range of options, including vegetarian and gluten-free dishes.

Ko-Ox Han Nah: A popular spot for authentic Mayan cuisine, serving traditional dishes made with fresh, local ingredients.

Day 2: Cave Tubing and Zip-lining

An outdoor cafe at belize, with people sitting on a brown chair.

Embark on an exciting adventure of cave tubing and zip-lining in the Belizean rainforest. Explore the ancient Mayan underworld as you float through crystal-clear rivers and mystical caves. As you journey through the caves, you’ll learn the history while also hearing the cultural significance of the caves. If you have the time, you can add a day of zip-lining through the treetops to experience an adrenaline rush while you enjoy breathtaking views. For these types of excursions, you’ll want to pre-book and/or work with your travel advisor or hotel concierge to arrange for you!

Day 3: Xunantunich Maya Ruins and River Kayaking

Beach view with wooden huts and chairs

Make a visit to the ancient Maya city of Xunantunich, known for its impressive stone temples and panoramic views. Climb to the top of El Castillo, the largest pyramid and soak in the stunning surroundings. Afterward, head to the Mopan River for a kayaking expedition, navigating through lush landscapes.

Pro-tip: Make sure you bring comfortable walking shoes that you are okay with getting wet.

Day 4: Snorkeling at Hol Chan Marine Reserve and Shark Ray Alley

A girl under water snorkeling

For a slightly more relaxing adventure, take a day trip to Ambergris Caye, the largest island in Belize. Explore the vibrant underwater world at the Hol Chan Marine Reserve, famous for its coral gardens and abundant marine life. Snorkel alongside nurse sharks, stingrays and colorful tropical fish at Shark Ray Alley. You can also rent a catamaran for the day, some charters include food for the entire day!

Day 5: Actun Tunichil Muknal Cave Tour

A cave view in Belize

Get ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure to Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM) cave.
Make sure to explore the ancient Mayan ceremonial site, which features intact artifacts and skeletal remains. You’ll be able to wade through shallow streams, climb over boulders and marvel at the underground wonders of this sacred cave. It is truly an unforgettable experience and for the kiddos that love new experiences, this is a must!

Day 6: Wildlife Encounter at Belize Zoo and Jungle Canopy Walk

A brown concrete building during day time

For something more familiar but on a different scale, visit the Belize Zoo, a conservation-focused zoo that showcases Belizean wildlife. Children of all ages will be able to observe jaguars, tapirs, monkeys and many other native animals up close. As a family, you’ll experience a thrilling jungle canopy walk, where suspension bridges offer panoramic views of the rainforest.

Day 7: Relaxation at Caye Caulker

For your last day, take a boat ride to the laid-back island of Caye Caulker. Take in the last six days and enjoy a day of relaxation, swimming and sunbathing on pristine beaches. If you haven’t already, explore the island's charming villages, savor local cuisine and indulge in water activities like snorkeling or paddle boarding.

These are just a few recommendations, and Belize offers a wide range of dining options to suit various tastes and budgets.

Need to Know

Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out my guide, A Couple’s 4-Day Guide to NOLA.

This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Belize.