Always have comprehensive travel insurance which covers you for health insurance for any events that you cannot control. It is always best to be prepared. This will cover you for loss or theft as well as any accidents. The private clinics have a better standard of health care and your insurance will cover any treatment. You will probably have to head back to Belize city for these, however. Please bear in mind that standard health care in <a href="https://vaexpeditions.com/package/8-day-beautiful-belize" data-cke-saved-href="https://vaexpeditions.com/package/8-day-beautiful-belize">Belize </a>is of a very average standard and is relatively expensive so probably best avoided, if at all possible!&nbsp;
Visit your travel clinic at home and have the recommended vaccines for Belize. Mosquito derived illnesses are common and mosquitos are abundant!&nbsp;So&nbsp;malaria, dengue, and&nbsp;zika&nbsp;are unfortunately, a genuine risk.&nbsp;
In major cities, tap water is considered safe to drink, in rural areas rainwater is usually piped and its safety cannot be guaranteed. If in doubt boil and filter your water to avoid any unnecessary upset stomachs!&nbsp;
Sandflies are also a nightmare and exist in copious quantities. Bug repellent is a must for mozzies and sand flies.&nbsp;

Health and insurance

People in Belize are friendly. They do however refrain from the cheek kissing, found on other Latin American countries. People will usually suffice with a casual "Aawright" and maybe even a formal handshake, but not much more!&nbsp;

Greetings

The people in <a href="https://vaexpeditions.com/package/abundant-belize" data-cke-saved-href="https://vaexpeditions.com/package/abundant-belize">Belize</a> are a mixture of Mayan, Mestizos (Spanish and native mixture), Creole, British, Garifuna and East Indian in differing percentages.&nbsp;

Culture

In general, people are relaxed and friendly to all people regardless of sexual orientation. However, as in any Central American country, there are always some closed-minded people out there&hellip;if in doubt, be discreet!&nbsp;

LGBTQ

The currency in<a href="https://vaexpeditions.com/package/8-day-belize-and-hopkins-adventure" data-cke-saved-href="https://vaexpeditions.com/package/8-day-belize-and-hopkins-adventure"> Belize</a> is Belizean dollar! There are 2 Belizean dollars to a US dollar. The Belezian dollar has a picture of the Queen on them. They come in denominations of $2, $5,$10,$20, $50 and $100 bills.&nbsp;

Money

Belize is world-famous for&nbsp;it's&nbsp;"rice and beans". It's the staple, everyone eats it and there is actually no avoiding the dish! There are however many different dishes from the diverse cultural origins so if you do get bored of the above, get them a try!&nbsp;
Tamales- are an adaptation of the Mexican&nbsp;tamal, but wrapped in plantain leaves instead of corn leaves. They consist of a distinctive flour-based mixture and have a variety of fillings including chicken, pork, cheese or beef and an assortment of vegetables.&nbsp;
Ceviche- yes you thought it was Peruvian&hellip; and it is! The Belizeans have their version though being a mainly island culture and their access to fresh fish and seafood ....it would be rude not to!&nbsp;
Meat Pies - mainly a remnant of the British influence, meat pies are still a snack or even main meal for a lot of people.&nbsp;
Cochinita&nbsp;chibil&nbsp;&ndash; marinated slow-cooked pork, served with a variety of toppings and all inside a tortilla.&nbsp;
Salbutes&nbsp;&ndash; are popular street food and delicious.&nbsp;Usually&nbsp;chicken and a mixed salad are served in a fried tortilla.&nbsp;
Chimole - a chunky black stew consisting of chicken and vegetables and the traditionally used achiote to give it the flavour&nbsp;

Eating and drinking

Accommodation is varied in Belize. You can camp, backpack, stay in guest houses, hotels or holiday resorts. Mostly this will depend on the location, your preference and most importantly, your budget! Remember there is no top-end accommodation, so if you are looking for luxury then maybe Belize is not for you, but there are many options abound for decent clean and comfortable places to rest your weary head. There are, however, many original, intimate, authentic hotel options throughout Belize and its&nbsp;<a href="https://vaexpeditions.com/package/off-the-beaten-track-belize" data-cke-saved-href="https://vaexpeditions.com/package/off-the-beaten-track-belize">Cayes</a> and incredibly reasonably priced compared to the mega-resorts of the Yucatan, in Mexico. The jungle areas have many decent eco-lodges. If you are booking accommodation online, then try and book directly with the hotel. It is common practice for any agencies or wholesalers to add a 20% commission!&nbsp;

Accommodation

Belizean&nbsp;people when they are not working, will often be found chilling in a hammock with a cold beer, just like the rest of us! They like sport, especially football, basketball&nbsp;and ten pin bowling.&nbsp;
Garifuna is the locally acclaimed style of music which is of the Afro Caribbean calypso style with a little merengue thrown in! Reggae, dance hall, hip hop and even a bit of rock music can all be heard blasting out of bars and homes alike.&nbsp;

Activities

In general, Belize is a safe country to travel. I travelled there as a single female traveller with no issues at all and other travellers will tell you the same thing. The locals are generally friendly, helpful and want you to have the best possible time in their country. There have been some reports of issues when people have been partying, drinking too much, drug-taking or sex industry involvement. Simply stay away from these activities and you will have no problems!&nbsp;
Belize City is like any other big city with its usual issues, activities and of course, crime, so be aware there. There is nothing much to do there anyway except take a ferry out to the&nbsp;<a href="https://vaexpeditions.com/package/8-day-belize-and-hopkins-adventure" data-cke-saved-href="https://vaexpeditions.com/package/8-day-belize-and-hopkins-adventure">cayes! </a>The standard common-sense attitude prevails, avoid remote districts, be aware of your surroundings, keep to touristic spots and avoid any "dodgy" feeling places&hellip;. Your gut is usually correct! Take a photocopy of all your documents and carry the photocopies on you. Store the originals in a hotel safe. Avoid bus stations late at night, avoid wearing expensive jewellery or taking your laptop out with you.&nbsp;
Taxis are safe in the cities, so if in doubt, take one!&nbsp;

Safety

Belize is simply stunning. The official language spoken is English, which is somewhat different from the rest of Central America and makes life a lot easier! It is also a relatively small and easy country to travel around. This is the ideal destination for divers and snorkelers, as well as jungle lovers, history buffs, ornithologists, wildlife explorers and even honeymooners! The variety of activities and <a href="https://vaexpeditions.com/destination/belize">destinations</a> packed into this small country are diverse interesting, beautiful and fascinating! The country was previously known as British Honduras due to it being a British colony from 1862 to 1981. The British arrived to free the island from the slavery introduced by the Spanish. The Spanish and the British both laid claim over the island until the battle of St. Georges Caye in 1798. The British won but did not declare Belize as a British colony until 1840 for fear of the neighbouring Spanish colonies invading the small island. Before the Europeans arrived, the island was a Mayan civilisation from 1500 BC until around 1200 AD. The Mayans controlled Mexico, <a href="https://vaexpeditions.com/package/bountiful-mayan-adventure">Guatemala, Belize</a> and the western part of Honduras for thousands of years. The Spanish conquistadors arrived in 1506 and declared it Spanish territory. Still, they had problems securing the hostile tribes of The <a href="https://vaexpeditions.com/package/yucatan-encompassed">Yucatan</a> peninsula, plus there were not many natural resources to sustain them. The island has been independent from the British since 1981. The neighbouring country of Guatemala did not accept Belize's independence initially, due to a long-running feud with the British and claiming that Belize actually belonged to <a href="https://vaexpeditions.com/package/15-day-remote-guatemala">Guatemala. </a>This was resolved in 1993. Belize is now an independent paradise popular with different types of travellers 'for its wildlife, biodiversity, spectacular diving and snorkelling, sea and beach resorts and adventure activities.&nbsp;

Guides &amp; Drivers:
&nbsp;
2.2. Protective Measures and Equipment to consider:
2.2.1. Mandatory Equipment:
&nbsp;
&bull; Face mask
&bull; Tied Hair (in case of having long hair)
&bull; Closed Shoes (not sandals)
&bull; Constant use of Hand Sanitizer
&bull; Use pants with the uniform (not shorts)
&bull; Sanitize your backpack and equipment constantly when providing services
&bull; Limit the use of accessories (wallets, fanny packs, watches, etc.)
&bull; Avoid sharing glasses, spoons, bottles, etc.
&bull; Avoid the use of reusable tissues, make use of disposable towels or napkins
&bull; Make use of the digital thermometer
&bull; Avoid wearing a tie or scarf
&nbsp;
III. SPECIFIC PREVENTION MEASURES
&nbsp;
3.1. Tourist Guide Service
&nbsp;
&bull; Maximum 1 Guide for every 14 visitors
3.2. Tourist Reception
&bull; Welcome: greet without physical contact and maintaining a distance of 1.5 meters.
&nbsp;
3.3. Delivery of Preventive Utensils
&bull; Take the temperature of Each Visitor
&bull; Hand Sanitizer
&bull; Masks, if necessary.
&bull; Gloves
&nbsp;Physical distancy and wear masks in public spaces are mandatory for clients, guides and drivers.

What are the health and safety protocols used during the trip?

We do not include travel or health insurance and we strongly recommend a comprehensive travel insurance for any unexpected circumstances. This is not obligatory, however. An full travel insurance policy that covers cancellations and delays as well as medical insurance.

Do I need travel insurance? What insurance do you recommend?

We suggest that you speak with your doctor to ensure that you are up-to-date with the recommended vaccinations when traveling to the destination. In any case, a negative Coronavirus Molecular Test (PCR) is needed to enter the country.

What vaccinations do I need for the trip?

We suggest that you speak with your doctor to ensure what medications you will need to bring to the destination. Pharmacies and drugstores are common in all cities, however, it is not certain that you will be able to find a specific drug that you can find in your country of origin.

Which medications should I bring from home?

As in any city in the world, there can be pickpockets in crowded places. We suggest being vigilant at all times, but if you are in a group you will always be safer.

How safe is the destination?

We do not include the cost of any domestic or international flight in any of our programs. These services must be booked independently by each guest.

Are flights included in the tour?

Yes, hotels will charge the cost of a double room as standard, so a single supplement will be charged if you are traveling alone.

If I travel alone will I be charged a single supplement?

VA Expeditions is supported by Valencia Travel, a company with more than 12 years of foundation with a solid financial position. We have insurance from the insurance company La Positiva, that supports us and protects our guests from any eventuality at the destination, covering our guests for more than 5 million US dollars.

Is it safe to book with VA Expeditions?

Each trip is customizable, but there may be additional restrictions and expenses in each case. We suggest contacting your sales representative for more information.

Can the packages on the website be customized?

Yes, in addition to multi-day programs, we offer half-day experiences and excursions without overnight, which you can purchase as additional services. In case you wish to purchase one of these services, you can ask your guide, the transfer representative or your sales representative to provide you with the support you need.

Do you offer only multiday packages or do you also offer day trips?

Yes, you can add additional or optional services to your regular tour. We appreciate contacting your sales representative for any changes you wish to make.

Can I purchase additional services after I have made my reservation and paid?

Yes, you can travel with children and we have many activities to do as a family, however, depending on your itinerary, some experiences can be a bit demanding for young children. As a recommendation, we suggest that you ask your sales consultant if the tour you wish to book is suitable for children.

Can I travel with children? Are there age restrictions?

We work with a maximum group size of 12 passengers for sustainability reasons and a more personaized experience.

How big are the group sizes?

We suggest making your reservations at least one month before your trip in order to reserve the best hotels, transportation and services for your travel dates, however, in last minute cases, we can reserve up to 15 days in advance.

How far in advance should I book a package?

We suggest consulting with your embassy to review any documents, tests or special visa you need for your trip.

What documents do I need for my trip?

The official currency in Belize is the belize dollar (BZD). In large cities there is a good chance that you will find ATMs or ATMs, however, we suggest that you do not rely entirely on this solution, as it may not be enabled to work with your bank.

What kind of currency do they use at the destination? Are ATM easily accessible?

Yes, we cater for all special dietary requirements. Please let us know at the time of booking if you have any allergies or special dietary needs.

I have dietary restrictions. Are there vegetarian or gluten-free options?

As a sustainable travel company, we are in constant search of how we can improve the sustainability of our operations.&nbsp; An example of our sustainable projects:
Sustainable Tourism Policy
Our partner, Martsam Travel, organizes trips focused on sustainability while respecting the natural environment, the communities, and their traditions, trying as much as possible to use suppliers committed to sustainability practices, and collaborating with them in the implementation of these practices that lead us to raise the quality of the services offered.
Environmental Friendliness (Eco-Friendly):
All the activities of the company are analyzed, and it considered in order to avoid, mitigate, reverse or compensate any kind of environmental impact, since the natural environment is an essential part of our product and therefore is vital for our daily survival.
Social and Cultural Responsibility
It implies that the company analyzes and takes into account the social and cultural background of the sites and their areas of influence, in which it develops activities, so that these result benefits the local inhabitants as much as possible. The cultural environment is the most charismatic part of our product and therefore conserving it is conserving our way of life.
Financial Sustainability
We make sure that our operation generates profits for the local communities and make sure the benefits are real, we also ensure that the payments to the services they provide are fair.
Our partner, Martsam Travel, cooperates with different service providers such as hotels, restaurants, community projects, leaders, and local guides, relying on the &ldquo;Best Practices Agreement in Sustainable Tourism&rdquo;, established with the Rainforest Alliance in 2006.

What does the company do for the sustainability of its operations?

Tips are not included in the cost of the tour. You should plan to tip 10% in restaurants and for your guided services, however, tipping is never required.

Are tips included in the price? If not how much should I budget for tips?

Cultural norms vary within each Latin American country, even within each city within the country, however, we recommend the following measures to have a pleasant visit in each destination: Latin American culture in general tends to be closer and more informal than in others cultures, so there is usually always a friendly approach in all conversations, and going directly to the point could be considered offensive to some people. Personal space can be much shorter as well, but without being interpreted as sexual in nature.&nbsp;
The schedules are also usually more relaxed and informal, however, this is not the case of VA EXPEDITIONS, since we will always respect the hours indicated in your itinerary. This may be different for other appointments that you can book on your own at other locations.

What general norms of culture should I take into account at the destination?

This depends on each itinerary, and will be indicated in the detail of the day. However, our itineraries always usually include free times to offer more flexibility to our guests.&nbsp;

How much free time will I have during the tour?

For any emergency, we appreciate contacting the following number: + (502) 5417-5517

What number can I contact if I have an emergency during my trip?

At VA Expeditions we believe that every action we take should generate a positive impact on the communities and the environment of our entire production chain, which is why we carry out various activities focused on this objective. An example of our sustainable projects:&nbsp;
Women&rsquo;s Cultural Group and Maya Experience
&nbsp;
This Maya Experience with the women&rsquo;s cultural group in San Antonio Village is formed by the local Women&rsquo;s Group made up of nine Mayan Belizean women.&nbsp; You spend time in one or two homes that offer a very cool look back into a culture that is quickly disappearing&hellip;a time when the Maya depended on the land for everything from food to furniture to medicine.&nbsp; &nbsp;
&nbsp;
Come try your hand at ancient pottery making techniques with a group of the Mayan artisans, prepare and enjoy their delicious home-made lunch such as corn tortillas, tamales, and atole.&nbsp; You also have a chance to purchase pottery and other crafts made by the ladies.&nbsp; They are now training youth who are unemployed, from the community, so that they too can benefit from the tourism in their village.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Cacao Farms in the South of the country, Conservation program with &ldquo;Program for Belize&rdquo; https://www.pfbelize.org/la-milpa-ecolodge-and-research-center/
&nbsp;
Cockscomb Basin Wild Life Sanctuary,
El Pilar Archaeological Site,
Shipstern Conservation &amp; Management area located in Corozal District

What sustainable activities can I do at the destination?

All our guests have 24/7 support for any type of emergency or eventuality. For emergencies you can contact the following number: + (502) 5417-5517. For general inquiries, you can write to us at the following email: info@valenciatravelcusco.com&nbsp;

What kind of support will I receive during my trip?

This depends on each itinerary, but generally is a ratio of one guide for every nine guests.

How many guides will there be on my trip?

This depends on the type of the type of Travel insurance that the passenger has. We recommend that you have a comprehensive travel insurance policy for better care and hospital facilities.

What happens in the event of a medical emergency?

The tours are carried out by an expert team that has determined the optimal times of visits to make the most of our guests' time, without rushing. All our programs are customizable, so if at any time at the destination you want to adjust the pace of the trip, you can ask your guide to reach a consensus with the whole group in case you need to make adjustments to the pace of the trip.

What kind of pace can I expect on a tour?

How flexible is my itinerary already being at the destination?

Yes, you can safely store any luggage at your&nbsp; hotel.

Can I leave my main luggage somewhere safe during my excursions?

For city tours, there are public bathrooms available, in remote destinations bathroom facilities are more sparse.

Are there bathroom /toilet facilities during the tour?

In the mountains and remote places there is no Internet connection. Hotels and public places usually have WIFI available.

What is the internet /WIFI availability during the tour?

In cities and tourist centers you will have good telephone reception. In remote areas, there may be no cell phone reception.

Will there be cell phone reception during the tour?

It depends on each itinerary. We suggest contacting your account representative to give you specific information regarding your&nbsp; program.

What is the highest altitude we will reach during the tour?

We suggest that you bring a refillable water bottle or purchase bottled water if necessary. Depending on your destination, at various points on your trip there will be places where you can fill your water bottle.

What hydration options do I have on tours at the destination?

Thank you very much for your interest! You can follow us on our networks:
&nbsp;
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vaexpeditions/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vaexpeditions/
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/vaexpeditions
Twitter: https://twitter.com/vaexpeditions
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/vaexpeditions/

How can I keep up to date of your news and information?

Belize has a unique and historical past, different from the majority of Central America. This country has English as its official language and the British

8 Day Beautiful Belize

8 Day Belize And Hopkins Adventure

This 9 day Off The beaten track Belize will take us to discover some of the best archaeological and natural wonders of this central American

9 Day Belize Off The Beaten Track Adventure

This Archaeological Adventure tour will take you to all of the significant Maya sites in Belize and Guatemala along the route of The Mayans. Along

Off The Beaten Track Belize

Luxurious  Belize Adventure

Experience the best of Belize in 8 days with Va Expeditions. Explore Mayan ruins in San Ignacio, relax on Ambergris Caye's beaches, and dive into the Hol Chan Marine Reserve. Includes 3-star hotels, meals, and guided tours.

Abundant Belize

Hol Chan

Vacation package to Belize - The best way for divers and snorkelers to explore the history buffs, ornithologists, wildlife and an ideal destination.

Belize

Belize Vacation Packages - Tourist Attractions in Belize | VA Expeditions

Some of the Cayes are for top-end travellers, some are for backpackers some are for divers and snorkelers, some are for everyone! The only guarantee on The<a href="https://vaexpeditions.com/package/8-day-belize-and-hopkins-adventure"> Cayes,</a> you will be obliged to relax and take things slower! Digital detox, anyone? If idyllic beaches and an ice-cold beer in a hammock sound like your idea of a great holiday destination, then you may just find your own personal paradise on one of The Cayes!&nbsp;

&nbsp;Caye Caulker is the ultimate description of Caribbean Island life. You can actually walk around the whole island in an hour. It is one of the most popular cayes, due to its proximity to the Great <a href="https://vaexpeditions.com/package/9-day-belize-off-the-beaten-track-adventure">Blue hole</a>. The remote palm tree groves, white sandy beaches and the bluest of blue ocean that surrounds the island, simply, naturally and wonderfully combine, to make this Island paradise one of the most enjoyable Caribbean Island experiences. You are basically 'forced' into relaxing! Don't forget there is some fantastic diving, swimmng and snorkelling to do&hellip;. When you get around to it... of course!&nbsp;

Caye Caulker

Ambergris Caye is the perfect lauching spot for the near by Blue Hole and <a href="https://vaexpeditions.com/package/abundant-belize">Hol Chan </a>and is perfect for relaxing after a days snorkelling and diving. There are some delectable restauran options, pristine beaches and many friendly locals to help you stay on a the caye the perfect vaction! Ambergris is bigger with better options for eating, drinking and high-end accommodation, but still with all its caribbean charm. If you were to be asked what would the most idyllic caribbean island destination be, then Ambergris Caye certainly would be in the top 5 for&nbsp; your perfect paradise vacation!

Ambergris Caye

This village, located on the coast of the Stann Creek District, has been called &ldquo;the cultural epicentre&rdquo; of the Garifuna people. But Hopkins is more than just a Garifuna hub; it&rsquo;s the place you can come for a one-of-a-kind vacation. <a href="https://vaexpeditions.com/package/8-day-belize-and-hopkins-adventure">Hopkins</a> is a jewel in Belize&rsquo;s crown and the place people weary of noise and crowds are choosing for their vacations. With a population of around 1,000 people, Hopkins may be small, but it was proclaimed "The Friendliest Village in Belize" If you are looking for caribbean warmth and charm, spectacular beaches and to get away from the crowds, then this may just be your perfect paradise!

Hopkins Island

There are 450 of them! The Cayes are the many islands off the coast of Belize and attract thousands of visitors every year!

The Cayes

One of the main reasons to visit <a href="https://vaexpeditions.com/package/abundant-belize">Belize</a> is to snorkel, dive, swim and investigate the second largest barrier reef in the world. The warm, crystalline turquoise-blue Caribbean water and the incredible diversity of marine life makes this a divers paradise.

Another divers, snorkelers and sea lover's paradise, Placencia is a wonderful town in the south of Belize. Its cafes, bars and restaurants with the classic chilled&ndash;out vibe will only add to the experience. This long strip of land is the home of the most stunning beaches in <a href="https://vaexpeditions.com/package/abundant-belize">Belize,</a> which is saying something! It's close to The Cockscomb Basin nature reserve with its unique jaguar sanctuary, Mayan archaeological sites such as Lubantuum and Nim Li Punit and most of all the traditional Caribbean charm, friendliness and laid -back vibe.&nbsp;

Placencia

Is a popular aquatic reserve to visit from the cayes due to its array of sea-life species and stunning corals of the 2nd largest barrier reef in the world! <a href="https://vaexpeditions.com/package/abundant-belize">Hol Chan </a>is a haven for divers and snorkelers who visit from all around the world to see the beautiful coral formations, Boulder Corals, Brain Corals, Finger Corals, Lettuce Corals, Sea Cucumbers and more! There are also many spectacular fish species, who call Hol Chan home, all set in the tranquil, warm waters of the Caribbean.

"The Great Blue hole" was made famous to the world in 1971 by Jacques Cousteau, who claims it's one of the top 5 places to dive in the world. The great<a href="https://vaexpeditions.com/package/9-day-belize-off-the-beaten-track-adventure"> blue hole </a>is a limestone formation plummeting 125 metres deep and the home to some spectacular fish and shark species. This unique snorkelling experience is unrivalled on the planet, which is why The Discovery Channel called it the top of the list of the "most amazing places on earth" and it would be hard to disagree with them!

The Great Blue Hole

Belize is home to the 2nd largest barrier reef on the planet, after Australia. Sea and sub-aquatic plant species abound!

The barrier reef

Yes, Belize has mountains! Not very high compared to other parts of the world, but none the less a popular touristic destination for the incredible unspoiled views, diverse wildlife and spectacular waterfalls. Most people head to the Maya Mountains if they are looking for hiking or mountain scenery and the Maya mountain range which spreads through Belize and neighbouring <a href="https://vaexpeditions.com/package/luxury-guatemala-and-belize">Guatemala</a>, contains the two highest peaks in Belize.&nbsp;

Cahal Pech means <a href="https://vaexpeditions.com/package/off-the-beaten-track-belize">&ldquo;Place of the ticks&rdquo;</a>, and it&rsquo;s one of Belize&rsquo;s oldest set of ruins, dating back to 1200 B.C. At the height of its occupation, around 15,000 people lived there, with majority of them farmers living on the outskirts. There are seven small plazas to explore, and over 30 Mayan structures, including temples, ball courts, a sweat house, and even a royal burial chamber. Visit this impressive, off the beaten track Mayan archaeological site!

Cahal Pech ruins

Trudging along the hiking trails in the reserve, one cannot help but appreciate the lack of the bustling city murmurs and paved concrete streets that seem to be found at other tourist destinations. The wildlife adds to the paradisiacal ambience of the <a href="https://vaexpeditions.com/package/off-the-beaten-track-belize">Pine Ridge reserve</a>, with different species of birds tucked away in the rainforest canopy. Some of these include the Acord Woodpeckers, Rufous-capped Warbler, Crossbill, Pine Siskin, Stygian Owl and Eastern Bluebird.&nbsp;

The Pine Ridge Reserve

Xunantunich which literally means &ldquo;stone woman&rdquo; in the ancient Mayan language, is so named because the ruins are allegedly haunted by a woman dressed entirely in white with bright red eyes. <a href="https://vaexpeditions.com/package/9-day-belize-off-the-beaten-track-adventure">Xunantunich</a> reached its peak in 800 A.D. and was a principal ceremonial site, with apprioximately 200,000 people living there. The city consists of six plazas and more than 26 Mayan palaces and temples, all of which you can explore and climb.&nbsp;

Xunantunich

Although the mountains of Belize are not very high, they are home to incredible wildlife and ancient Mayan ruins!

The Belizean mountains

There are many of them! Probably 12 of them are considered main tourist attractions and in different states of repair and restoration. The main sites are <a href="https://vaexpeditions.com/package/off-the-beaten-track-belize">Caracol</a>, Cerros, Lamanai, Actun, Tunichil Muknal and Altun Ha. If you are looking for the Indiana Jones vibe, a lot of these ruins are set in the jungle which only adds to the sense of adventure!&nbsp;

Caracol is situated amid the jungle in the Chiquibul National park and you simply cannot avoid the "Raiders of the lost ark" vibe as you enter this majestic Mayan ruin. It is the largest Mayan ruin in <a href="https://vaexpeditions.com/package/off-the-beaten-track-belize">Belize</a> and happily untouched with limited excavation and reconstruction, emitting the energy and experience of what it would have been like back in the day. In typical fashion, the ruins are amok with tombs, Mayan walls, and reservoirs and contains temples that are even higher than Tikal in neighbouring Guatemala.&nbsp;

Caracol Mayan ruins

The orange walk is in the north of Belize and is famous for its native mix of cultures where the creoles and the Mennonites alike have made their home. It is also the perfect stop-off point when entering Belize from Mexico and visiting the nearby ruins of <a href="https://vaexpeditions.com/package/9-day-belize-off-the-beaten-track-adventure">Lamanai</a> and Altun Ha. The Shipstern national reserve and The Crooked tree wildlife sanctuary are perfect for nature lovers and protect a diverse range of important natural habitats and wildlife species.&nbsp;

The Orange Walk

Actun Tunichil Muknal Cave, also known as the <a href="https://vaexpeditions.com/package/off-the-beaten-track-belize">ATM, </a>is an ancient Maya ceremonial Belize cave rich in both history and artefacts. It was perhaps the most important of sacred Belize caves, one in which the ancient Maya conducted elaborate ceremonies to appease their gods. Wade along a shallow underground river before scaling ladders that lead to sacrificial altars still surrounded by jade axe heads, pottery and blood letting implements. Deeper into the cave, you can appreciate skulls and skeletons of sacrificial victims amongst the stalagmites. Definitely reminiscent of Raiders of the lost Ark!

Actun Tunichil Muknal

Belize is blessed with lesser visited Mayan temples. Their setting in the tropical jungle is truly spectacular!

Mayan archaeological sites

If you get all "beached out" and wanting to see some wildlife, then the jungle is for you. 60% of the country is filled with lush<a href="https://vaexpeditions.com/package/9-day-belize-off-the-beaten-track-adventure"> jungle</a> and the best place to spot big cats such as jaguars, birdlife such as toucans, crocodiles, tapirs and a wide range of incredibly noisy howler monkeys. The jungle is typically filled with a variety of spectacular species, with a great chance to spot the rarer species due to the low human population.&nbsp;
&nbsp;

The perfect escape from <a href="https://vaexpeditions.com/package/off-the-beaten-track-belize">Belize City</a>, this is a jungle oasis with waterparks, nature trails and a wide variety of animal species. There is a butterfly house, howler monkeys in abundance, crocodiles and many other jungle species; you can even camp there for the night! There are activities such as horseback riding, kayaking and mountain biking. Not only can you enjoy the abundant setting and its activities, but you are also helping the main aim of the park, which is to reforest the area with native trees!&nbsp;
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Bacab adventure Park

From jaguars, pumas, and ocelots to toucans, howler monkeys, and vipers, the rainforests teem with exotic and rare wildlife. 60% of <a href="https://vaexpeditions.com/package/guatemala-and-belize-highlights">Belize </a>is covered in jungle, and there countless national parks, nature reserves, and wildlife sanctuaries to discover and hike through, including The Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary.&nbsp; As you explore, keep your eyes peeled and your ears open to the sights and sounds of the rainforest, and you may be lucky enough to see an elusive jaguar in its natural habitat. Especially if you go at dawn!

Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary

As you trek deep into the park, listen to the call of exotic birds and animals; be prepared to spot beautiful orchids. Before you know it, you&rsquo;ll arrive at the breathtakingly beautiful Mayflower waterfall. Pause a moment to inhale clean fresh air while appreciating the beauty of this oasis before you. For the daring few, challenge yourself to hike to the top of the&nbsp; Antelope Falls. The expansive view of the <a href="https://vaexpeditions.com/package/luxury-guatemala-and-belize">Belize jungle</a> and the Caribbean Sea is truly worth the extra effort.&nbsp;

Bocawina National Park

While the crystal clear Caribbean sea usually gets travellers to Belize, the rainforest should not be overlooked!

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