Name: Land of the Maya: Belize, Guatamala & Honduras
Brand: Swan Hellenic
SKU: V1325043007

Itinerary

Belize offers a captivating blend of ancient civilizations, rainforest trails and wild landscapes. Pristine cayes dot the 200-mile coast, luring you to Caribbean bliss, while the secrets of the ancient Maya are revealed at Lamanai, showcasing their architectural genius. Nearby, in the Maya Mountains, is the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, the world's only jaguar sanctuary, also home to pumas, deer, howler monkeys and tapirs.

Altun Ha Maya Ruins

Included

04 h 00 m

Enjoy a driving sightseeing tour of Belize City
Explore the Altun Ha Mayan site, where the 9 1/2 pound Jade head of the Sun God Kinich Ahau was discovered
Learn the history of this incredible site

Blue Hole By Air

Optional

02 h 00 m

View from above the World's Largest living Barrier Reef,
Make several passes over the Great Blue Hole
Take incredible pictures of the reef

Sharks, Rays, Barrier Reef Snorkeling

Optional

02 h 00 m

Swim with sharks, rays, and tropical fish at the breathtaking coral reef of Shark & Ray Alley
Enjoy a scenic boat ride along Belize’s breathtaking barrier islands
Swim with sharks, rays, and tropical fish at the coral reef

Guanaja, the most mountainous island in Honduras' Bay Islands, captivates with its natural beauty. Lush rainforests meet a vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life. The coastline of this 25-km long island, has pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters offering snorkelling and deep-sea fishing. Hiking trails cross the verdant interior with tropical birds such as endangered yellow-naped parrots and the Bay Island's only waterfall.

Island tour By Boat and Snorkelling

Optional

03 h 00 m

Enjoy stunning views of lush landscapes and vibrant marine life
Dive into turquoise waters teeming with colourful fish and marine creatures
Marvel at the diverse marine life and intricate coral formations

Teeming with marine life, Roatán, Honduras' largest Bay Island, is surrounded by the world's second-largest coral reef, the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef. The Garífuna, descendants of African and Indigenous peoples, have a vibrant culture here. Lush rainforests offer opportunities for adventure, while animal sanctuaries in French Cay like Daniel Johnson's Monkey and Sloth Hangout and Arch’s Iguana and Marine Park home provide unique encounters.

Island Tour by Boat

Optional

02 h 00 m

Have a unique opportunity to interact with iguanas, hold them, and learn about their habitat and conservation efforts
Get up close and personal with playful monkeys and adorable sloths, interact with these fascinating creatures, making for unforgettable photo opportunities and memories
Take some time to explore the island’s natural beauty

Relax at Beach

Included

06 h 00 m

Sink your toes into the soft, white sand and bask in the warm Caribbean sun
Wander through lush, tropical gardens filled with vibrant flora and fauna. Reconnect with nature in a tranquil atmosphere designed for ultimate relaxation
Kayak through calm waters, paddleboard along the stunning coastline, or snorkel to explore the vibrant underwater world teeming with marine life

Guatemala's Santo Tomás, a former Belgian port, hints at its former past. The region offers a wealth of cultural experiences. The Mayan heartland of Quirigua, a UNESCO-listed site, is best known for the tallest stelae ever carved. Nearby, Livingston is home to the Garífuna people with African and indigenous Guatemalan heritage who preserve traditions and music, while 16th-century Castillo de San Felipe guards Lake Izabal, a historic trade route.

Quirigua Archeological Explorer

Included

05 h 30 m

Discover the awe-inspiring 12 huge carved stelae and zoomorph structures, including the tallest stela in the Maya World
Witness the renowned sandstone stelae and sculpted rocks of animal forms, revered by the Maya, showcasing their incredible artistry and cultural significance
Enjoy the scenic drive to Quirigua

Rio Dulce Canyons & Livingston

Optional

04 h 30 m

Sail through the stunning Rio Dulce, marveling at the majestic canyons that once served as a stronghold against Caribbean pirates
Capture unforgettable photos of the intriguing Cow Cave and the soothing Hot Springs, surrounded by diverse birdlife and lush flora
iscover the charming town of Livingston, home to the unique Garifuna community, the only African ethnic group in Guatemala, and enjoy some free time to explore its laid-back atmosphere

Jungle Hike at Las Escobas Springs

Optional

03 h 30 m

Discover Las Escobas, where you’ll be surrounded by lush jungle vegetation and enjoy stunning views of the bay
Learn about the diverse flora and fauna, including the medicinal uses of various plants
Absorb detailed explanations and marvel at the natural beauty of the ecosystem

Hacienda Tijax Nature Hike

Optional

07 h 30 m

Begin your adventure with a picturesque bus ride through the lush Motagua River Valley, offering breathtaking views of diverse wildlife and vibrant vegetation.
Discover the natural wonders of Hacienda Tijax, a preserved rainforest where you can trek through the jungle, witness a functional rubber tree hacienda, and learn about the rich Kaqchikel heritage
Midway through your hike, climb the observatory tower for awe-inspiring panoramic views of the Rio Dulce and the historic Castillo de San Felipe, making for an unforgettable experience

Placencia, a beach resort town on the southern tip of Belize's Placencia Peninsula, blends relaxation with adventure. Just offshore, the world-renowned Mesoamerican Barrier Reef is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with an incredible coral ecosystem. Inland, the Placencia Lagoon provides a habitat for manatees and saltwater crocodiles. North, the Garífuna community of Seine Bight celebrates its traditional heritage through drumming and dance.

Placencia Lagoon Wildlife & Mangrove

Included

01 h 30 m

Visit shallow areas in Placencia Lagoon, often home to grazing manatees, for a possible close-up look at these gentle creatures
Cruise through mangrove estuaries, with lush trees and diverse wildlife
Learn about the ecosystem from your knowledgeable nature guide throughout the journey

Barrier Reef Snorkel Adventure

Optional

02 h 30 m

Explore Belize underwater snorkeliong next to the world’s largest living reef, ideal for both beginners and intermediate snorkelers
Encounter a variety of colorful reef fish, coral formations, sponges, sea fans, and sea anemones

Nim Li Punit Ruins & Spice Farm Botanical Garden

Optional

06 h 00 m

Tour the Spice Farm and Botanical Gardens, learning how vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, cardamom, and other spices are grown and processed
Visit the renowned Maya archaeological site
Travel through the spice farm on a comfortable tram for a close-up look at the crops

Half Moon Caye, a crescent island in Belize's Lighthouse Reef, is Central America's first marine reserve. It features one of the few remaining old-growth littoral forests and shelters 4,000 red-footed boobies, known for their bright red feet and courtship rituals. The Half Moon Caye Natural Monument preserves vital ecosystems underwater. A pristine coral reef wall drops over 900 m (3,000 ft), while the Blue Hole is one of Belize's top dive sites.

This itinerary provides general information about each destination. Also, please be aware that some of the venues and highlights mentioned may not be open or accessible on the day we visit. For the most accurate tour program, we recommend contacting your Swan Hellenic agent or travel agent closer to your departure date.

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YOUR SUITE TYPE

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Oceanview D4

20 m²

Oceanview Staterooms measure 20m²(215ft²) and can accommodate two guests. They feature two single beds or a double bed, bedroom with living room area, a flame-effect fireplace and a luxurious bathroom.

Oceanview M4

20 m²

Balcony D5

25 m²

Balcony Staterooms measure 25m² (269ft²) – including a 5m² (54ft²) private balcony – and can accommodate two or three guests. They feature two single beds or a double bed, bedroom with living room area, a flame-effect fireplace and a luxurious bathroom.

Balcony M5

25 m²

Balcony D6

25 m²

Suite

40 m²

Suites feature a king size bed, and have a separate living room, with a flame-effect fireplace. There’s also a luxurious ensuite bathroom – with separate bath tub and walk-in shower – and a 10m² (108ft²) private balcony.

Premium Suite

47 m²

Premium Suites have a king size bed, separate living room, and flame-effect fireplace. There’s also a luxurious ensuite bathroom – with separate bath tub and shower – walk-in wardrobe, and a 12m² (129ft²) private balcony.