Upon arrival to Belize City, take a short 20-minute drive to visit the Belize Zoo, which houses over 170 animals native to the country. Learn about the wildlife conservation efforts and the cultural significance of these animals to the local population. Continue the day by relaxing at Old Belize Beach, where you can swim or enjoy a cold drink.
Embark on a day trip to the Mayan ruins of Xunantunich, a well-preserved site that dates back to the 7th century. Enjoy a panoramic view of the jungle from the top of El Castillo, the tallest structure in the complex. In the afternoon, explore San Ignacio town and visit the history museum, a colorful farmer's market or a street vendor for a local lunch.
Head to Hopkins, a laid-back coastal town with a rich Garifuna culture. Relax at South Water Caye Beach, a secluded spot for swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving. Immerse yourself in the Garifuna way of life with a drumming lesson or dance workshop. For dinner, try some traditional dishes made with seafood and coconut milk, such as hudut or sere.
Take a scenic drive to Placencia, a picturesque seaside village with colorful houses and a relaxed vibe. Visit the Laughing Bird Caye National Park, a protected area that surrounds a beautiful coral reef. Swim with nurse sharks and rays on a half-day tour. Stroll along the 4-km long sidewalk that lines the beach and try some gelato or coconut pie.
Drive to the Stann Creek District, known for its abundance of fruit farms and chocolate factories. Take a chocolate making class to learn about the process of making organic and fair-trade chocolate, and taste some samples. Visit Marie Sharp's Hot Sauce Factory, where you can learn about the history and flavors of the famous hot sauce. End the day with some birdwatching at the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary and Jaguar Reserve.
Take a domestic flight from Belize City to Ambergris Caye, the largest island in Belize. Rent a golf cart and explore the town of San Pedro, filled with cafes, shops, and art galleries. Snorkel at the Hol Chan Marine Reserve, where you can see colorful fish, turtles, and even a sunken ship. In the evening, have some fresh seafood and watch the sunset at the Pier Lounge.
Take a morning flight from Ambergris Caye to Belize City to connect with your international flight. If you have some extra time, explore the city and visit the Baron Bliss Lighthouse and museum, or go shopping for souvenirs made by local artisans.
You can get around Belize by private vehicle, taxi, or public buses. Domestic flights are also available for longer distances, such as from Belize City to Ambergris Caye. Consider the travel time and costs when planning each day, and make sure to book tours and accommodations in advance.
If you have more time, consider visiting other nature reserves, such as the Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System or the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve. Alternatively, you can explore more towns and villages, such as Corozal, Orange Walk or Punta Gorda. If you have less time, you might want to skip some of the activities or combine them into longer days, depending on your interests.
The main international airport in Belize is Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport (BZE), located in Ladyville, about 10 km north of Belize City. The other domestic airport is San Pedro Airport (SPR), located on Ambergris Caye. Both airports offer flights to other destinations in Central America and the Caribbean, as well as to major cities in the USA and Canada.