When my adventurous daughter asked for a trip for her 13th birthday instead of a party, I knew exactly where to bring her: Belize! But this time, with little ones at home, I only had 7 nights to fit in EVERYTHING and had to plan the perfect itinerary for a first trip to Belize. She wanted a jungle adventure, amazing snorkeling, and cute towns with delicious local food. After a lot of research, consulting with other travel agents and local tour operators, and hours of planning, I came up with an amazing itinerary that included all of the highlights.

So many people overlook the little country of Belize, but it has so much to offer! With a mix of rich history, thrilling adventures, and a stunning underwater world, Belize is the perfect destination for travelers who want it all. This Central American gem, spanning just 9,000 sq miles, offers FIVE unique ecosystems to explore.

*If you’re looking for a fully custom itinerary and a seamless experience, contact me to discuss my planning services.

Day 1: Fly into Belize City

There is one major airport in Belize-Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport. Pack your patience with the immigration line, and ensure you have proper documentation if you are traveling with minors. You can watch a reel where I discussed this HERE. Belize is very strict when a minor is traveling without without both legal parents.

Clear customs and immigration, and then head inland to start your adventure. Personally, I prefer Mountain Pine Ridge because there are no crowds, and I love biking around. You can also stay in San Ignacio, and there are a few other areas with excellent jungle lodges. Spend the afternoon exploring your lodge. If you stay at Chaa Creek, my favorite family friendly property, Blancaneaux, my favorite for adult getaways, Hidden Valley Inn, or Gaia Riverlodge you are surrounded by beautiful trails, and even waterfalls. For one of our bike rides we had an entire waterfall to ourselves!

Excursions: Day 2 and Day 3

The excursions I’d recommend depend on personal interests, however these are the top activities I’d recommend working into your itinerary.

The #1 rated experience, and one of the most unique things to do in the country is the ATM Cave. You’ll need a moderate level of fitness and sense of adventure for this one! Check out the excursion HERE.

I highly recommend working in a visit to one of the Mayan ruins. You can visit either Xunantunich or Caracol. We preferred Caracol because of the lack of crowds, however it is harder to get to. Xunantunich is close to San Ignacio. Both can be done with other activities. We paired Caracol with Rio on Pools, Rio Frio Caves, and a picnic. We decided to hire a private guide, but if you’re looking for a group tour, this is a great one to check out!

Other amazing adventures to consider:

• Horseback riding
• Ziplining, cave tubing/kayaking
• Hiking
• Swimming near waterfalls. We love Big Rock Falls!
• Visit the San Ignacio market on a Saturday morning for a unique cultural experience. It’s so interesting to see the big melting pot of cultures that emcompasses such a tiny country!

Day 4: Head to Ambergris Caye

Head to the little regional airport in Belize City and board a tiny Maya or Tropic Air plane for a gorgeous flight over to the island of Ambergris Caye. Make sure to pay attention to the reef that runs along the country! Arrive in San Pedro and check into your hotel. There are several hotels that I love in Ambergris Caye. Some of my favorites, depending on who you are traveling with and your budget are: Victoria House (for adults), Ramons (to be in the center of it all), Grand Caribe (for families or groups), and Alaia (for higher end, weddings, and groups).

Grab a golf cart, or if I am planning your trip it will be delivered to you, and explore the town, then head to The Truck Stop for dinner, drinks, and sunset.

Day 5: Snorkel Hol Chan and Shark Ray Alley

This is an absolute CAN NOT miss! The Belize Barrier Reef is home to hundreds of species of fish and is the second largest coral reef system in the world. Head out on a tour or charter a private boat that takes you to two of the most popular spots: Hol Can and Shark Ray Alley. We swam so close to turles and nurse sharks that we could have reached out to touch them! (Which you should never do since it’s bad for them and illegal). You can also snorkel Mexico Rocks if you want to see more of the reef.

Spend the rest of the day exploring local food, paddle boarding, or kayaking.

Day 6: Catamaran to Caye Caulker, Hang at Secret Beach, or Go Fishing and Have a Beach Picnic with Your Catch

Take a catamaran to the island of Caye Caulker and do little other than eat lots of fresh ceviche and sit on a swing in the water while sipping cocktails, ride down to Secret Beach for seaweed free water, or charter a fishing boat for some reef fishing and a beach picnic. You can make today as adventurous or as relaxing as you want; that’s the beauty of Belize.

Day 7: Fly back to Belize City to catch your International flight home

And that’s how to spend a PERFECT 7 days in Belize!

If you’re overwhelmed with planning your trip, contact me. I’m here to assist you in creating a fully personalized itinerary. Follow me on Instagram or TikTok, or subscribe to my newsletter for more ideas and travel tips.