Luxury Guatemala and Belize: Tikal and the Caribbean
15 days from £5,400
Explore the tour day by day, from the highlights to the quieter moments in between. Here’s how each day unfolds and what to expect along the way.
You will be met by our local representative and taken to your hotel in the old colonial capital, Antigua. It’s a journey of about one hour along a winding paved road.
Villa Bokéh is a colonial-style hacienda nestled in a 6-acre garden oasis. Secluded enough to offer a peaceful retreat, it benefits from being within a ten-minute drive of the UNESCO World Heritage Centre of Antigua. Originally a private family home belonging to a pair of art lovers – whose exquisite photography, remarkable sculptures and elegant paintings still grace the walls to this day – Villa Bokéh was rehabilitated to an exceptional standard and opened to the public as a luxurious small hotel.
Worthy of the Relais Châteaux status, the interiors feature an inspiring mix of sophisticated architecture, Guatemalan colonial design and modern details with each guest room and suite a unique collaboration between internationally renowned designers Paliare Studio architects and Grupo Alta. Outside, the hotel features the largest garden of any hotel in Antigua. Guests can explore a lush landscape of captivating natural beauty, with tranquil waterfalls, secluded alcoves and paths around a small lake – all the while taking in the sweeping view of the Agua Volcano.
Gastronomy and wellness are of prime importance at Villa Bokéh. Hispano-Mayan healing therapies come together to offer guests the best of both worlds with catered spa treatments to pamper the body and spirit, while the pool area offers the perfect place to take some well-deserved time to oneself. Dining at the hotel is a gourmet fusion of traditional Guatemalan dishes and nouvelle cuisine – featuring organic ingredients from the garden’s farm.
Antigua is a colonial work of art, with cobbled streets, overhanging tiled roofs and a beautiful, leafy central plaza. There’s an abundance of huge ruined churches, convents and monasteries, testament to a time when Antigua was the country’s capital and its main religious centre. You’ll have plenty of time to absorb this fascinating city, including on a walking tour of the historic centre. It seems that every doorway opens onto a fragrant tiled courtyard.
A dramatic backdrop of smoldering volcanoes and ruined churches and convents surrounded by parkland bears witness to the city’s destruction by a volcanic eruption in 1773: but much has been painstakingly restored.
Villa Bokéh is a colonial-style hacienda nestled in a 6-acre garden oasis. Secluded enough to offer a peaceful retreat, it benefits from being within a ten-minute drive of the UNESCO World Heritage Centre of Antigua. Originally a private family home belonging to a pair of art lovers – whose exquisite photography, remarkable sculptures and elegant paintings still grace the walls to this day – Villa Bokéh was rehabilitated to an exceptional standard and opened to the public as a luxurious small hotel.
Worthy of the Relais Châteaux status, the interiors feature an inspiring mix of sophisticated architecture, Guatemalan colonial design and modern details with each guest room and suite a unique collaboration between internationally renowned designers Paliare Studio architects and Grupo Alta. Outside, the hotel features the largest garden of any hotel in Antigua. Guests can explore a lush landscape of captivating natural beauty, with tranquil waterfalls, secluded alcoves and paths around a small lake – all the while taking in the sweeping view of the Agua Volcano.
Gastronomy and wellness are of prime importance at Villa Bokéh. Hispano-Mayan healing therapies come together to offer guests the best of both worlds with catered spa treatments to pamper the body and spirit, while the pool area offers the perfect place to take some well-deserved time to oneself. Dining at the hotel is a gourmet fusion of traditional Guatemalan dishes and nouvelle cuisine – featuring organic ingredients from the garden’s farm.
Travel along the scenic mountain highway to the Mayan community of Santa Catarina Palopó, on Lake Atitlan. The landscapes in the highlands west of Antigua are dominated by watchful racing-green and tawny volcanoes and compact farming villages. The lake is one of the most captivating in the world and its beauty has been eulogised by poets and travellers. On a sunny day, the closely forested volcanic cones are reflected in cobalt waters. Traditional villages and indigenous agricultural settlements skirt its fertile shores, each with its own character and identity, its own dialect and often a unique costume still worn by the proud inhabitants. Before the final winding descent to Lake Atitlán, stop at the traditional town of Solola where there’s an impressive market on Tuesdays and Fridays.
Casa Palopó is an exclusive boutique hotel located on the shores of Lake Atitlán, enjoying glorious views over the water from its delightful verandas and infinity pool. The property is listed in the prestigious Relais & Chateaux portfolio.
Vivid colours and an abundance of art make the interiors a feast for the eyes everywhere you look: bright yellows, blues and oranges walls display handicrafts of eclectic style and provenance.
Whether you are on your honeymoon or are simply looking for an intimate and luxurious base from which to enjoy the lake, Casa Palopó provides the perfect wind down. It is at once elegant and cosy, with 15 rooms and suites featuring wooden beams, fresh flowers and cast iron details.
The views of the volcanoes, the restful atmosphere and excellent service have led many guests to comment that they find it hard to drag themselves away from the property and its excellent restaurant. But there are several Mayan villages to visit nearby including Sololá with its colourful Tuesday and Friday local market. The hotel can arrange motor launch excursions on the lake to other waterside villages.
Take a motor launch across the lake to Santiago Atitlán, cruising over the calm and silent morning waters with the volcanoes towering above. You’ll have wonderful views of the various shoreline hamlets and pocket-sized cultivated fields alongside some grand houses, and beyond to the gently sloping bottle-green volcanoes that encircle the water. The town is an excellent place to buy brilliantly coloured textiles.
Although it’s the largest and most visited of the lakeshore towns, Santiago remains a place of deep-rooted traditions, where many men continue to wear traditional dress (increasingly rare in Guatemala). Local people may offer to guide you to the current resting place of the smoking, drinking, be-hatted and roguish local idol, Maximón, who is moved to a different house each year, and looked after by a diligent entourage. He’s certainly not politically correct but he will help you with your problems in exchange for a suitable financial donation.
After time at leisure to explore, it’s time to retreat from the non-stop hubbub of Santiago to your hotel on the opposite shore of the lake.
Casa Palopó is an exclusive boutique hotel located on the shores of Lake Atitlán, enjoying glorious views over the water from its delightful verandas and infinity pool. The property is listed in the prestigious Relais & Chateaux portfolio.
Vivid colours and an abundance of art make the interiors a feast for the eyes everywhere you look: bright yellows, blues and oranges walls display handicrafts of eclectic style and provenance.
Whether you are on your honeymoon or are simply looking for an intimate and luxurious base from which to enjoy the lake, Casa Palopó provides the perfect wind down. It is at once elegant and cosy, with 15 rooms and suites featuring wooden beams, fresh flowers and cast iron details.
The views of the volcanoes, the restful atmosphere and excellent service have led many guests to comment that they find it hard to drag themselves away from the property and its excellent restaurant. But there are several Mayan villages to visit nearby including Sololá with its colourful Tuesday and Friday local market. The hotel can arrange motor launch excursions on the lake to other waterside villages.
Today you may welcome the chance to unwind and appreciate the gorgeous views from your hotel. If you’re keen to explore, the village of Santa Catarina is less than 20 minutes’ walk away. Santa Catarina remains a rustic and traditional community. Deep blue huipil tunics – some of Guatemala’s most beautiful – are woven by the women here.
We can also arrange optional excursions to other communities on the lake. If your visit coincides with a Thursday or Sunday, consider a visit to Chichicastenango, the largest and most celebrated Mayan market of the highlands, a 2-hour drive away.
Casa Palopó is an exclusive boutique hotel located on the shores of Lake Atitlán, enjoying glorious views over the water from its delightful verandas and infinity pool. The property is listed in the prestigious Relais & Chateaux portfolio.
Vivid colours and an abundance of art make the interiors a feast for the eyes everywhere you look: bright yellows, blues and oranges walls display handicrafts of eclectic style and provenance.
Whether you are on your honeymoon or are simply looking for an intimate and luxurious base from which to enjoy the lake, Casa Palopó provides the perfect wind down. It is at once elegant and cosy, with 15 rooms and suites featuring wooden beams, fresh flowers and cast iron details.
The views of the volcanoes, the restful atmosphere and excellent service have led many guests to comment that they find it hard to drag themselves away from the property and its excellent restaurant. But there are several Mayan villages to visit nearby including Sololá with its colourful Tuesday and Friday local market. The hotel can arrange motor launch excursions on the lake to other waterside villages.
Transfer to Guatemala City airport (3 hours) for an hour-long flight to Flores, in the sticky jungles of northern Guatemala, and from here continue to your lodge, arriving in the evening.
One of film director Francis Ford Coppola’s trio of unique properties in Belize and Guatemala, La Lancha overlooks Lake Petén Itzá in the lowland jungle just 20 minutes’ drive from the archaeological masterpiece that is Tikal. It is an excellent, romantic choice for couples and honeymooners.
There are just ten rooms and suites, each brightly decorated with indigenous artefacts and warm textiles that compliment the solid carved wooden furniture. Each has access to a decked outdoor area, perfect for appreciating the tranquillity of the lake and surrounding forest.
The main lodge, with its steep thatched roof, is where you’ll take your breakfast to a chorus of tropical birds or sip a cocktail at sunset. You can take walks or boat trips from the lodge, canoe or kayak on the lake, or adventure along a canopy walkway to observe the bird life. Later, cool off with a plunge into the garden-shrouded pool or relax on a lounger.
Steep-stepped and vertiginous temples emerge high above the rainforest canopy; the views over the site from one of these ancient skyscrapers are unforgettable. Spend the day wandering through the palace complexes.
Tikal was one of the largest and most important Mayan city states, reaching its peak around AD800 prior to its mysterious demise. The pyramids and temples seem frozen in time, but you’re brought back to the present by the roar of curious howler monkeys and lithe spider monkeys as they swing through the trees; and by flashes of colour as toucans and parrots take flight.
Back at the lodge and soak up the impressive views, taking a dip in the inviting swimming pool or making use of the complimentary canoes and paddle boards to explore the lake. Or take part in a tortilla making workshop and learn how to make a staple of Guatemalan cuisine.
One of film director Francis Ford Coppola’s trio of unique properties in Belize and Guatemala, La Lancha overlooks Lake Petén Itzá in the lowland jungle just 20 minutes’ drive from the archaeological masterpiece that is Tikal. It is an excellent, romantic choice for couples and honeymooners.
There are just ten rooms and suites, each brightly decorated with indigenous artefacts and warm textiles that compliment the solid carved wooden furniture. Each has access to a decked outdoor area, perfect for appreciating the tranquillity of the lake and surrounding forest.
The main lodge, with its steep thatched roof, is where you’ll take your breakfast to a chorus of tropical birds or sip a cocktail at sunset. You can take walks or boat trips from the lodge, canoe or kayak on the lake, or adventure along a canopy walkway to observe the bird life. Later, cool off with a plunge into the garden-shrouded pool or relax on a lounger.
The drive across the border into Belize to the lodge takes about three hours. The first part of the journey is on the well paved Western Highway, the last section is mainly on dirt track heading to Mountain Pine Ridge to the Lodge, another ideal base to explore the surrounding forest, waterfalls, rivers and caves.
Blancaneaux Lodge is located within the beautiful Mountain Pine Forest Reserve of Western Belize. The lodge provides a perfect base to enjoy the tropical surroundings with outstanding river scenery, waterfalls and caves.
The thatched cottages and villas are set on a steep forested hillock that runs down to Privassion Creek, a narrow river broken by cascades and granite pools and linked by small wooden bridges.
The lodge is owned by Francis Ford Coppola and the American film director’s influence is evident, from his own highly regarded Napa Valley Californian wines served in the restaurant, to the ceiling fan in the bar used in the opening sequence of the film Apocalypse Now.
From Blancaneaux, it’s possible to organise an optional excursion to the superbly atmospheric Mayan citadel of Caracol, around 2 hours away. Closer to home, a canoe trip on the serene Macal River is a terrific experience and a good opportunity to spot wildlife. Birdlife and butterflies are particularly abundant. There are numerous other rivers with plunging waterfalls and swimming holes to enjoy.
Your stay at Blancaneaux includes a contribution to the Belize Community Fund, which supports foundations and charities in San Ignacio and elsewhere in Belize.
You can combine the lodge with Mr Coppola’s other properties, including Turtle Inn in Placencia and La Lancha near Tikal in Guatemala.
Barton Creek Cave was an ancient Maya Indian burial site and to this day it remains accessible only by canoe. It’s about an hour by road to the put-in point, a scenic drive which passes through the Barton Creek Mennonite community. Upon arrival at the cave complex, you will embark on canoes and glide through the darkness, armed with spotlights. The stalactites and stalagmites inside the cave are beautiful and original Mayan pottery as well as 2000-year skeletal remains can still be found. You will paddle for about a mile through the various chambers of the cave, your guide pointing out various magnificent formations and ancient relics and explain some of the beliefs and rituals of the ancient Maya. After the canoe trip, you may take a dip in the crystal-clear waters of Barton Creek before returning to your hotel. Being canoe-based, Barton Creek is considered a more easy-going alternative to the adrenaline-fuelled expeditions to the Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM) Caves. This is still an option if you’re up for the challenge. Or if you’d rather remain well above ground, we can organise something else entirely.
Blancaneaux Lodge is located within the beautiful Mountain Pine Forest Reserve of Western Belize. The lodge provides a perfect base to enjoy the tropical surroundings with outstanding river scenery, waterfalls and caves.
The thatched cottages and villas are set on a steep forested hillock that runs down to Privassion Creek, a narrow river broken by cascades and granite pools and linked by small wooden bridges.
The lodge is owned by Francis Ford Coppola and the American film director’s influence is evident, from his own highly regarded Napa Valley Californian wines served in the restaurant, to the ceiling fan in the bar used in the opening sequence of the film Apocalypse Now.
From Blancaneaux, it’s possible to organise an optional excursion to the superbly atmospheric Mayan citadel of Caracol, around 2 hours away. Closer to home, a canoe trip on the serene Macal River is a terrific experience and a good opportunity to spot wildlife. Birdlife and butterflies are particularly abundant. There are numerous other rivers with plunging waterfalls and swimming holes to enjoy.
Your stay at Blancaneaux includes a contribution to the Belize Community Fund, which supports foundations and charities in San Ignacio and elsewhere in Belize.
You can combine the lodge with Mr Coppola’s other properties, including Turtle Inn in Placencia and La Lancha near Tikal in Guatemala.
There is a range of excursions available to pre-book, such as exploring horse riding to Big Rock Falls, hiking or visiting the Mayan ruins of Caracol. Alternatively, just relax at the lodge, treat yourself to a spa treatment or take a dip in the infinity pool or nearby natural pools.
Blancaneaux Lodge is located within the beautiful Mountain Pine Forest Reserve of Western Belize. The lodge provides a perfect base to enjoy the tropical surroundings with outstanding river scenery, waterfalls and caves.
The thatched cottages and villas are set on a steep forested hillock that runs down to Privassion Creek, a narrow river broken by cascades and granite pools and linked by small wooden bridges.
The lodge is owned by Francis Ford Coppola and the American film director’s influence is evident, from his own highly regarded Napa Valley Californian wines served in the restaurant, to the ceiling fan in the bar used in the opening sequence of the film Apocalypse Now.
From Blancaneaux, it’s possible to organise an optional excursion to the superbly atmospheric Mayan citadel of Caracol, around 2 hours away. Closer to home, a canoe trip on the serene Macal River is a terrific experience and a good opportunity to spot wildlife. Birdlife and butterflies are particularly abundant. There are numerous other rivers with plunging waterfalls and swimming holes to enjoy.
Your stay at Blancaneaux includes a contribution to the Belize Community Fund, which supports foundations and charities in San Ignacio and elsewhere in Belize.
You can combine the lodge with Mr Coppola’s other properties, including Turtle Inn in Placencia and La Lancha near Tikal in Guatemala.
This 3-4 hour journey takes you from the lush highlands to the coastal tropics. From a dirt road you join the Western Highway to the country’s capital, Belmopan where you turn onto the Hummingbird highway with some outstanding views of the Maya Mountains and Victoria Peak in the Cockscombe reserve. The vegetation thins out as you approach the coast and your journey ends surrounded by water and driving down the peninsula to Placencia.
The village is a friendly and low-key beach resort typified by its ramshackle and colourful wooden houses built on stilts, linked by paths weaving under swaying palms. With some of Belize’s finest beaches and one or two top notch hotels, it is developing into an increasingly popular tourist retreat. The nearby Monkey River and Placencia Lagoon provide good opportunities for spotting wildlife including the rare manatee.
Inspired by Bali yet in harmony with the equally idyllic Belizean setting, stylish Turtle inn offers a secluded escape on the shores of the Caribbean sea. Each of the individual thatched cottages – an immaculate blend of rustic and luxurious – are just steps away from the ocean.
The dining area is a vast, thatch-roofed space with hardwood floors and bamboo finishes. Beyond, the 18 luxury cottages, each with its own secluded garden and open-air shower, are dotted around a deep, central pool. All are designed with obvious attention to detail: hand-carved Balinese hardwood furnishings, plush armchairs and sofas to sink into, huge ornate doors and grand comfy beds complete a picture of comfort and luxury. Bathrooms are large, each with a twin sink, wooden floors and a huge tiled shower.
Kayaks and bikes are available for hire for a trip up to nearby Placencia, and there is a dive shop offering scuba diving and snorkelling. A variety of excursions are also available at extra cost.
Your stay at Turtle Inn includes a contribution to the Belize Community Fund which supports local foundations and charities in Placencia and elsewhere in Belize. Turtle Inn is one of Francis Ford Coppola’s three hotel ventures in Central America, along with Blancaneaux Lodge in Belize’s Mountain Pine Ridge Forest and La Lancha near Tikal in Guatemala. You can also splash out on a unique experience with an exclusive stay on Coral Caye, a tiny sunlit island just off the coast with transfers from Turtle Inn.
Board a boat in search of the shy and elusive West Indian manatee. You’ll slowly cruise Placencia Lagoon looking for neat trails of sea grass, the tell-tale sign that manatees have been munching their way along the bottom of the lagoon. The boat heads stealithy to where the manatee congregate at the mouth of a freshwater creek. If you’re lucky you’ll also spot Morelet’s crocodiles or the bottle-nosed and Atlantic-spotted dolphins which frequent the lagoon.
Inspired by Bali yet in harmony with the equally idyllic Belizean setting, stylish Turtle inn offers a secluded escape on the shores of the Caribbean sea. Each of the individual thatched cottages – an immaculate blend of rustic and luxurious – are just steps away from the ocean.
The dining area is a vast, thatch-roofed space with hardwood floors and bamboo finishes. Beyond, the 18 luxury cottages, each with its own secluded garden and open-air shower, are dotted around a deep, central pool. All are designed with obvious attention to detail: hand-carved Balinese hardwood furnishings, plush armchairs and sofas to sink into, huge ornate doors and grand comfy beds complete a picture of comfort and luxury. Bathrooms are large, each with a twin sink, wooden floors and a huge tiled shower.
Kayaks and bikes are available for hire for a trip up to nearby Placencia, and there is a dive shop offering scuba diving and snorkelling. A variety of excursions are also available at extra cost.
Your stay at Turtle Inn includes a contribution to the Belize Community Fund which supports local foundations and charities in Placencia and elsewhere in Belize. Turtle Inn is one of Francis Ford Coppola’s three hotel ventures in Central America, along with Blancaneaux Lodge in Belize’s Mountain Pine Ridge Forest and La Lancha near Tikal in Guatemala. You can also splash out on a unique experience with an exclusive stay on Coral Caye, a tiny sunlit island just off the coast with transfers from Turtle Inn.
Placencia Lagoon, fringed by stifling mangrove forests and wild orchids, embraces a range of marine, estuarine and freshwater aquatic habitats providing various ecosystem services in which literally thousands of species can thrive. Over 70 species of fish are present and two types of crocodile. Kayak on the calm waters with an eye out for manatees on an optional adventure.
Alternatively just relax at the lodge, or choose another activity: there’s complimentary use of bikes and kayaks, the dive shop (at extra cost) can organise scuba diving, snorkelling and fishing excursions, and a variety of land-based trips.
Inspired by Bali yet in harmony with the equally idyllic Belizean setting, stylish Turtle inn offers a secluded escape on the shores of the Caribbean sea. Each of the individual thatched cottages – an immaculate blend of rustic and luxurious – are just steps away from the ocean.
The dining area is a vast, thatch-roofed space with hardwood floors and bamboo finishes. Beyond, the 18 luxury cottages, each with its own secluded garden and open-air shower, are dotted around a deep, central pool. All are designed with obvious attention to detail: hand-carved Balinese hardwood furnishings, plush armchairs and sofas to sink into, huge ornate doors and grand comfy beds complete a picture of comfort and luxury. Bathrooms are large, each with a twin sink, wooden floors and a huge tiled shower.
Kayaks and bikes are available for hire for a trip up to nearby Placencia, and there is a dive shop offering scuba diving and snorkelling. A variety of excursions are also available at extra cost.
Your stay at Turtle Inn includes a contribution to the Belize Community Fund which supports local foundations and charities in Placencia and elsewhere in Belize. Turtle Inn is one of Francis Ford Coppola’s three hotel ventures in Central America, along with Blancaneaux Lodge in Belize’s Mountain Pine Ridge Forest and La Lancha near Tikal in Guatemala. You can also splash out on a unique experience with an exclusive stay on Coral Caye, a tiny sunlit island just off the coast with transfers from Turtle Inn.
It’s a 25-minute hop by Cessna to the international airport in Belize City. Every flight in Belize feels like an panoramic adventure as you fly over the forest, mangroves and coast.
The places you’ll stay and explore on this tour. Here’s a closer look at each one and what makes it worth the trip.
Guatemala - Antigua and the highlands
Once one of Spanish America’s greatest cities, Antigua is now a beautifully preserved colonial gem of cobbled streets, shady plazas and pastel-coloured façades. Surrounded by three volcanoes and within easy reach of the Highlands’ vibrant markets and traditional villages, Antigua Guatemala holidays offer one of Central America’s most captivating introductions to the country.
Belize - Maya mountains and jungle
Dense jungle, ancient Maya cities, winding rivers and rugged mountain landscapes create one of Central America’s most rewarding adventure destinations in the wild heart of Belize. From hidden archaeological treasures to wildlife-rich forests and spectacular waterfalls, these Belize jungle holidays offer unforgettable experiences far beyond the Caribbean coast.
Belize - Caribbean cayes and coast
Snorkel over coral gardens on the world’s second-largest barrier reef, dive the deep-blue sinkhole of the Great Blue Hole, and slow down on a palm-fringed caye with nothing to do but swim. On Belize’s Caribbean coast, the offshore islands and the mainland shore open onto a UNESCO-listed reef that runs the length of the country.
Guatemala and Belize are a winning combination for a holiday, two very contrasting countries which when explored together present an irresistible collection of travel experiences. On this holiday, travel is at a relaxed pace between three intimate properties owned by film director Francis Ford Coppola, and two more which are part of the Relais & Chateaux portfolio. Each is unique in its design and setting and at each and all the attention is on premium service.
Guatemala is steeped in indigenous and Spanish colonial tradition and religious mysticism where the modern Maya speak their ancestral tongue and observe age-old dress codes. Meanwhile Belize, on Central America’s Caribbean coast, is English-speaking, utterly laid-back, and a popular destination for outdoor adventure enthusiasts.
Start off in Guatemala’s highlands, staying at an hacienda near Antigua before several relaxing days by Lake Atitlan. Then fly to Flores and visit to Tikal, the vast Mayan ruined city where ancient temples and pyramids penetrate the rainforest canopy. Cross the border into Belize and visit the cool forests of Mountain Pine Ridge, before rounding off the holiday at the low-key Caribbean village of Placencia, with time for snorkelling or manatee watching.
Sophie Barber
All of our experts have lived or travelled extensively in Latin America, so you will receive unrivalled advice based on unique personal experiences.
The practical detail for this tour, all in one place. Transport, accommodation, what’s included and what to pack, so you know exactly what to expect before you go.
- Summary of Nights
15 days, 14 nights: Antigua 2; Lake Atitlan 3; Tikal area 2; Mountain Pine Ridge 3; Placencia 4.
- Accommodation
The hotels we have selected for this holiday are of a high standard, prioritising originality and service levels to provide a varied and rewarding experience. In northern Guatemala and Belize the concept is best described as rustic luxury: lodge style properties in exuberant natural settings. As a rule we include lead-in room categories at each property so if you would like to upgrade we will be happy to discuss the options with you.
- Transport
2 short internal flights, 4 scenic road journeys of around 3 hours each and several short hotel transfers,
- Meals
Breakfast daily; lunch day 7.
- Guides
Our local, trusted and carefully selected partners understand the expectations of our customers very well, and their staff and guides are consistently singled out for praise by clients on their return. On this holiday, you will be joined by different guides for each activity and or region, ensuring you benefit from specialised expertise and knowledge, often from someone local to the area.
- Optional Excursions
As well as any included activities, most Private Journeys include some free time for optional excursions. As optional excursions are often subject to availability, we recommend you discuss and arrange them with your Travel Expert as early as possible before you depart.
- When is the best time to visit Guatemala?
The best weather conditions in the upland areas are during the dry season Dec – May. It can be cold in the highlands in winter, while the jungle areas are hot and humid all year round. Culture lovers may opt to spend Easter in Antigua.
For more detailed information visit our When To Go section.
- What is the official language of Guatemala?
The official language spoken in Guatemala is Spanish and indigenous indian languages mainly derived from Maya.
- What is the official currency of Guatemala?
The official currency in Guatemala is Quetzal. Notes can be withdrawn using a UK credit or debit card from the many ATMs. There’s at least one in most main towns. You may have ask your bank to authorise withdrawals before you leave the UK and each transaction is limited to about £100.
- What is the time difference between the UK and Guatemala?
The time difference between the UK and Guatemala is GMT-6 hours.
- Do I need a visa for Guatemala?
Holders of a full British passport do not require a visa, although passports must be valid for at least 6 months after the trip begins. Anyone with a different nationality should enquire with us or check with the relevant consulate.
If flying to the US, or via the US you will need to fill in your online ESTA application. - What vaccinations do I need for Guatemala?
Please check Travel Health Pro for information on health recommendations and vaccinations for the destinations you are visiting. Please note that many Latin American countries require proof of vaccination against Yellow Fever if you have recently travelled to another country where Yellow Fever is present.
- Which other countries combine well with Guatemala?
A visit to neighbouring Belize, where there are luxury eco-lodges, superb diving and snorkelling all embraced in British Caribbean cultural heritage; Copán, the ruined Mayan City of northern Honduras with its intricate carvings, accessible from Guatemala by road.
- What are the festivals, cultural and sporting events in Guatemala?
Semana Santa, Easter. Celebrations throughout the country; especially impressive in Antigua.
Dia de los Muertos, Day of the Dead, 1-2 Nov. Celebrated throughout the country.
Traditional fiestas: There are many festivals in Guatemala from giant kite flying near Antigua to wild horse racing in remote Todo Los Santos.
- When is the best time to visit Belize?
The best weather conditions are during the dry season Dec-May. It can be cool in the highlands in winter, while the jungle areas are hot and humid all year.
For more detailed information visit our When To Go section.
- What's the official language of Belize?
The official language of Belize is English but many of the population also speak a creole patois.
- How do I get local currency in Belize?
The Belizean dollar is the currency in Belize. Notes can be obtained from money exchanges and also from banks which will supply advances on a debit or credit card. There are ATMs in Belize City where you can use a UK credit or debit card. You may have to get authorisation from your bank first, and withdrawal amounts may be limited.
- What's the time difference between Belize and UK?
The time difference between the UK and Belize is GMT -6 hrs
- Do I need a visa to visit Belize?
Holders of a full British passport do not require a visa, although passports must be valid for at least 6 months after the trip begins. Anyone with a different nationality should enquire with us or check with the relevant consulate.
If flying to the US, or via the US you will need to fill in your online ESTA application. - What vaccinations do I need in Belize?
Please check Travel Health Pro for information on health recommendations and vaccinations for the destinations you are visiting. Please note that many Latin American countries require proof of vaccination against Yellow Fever if you have recently travelled to another country where Yellow Fever is present.
- What places combine well with Belize?
A visit to neighbouring Guatemala, with its Latin and Maya cultural heritage, is good to pair with a Belize holiday as there’s a road link to the Mayan ruins at Tikal in the Petén jungle. Southern Mexico is also easy to visit from Belize, as you can cross the land border at Chetumal.
- What are the festivals and cultural and sporting events in Belize?
Belize Carnival, (Feb/Mar). Lively celebrations especially in San Pedro, on Ambergris Caye.
Lobster season: Lobster season starts Jun-Jul, with lobster on offer in all its forms, with drinking and partying.Belize Independence Day: throughout the country, 21 Sep. Parades, processions and parties.
Garifuna Settlement Day, Dangriga, 19 Nov. Includes parades, live music, drumming, dancing, and prayers in celebration of the first Garifuna Afro-Caribbean settlers.
- How long is the flight to Belize from UK?
There are flights via US and European hubs, the journey from London taking around 15.5 hours.
Why choose Journey Latin America for your holiday
We’ve been planning trips to Central and South America for over 45 years, longer than any other UK specialist. Every holiday is built around you by a Travel Expert who has been to the places they recommend, with support from your first enquiry to the day you fly home.
Rosie embarked on a year-long backpacking trip across Latin America. She is excited to share her knowledge and experiences with others.
Finn discovered his passion for travel on an extensive 18-month trip to Latin America, experiencing the vibrant Carnaval in Rio, the end-of-the-world city of Ushuaia, trekking the Andes and volunteering on the Galápagos Islands.
Maggie visited Latin America on her first backpacking trip when she was 19. Since then, she has taken every opportunity to travel, and has managed to explore a lot of the region in subsequent trips.
Gary discovered what he had been missing with his first foray into the wilds of Latin America. In his role as Product Manager, he combines this personal obsession with years of industry experience to help ensure that travellers will fall for the region every bit as much as he has.
Things to do
We proudly offer the widest range of activities, excursions and one-of-a-kind experiences across all our destinations, tried and tested personally by our travel experts.
Take a guided walk around the colonial city of Antigua, the country’s former capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and visit a coffee farm.
Explore the most impressive of all Mayan sites with a knowledgeable guide to bring the ruins to life.
Take a guided tour of a mystical cave where the remains of the ‘Crystal Maiden’ and other possible sacrificial victims were uncovered alongside ancient artifacts.
Accommodation
Browse our unrivalled portfolio of accommodation. Every option has been carefully chosen by our team of travel experts, so you can rest assured that you will relax in utter comfort
Romantic lakeside hotel epitomising boutique luxury, with an eclectic, colourful and artistic aesthetic.
Papagaio
Our exciting range of articles on Latin America explore everything from iconic destinations and lesser-known cultural gems to delicious traditional recipes. You’ll also find exclusive travel tips, first-hand client reviews and the chance to get your personal questions answered by our travel experts.
Featured Articles
To round the corner of a mountain and see the lost citadel of Machu Picchu unfold beneath you remains one of the most awe-inspiring experiences in Latin America, one of those dreamlike experiences that makes travelling here truly extraordinary.
The Pantanal wetlands cover an area almost the size of the British Isles and offers better wildlife opportunities than the Amazon. Writer and photographer Alex Bellos discovers them.
Small, breathtakingly beautiful Costa Rica is a treasure trove for the nature lover. Trees laden with orchids are home to quetzals and hummingbirds, while the Caribbean shore hosts volcanic beaches and palm-sheltered coves.
