10-Day Belize and Guatemala Tour Packages
Imagine moving between the Caribbean coast and the heart of the Maya civilization. Belize has barrier reef diving and snorkeling, Caye Caulker's very relaxed vibe, and caves and jungles in the interior. Guatemala has Tikal, where huge temples rise up from the rainforest; colonial Antigua, where cobblestone streets are set against a volcano; and Lake Atitlán, which is surrounded by indigenous villages. Every second is rewarding.
Insider tips: Recommended 10-day Belize And Guatemala tour itineraries
Compiled by
MelissaBelize and Guatemala travel expert at TourRadar
10 Day Belize & Guatemala Itinerary, incl. Caye Caulker and Antigua
A rich 10-day adventure through Belize and Guatemala showcases Caye Caulker's beaches, Tikal's pyramids, Semuc Champey's pools, and Lake Atitlán's villages. The tour features a Mayan homestay, volcano trek, and expert-guided activities for approx. $60 per day.
- Day 1
Belize City to Caye Caulker
Your journey begins at Belize City Airport where you'll meet a representative for transfer to the water terminal. The San Pedro Express boat takes you to Caye Caulker in about 45 minutes. "The boat ride can get choppy - sit in the middle section if you're prone to seasickness."
- Day 2
Caye Caulker Free Day
Spend a full day exploring this peaceful car-free island. Book your snorkeling trips to Hol Chan Marine Reserve for early morning when the water is calmest (about $70 USD). Visit The Split before 10 AM to avoid crowds and get the best swimming spots. The coral beach can be rough on bare feet so pack water shoes.
- Day 3
Caye Caulker to Flores (Guatemala)
Take the first boat back to Belize City at 6:30 AM to catch your 9 AM shared van to Flores. The journey takes about 6 hours including a border crossing. You'll need cash for exit and entry fees (total $40 USD). Pack snacks for the road since border formalities can take 1-2 hours.
- Day 4
Tikal Ruins
Start your day at 4:30 AM to visit Tikal, about an hour from Flores. This early start helps you avoid the heat and crowds. Pack at least 2 liters of water and mosquito repellent. The temple steps are steep and often slippery from morning dew so good shoes are essential. "Climbing Temple IV for sunrise was a highlight - but it's a challenging ascent in dim light."
- Days 5-6
Lanquin & Semuc Champey
Travel eight hours to Lanquin village to access Semuc Champey. The next day local trucks take you on a bumpy 30-minute ride to the turquoise pools. Start with the 45-minute viewpoint hike before swimming. You'll need water shoes and quick-dry clothes for cave exploration and tubing.
- Days 7-8
Lake Atitlan & Maya Homestay
Take a nine-hour transfer to Panajachel then boat to San Juan La Laguna and Santiago Atitlan villages. Your Maya family homestay offers basic accommodations but rich cultural experiences. Pack modest clothing and bring a small gift for your hosts. Schedule boat trips for morning hours before the lake gets rough.
- Day 9
Panajachel to Antigua
Start at Panajachel's market before 9 AM for the best prices. Take an afternoon shared van to Antigua (3-4 hours). The historic center's cobblestone streets are easier to navigate with a backpack than wheeled luggage. Stay central for easy access to main sites.
- Day 10
Pacaya Volcano Trek
End your trip with a half-day trek up Pacaya Volcano. The 2-hour climb each way is challenging but rewarding. Bring hiking shoes and a jacket for the cold temperatures at 2,500m. Your guide provides walking sticks for the loose volcanic scree. Afternoon departures offer views of glowing lava at sunset.
8 Day Belize Itinerary, incl. San Ignacio and Caye Caulker
A vibrant 8-day tour through Belize and Guatemala covers 5 destinations: Belize City's historic sites, Orange Walk's Lamanai ruins, San Ignacio's Mayan culture, UNESCO's Tikal National Park, and Caye Caulker's island paradise. Traditional cooking experiences and optional snorkeling adventures included.
- Day 1
Belize City
Begin your trip in the former capital. While the city can feel busy at first, focus on exploring the coastal area near the Image Factory art gallery and St. John Cathedral. Try to arrive by mid-afternoon since airport traffic gets heavy after 4 PM. Local meetups usually start around 6 PM.
- Day 2
Orange Walk & Lamanai
Start early with a boat ride along New River to the Lamanai ruins. The trip takes 2-3 hours. Bring binoculars to spot toucans and kingfishers along the riverbanks. The ruins get very hot by mid-day with minimal shade so pack plenty of water and sun protection. The stunning jungle views make it worthwhile.
- Days 3-5
San Ignacio
Spend three days in San Ignacio exploring the Cayo District. The San Antonio Women's Co-op cooking class is a highlight. One reviewer raved: "The women's co-op lunch was a fantastic experience and the food was incredible." For the ATM Cave visit check water levels in advance and wear proper water shoes. You'll need to swim and climb but guides are patient with nervous visitors. A day trip to Tikal in Guatemala takes about 2 hours. Leave early to avoid the heat and bring cash for border fees ($18-20 USD each way). A recent visitor shared: "Tikal was out of this world. If you're interested in Maya history, don't skip this one."
- Days 6-8
Caye Caulker
Take the water taxi from Belize City to Caye Caulker. The 45-minute ride can get choppy in the afternoon. The island is car-free with only golf carts and bikes. Book snorkeling trips for calmer morning waters. Shark and ray alley tours cost $70-100 USD but are well worth it. Island meals cost more than mainland dining ($15-25 USD for dinner). Try the lobster between June and February when it's in season. Most beach bars offer sunset happy hour with 2-for-1 rum punch.
9 Day Belize & Guatemala Itinerary, incl. Tikal and Caye Caulker
A grand tour through 5 Belizean cities and 2 Guatemalan destinations spans 9 days, showcasing Tikal's pyramids and Caye Caulker's reefs. Accommodations in regional hotels complement visits to Flores' Lake Petén Itzá, San Ignacio's caves, and Hol Chan Marine Reserve. Total costs around $1,500.
- Day 1
Belize City
Begin your Central American journey in Belize City. Take some time to explore the Fort George area's colonial architecture. The city isn't safe after dark so plan to be back at your hotel by sunset. A recent traveler shared: "Understanding Belize City gave great context to the rest of our journey through this diverse country."
- Days 2-3
Flores & Tikal, Guatemala
Take a bus to Guatemala (3-4 hours) and head to the island town of Flores. Get an early start for Tikal the next morning and try to arrive by 8 AM before it gets too hot. The jungle drive to the site takes about an hour. Pack good walking shoes and at least 2 liters of water per person since the site is large with minimal shade. When you're done exploring head back to Flores for a refreshing swim in Lake Petén Itzá.
- Days 4-5
San Ignacio, Belize
Head back to Belize and spend two days in San Ignacio. The ATM Cave is the must-do activity. It's challenging but worth it, combining caving, swimming and Mayan archaeology ($140). Book ahead since spots fill up fast. If you prefer something easier visit Xunantunich ruins, accessible by a hand-cranked ferry over the Mopan River. Stop by San Ignacio's central market to try local street food like garnaches (fried tortillas with beans).
- Days 6-9
Caye Caulker
Take a bus to Belize City (3-4 hours) followed by a water taxi to Caye Caulker (45 minutes). The island lives by the "go slow" motto. You can rent bikes to explore but save some energy for snorkeling at Hol Chan Marine Reserve. A recent visitor noted: "The split is perfect for sunset swimming, but bring water shoes - the entrance can be slippery with algae." Book afternoon flights from Belize City for your departure since morning water taxis get packed with commuters.
