Belize Lighthouse Reef Adventure - 7 Days

Day 1: Arrive in Belize, Travel to Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary

When you arrive at Belize International Airport, a representative will meet you and welcome you to the country. You'll be transported to the Bird's Eye View Lodge in the Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary. The sanctuary, with its swamps, wetlands, and four lagoons, provides an ideal resting place for thousands of migrating and resident birds.

After checking into your accommodations, you'll have a chance to meet your fellow travelers, enjoy a meal, and, if time permits, explore Crooked Tree Village, which is one of Belize's oldest Creole settlements. Take some time to get acclimated to the tropical environment around you, and then enjoy dinner at the lodge.

Day 2: Transfer via Old Belize Road & Boat to Half Moon Caye Base Camp

Good Morning! Coffee will be served at sunrise. With your binoculars in hand, you'll enjoy the sounds and sights of the awakening wilderness. There are usually several hundred birds of many species feeding in front of the lodge along the shores of the Crooked Tree lagoons. After a healthy Belizean breakfast, you'll embark by boat to explore the surrounding areas. Throughout this adventure, you'll have access to exceptional birding and wildlife viewing opportunities. You can expect to spot turtles, parrots, ibis, Morelet's crocodiles, and iguanas—just to name a few species.

Weather permitting, later in the morning, you'll be driven along Old Belize Road to the seashore, where you'll board a motor charter. This charter takes you through white-sand cayes, mangrove ranges, and beyond the main Barrier Reef to Lighthouse Reef Atoll, which is located at the furthest edge of the Belizean Reef System—55 miles (88 km) offshore of the mainland.

Upon reaching Half Moon Caye, your guide team will get you acquainted with your new island setting and help you settle into your accommodations. You'll enjoy a late lunch and an afternoon snorkeling or kayaking session. Then, the evening will be at your leisure.

Day 3: Paddle & Explore Lighthouse Reef Atoll

Due to its isolated location from the mainland, the waters of Lighthouse Reef Atoll are exceptionally clear, with inspiring scenery and a rich reef system. This ecosystem offers some of the best kayaking, snorkeling, and diving in the Caribbean. To begin, your guides will provide professional instruction—teaching you the fundamentals of sea kayaking, snorkeling, and safety in the waters of the tropics.

Then, the day is yours to enjoy. Feel free to take part in one or several activities around the reef, so you can get the most out of exploring the marine ecosystem.

Day 4: Explore Surrounding Reef Systems

Today, you'll have many options to explore, including a shipwreck, which looms just north of the caye. In 1971, a ship named the Ermlund lost power during a storm and was deposited on the reef by a large wave. This 4,000-ton wreck rests silently as a landmark and is one of many shipwrecks in the area. It serves as a constant reminder of the navigational hazards in these waters.

You'll also have ample opportunities to learn from your guides about the marine reef ecology, the island's mangrove, and the interior forest habitat. This area of the park consists of 45 acres. Many species of birds nest on the island, including a red-footed booby colony of 4,000. The Audubon Society has built a series of viewing platforms to intimately observe the many nesting sites.

You'll also have the option to hang out in a hammock with a good book and a cold beverage, too. Enjoy the activities offered by the caye and the evening at your leisure.

Day 5: Aquarium Snorkel & Half Moon Wall Excursion

The "aquarium" is today's big adventure. You'll pack a hearty lunch and your snorkel gear in the provided kayaks and paddle with motor support to this lively location. This dive spot is known for its abundance of fish and towering coral formations. Snorkeling in the aquarium is a favorite activity of visitors.

After your excursion, you'll return home, stopping at the Half Moon Wall for a drifting snorkeling session over the undersea cliff of the atoll. As you float—or drift—along the sea surface using your snorkel gear, you'll have an opportunity to view the vibrant underwater world that lies beneath.

When you get back to the caye, relax and enjoy the evening on your own time.

Day 6: Paddle & Snorkel at Long Caye

Today, you'll paddle along the protected waters of the Southern Reef toward Long Caye. At this location, you'll have a chance to snorkel in some of the atoll's best patch reefs. After a full day of exploring, you'll return just in time for a fresh seafood feast prepared by the Half Moon Caye cooks.

Then, you'll have one last evening to enjoy Half Moon Caye before you leave for your final stop in the morning. 

Day 7: Transfer to Belize City, Depart

For your last morning at Lighthouse Reef Atoll, the choice is yours. Snorkel around your favorite patch of reefs, walk the island trails, swing in a hammock, or beach comb along the pristine island beaches.

After lunch, a motor charter will arrive, and you'll begin to prepare for your trip back to the mainland. This return journey takes you through Turneffe atoll, across the Great Belize Barrier Reef, and you'll arrive in Belize City by late afternoon in time for your departure.

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