The Mountain Pine Ridge, virtually uninhabited, is a range of rolling hills, peaks, and gorges. The limestone geology and natural water courses produced an area rich in caves, the highest waterfall in Central America, and unusual tropical flora. The look, and characteristically the wildlife, is different. Home to the rare orange-breasted falcon.
Pook's Hill Lodge www.pookshilllodge.com (2 nights)

Cayo- Western Belize

Traveling west from the coast you arrive in the Cayo area. The foothills of the Mayan Mountains, along the Macal River, are our lodging and activity site for several days. This is a beautiful area - many Belizeans claim “the west is best”. The Natural History and Butterfly Breeding Center, located on lodge grounds, is a great introduction to the geology, geography, flora and fauna of Belize. Also nearby is the world famous Panti Medicine Trail, developed by Dr. Rosita Arvigo, and utilized by ethnobotanists studying the medicinal properties of tropical forest vegetation. Miles of trails are developed for hiking and the river is ideal for swimming and canoeing. Nearby are the ruins of Xuantunich, accessed by a hand cranked ferry, and Chumpiate Cave, an important ceremonial site and entryway to the Maya underworld. After a day of adventure you may choose to refresh at the spa.
The Lodge at Chaa Creek www.chaacreek.com (3 nights)

Caracol Archaeological Site, Belize

Deep in the Maya Mountains isolated wilderness lays the ancient city of Caracol. Thought to be the most extensive of Central American Mayan sites, the recent work by the University of Central Florida Drs. Arlen and Diane Chase began in 1985. Recorded dates suggest an extremely long occupation and new information of a strong middle class. Excellent birding in adjacent forest.

Tikal Archaeological Site, Guatemala

Tikal, just beyond the Belize border, is the most famous and extensively excavated of the Mayan temple cities. The site is 25 square miles with 3000 structures. We will visit the primary plazas. There are excellent opportunities for wildlife observations as many of the birds and mammals are acclimated to visitors and the area has long had protected status.

Parque Nueva Juventud Volunteer Peten, Guatemala

Director and founder Matthew Peters initiated the Parque Ecologico Nueva Juventud in San Andreas, Guatemala while serving as a Peace Corps volunteer. The program has grown to include Volunteer Peten a non-profit organization to aid development work in Guatemala by training international volunteers to design and implement sustainable projects. Activities include women's handcrafts, trails and birding, visiting ruins, visiting schools, volunteering in the park - a true ecotourism experience. We stay in a nearby inn, (or choose a hammock!).
www.volunteerpeten.com (2 nights)

Ambergris Caye Optional Extension

Submerged in the sea, just off the coast, is 200 miles of spectacular coral reef. Hol Chan Marine Park, dedicated in 1987, is a world heritage site, an underwater sanctuary for over 220 species of fish and a myriad of marine life, including bold corals and sponges. Hundreds of small cayes (islands) dot these coastal waters. There are snorkeling sites and fishing opportunities to accommodate any skill level, visits to seabird rookeries, and the eclectic village of San Pedro. (3 nights)

Please see Reservation Information for trip included/not-included details.