Belize: Reef, River & Rainforest

Day 1

Arrive and transfer to Placentia, your base during the dive portion of your adventure.

Days 2-3

Cruise to Gladden Spit, one of the best spots in the world to dive with the whale shark. Up to 60 feet long, whale sharks evolved about 200 million years ago, shortly after dinosaurs first appeared. While Jacques Cousteau saw only two in his lifetime, your excursion today takes you to an area rich with these majestic fish. In the midst of their breeding season, the sharks are congregating near the coral reef, feeding on fish larvae. Later, explore the Barrier Reef at Laughing Bird Marine Reserve.

Days 4-5

Dive three excellent coral reef sites. Bull and reef shark frequent the crystal clear Blue Hole. Parrotfish, eel, ray, and giant sponge inhabit Half Moon. The current along the Elbow's slopes and drop-offs attracts game fish and hammerheads.

Day 6

After a final morning dive, return to Belize City for a voyage up the Sibun River, starting by boat and then continuing through the narrow channels in kayaks. Switch to ATVs for a ride through Peccary Hills Nature Reserve. At Runaway Creek, settle into your mobile tent camp, your base in the jungle.

Days 7-9

Investigate this reserve's forest and river ecosystems. One day, canoe the Sibun in search of nesting jaribu storks and crocodiles. Or paddle to the mouth of Runaway Creek, a slave escape in the 1800s. Later, navigate a river segment, home to iguana, tapir and coatamundi. You may spot jaguar during an after-dinner night drive. The next day, rise early for a rare opportunity to help researchers study netted birds, then continue to Actun Tunichil Muknal. This ancient cave was once inhabited by the Maya and their artifacts remain, some permanently fixed to the cave floor.

Days 10-11

Depart for the acclaimed Chaa Creek eco-resort, your base for two days of adventures that include exploration of nearby Mayan ruins and a canoe trip through the cave system at Barton Creek. Return to Belize City the next day for flights home.

*****All itineraries are subject to change without notice.

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