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Planning your first trip to Belize? The dry season—from November to May—is the best time to explore the country’s stunning beaches, lush jungles, and vibrant reefs. This 7-day Belize itinerary is perfect for first-time visitors who want to experience it all—relaxing on the coast, snorkeling at the barrier reef, and discovering ancient Maya ruins deep in the rainforest.
With well-connected destinations, friendly locals, and diverse experiences, Belize is easy to navigate and endlessly rewarding. Here’s your Belize one-week plan combining Caye Caulker, San Ignacio, and Placencia for a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation.
Day 1: Arrival in Belize City & Transfer to San Ignacio
Travel Time: 2.5 hours by shuttle or rental car
Start your Belize adventure by landing at Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport (BZE) in Belize City. After clearing customs, head west toward San Ignacio, a lively town in the Cayo District surrounded by lush jungle and ancient Maya ruins.
Hotel Suggestion:
- San Ignacio Resort Hotel – A charming hillside hotel near the town center with excellent jungle views.
Afternoon:
- Explore San Ignacio Town — visit the local market, grab lunch at Ko-Ox Han-Nah (“Let’s Go Eat”), and stroll along Burns Avenue.
Evening:
- Relax at your hotel pool and enjoy dinner with a view of the Macal River.
Day 2: Explore Maya Ruins & Jungle Adventures
Spend your first full day exploring Belize’s rich history and lush jungle.
Morning:
- Visit Xunantunich, one of the country’s most impressive Maya archaeological sites, just a short ferry ride across the Mopan River.
- Climb the 130-foot El Castillo pyramid for panoramic views of Guatemala and the Belizean jungle.
Afternoon:
- For a thrilling adventure, go cave tubing or zip-lining in the nearby Nohoch Che’en Caves Branch Reserve.
Evening:
- Dinner at Guava Limb Café, a popular spot known for its locally sourced ingredients.
Optional:
- Book a guided night walk to spot nocturnal wildlife in the surrounding rainforest.
Day 3: ATM Cave or Barton Creek Expedition
For the adventurous traveler, today is your chance to explore one of Belize’s most iconic natural wonders.
Option 1: Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM) Cave Tour
- This full-day guided tour combines hiking, swimming, and spelunking through an ancient cave filled with Maya pottery, skeletal remains, and underground chambers.
- Note: This activity requires moderate fitness and must be done with a licensed guide.
Option 2: Barton Creek Cave Canoeing
- A more relaxed experience—paddle through Barton Creek Cave by canoe while learning about its archaeological significance.
Evening:
- Return to San Ignacio for your final night in the jungle.
Day 4: Transfer to the Coast – Placencia Peninsula
Travel Time: 4–5 hours drive
Say goodbye to the jungle and head toward the coast. The scenic drive to Placencia offers glimpses of mountain ranges, citrus groves, and quaint villages along the way.
Hotel Suggestion:
- Chabil Mar Villas – Beachfront luxury with easy access to Placencia Village.
Afternoon:
- Stroll along the Placencia Sidewalk, a charming pedestrian street lined with cafes and gift shops.
- Enjoy your first Caribbean sunset with a cocktail in hand.
Day 5: Snorkeling the Belize Barrier Reef
No Belize itinerary is complete without exploring the Belize Barrier Reef, the second-largest coral reef system in the world.
Morning to Afternoon:
- Take a snorkeling tour to Laughing Bird Caye National Park or Silk Cayes. You’ll spot sea turtles, nurse sharks, and colorful coral gardens.
Evening:
- Dine on fresh lobster or conch (in season) at Rumfish y Vino or The Secret Garden.
Optional:
- If you’re scuba certified, opt for a diving trip to Gladden Spit or the Great Blue Hole (accessible via day trip).
Day 6: Island Escape to Caye Caulker or San Pedro (Ambergris Caye)
Travel Time: 40 minutes by air or 3–4 hours by shuttle + water taxi
For your final stretch, head to one of Belize’s idyllic islands.
Option 1: Caye Caulker – Laid-Back Vibes
- Stay at Weezie’s Oceanfront Hotel & Garden Cottages.
- Relax at The Split, rent a bike, and enjoy seafood by the sea.
Option 2: San Pedro (Ambergris Caye) – Lively and Luxurious
- Hotel Suggestion: Mahogany Bay Resort & Beach Club, Curio Collection by Hilton – Offers easy reef access and upscale amenities.
- Go on a Hol Chan Marine Reserve and Shark Ray Alley snorkeling tour for unforgettable marine encounters.
Evening:
- Enjoy beachfront dining and a local rum cocktail while watching the sunset over the Caribbean.
Day 7: Relaxation & Departure
Spend your last morning soaking up the sun and sea breeze before heading back to the mainland for your flight home.
Tips for Departure:
- Flights from San Pedro or Caye Caulker to Belize City take just 15 minutes.
- Leave plenty of time to catch your international connection.
Final Meal Suggestion:
- Stop at the Celebrity Restaurant near Belize City Airport for one last taste of Belizean cuisine.
Practical Travel Tips
- Best Time to Visit: Dry season (November–May) offers sunny skies and calm seas.
- Getting Around: Domestic flights with Tropic Air or Maya Island Air save time between destinations.
- Currency: Belize Dollar (BZD), pegged to the US dollar (2 BZD = 1 USD).
- Language: English is the official language, making travel easy for visitors.
- Packing Tip: Bring reef-safe sunscreen, mosquito repellent, and a light rain jacket just in case.
Final Thoughts
In just seven days, you’ll experience Belize’s greatest treasures from the ancient temples of San Ignacio to the turquoise waters of the Caribbean coast. This 7-day Belize itinerary blends history, nature, and relaxation, making it ideal for first-time visitors.
Whether you’re exploring coral reefs, hiking through jungles, or sipping cocktails by the sea, Belize will capture your heart and have you planning your next visit before you leave.