8 Days / 7 Nights
Day 1 - Belize
Welcome, Altun Ha Archaeological Site, & New River Safari/Transfer
Smooth & easy flight south (no jet leg) into Belize. En route to Lamanai
we'll visit Altun Ha, arguably one of the richest Classic Period Maya
sites. Our New River excursion to Lamanai will introduce us to the unmatched
habitat and cultural diversity of the area. The evening will consist of
our welcome dinner and orientation. (D)
Day 2 - Lamanai
Archaeological Reserve & New River Spotlight Safari
We'll begin with an on-site lecture on the ancient Maya followed by exploration
of the ancient metropolis of Lamanai that once supported up to 50,000
Maya for over 3,000 years of unbroken occupation. Our afternoon will consist
of an introduction to field research and a hands-on visit to Indian Church
Village Artisan's Center where you will see some of your program dollars
at work! After dinner we'll load our vessel to explore the New River Lagoon
on our spotlight safari! (B,L,D).
Day 3 - Reserve
Birding, New River Lagoon Sunset Cruise, & Maya Folklore
An early morning start will take us birding in search of rainforest specialties
such as toucans, jacamars, puffbirds, and even black howler monkeys! We'll
enjoy a plentiful breakfast on-site and afterward visit Lamanai's Pre-Columbian
collection. In the after-noon we'll take to the boat to explore the extensive
marsh system and some of the forested channels of the largest body of
freshwater in Belize. As if this was not enough, following dinner we'll
gather near the lagoon edge for the telling of Maya Folklore stories,
many having originated in ancient times. (B,L,D).
Day 4 - Mountain
Pine Ridge Forest Reserve & 1,000 Foot Falls
Our group will transfer to and have lunch at the exclusive Hidden Valley
Inn located in the Pine Ridge. Our afternoon will consist of visiting
Belize's largest waterfall - 1,000 Foot Falls - where we'll hope to see
the illusive Orange-breasted Falcon. (B,L,D,).
This day will take us to Caracol, Belize's largest Classic Period Maya site. The primary forest extends as far as the eye can see and the somewhat bumpy journey is well worth it. Upon our return to Hidden Valley we'll explore the massive Rio Frio Cave, believed to be a portal to the underworld for the ancient Maya. Bring your flashlights! (B,L,D).
Our group will transport to Tikal where our accommodations will actually be in the reserve itself. En route to what is referred to as the "Mother of all Maya Sites" we'll visit a lesser known but just as fascinating ancient city known as Xunantunich. Our first experience at Tikal will be a magnificent sunset in the main plaza of Temple I & II. In the evening we'll be treated to a lecture on the Maya Calendar, one of the hallmarks of the civilization. (B,L,D).
This day will consist of investigating Tikal National Park and the Museum of Tikal. For those who wish we'll venture into the jungle for a guided night walk. (B,L,D).
An early start walking through the lush habitat surrounding Tikal and our ascent of Temple IV will provide us with our first sunrise in a truly special location. The remainder of the day our group will say their good-byes and prepare for our international flights home. (B).