Central America Family Sabbatical

Panoramic Orientation of Panama City and Amador Causeway - Half Day

This morning, your guide will take you for a walk up Cerro Ancon, a lush hill behind the old town of Panama City. During this easy 30-minute walk through tropical rainforest, keep your eyes peeled for wildlife like monkeys, sloths, birds and many others. The hilltop offers an extensive panoramic view of the whole city, the bay, the lush surroundings and the Panama Canal.

Afterwards, head to the Amador Causeway, a scenic road connecting the mainland to a string of islands. Along the way, enjoy views of the canal entrance, the Bridge of the Americas, and the shimmering waters of the Pacific. Stroll along the waterfront, take in the charming marinas, and explore local shops or restaurants for a taste of Panama’s vibrant culture. There is also the option of renting bikes (payable locally) if you wanted to explore more of this area independently.

What to wear/bring: Comfortable clothing and shoes, hat, sun protection and insect repellent.

Kayaking the Canal Watershed

Pickup from your hotel lobby this morning.

Impressive and thrilling, the Panama Canal entrance is the door to one of the most highly travelled waterways in the world. The striking engineering of the Canal is able to handle more than 12,000 ships per year. Throughout the day and night massive ocean cruise liners, container ships, yachts and watercrafts of all kinds arrive from different continents.

The Bridge of the Americas is another incredible manmade wonder of this trip. With 1,700 m in length and 120 m high, it was the first permanent structure to link North America and South America across the Panama Canal. Paddling in front of the Panama Canal from stable, efficient sea kayaks accompanied by professional guides, this venture provides a great perspective of Panama's best sites.

Bird watching and relaxing on a remote beach surrounded by tropical forest gives a good sense of nature's handiwork on Pacific coasts. Along the shore, common species include soaring magnificent frigates, gliding brown pelicans, darting flocks of parrots and various wading migratory shore birds.

Return to your hotel before lunch.

What to wear/bring: Comfortable clothing and shoes, hat, raincoat, sun protection and insect repellent.

El Chorrillo Community Walk

Explore the heart of Panama through the El Chorrillo Community Walk, a captivating journey that takes you to Barraza's Gym, the lively cockfighting arena, the "Parque de los Aburridos", the historic old barracks, and the iconic "Casas del Sombrero". Immerse yourself in the neighbourhood's rich history, connect with its welcoming residents, savour its flavourful cuisine, and delve into the untold stories, including insights into the impactful 1989 US Invasion. Engage in spirited domino games with locals, sharing laughter and experiences, all while gaining an authentic opportunity to uncover the lesser-known side of Panama.

Includes: expert guide, snacks, and bottled water.

Chocolate Workshop

Discover the rich history and exquisite flavours of Panamanian chocolate in the heart of Casco Viejo. This immersive experience takes you on a journey through the chocolate-making process, from bean to bar. Uncover the fascinating origins of cacao in the region, gain insights from expert chocolatiers, and take part in a hands-on workshop where you'll craft your own chocolate treat. Along the way, indulge in a selection of artisanal chocolate samples, perfectly paired with local ingredients.

Transfer from Panama City to Portobelo via Agua Clara Locks

Pickup from your hotel lobby this morning.

Experience the engineering marvel of the Agua Clara Locks, a key part of the Panama Canal expansion. Located near Colón, these locks provide a firsthand view of massive ships navigating the canal’s modernised lanes. Discover the canal’s rich history, intricate operations, and global significance while taking in breathtaking views of Gatun Lake and the surrounding rainforest.

Continue your journey to the historic town of Portobelo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that once played a vital role in safeguarding Spanish treasures. Immerse yourself in this captivating blend of history, culture, and natural beauty as you make your way to El Otro Lado Private Retreat.

At El Otro, the following is included:

• Boat transfer from Portobelo to the property
• Breakfasts, lunches and dinners
• Daily beach trips
• Navigate the mangroves in La Faraona
• Property tour
• Visit to San Fernando Fort
• Hiking around the lake
• Use of Kayak, paddle board and snorkelling equipment
• A cultural presentation

Introducing Portobelo

The Caribbean fishing village of Portobelo is so laid-back that it's hard to imagine it was once the most important Spanish port in Central America, with huge quantities of South American gold and Asian treasure passing through the fortresses here. Several of these UNESCO-listed colonial fortresses still stand in the village, but nowadays you'll find a relaxed atmosphere filled with music and art. Nearby, attractive beaches can be reached by boat, and divers and snorkelers will find some great underwater spots to explore off the coast.

Historic Portobelo Guided Exploration

Set out on a captivating two-hour guided tour of Portobelo’s rich history and cultural heritage. Explore iconic landmarks, including the 17th-century colonial fortifications—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—and the historic Church of San Felipe, home to the revered Black Christ statue. Delve into Portobelo’s pivotal role in Spanish trade routes and its vibrant Afro-Caribbean traditions. This immersive experience offers a fascinating glimpse into the town’s past and present, weaving together compelling stories and stunning coastal scenery—an ideal way to discover Portobelo’s unique charm in a short but enriching journey.

Congo Drum Playing Workshop

Immerse yourself in the vibrant rhythms of Afro-Caribbean culture with a Congo drum playing workshop, led by a talented teacher from the renowned Escuelita del Ritmo. This hands-on experience introduces you to the soulful beats and techniques of Congo drumming, a cornerstone of local tradition.

Whether you're a beginner or a music enthusiast, this workshop invites you to connect with the region’s rich cultural heritage through rhythm and expression. Surrounded by the retreat’s serene tropical setting, it's the perfect blend of creativity, culture, and relaxation.

Day at Leisure in Portobelo

Spend today at El Otro Lado enjoying diverse activities like hiking, water sports, wellness experiences, or simply relaxing amidst the stunning surroundings.

Transfer from Otro Lado to Albrook Airport

Pickup from your hotel this afternoon. Private transfer, around 2 hours from Otro Lado to Panama City's domestic airport. Check in for the 45-min flight to David.

Transfer from David Airport to Boquete

On arrival, a guide will be waiting to welcome you and drive you (approx. 1 hour) to your hotel in Boquete.

Introducing Boquete

Tucked away amongst rolling green hills, Boquete is a small town which sits in a unique microclimate at 1,000m above sea level. The valley is swathed in lush forest, the fertile volcanic soils bringing life to coffee plantations, fruit orchards and farmland. Not only is it beautiful but Boquete provides opportunities for an array of outdoor adventures, including hiking, climbing, rafting and canopy excursions. It’s a great place to spend a few days - start your mornings with a cup of fresh local coffee and make the most of the activities available here.

Days at Leisure in Boquete

The next couple of days are at leisure, or we can arrange one of the following suggested family tours / activities for you:

- Butterfly / Bee Tour
- Honey Tasting
- Hiking at the Pipeline Trail exploring lush cloud forests, spot wildlife and see beautiful waterfalls.
- Coffee plantation tour - Finca Lerida or Finca Dos Jefes
- Ziplining at Boquete Tree Trek
- Visit El Explorador Gardens - a whimsical garden with quirky sculptures, walking paths and beautiful flowers
- Soak in the Caldera Hot Springs

Partial Hike of Baru Volcano to Finca El Oasis with Optional Ziplining

This morning, embark upon a partial hike of Panama's highest peak, the majestic Baru Volcano, which rises 3,475 meters (11,398 feet). Departing from Boquete, you’ll trek through lush forests and diverse ecosystems, encountering stunning views and unique wildlife. Your journey will lead you to Finca El Oasis, a peaceful spot known for its spectacular scenery. A picnic lunch will be included.

Later, enjoy an optional adrenaline-filled zipline experience. Zip through the canopy of ancient cloud forests, soaring above pristine rivers and waterfalls near La Amistad National Park and Baru Volcano. After a safety briefing, you'll take off from the platform, gliding on ultra-resistant steel cables as you fly through the trees, encountering unique flora and wildlife along the way. Harnessed and propelled by gravity, experience an unforgettable adrenaline rush in this breathtaking natural landscape.

Transfer from Boquete to David Airport

Pickup from your hotel this morning. Private transfer from Finca Lerida to David Airport. Check in for the flight to San Jose, via Panama City.

Transfer from San Jose Airport to Hotel

Upon arrival in San José, a representative will meet you in one of the internal corridors of the airport (the walkway from the plane to immigration). They will be holding a sign with your name on it. This person will escort you to the immigration line and explain the immigration process; however, please note that this is not a fast-track service. The representative will not remain in line with you but will wait on the other side of immigration. Once you've cleared immigration, they will accompany you to the luggage carousel to collect your bags and then escort you to the international exit, where you will meet another representative who will take you to your hotel. The drive from the airport to the hotel takes 45 minutes approximately, depending on traffic. Check-in is from 2pm. (This service is on a private basis.)

Introducing San Jose & the Central Valley

The Central Valley of Costa Rica has a dramatically beautiful landscape with a mild climate and is home to over two-thirds of the country's population. Lush, green valleys are home to coffee, nut and fruit plantations with farming being one of the main occupations thanks to the fertile soil which is rich in minerals from the presence of the three volcanoes Irazú, Barva and Poás. The capital city, San Jose, tends to take a back seat when it comes to tourism but is striving to reinvent itself as a fun urban centre with plenty of opportunities to eat out, shop and party.

Poas Volcano & La Paz Waterfall Gardens

Enjoy a leisurely morning. You may like to walk the trails of the sustainable organic coffee plantation and learn about the farming process, or take a dip in the pool.

Later this morning, you'll be picked up from your hotel lobby and transferred to La Paz Waterfall Gardens, a 70-acre private reserve featuring five stunning waterfalls, two miles of paved hiking trails, and diverse attractions like the Hummingbird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Serpentarium, and Ranarium. It also houses a wildlife refuge for birds and felines, offering cultural insights with La Casita de la Paz while providing a safe haven for animals unable to return to the wild.

Return to your hotel for the rest of the day at leisure.

Transfer to San Jose Airport

Pickup from your hotel lobby this morning.

Private transfer around 30 minutes to the domestic terminal at San Jose Airport. Check in for the short flight to Tortuguero.

Please note the following luggage restrictions: Checked luggage allowance - 1 bag up to 18 KG per person, plus one carry-on up to 4.5 KG (up to 20 linear inches/50 cms-length+height+width).

Transfer from Tortuguero Airstrip to Tortuga Lodge

On arrival at Tortuguero Airstrip, you will be met by a representative from Tortuga Lodge and transferred 5-minutes by boat to your lodge.

Full Package Cost includes:

- Boat transfers (from/to Caño Blanco dock)
- Accommodation
- Three meals
- A selection of a maximum of 2 on-site experiences per day (shared with other guests): Natural History boat tour, Twilight Tour on the trails of the property, Kayak in Tortuguero and tour to Cerro Tortuguero, a 50 minute Spa treatment ¨Swedish massage (1 per room, per stay), and tour to ¨Laguna 4¨ (once per stay).

Introducing Tortuguero

Tortuguero is a network of navigable lakes, rivers and canals (both natural and manmade) that are used for transportation and are a great place for observing local wildlife. The climate is warm and humid, with daily temperatures of 26°C on average, with an annual average rainfall of over 5,000mm. Warm days are tempered by trade winds and cool nights. Abundant wildlife inhabits Tortuguero, including 57 species of amphibians, 111 species of reptiles, and 60 species of mammals. More than 300 species of birds live in Tortuguero for all or part of the year. Birdwatchers commonly see keelbilled toucans, slaty tailed trogons, Montezuma oropendulas and a variety of parrots.

Activities at Tortuga Lodge

Over the next couple of days, choose up to 2 activities per day from an exciting selection of included on-site experiences:

- Natural History Boat Tour - this tour will operate on a private basis
- Tour to Laguna 4 (once per stay) - this tour will operate on a private basis
- Twilight Tour (Minimum age 7 years old)
- Kayak in Tortuguero (Minimum age 9 years old. Children between 9 and 14 years old must share the kayak with a responsible adult)
- Tour to Cerro Tortuguero (Minimum age 7 years old, must be in good physical condition)
- A 50-minute Swedish massage (1 per room per stay)

All activities operate on a small group basis with other guests, up to max. of 8 guests per guide (except the Natural History Boat Tour and the Laguna 4 Tour which operate on a private basis).

Transfer from Tortuga Lodge to Arenal

This morning, board the shared boat (approx. 1.5 hours) to Cano Blanco Dock, La Pavona, where you will be met by your private car and driver and transferred approx. 4 hours to Arenal.

Note: A maximum of 30 pounds of luggage is allowed per person (10 additional pounds per person subject to the shared boat occupancy). You can pay extra per way to carry an additional 40 pounds per booking.

En route, a stop will be made at a palm heart plantation, where you can sit down and tuck into a delicious lunch, trying various products made with palm hearts.

Nayara Tented Camp Includes:
- Daily breakfast a-la-carte or in-villa
- Wi-Fi in the room and throughout the property
- Complimentary laundry
- Complimentary mini-bar selection
- Twice daily maid service
- Free daily yoga classes at 8:15am
- Onsite complimentary bird watching tour at 6am (three days a week)
- Gym

Introducing Arenal Volcano National Park

Arenal is a spectacular region, named for the huge Arenal volcano which dominates the skyline on a clear day. The area is popular among adventurous travellers as the volcanoes and rainforests provide a range of exhilarating activities, from ziplining to trekking. Outside of the main tourist area lie acres of rolling countryside.

Arenal Volcano Hike

Pick-up from your hotel lobby this morning.

The private hike at El Silencio Reserve begins with a 1 km volcanic rock trail to the closest observation point near Arenal Volcano, offering stunning views and insights into its history, including the 1968 eruption. The return journey traverses 1.5 km of regenerating and primary rainforest, where you may spot diverse wildlife. Settle down to a picnic lunch, before returning to your hotel for the rest of the afternoon at leisure.

Includes: Bilingual guide, transportation, drinks, and entrance fee, picnic lunch

What to bring? Raincoat, a camera, binoculars, hiking shoes, (during the rainy season an extra shirt, socks, and shoes), sunscreen lotion, and insect repellent (preferably biodegradable).

Arenal Hanging Bridges Park

This morning, embark on a private Hanging Bridges tour, a captivating 1.8-mile (3 km) hike through the lush tropical rainforest. Experience stunning views from 15 bridges, including 6 suspended high in the treetop canopy, offering a unique perspective of the vibrant wildlife. Keep an eye out for monkeys, exotic birds, snakes, and other elusive creatures.

Includes: Transfers, guide and entrance fee.

What to bring? A change of clothes and shoes in case it rains, raincoat, camera, binoculars, comfortable shoes, and insect repellent.

Dona Mara Tortilla Making - La Fortuna - Private Basis

After the Hanging Bridges, head straight to Doña Mara’s kitchen for a private cooking experience. Learn how to prepare delicious tortillas by hand, from grinding the corn to hand patting the tortillas to toasting them on her wood-fired stove. You will also learn how to prepare the famous ‘picadillos’ (vegetable and meat hash), along with ‘tortas de yuca’ (cassava), among other traditional plates. Enjoy the fruits of your labour with a delicious feast on Dona Mara’s open-air terrace. Afterwards, you will be taken back to your hotel.

Includes: Transfers, guide, and lunch.

What to bring? comfortable clothing and shoes, camera, sunscreen lotion, and insect repellent (preferably biodegradable

Arenal Safari River Float

This morning, you will be driven to the put in of the Peñas Blancas river, to embark upon a river safari adventure. Board an inflatable raft and begin your relaxing cruise down the river. The forest along the river is known as the gallery forest, and it is a rich ecosystem where you can find different species of plants and animals, including monkeys, sloths, lizards, caimans, bats, turtles, lot of aquatic birds, among others. Your guide will be on hand sharing interesting snippets about the natural history of the flora and fauna.

Duration: 2 hours approx.

Includes: Transfers, and guide.

What to bring? Comfortable clothing and shoes, swimming suit, towel, change of clothes, sunglasses, a hat, binoculars, camera, sunscreen lotion, and insect repellent (preferably biodegradable).

Morning at leisure.

Canopy Ziplining - Private

This afternoon, enjoy a private canopy tour at Arenal Ecoglide Park — a thrilling zipline adventure through the lush treetops near La Fortuna. With 11 cables, 13 platforms, and a suspension bridge, this two-part course offers plenty of adrenaline and epic views. Glide up to 430 meters across the rainforest, with 9 platforms nestled in the trees for an up-close encounter with nature. Built to the highest safety standards, this is an exhilarating yet secure way to experience Costa Rica’s wild side. Your visit includes the tarzan swing.

Tour duration: Approx. 2 hours.
Includes: Transfers and private English-speaking guide

Private Transfer from Hotel to El Tanque Airstrip

Pick up from your hotel lobby this afternoon.

Private transfer, approx. 25 mins to El Tanque Airstrip to board the short charter flight with Prestige Wings to Nosara.

Transfer from Nosara Airstrip to Hotel

Upon arrival, you will be met and privately transferred approx. 15 mins to Lagarta Lodge.

Introducing Nosara

Nosara is located on the Nicoya Peninsula of the Guanacaste coast. Overlooking the Pacific, just outside the town of Nosara, this secluded small hotel is a little piece of paradise, away from the tourist trail. The Rio Nosara borders the hotel-owned nature reserve Reserva biológica that covers nearly ninety acres. Guests may join a guided tour or have free access to the well-marked trails. Mornings are particularly good for spotting birdlife, howler monkeys, anteaters, coatis, raccoons, iguanas, butterflies and insects. The reserve’s biodiversity is a combination of subtropical dry forests and mangrove thickets. Walking trails take roughly 2 hours or you can visit by electric boat or a kayak activity on the Rio Nosara (highly recommended).

Days at Leisure in Nosara

Days are at leisure in Nosara to relax and unwind at your hotel. If you'd like to explore the local area and surroundings, there are plenty of tours/activities which can be pre-booked on a private or small group basis (additional cost):

- Complimentary access to the hotel-owned nature reserve Reserva Biológica
- Mangrove Boat Tour - Glide along Rio Nosara and Rio Montaña in search of native birds and crocodiles (2 hours)
- Surfing at Playa Guiones - group or private lessons
- Hiking to Nosara Biological Reserve or along spectacularly sandy beaches
- Birdwatching Tour in the Nosara and Ostional Biological Reserves (2 hours)
- Night Walk (2 hours)
- Guided Bike Ride (2 hours)
- Turtle Tour - operates year round, but is subject to mother nature as to whether the turtles are nesting or hatching. This is usually confirmed the day before, therefore best booked locally.

Transfer from your Hotel to Nosara Airstrip

Pick-up from your hotel this morning for the private transfer to Nosara Airstrip, a drive of approx. 15 mins. Check in for the Sansa flight to San Jose.

Airport assistance is included in San Jose Airport. Our representative will be waiting to meet you on arrival, and will assist you with your luggage and guide you through the immigration process and transfer you to the corresponding terminal.

Transfer from Guatemala City Airport to Antigua

On arrival in Guatemala City, you will be welcomed by a LiNGER representative at the airport and privately driven approx. one hour to the colonial city of Antigua.

Check into your hotel for the next 4 nights.

Introducing Antigua

Antigua is often heralded as the most beautiful city in the Americas, making it the perfect base to begin your journey through Guatemala. Antigua is a city to stay longer and allow time for some café-culture and people -watching.Antigua’s beautifully preserved centre is brimming with life and the streets are lined with colourful boutiques, galleries and restaurants which add to its charm. Admire views of the dramatic volcanoes which surround the city, dominating the skyline.

Antigua Walking Tour

This morning, your private guide will meet you in the lobby of your hotel for a guided walk around Antigua’s picture-perfect cobblestone streets. Discover ornate churches, colonial-era ruins and the tomb of the first Guatemalan saint as your guide introduces the varied culture, architecture and social history of Guatemala. The experience can be customised to suit your interests from Mayan history to indigenous art and beyond. Return to your hotel before lunch.

Includes: Private guide, entrances to the Antigua Cathedral, the Merced Monastery & the San Francisco Monastery, use of tuc tucs.

Spend the afternoon at your leisure and soak in the sights and sounds of this UNESCO world heritage site, doing as much or as little as you please.

Antigua Valley Hike

You will be met at your hotel this morning by your private driver & adventure guide for a short transfer out of Antigua. Begin your hike down through cloud forest and local farmland fields, enjoying spectacular views across the Antigua valley and of the surrounding three volcanoes. Along the way, you can also enjoy plenty of birdlife and meet local people going about their daily life.

Activity Includes: Private adventure guide, entrance fees, trail snack, vehicle support.
Excludes: Lunch

Day at Leisure in Antigua

Day at leisure in Antigua.

If you’d like to explore further, some family-friendly suggestions include:
- Hike Pacaya Volcano (moderately demanding)
- Chocolate-Making Workshop
- Antigua's Artisanal Market Tour
- Cooking class with a local family
- Visit a local coffee farm
- Maya Village Experience

Transfer from Antigua to Guatemala City Airport

Pickup from your hotel this afternoon for the private transfer to Guatemala City Airport; a drive of approx. 1-1.5 hours depending on traffic. Check in for the flight to Flores.

Transfer from Flores Airport to Tikal

Welcome to Flores, an island town on Lake Petén Itzá, and the gateway to the Mayan ruins of Tikal. Transfer approx. one hour to the Jungle Lodge; your home for this evening.

Note - Because of its remote location, the hotel doesn't have 24 hours electricity supply. Conveniently all rooms have a ceiling fan and one wall socket with electricity around the clock. Also, the lobby area has wi-fi and electricity 24 hours. Electricity is fully available at: 05:30 - 8:00, 13:00 - 15:00, 17:00 - 22:00 hours.

Introducing Tikal

Tikal National Park, the crown jewel of Mayan archaeological sites, has been fascinating visitors for over 100 years with its stunning beauty and sheer grandeur as it rises out of the lush jungle of Guatemala’s Petén district. Once the sprawling capital of one of the greatest empires of the ancient Maya, Tikal flourished during the Maya Classic period of 200 to 900 AD and was the most important city-state in the Maya region, bouncing back from defeat by rivals Calakmul and Caracol and ruling a vast realm before suddenly falling into decline in the late 800s. At its height the city of Tikal had a population estimated to be as large as 90,000. Earthworks and other defence systems surrounded an area of some 120 sq km supplied by ingenious irrigation and agricultural systems which can still be seen today. The layout, beautiful architecture and scale of impressive buildings connected by wide causeways, the rich jungle life and the relaxed ambience make this an unforgettable experience. Today, Tikal National Park is a UNESCO world heritage area and national park, with 222 sq mi (576 sq km) area of unspoiled natural beauty and home to many exotic animals, including tapir, jaguar, crocodile, cougars, monkeys, coatimundi and other species as well as a colourful assortment of birds. It is the largest excavated site in the American continent, containing over 3000 structures and massive, beautiful temples rising 70 meters (230 feet) out of the dense jungle.

Tikal at Sunrise

Pickup from your hotel early this morning. Experience the magic of Tikal as the sun rises over its towering temples on this early morning experience. As the jungle awakens around you, climb to the top of one of the ancient Maya pyramids to witness the misty rainforest bathed in golden light. The haunting calls of howler monkeys and the songs of tropical birds create an unforgettable atmosphere, while your expert guide reveals the secrets of this ancient civilisation.

Includes: Private guide, community guide, private transfers, admission fees to Tikal and Uaxactun, camping equipment, all meals at the campsite.

After your sunrise experience, transfer by road to the Jungle Lodge for breakfast.

After breakfast, you'll be transferred to Uaxactun to your overnight campsite.

Notes on the Campsite:
- Due to the remoteness of the location, there is no Wi-Fi, nor phone coverage.
- Electricity is a limited service in this village; please make sure to bring your phone and devices fully charged.
- The camp showers do not have hot water, though in the steamy jungle, that's one amenity rarely missed.
- In the rainy season, even on clear days, it can be wet and muddy; you may want to consider an extra change of clothes and shoes that can get wet.

Uaxactun Visit and Transfer to the Cayo District

One of the longest-occupied Mayan cities, Uaxactún amazes by day with its incredible ruins and enchants by night with its nocturnal creatures. After your breakfast, visit a cluster of celestially oriented ruins that, to this day, accurately pinpoint the sun when the seasons change. In the village, you'll learn about the natural gum, allspice, and xate (exported globally for floral arrangements) that locals collect.

Continue to the Melchor de Menses border with Belize (2 hours). Here, you will complete immigration formalities and switch to a new vehicle for the transfer to the Cayo District, a further drive of around 30 minutes.

Cayo District

Rugged and remote, the Cayo District is a vast stretch of highland rainforests, cattle ranches, and pinelands. Located in western Belize and bordering Guatemala's El Petén region, explore the great outdoors on foot, by horse, or via kayak, raft, or canoe. Belize's oldest and largest national park - Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve - offers caves to explore, cool rivers for swimming, and a seemingly endless forest that is home to myriad tropical birds. The real hub of the district is San Ignacio, a small town featuring rustic, colonial-era streets, an eclectic mix of restaurants and shops and a lively weekly market.

Chaa Creek - On Site Activities

Chaa Creek offers a range of immersive on-site activities that will bring you closer to nature and local culture. Explore the lush rainforest trails on foot or by mountain bike, or take a canoe down the serene Macal River for scenic views and wildlife spotting. Guests can also enjoy birdwatching tours, spot colourful butterflies at the Butterfly Farm, or visit the Natural History Museum to learn about Belize’s rich biodiversity. For relaxation, the infinity pool and spa provide the perfect retreat after a day of adventure.

Barton Creek Cave Canoeing

Pickup from your hotel lobby this morning

Journey through the scenic Mountain Pine Ridge area to the enigmatic Barton Creek Cave system, passing a traditional Mennonite community along the way. Paddle a canoe through the serene creek and into the winding cave, once a Mayan ceremonial site. With high-powered lights, marvel at stalactites, crystal formations, and cathedral-like chambers as expert guides share the cave's archaeological and cultural significance.

Activity Includes: Private guide and transfers, admission fees, canoes & equipment.
Excludes: Lunch

Transfer from Cayo District to Belize City's Marina

Pickup from the hotel lobby this morning by a LiNGER representative.

Private transfer, around 2 hours to Belize City’s Cucumber Beach Marina to board your private catamaran. Indulge in this all-inclusive sailing adventure along the coast of Belize.

Catamaran Charter includes:

- A dedicated crew of Captain and Chef/First Mate
- Gourmet Meals, including Breakfast, Lunch, Canapés, Dinner, and Dessert
- Open Ship's Bar, including Beers, Rum Cocktails, and Wine with dinner (just a heads-up: Your bar will be stocked with coffee, juice, local beer, local rums, table wine (limited to one bottle per couple per day), mixers, sodas, and water)*
- Elegantly appointed air-conditioned Queen Cabins with ensuite facilities (you will have access to 4 guest cabins, and the 5th cabin is reserved for the crew.)
- Equipment for fishing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and snorkelling
- Complimentary Road Transfers from the Belize International Airport to the marina and back

(Excludes ASA Sailing Courses, crew gratuity, and off-boat activities such as restaurant dining, scuba diving, specialty fishing, spa treatments, or pickup/drop-off from/to other locations. Additional spirits are available for purchase beforehand or at duty free at the Belize Airport).

*Imported spirits, such as gin, tequila, vodka, and whiskey, can be purchased at the Duty-Free border crossing when you cross from Guatemala to Belize. Otherwise, you can purchase alcohol from any store in Belize. Your driver will be happy to stop at one of these stores along the way if you ask him.

After a welcome orientation and safety briefing, sail to to Bluefield Range. Bluefield Range is a mangrove cluster teeming with wildlife which makes for a fantastic kayaking destination. Kayak through the tiny channels, look out for manatees and even take some bait and a fishing line and see if you can catch dinner.

Introducing the Cayes of Belize

The Belizean Cayes are a tropical paradise of over 400 small islands dotting the Caribbean Sea, each offering unique charm and natural beauty. From vibrant Ambergris Caye, known for its lively town of San Pedro and proximity to the barrier reef, to laid-back Caye Caulker with its “go-slow” vibe, the cayes are perfect for diving, snorkeling, and relaxing beachside. Smaller, more secluded islands like South Water Caye and Tobacco Caye provide intimate getaways with pristine reefs and abundant marine life, making Belize’s cayes a haven for beach lovers, adventure seekers, and nature enthusiasts.

Sailing in the Belizean Cayes

Set your sights on new horizons daily, including three of the four major atolls in the Caribbean, while your crew takes care of your every need: Preparing and serving gourmet hors d'oeuvres and exotic libations, catching seafood for your dinner, launching kayaks, taking you snorkelling, and so much more! Your catamaran comes with 2 Stand-up-paddleboards, 2 two-person kayaks, fishing gear, and beach and snorkelling gear.

Please note that the itinerary is flexible; the places we have featured within our itinerary provides a good overview of what can be included on your cruise. The trade winds typically blow in from the east, ensuring the ultimate sailing conditions to navigate north or south along the coast. The itinerary is therefore determined by weather conditions, sailing conditions, guest preferences, and the whims and ideas of the captain.

Tobacco Caye

As the sun comes up over the barrier reef you will be sailing south to Tobacco Caye. Tobacco Caye is a 5-acre palm-fringed coral island perched on the barrier reef, which makes it a great place to snorkel or dive from the shore, plus its central location means it is within 10 minutes by boat to some of the best snorkel sites in all of Belize. There are a couple of small laid-back resorts and a tiny beach bar serving fresh coconut water and icy cold rum cocktails with hammocks to lounge in. 39 local islanders call this rock their home and it’s a great place to learn about their way of remote island life.

Colson Cayes

A magical location for nature's wonders, Colson Cayes is a collection of mangrove islands with a couple of small sandy inlets, attracting manatees, dolphins and a wide array of birds. The ultimate draw of the location is the Colson Reef, which is a large patch reef in front of the Cayes where we can spend hours snorkelling. With a wonderful variety of corals, hard and soft, sea rods and fans, and vibrant red sponges, this is some of the healthiest reef seen in Belize due to its remote and untouched location.

Goff's Caye & Bannister

Sail to Goff’s Caye – one of our favourite islands because it reminds us why postcards were invented. This 2-acre island sits right on the barrier reef so you can snorkel straight from the shore, or simply relax in the water on the sandbar. Sail up to Bannister Bogue, a mangrove collection of islands that are home to manatees, dolphins, multiple bird species and other marine life. Manatees, which are also known as ‘sea cows’ are gentle, slow moving, plant-eating herbivores and their closest living relatives are elephants and aardvarks. They can grow over 13 feet in length and weigh up to 3,500 pounds. Despite being an endangered species, manatees are present in the waters of Belize and can be seen throughout the year. (Please note it is not possible to swim with the Manatees and seeing them is not guaranteed).

Transfer to Belize City Airport

It's time to bid farewell to island life today as you head back to the marina at Old Belize and disembark. Transfer by road to Belize City International Airport, a drive of approx. 20 mins. Check in for your international flight home.