11 day Mexico, Belize and Guatemala Walk Highlights
11-Day Mexico, Belize, and Guatemala Walk Highlights – A Pack Free Guided Walking Tour by Life’s An Adventure
Life’s An Adventure invites you on an 11-day Pack Free guided walking tour that showcases the best of Mexico, Belize, and Guatemala. This thrilling journey through the heart of Central America blends natural wonders, ancient history, and vibrant cultures to create an unforgettable experience. Designed to give you a taste of everything this region has to offer, the tour takes you from the pristine waters of the Caribbean to the highlands of Guatemala, with each day unveiling a new adventure.
Begin in Mexico, where you’ll explore the stunning Yucatan Peninsula, famous for its crystal-clear cenotes and ancient Mayan ruins. Snorkel in the turquoise waters of the Caribbean, encountering colourful coral reefs and diverse marine life. As you continue to Belize, discover lush jungles teeming with wildlife and visit the impressive ruins of Mayan temples, where history comes to life through the stories of this ancient civilisation.
In Guatemala, immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of Lake Atitlán, surrounded by volcanic peaks and traditional Mayan villages. Walk the trails that wind through this stunning landscape, capturing panoramic views and encountering the local culture along the way. The adventure continues with a hike up an active volcano, providing awe-inspiring views from the summit. Wander the cobblestone streets of the colonial city of Antigua, where colourful markets, charming architecture, and rich history create an atmosphere of timeless beauty.
This Life’s An Adventure walking tour is designed with comfort and flexibility in mind. Each day’s itinerary allows you to choose the pace of your adventure, with private transfers ensuring a seamless experience. Luxurious accommodations have been handpicked to enhance your journey, offering charming boutique hotels and resorts that provide both comfort and character. Relax each evening in beautiful settings, where you can unwind after a day of exploration.
Delight in the “wow-mazing” inclusions that elevate this tour beyond just walking. Enjoy hands-on cultural experiences, from tasting regional delicacies to exploring vibrant local markets. Indulge in delectable cuisine that reflects the diverse flavours of each country, complemented by unforgettable dining experiences that bring the tastes of Central America to life.
The 11-day Mexico, Belize, and Guatemala walking tour by Life’s An Adventure is more than just a holiday—it’s a journey through the rich cultural tapestry and natural wonders of Central America. Whether you’re exploring ancient temples, trekking volcanic slopes, or relaxing by the shores of Lake Atitlán, each moment offers a new discovery, creating lasting memories of this captivating region. Join us on this Pack Free adventure and experience the very best of Mexico, Belize, and Guatemala.
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A Pack-Free Walk
Carry as little as your water, camera and lunch
This walk is designed as a Pack-Free walking experience, allowing our guests to fully enjoy the landscapes they traverse without the burden of carrying a heavy pack. After all, walks should be enjoyed, not endured. Each day, our guests will walk with a small day pack, big enough to carry essentials such as lunch, water, and a camera. Meanwhile, your larger bags will be conveniently transported to your accommodation each day.
Snorkel in Cenote Sac Actun
Wow-mazing Inclusion
On the first day of the tour, you will get to snorkel in one of the largest underwater cave systems in the world at the Sac Actun Cenote. A Cenote is a blue water hole found in the Yucatan Peninsula and are known for the Crystal-Clear water.
Snorkeling on Belize's Barrier Reef
Wow-mazing Inclusion
Belize has the largest Barrier Reef in the Northern Hemisphere. During our visit to Caye Caulker Snorkel at the Barrier reef in Caye Caulker. You will get to see colourful coral and fish, and you will get the chance to swim with nursing sharks and rays.
Canoe Through Barton Creek
Wow-mazing Inclusion
Barton Creek is a stunning river cave, with turquoise blue waters. You will get to take a canoe through the cave for a gentle ride surrounded by beautiful cave formations. It is also known for the archaeological finds, from ancient Mayan pottery to human skeletons. The Local guide will tell you all about the natural and Mayan history in cave while you journey through.
Visit Ancient Mayan Cities
Wow-mazing Inclusion
On this tour you visit Tikal, the largest recovered Mayan City covering over 130 square kilometres, with impressive structures and rich history, surrounded by lush jungle.
Exclusive Chichicastenango Market Tour
Wow-mazing Inclusion
A local shaman guide will take you around the Chichicastenango market showing you all it has to offer. it is not only known for the endless supply of unique artisanal Guatemalan items, but there are also immersive cultural experiences that are a must do. Your Shaman guide will tell you all about rituals, and produce found on the market, making it extra memorable.
Pacaya volcano hike and lava pizza
Wow-mazing Inclusion
You will visit the Pacaya volcano, where you’ll embark on a hike led by an expert guide up this impressive active volcano. As an added treat, you’ll even have the opportunity to try lava oven pizza during your excursion.
Stay in stunning Boutique Hotels
A highlight of your journey will be our handpicked unique accommodations. We choose only the best boutique hotels in the area, in the most stunning locations.
Flexible walks
Most walks on this tour are of easy or moderate difficulty. We take into account all walking paces and skill levels, the walks offer natural enjoyment and cultural enrichment, while challenging you the right amount. With some of the more difficult walks you can always opt for easier options.
Superb Guides and Support
Guides are essential in delivering the ultimate walking experience. You’ll be accompanied by local expert guides with passion and enthusiasm for the area and a second host guide one of our experienced Senior Guides from Australia who will accompany you for the entire trip ensuring we deliver a world-class walk up to our high standards.
Fabulous meals featuring local produce
On this walk you will indulge in superb dining with perfectly matched wines. We visit local’s favourite restaurants, and you will get to experience a variety of cuisines as you traverse the continent. All hotels where we dine have expert chefs allowing you to enjoy fabulous dinners from the comfort of your hotel. Join local chefs in Suchitoto, and make your own Pupusas, a local delicacy filled with cheese.
Personalised Tours
All tours are small and intimate with a maximum group size of 12 people. However, if you have a bigger group please contact us for details.
To find out more click on any of the below links:
Why Choose Us
Tour Itinerary
Your 11-day holiday includes:
- Pack-Free fully supported walk with no heavy packs to carry
- Flexible walking options and activities each day
- Professional and passionate guides
- Knowledgeable local experts during every tour
- All transfers including private boats, ferries, and a domestic flight
- Access to all National Parks
- All tours are private for our group
Superb Boutique hotels
- 1 night at Rancho Encantado, Bacalar Mexico
- 2 nights at Island Magic Beach Resort, Belize
- 7 nights in Guatemala
Wow-mazing Experiences
- Guided Snorkeling at Sac Actun Cenote
- Kayak on Bacalar 7 colored Lagoon
- Guided snorkeling at barrier reef Caye Caulker (multiple locations)
- Guided canoe cave tour Barton Creek
- Tour of the ancient Mayan city of Tikal
- Short weaving class San Juan
- Shaman tour of Chichicastenango market
- Visit active volcanoes
- Colonial towns and city tour
Local produce & wine
- Complimentary wines with evening meals
- 10 x superb dinners every evening featuring local produce
- 10 x delicious lunches
- 10 x breakfasts
Guests will need to organise their own flights to Cancun Mexico (a major international airport) the day prior to the tour.
RECOMMENDED PRE-NIGHT: We suggest staying at the Westin Resort in Cancun, where our pick-up will be arranged. Other hotels in Cancun are also convenient, but ensure you are at Westin Resort before meeting time.
MEETING DETAILS: Meet your guides at 7.45 am in the foyer of the Westin Resort & Spa in Cancun. The resort is located close to the airport on the main beach of Cancun. Make sure you arrive at the hotel before 7.45 am, to ensure no delays take place.
WALK: No scheduled walks today, enjoy the beauty of Mexico’s Riviera Maya, with only small walking sections to and from the blue water cenote, Sac Actun.
ITINERARY: Meet your guides in the lobby of The Westin Resort & Spa in Cancun at 7:45 am for your first transfer of the day to the El Sueño Cenote. After an approximately 2-hour drive, you will arrive at this stunning blue-hole cenote. At Sac Actun, marvel at the cave formations and crystal-clear blue water that makes you feel as if you’re floating through space. The Sac Actun Cenote is part of an underwater cave system that stretches nearly 400 kilometres. After this magical swim and snorkel, head to Tulum for a traditional, high-quality Mexican lunch. After your belly is filled, transfer to Bacalar’s lagoon of 7 colours, where you’ll stay at Rancho Encantado, a beautiful boutique hotel with a touch of luxury overlooking the turquoise waters of the lake. Canoes are available at the hotel for stunning views of the lagoon and the sunset. A fine Mexican dinner will be served at the hotel, ensuring you are satisfied and ready for a good night’s rest.
WALK: Short orientation walk of Caye Caulker, easy, 2 kms, 1 hour
ITINERARY: This morning, we enjoy an early breakfast before embarking on a short transfer to Chetumal. From there, we journey by water to the Caribbean Island of Caye Caulker in Belize, with a brief stop en route at San Pedro. From the moment you arrive, you’ll be charmed by the islanders’ friendly and laid-back nature. Caye Caulker is a picturesque small island fringed with white sand beaches and palm trees, where bikes and golf carts are the only mode of transportation.
Upon arrival, you’ll head to Island Magic Beach Resort, a charming Caribbean hotel that will put you in the island spirit. Embrace the laid-back local vibe and take it easy today. Your guide will give you a short orientation tour of the island, highlighting the best places to relax. In the evening, enjoy local cuisine for dinner and continue to unwind and soak in the lively island atmosphere.
WALK: No scheduled walks today, enjoy the island life, and snorkel among the beautiful marine life and coral reefs
ITINERARY: In true island style, we’ll indulge in a late breakfast before embarking on a boat excursion to explore Belize’s renowned Barrier Reef, the largest in the Northern Hemisphere. Equipped with snorkelling gear, you’ll join our boat for a half-day subaquatic adventure. Prepare to explore coral reefs teeming with vibrant fish, with the possibility of encountering seahorses, turtles, and even manatees if you’re lucky. We’ll also make a brief stop at a shallow spot known as Shark Alley, where toothless gummy fish like to visit. Throughout the tour, fresh local fruits and water will be readily available.
Afterwards, we’ll return to land for a delicious lunch, offering the perfect opportunity to savour more of the local cuisine. The remainder of the day is yours to explore the island further, take a dip in the hotel pool, or browse the local island shops. In the evening, we come together as a group to relish another dinner featuring island delights such as crayfish or Creole cuisine, all accompanied by fine wine.
WALK: Today you will walk short sections around Barton Creek Cave, most will be explored by canoe, easy grade.
ITINERARY: Today, after an early hotel breakfast, you’ll board the ferry at 7:30 am to Belize City on your way to Guatemala. Before crossing into “The Land of Eternal Spring,” you’ll explore some of Belize’s most impressive jungles. After a 1 hour and 50-minute transfer, a gentle canoe ride through a magical cave system with blue water and ancient Mayan artifacts awaits you. Your guides will provide a history lesson in this beautiful setting, followed by a traditional Belizean barbecue for lunch. Just over an hour away lies the Guatemalan border, where you’ll arrive at your luxury lakeside accommodation near the famous ancient city of Tikal. A locally sourced dinner at the hotel will conclude your journey to the beautifully diverse country of Guatemala, where you’ll spend the coming days.
WALK: Walk the massive ancient city of Tikal, easy grade, 5 km, 6 hours
ITINERARY: Wake-up call will be around 4 am today, and yes, it’s for a good reason. If your stomach isn’t ready for breakfast at this early hour, you can bring it with you on the way to the ancient Mayan capital of Tikal. At 6 am, you will set foot on the national park’s land, where an expert guide will lead you through this impressive site. The city of Tikal once spread over 130 square kilometers and housed at least 50,000 Mayans. The remains of the city center make for a wonderful 5-6 kilometer walk, offering views from several of the massive structures, some towering up to 65 meters high. As you explore, you’ll be captivated not only by the impressive architecture but also by the fascinating stories shared by your guide.
After immersing yourself in Mayan culture, you will enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in Tikal. The afternoon is free for you to take a much-needed rest, bathe in the lake, or participate in some of the hotel’s activities, such as canoeing and experiencing the Temascal. In the evening, a lovely dinner will be prepared before you can cover yourself in linen and fall asleep, ready for another early morning rise.
WALK: No scheduled walks today, relax and unwind from your travels today.
ITINERARY: Boarding time is 7:00 am for your flight to Guatemala City. We will leave the hotel at 5 am, bringing your breakfast along to enjoy at your convenience either at the airport or en route. After a short 1-hour flight to Guatemala City, you’ll be transferred to Panajachel where you’ll enjoy a short boat ride to you accommodation.
Lunch is served at La Casa del Mundo, which will be your home for the next three nights. After the early wake-up and travel, you’ve earned a rest, and the hotel offers all the amenities and views needed for a wonderfully relaxing afternoon. There’s no need to go anywhere for dinner; simply choose a seat and let the chefs take your taste buds on a delightful journey. In the evening, you can sit on the terrace and enjoy a few drinks while overlooking the lake before calling it a night.
WALK: Morning walk: 6 km, easy grade, 3 hours. Afternoon walk: leisurely walking tour of Santiago, 2-3 km, easy, 3 hours.
ITINERARY: Rise and shine with the sun’s reflection on the lake as you get ready for breakfast with a paradisiacal view around 7 am. After a hearty meal, you’ll take a short boat ride to your morning hike. You’ll walk from Santa Cruz to Jaibalito along the shores of Lake Atitlán, passing through small rural villages, grassy hills, cliffs, and diverse plant life. Lake Atitlán lies in the land of eternal spring, making the weather perfect for walking.
After your hike, you will cross the lake to Santiago, a colourful village that will immerse you in local culture and communities. Santiago, the largest town on Lake Atitlán, is known for its vibrant markets, scenic parks, picturesque churches, and welcoming people. Enjoy a lovely lunch at a local restaurant before continuing your exploration of the town with our local guide, learning more about what makes this area special. The final boat of the day will take you back to the hotel, where another delightful dinner awaits.
WALK: Morning walk: 6.1 km, medium grade, 4 hours. Afternoon walk: San Juan La Laguna, 2-3 km, easy grade, 3 hours.
ITINERARY: After breakfast, you leave by boat at 8 am to the start of the Indian Nose hike. The walk is challenging and requires a decent level of fitness, but the breathtaking views at the top will be a truly fitting reward. After marveling at the views of the lake and surrounding mountains, you will make your way back down the same path, beating the afternoon sun.
At the bottom, a boat will be waiting to take you to San Juan La Laguna. Upon arrival, you’ll enjoy a well-deserved lunch at another fantastic local establishment. After lunch, delve into the rich culture of this charming village, known for its vibrant art scene and traditional weaving techniques. Immerse yourself in the indigenous culture, visit local cooperatives, and admire stunning murals depicting Mayan heritage. Experience the beauty and cultural richness of Guatemala on this captivating journey through nature and tradition.
After the tour, you’ll return across the lake to La Casa del Mundo. Enjoy the terrace, dinner, and drinks until you’re ready for bed, then retire to your room for a restful night’s sleep.
WALK: Walking tour of markets, easy grade, 2-3 km, 4-5 hours with breaks
ITINERARY: After breakfast, you’ll enjoy an hour and 20-minute transfer to the Chichicastenango market, a must-visit destination in Guatemala and the largest craft market in Central America. Nestled in a small, colourful Mayan town, this vibrant market immerses you in local culture and offers the perfect opportunity to find unique souvenirs. Navigating this bustling market on your own wouldn’t do it justice, so another expert guide will accompany you, revealing all its hidden gems. Traditional Guatemalan cuisine awaits you for lunch, satisfying your taste buds with authentic flavours. The Shaman guide will show you some of the incredible rituals and cultural events that make the markets extra special.
Afterwards, we transfer to the world-famous colonial town of Antigua, where you’ll be welcomed to El Convento hotel for the next two nights. Indulge in another freshly made dinner at the hotel’s restaurant, setting the perfect scene for a memorable evening.
WALK: 5 km, moderate difficulty, 4 hours with breaks
ITINERARY: Today, after a communal breakfast, you’ll embark on the exhilarating challenge of climbing the active Pacaya volcano. Despite being only a 2.5 kilometre hike, Pacaya presents a challenging hike due to its steep incline and rugged terrain. As you ascend 500 meters from the starting point, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, adorned with towering volcanoes, green hills, valleys, and farmlands. After soaking in the panoramic views from the summit, you’ll head to a very special pizzeria. What sets this dining experience apart is the use of a pizza oven made of volcanic rock and magma. If you’ve never tried a pizza baked with lava before, you’re in for a treat, not to mention the views surrounding you while you enjoy your one-of-a-kind lunch.
The afternoon holds more adventures as you embark on a guided tour through Antigua, often referred to as a living museum of Spanish colonial history. The city’s colourful streets provide a delightful backdrop as your knowledgeable local guide narrates its incredibly interesting history. Enveloped by volcanic peaks and lush hills, the urban landscape offers endless captivating vistas to admire. Situated in a renowned coffee region, Antigua has much more to offer, and your guide will ensure you experience its highlights.
In the evening, you’ll return to your beautiful retreat for your last dinner with us, rounding off another memorable day of exploration and discovery.
ITINERARY: You’ll savour one last breakfast with us at your hotel in Antigua. After breakfast, you have the option to remain in Antigua and continue to explore the charming colonial town, or you can join the rest of the group heading to Guatemala City. Upon arrival in Guatemala City, we’ll take you to the Tikal Futura Hotel. You can easily reach the airport by taxi from here, as it’s only a 10-minute drive away. Alternatively, if you wish to extend your stay in Guatemala, you may do so at your own expense.
*If you wish to continue exploring, you can extend this tour to a 19-day adventure, which includes Honduras, El Salvador, and Guatemala. Alternatively, you can opt for a 31-day adventure that includes Honduras, El Salvador, Guatemala, Costa Rica, and Panama for a complete Central America experience.
19-day walk – CLICK HERE
31-day walk – CLICK HERE
Tour Accommodation
Rancho Encantado
Bacalar, Mexico
Stay at the beautiful Bacalar in Rancho Encantado, situated on the stunning Seven-Colored Lagoon. Rancho Encantado is a modern 4-star boutique resort, designed in a style that blends Spanish colonial and Mayan architecture. The resort is located right on the neon blue waters of the lake, and kayaks are included, allowing you to enjoy a breathtaking sunset on the water. Expert chefs will prepare your dinner, and breakfast will be provided the next morning.
Island Magic Beach Resort
Caye Caulker, Belize
Island Magic Beach Resort is located in the heart of the bustling, tropical island of Caye Caulker. It is close to turquoise beaches, quaint shops for souvenirs, and within walking distance of everything the island has to offer. The resort features a pool to help you cool off from the Belizean heat, with umbrellas providing protection from the sun’s UV rays.
El Camino Real Tikal
Péten, Guatemala
El Camino Real Tikal is a beautiful 4-star lodge nestled at the base of a jungle-covered hill, offering stunning views and direct access to Lake Flores. You will spend two nights here, giving you ample time to enjoy all the amenities: a lovely pool, kayaks for exploring the lake, a woodshop, and more. As always, food and drinks of the highest quality are included.
La Casa del Mundo
Lake Atitlán, Guatemala
This lovely hotel will be your home for three nights, located on the shores of Lake Atitlán. This charming hotel offers a restaurant, private beach, garden, terrace, and bar, providing a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Each room, built into the lake’s cliff sides, features traditional Mayan decorations and spectacular lake views, adding to the stunning scenery of the lake and surrounding mountainous landscape.
El Convento
Antigua, Guatemala
Another beautiful boutique hotel, featuring traditional Spanish architecture, will be your home for two nights. El Convento is designed in a circular layout, with all rooms surrounding a beautiful garden with serene water features, creating a calm oasis in the heart of the lively town of Antigua.
To find out more click on any of the below links:
Tour Availability
& On Sale Prices
Book and pay in full early and take advantage of these great savings…
- Super Earlybird Savings
Book now and Super Earlybirds SAVE $500 per person for guests who have travelled with us before and SAVE $400 per person for new guests. See pricing below.
NOTE: Prices displayed in the table are for first-time travellers, guests who have travelled with us before receive an additional $100 discount per person which will be applied once your email is entered in the booking.
DEPARTURE DATES:
We will run a departure once a year. We will also consider opening up a new departure date if we have enough demand. Email us at walks@lifesanadventure.com.au
PRIVATE GROUPS:
Date of your choice is available for groups of 8 people or more. Subject to availability.
Please contact us for more details on (02) 9975 4553 or email: walks@lifesanadventure.com.au
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INTERNATIONAL FLIGHTS:
Please note your tour price does not include flights to / from the countries visited. We are offering our clients a service to book their international flights and any other travel plans during their holiday. If you would like our Flights Specialist to organise these requirements, please email us at flights@lifesanadventure.com.au with your requirements.
PRIVATE GROUPS:
Departure date of your choice is subjective to availability. A minimum group size of 8 required. Prices are equal to Past Travellers’ discounted rates. Based on twin share – see details about Single Supplement and upgrade extras.
Please contact us for more details on (02) 9975 4553 or email: walks@lifesanadventure.com.au
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SOLO TRAVELLERS & EXTRAS:
The following extras can be purchased with your tour:</strong>
If you are a solo traveller willing to share a room, we will attempt to match you with another solo traveller of the same gender. If we can’t find you a match of the same gender by around 12 weeks prior to the tour, you will be charged the single supplement cost.
For those wanting to guarantee their own room, a single supplement cost will be charged at the time of booking.
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT: Please enquire for price
Sherpa to carry bags on day 4: Maximum of 15kilos – can be shared amongst 2-3 people. Add $320 per person
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BOOKING TERMS AND CONDITIONS
Before you book please read our Booking Terms and Conditions. Click here.
SALE TICKET CONDITIONS:
* Super Earlybird, Earlybird and Spot Special Sale Tickets: Must be paid in full at time of booking. Refunds or cancellations are not permitted for Sale Tickets however, transfers to another date are permitted 12 weeks or more prior to departure (a $200 change fee will be incurred). Taking out Travel insurance is compulsory for all International tours and will come in handy in case unexpected circumstances prior to the trip, prevent you from joining this tour. Early bird or Spot Special discounts cannot be used in conjunction with another offer. We have partnered with Cover-More to provide travel insurance to our guests. To get a quote or purchase travel insurance directly with them Click here. To receive these special discounts, full payment must be made at the time of initial booking. Flexiwalk Add-On option not available on these tickets.
* Those who have travelled with Life’s An Adventure previously, receive a past passenger discount of $100. If booking online the discount appears when you enter your email address in the booking details, any issues contact our reservations staff.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
* Prices are per person in Australian dollars and include GST.
* A deposit of $500 per person is required to secure your booking. (unless taking advantage of Earlybird or Spot Specials in which full payment is required at time of booking).
* Note: If you are booking within 90 days of your departure date – we will require full payment at the time of booking
* Prices are based on twin share of rooms. If you are travelling solo you may be required to share with someone of the same gender. If this is not suitable you can request to pay a single supplement, however, limited single rooms are available per trip so are on a request basis.
* Card fees apply or contact us for bank transfer payment options. The following fees apply. Australian Credit Cards including Visa and Mastercard 1% +$0.20 per transaction, International Credit Cards including Visa and Mastercard 3.4% + $0.30 per transaction (payments in AUD). International clients can enquire with us about bank transfers in your own currency to avoid transaction fees.
* Payments must be made online via our secure payment page via credit card (Visa or Mastercard) or over the phone.
* Taking out Travel Insurance is compulsory for all international tours to cover items such as cancellation of tour due to minimum numbers not met, or adverse weather conditions, injury, evacuation, delayed flights, illness, etc. Click here
* Credit for cancelled activities. If a tour activity has been cancelled due to unforeseen circumstances a credit for this missed activity can be applied to any future bookings. Click here.
To find out more click on any of the below links:
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