{"product_id":"how-to-spend-two-weeks-in-belize-an-itinerary-for-first-time-visitors","title":"How to Spend Two Weeks in Belize: An Itinerary for First-time Visitors","description":"\u003cp\u003eTwo weeks in Belize will give you the perfect amount of time to see\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eall\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eof the best bits of the country. From the ancient Mayan ruins at the ATM Caves and Xunantunich, to the blonde-sand beaches of Placencia and Caye Caulker, my comprehensive guide is going to tell you exactly how to spend 14 days in Belize.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBelize is the 48th smallest country in the world — around the size of Israel, or Maryland in the U.S. — so is easily explored in a short amount of time. This country is a treasure trove for both history buffs and nature lovers alike. Belize is home to hundreds of ancient ruins, including around 33 Mayan archaeological sites in various states of excavation and disrepair. The country is also full of\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003etons\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eof wildlife, including pumas, jaguars, monkeys, and birds — and an impressive 50 percent of Belize is protected by national parks and environmental laws.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe country has a distinctly undiscovered feel about it, making it a great off-the-beaten-path destination. It’s not the cheapest place to travel in Central America, it doesn’t have the edgy feel of Guatemala, or the eco-tourism scene of Costa Rica, but it does have a fantastic culture and a vibrant food scene. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDue to its history as British Honduras, English is the official language of Belize, spoken by 62.9% of the population, but the vast majority of people are multilingual, with Spanish, Creole, Maya, German and Garifuna all having a place in Belizean language. It’s this mix of culture that gives the country such an interesting dialect, as well as an open-minded and welcoming atmosphere.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"\u003ePublic Transport in Belize: Yes or No?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"\u003e\u003cimg decoding=\"async\" width=\"1500\" height=\"1000\" src=\"https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1500,h_1000\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Bus-in-San-Ignacio.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-22629\" srcset=\"https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1500\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Bus-in-San-Ignacio.jpg 1500w, https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_400\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Bus-in-San-Ignacio-400x267.jpg 400w, https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1024\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Bus-in-San-Ignacio-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_768\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Bus-in-San-Ignacio-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_335\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Bus-in-San-Ignacio-335x223.jpg 335w, https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_150\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Bus-in-San-Ignacio-150x100.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"\u003eThe bus we caught from San Ignacio to Belmopan\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere’s not much public transport in Belize, other than the infamous chicken buses — old American school buses that run from one town to the next, stopping at every house along the way (or at least that’s what it feels like).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThey are definitely an\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eexperience\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eand in many ways, an important part of the culture in Belize, as locals rely on them for their day to day transport (cars are a luxury). But chicken buses in Belize are crammed full of people, have zero legroom, and are not fun with luggage. If you haven’t read about\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/san-ignacio-to-placencia\/\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003emy nightmare trip from San Ignacio to Placencia\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eyet, then now might be a good time to do so.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTaxis or private drivers can be hired but are usually expensive, especially for multi-hour journeys. It’s for these reasons that I actually recommend hiring a car. If you\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003edid\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eread the article I linked to in the previous paragraph, you already know why I’m suggesting this. Let’s just say I learned my lesson from my first visit to Belize, so decided to rent a car for my second.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"\u003eWhat to Know About Money in Belize\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_2048,h_1365\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/1654668_684103444961791_1708175228_o.jpg\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2048\" height=\"1365\" data-src=\"https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_2048,h_1365\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/1654668_684103444961791_1708175228_o.jpg\" alt=\"Lauren in Belize\" class=\"wp-image-7588 lazyloaded\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_2048\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/1654668_684103444961791_1708175228_o.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_400\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/1654668_684103444961791_1708175228_o-400x267.jpg 400w, https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_768\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/1654668_684103444961791_1708175228_o-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1024\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/1654668_684103444961791_1708175228_o-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1536\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/1654668_684103444961791_1708175228_o-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_335\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/1654668_684103444961791_1708175228_o-335x223.jpg 335w, https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_150\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/1654668_684103444961791_1708175228_o-150x100.jpg 150w, https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_300\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/1654668_684103444961791_1708175228_o-300x200.jpg 300w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 2048px) 100vw, 2048px\" sizes=\"(max-width: 2048px) 100vw, 2048px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_2048\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/1654668_684103444961791_1708175228_o.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_400\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/1654668_684103444961791_1708175228_o-400x267.jpg 400w, https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_768\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/1654668_684103444961791_1708175228_o-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1024\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/1654668_684103444961791_1708175228_o-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1536\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/1654668_684103444961791_1708175228_o-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_335\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/1654668_684103444961791_1708175228_o-335x223.jpg 335w, https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_150\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/1654668_684103444961791_1708175228_o-150x100.jpg 150w, https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_300\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/1654668_684103444961791_1708175228_o-300x200.jpg 300w\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"\u003eMe exploring the ruins at Cahal Pech: I loved these old Mayan ruins in the jungle!\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Belize dollar, or BZD, is the official currency of Belize. The official exchange rate is permanently set at 2 Belize dollars to 1 U.S. dollar, which makes currency conversion calculations particularly simple.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHonestly, though? I personally wouldn’t bother with exchanging money, as U.S. dollars are accepted everywhere in the country. Meanwhile, the Belize dollar can only be exchanged within Belize and at border towns in Mexico and Guatemala, so you run the risk of (cough) leaving the country with Belizean dollars you can neither exchange nor spend.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e(I’m not saying that’s the reason why I planned a return trip to Belize, but I’m also not not saying it.)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/cost-of-travel-belize-budget\/\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eCash is still king in Belize\u003c\/a\u003e, although Visa is accepted at most large businesses (only a very limited number of businesses accept MasterCard and American Express). ATMs can be unreliable and expensive and official exchanges seem to be non-existent, so local vendors on the street are often the only available means to change money.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAnd so, my advice is to take enough USD to get you through your trip, but obviously split it up into different bags or pockets for added safety.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"\u003eHow to Spend Two Weeks in Belize\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1200,h_786\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/IMG_5344.jpg\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"786\" data-src=\"https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1200,h_786\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/IMG_5344.jpg\" alt=\"The Beach in Placencia\" class=\"wp-image-6549 ls-is-cached lazyloaded\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1200\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/IMG_5344.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_500\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/IMG_5344-500x328.jpg 500w, https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_768\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/IMG_5344-768x503.jpg 768w, https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_335\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/IMG_5344-335x219.jpg 335w, https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_150\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/IMG_5344-150x98.jpg 150w, https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_400\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/IMG_5344-400x262.jpg 400w, https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1024\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/IMG_5344-1024x671.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_300\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/IMG_5344-300x197.jpg 300w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1200\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/IMG_5344.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_500\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/IMG_5344-500x328.jpg 500w, https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_768\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/IMG_5344-768x503.jpg 768w, https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_335\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/IMG_5344-335x219.jpg 335w, https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_150\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/IMG_5344-150x98.jpg 150w, https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_400\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/IMG_5344-400x262.jpg 400w, https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1024\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/IMG_5344-1024x671.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_300\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/IMG_5344-300x197.jpg 300w\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"\u003eThe pristine white-sand beaches of Placencia are some of the best in the country!\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMy two-week itinerary is going to take you to all of the best spots in Belize.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe’re going to start with an optional night in\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBelize City\u003c\/strong\u003e, then spend 3 or 4 nights in my beloved\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSan Ignacio\u003c\/strong\u003e, exploring ancient ruins and underground caves.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA drive down the scenic\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHummingbird Highway\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ecomes next, before staying overnight in an incredible lodge in the rainforest.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe next day, a lunch stop in\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHopkins\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eis followed by a visit to\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCockscomb Basin Forest Reserve\u003c\/strong\u003e: world-famous for its jaguar population.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNext up: spend 2 nights in\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePlacencia\u003c\/strong\u003e, getting to know the south of Belize, before heading back up to Belize City to catch a ferry to\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCaye Caulker\u003c\/strong\u003e. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAnd then, I’m going to recommend spending a whopping\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003esix nights\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ein\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCaye Caulker\u003c\/strong\u003e. It may seem a long time but trust me, you still won’t want to leave!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith epic snorkeling, delicious food and laid back locals, Caye Caulker is paradise on earth. Locals say they never get sick because there is never bad weather. And if you’ve read Never Ending Footsteps for any amount of time, you’ll know that’s exactly what I need! (I catch food poisoning on practically every trip I take.)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFill your time on Caye Caulker walking stray dogs, flying over the Great Blue Hole, visiting neighbouring Ambergris Caye and living the local motto of\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eGo Slow\u003c\/em\u003e. Return to\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBelize City\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eto make sure you get back in time for your flight home the next day and explore the colonial charm of the former capital city.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"\u003eDay One: Arrive in Belize City\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1400,h_874\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/Belize-City-houses-and-yachts.jpg\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1400\" height=\"874\" data-src=\"https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1400,h_874\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/Belize-City-houses-and-yachts.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-17534 lazyloaded\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1400\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/Belize-City-houses-and-yachts.jpg 1400w, https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_400\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/Belize-City-houses-and-yachts-400x250.jpg 400w, https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_768\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/Belize-City-houses-and-yachts-768x479.jpg 768w, https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1024\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/Belize-City-houses-and-yachts-1024x639.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_335\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/Belize-City-houses-and-yachts-335x209.jpg 335w, https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_150\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/Belize-City-houses-and-yachts-150x94.jpg 150w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1400px) 100vw, 1400px\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1400px) 100vw, 1400px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1400\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/Belize-City-houses-and-yachts.jpg 1400w, https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_400\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/Belize-City-houses-and-yachts-400x250.jpg 400w, https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_768\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/Belize-City-houses-and-yachts-768x479.jpg 768w, https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1024\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/Belize-City-houses-and-yachts-1024x639.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_335\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/Belize-City-houses-and-yachts-335x209.jpg 335w, https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_150\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/Belize-City-houses-and-yachts-150x94.jpg 150w\"\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you’re arriving by air, the Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport is only about 20 minutes from Belize City. If you’re coming overland, you’ll arrive at the dusty Belize City bus station. No matter your form of transport, if you’re arriving late, spend the night in Belize City and enjoy the dilapidated buildings and colonial charm.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBut if your flight or bus arrives in the day, head straight to San Ignacio, just a two-hour drive away by car. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOn your way, make a stop at the Belize Zoo and Tropical Education Center. I know, normally I am not at all a fan of zoos, but this one is different. Belize Zoo, in fact,\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eonly\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ehouses animals from Belize, usually rescued from road accidents or the illegal pet trade. The enclosures are a generous size and comparable to a natural habitat,\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eand\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ethere are witty signs all over the place that give you a first taste of the wonderful Belizean humor.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou could also visit the nearby Monkey Bay Wildlife Sanctuary for a chance to spot some wild animals. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"\u003eWhere to stay in Belize City\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/bz\/villa-boscardi.en.html?aid=1514105\u0026amp;no_rooms=1\u0026amp;group_adults=2\u0026amp;label=belize-itinerary\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eVilla Boscardi\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ehas everything you need for an overnight stop, it’s located outside of the hustle and bustle of central Belize City on a quiet, leafy, and safe street. Everything in Belize City center is fortified with barbed wire, so it’s nice to stay just outside the main area. The rooms are spacious and clean with lots of beautiful touches, and there’s a great pool and communal cooking area. The free breakfast is also pretty special and offers a great introduction to the food in Belize!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"\u003eDay Two: Ruin it Up in San Ignacio!\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1500,h_1077\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/10\/Cahal-Pech.jpg\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1500\" height=\"1077\" data-src=\"https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1500,h_1077\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/10\/Cahal-Pech.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-8868 lazyloaded\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1500\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/10\/Cahal-Pech.jpg 1500w, https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_500\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/10\/Cahal-Pech-500x359.jpg 500w, https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_768\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/10\/Cahal-Pech-768x551.jpg 768w, https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_335\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/10\/Cahal-Pech-335x241.jpg 335w, https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_150\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/10\/Cahal-Pech-150x108.jpg 150w, https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_400\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/10\/Cahal-Pech-400x287.jpg 400w, https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1024\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/10\/Cahal-Pech-1024x735.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_300\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/10\/Cahal-Pech-300x215.jpg 300w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1500\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/10\/Cahal-Pech.jpg 1500w, https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_500\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/10\/Cahal-Pech-500x359.jpg 500w, https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_768\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/10\/Cahal-Pech-768x551.jpg 768w, https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_335\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/10\/Cahal-Pech-335x241.jpg 335w, https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_150\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/10\/Cahal-Pech-150x108.jpg 150w, https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_400\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/10\/Cahal-Pech-400x287.jpg 400w, https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_1024\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/10\/Cahal-Pech-1024x735.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/sp-ao.shortpixel.ai\/client\/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_300\/https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/10\/Cahal-Pech-300x215.jpg 300w\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"\u003eExploring Cahal Pech on a sunny day: we had the entire ruin complex to ourselves!\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNow, if you’ve read my site for any amount of time, you’ll know that I’m not much of a fan of ruins. I was surprised, then, when I made my way to San Ignacio and was\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eso impressed\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ewith its nearby Mayan ruins.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e(Maybe I am, just, actually a fan of ruins?)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe first port of call for the day is taking a ferry over to the\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/xunantunich-my-favourite-mayan-ruins\/\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eXunantunich ruins\u003c\/a\u003e, just twenty minutes from San Ignacio. This Mayan ceremonial center was inhabited between AD 700 to 1000, and is seriously impressive for such a rarely-visited spot. Climb to the top of the 133-foot tall El Castillo, the second tallest temple in all of Belize, and spot the intricate sun god masks that decorate the walls. While I was sat up there, I could hear howler monkeys growling in the distance, which only added to the other-worldly vibes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you have time in the afternoon, I recommend either heading to\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.neverendingfootsteps.com\/cahal-pech\/\"\u003eCahal Pech\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ein San Ignacio, or taking a two-hour (4×4) drive to the remote ancient Mayan city of Caracol. Abandoned in 900 CE, it’s thought that Caracol once spread over 200 square kilometers and only around 1% of the ruins have been excavated[!].\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the evening, head to the Guava Limb for dinner. The seating area may look as though it’s being reclaimed by the Belizean jungle, but the food takes its inspiration from every corner of the world. They have a farm-to-table ethos, using fresh ingredients to create authentic and international cuisine (the Thai noodles are\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eamazing\u003c\/em\u003e). Yeah, there’s a reason why it’s ranked as the number one restaurant in San Ignacio.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"\u003eWhere to stay in San Ignacio\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOne of our favorite spots to stay in Belize is\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/bz\/pine-ridge-lodge.en.html?aid=1514105\u0026amp;no_rooms=1\u0026amp;group_adults=2\u0026amp;label=belize-itinerary\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ePine Ridge Lodge\u003c\/a\u003e. Just outside of San Ignacio, Pine Ridge is an off-grid lodge located right on the river. Step out from one of the beautifully decorated cabins to sit by the river or go for a walk on a lovely trail leading to waterfalls. Neil, the owner, is more than happy to help you out with local recommendations and his two dogs will keep you company on the trails!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"\u003eDay Three: Visit the ATM Caves From San Ignacio\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStart your day with an American style or Belizean breakfast at Pop’s Restaurant. The traditional Belizean breakfast consists of fry jacks, eggs, beans, and chicken and is something you have to try at least once in your two weeks in Belize — it’s seriously good.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAnd then it’s time to do what is, in my opinion, the absolute best activity in Belize.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt’s time to take a trip to Actun Tunichil Muknal.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe cave is ranked one of the top ten caves in the world by National Geographic, and it’s time for you to find out why.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOn your trip to the ATM cave, you’ll hike through tropical jungle, cross through rivers, and squeeze under rocks, before finally coming to the ancient sacrificial remains of the Mayan, located deep within the caves.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe ATM cave is protected so you have to take a tour in order to visit, with a guide who is licensed by the Department of Ecology. There’s only a couple of dozen of these in the country, so spaces\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eare\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003elimited. Unfortunately, photography is not allowed to protect the artifacts, so I can’t even show you what it looks like. You’ll just have to trust me that it’s incredible.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt’s an Indiana Jones-style adventure, but you do get hard hats and torches — which is slightly safer than the terrifying candlelit experience of Semuc Champney in Guatemala!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou can book your tour when you arrive in San Ignacio, but I recommend\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.getyourguide.com\/san-ignacio-belize-l32678\/actun-tunichil-muknal-cave-full-day-tour-t176307\/?partner_id=5OA45ES\u0026amp;utm_medium=online_publisher\u0026amp;placement=content-middle\u0026amp;cmp=belize-itinerary\u0026amp;mkt_cmp=true\u0026amp;deeplink_id=407ea787-354b-583c-8a69-4c6ad46f1e60\u0026amp;page_id=27cd87dc-f529-573e-9056-dde32049ad46\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\" data-gyg-scraped=\"1779440725297\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ebooking online and in advance\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ebefore you arrive, to make sure you get a spot.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThat evening, visit the iconic Marie Sharp’s Tourist Center in San Ignacio for a culinary class on Belizean cuisine. You are absolutely guaranteed to encounter Marie Sharp’s hot sauces while visiting Belize (I bought them as souvenirs for friends while I was there!), and here, you’ll learn how to cook with it, rustling up classic local dishes, like — you know it! — rice and beans and chicken stew.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Quick Bookings","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43327890587696,"sku":null,"price":20.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0686\/3755\/6784\/files\/Bus-in-San-Ignacio_0b536124-8cc1-484d-9649-eb8582d3a1ac.jpg?v=1782149939","url":"https:\/\/aurahoome.store\/products\/how-to-spend-two-weeks-in-belize-an-itinerary-for-first-time-visitors","provider":"Quick Booking","version":"1.0","type":"link"}