Published 28th Jun. 2021
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Guatemala and Belize are two classic Central American destinations, and make for one of the best country combos on the Original Travel books.
Gum's the word
When I visited Guatemala and Belize on a recent research trip, both exceeded expectations and I can see why they are such popular luxury holiday destinations. One particularly special place was Uaxactun in Guatemala, a small village and eponymous archaeological site about 45 minutes down a bumpy track from Tikal. Believe it or not, the tiny village was put on the map by Wrigley's chewing gum, who built an airstrip there back in the 1930s to export the tree sap which was then made into gum. Now that we chew synthetic stuff, the airstrip is a grazing area for horses, but the villagers still make a living exporting the natural chewing gum to Japan.
A Unique experience
Back to the point, I was lucky to be able to try out a completely new trip here - camping at a Mayan site. Organised in cahoots with the local community, who have helped with the carpentry, cooking and general maintenance of the site, this is far from your standard tent and sleeping bag set up. The tents are big enough to stand in, with carpeted floors, proper beds and even bedside lamps. The showers and loos are fully functioning and very well kept and at nightfall hundreds of candles are lit all over the site which is pretty magical. Dinner was even served at the foot of an ancient temple, that too covered in candles. Of course there are bugs, so this might not be everyone's cup of tea, but it's a pretty unique thing to do.
Belize diversity
Next stop Belize. Slightly out of place in Central America as the only English speakers, this little country punches well above its weight when it comes to diversity. To add to the great jungle lodges and yet more Mayan ruins, Belize has first class Caribbean beaches and incredible diving, and I can recommend no better way of ending a trip to the region than with a few nights relaxing at one of many excellent hotels on Ambergris Cay.
Contact Original Travel
Beautiful Belize is a dinky Central American nation home to world-class snorkelling and diving, diverse wildlife and jungle-clad ruins. Whether you’re eager to explore the world’s second-largest barrier reef or delve into ancient Mayan culture on a temple tour, we’ll tailor every aspect of your trip to suit you. Belize is a great family-friendly destination, so little adventurers (and adults, too) can enjoy the likes of rural horse rides, cave tubing and wildlife walks. Be it a beachfront hotel or a remote jungle lodge, we work with a range of properties perfect for families, couples and solo travellers alike.
ENQUIRE NOWPractical advice and inspiration for your next trip
On a recent trip to Belize, our head of PR, Rebecca enjoyed a true tropical adventure. She explored the paradisical Placencia Peninsula, enjoyed some R&R in the resort town of San Ignatio and sampled an array of epic activities: snorkelling over colourful coral reefs, a scenic flight over the iconic Blue Hole, climbing the ancient Mayan temple of Xunantunich and hand rolling tortillas and chocolate.
31st October 2023 - Belize Travel Tips
Despite Belize’s pocket-sized proportions, the Central American marvel packs a punch when it comes to encounters of the wild kind. Tucked between Mexico and Guatemala, the nation only just exceeds Wales in terms of size, yet its dense jungle landscape and superlative barrier reef play host to all manner of flora, fauna and marine life. Tropical forest engulfs about 60% of the country, while over a quarter of its total land area is designated to conservation through a network of national parks and nature reserves; it’s no wonder that wildlife thrives here.
13th January 2023 - Belize Safari & Wildlife
Belcampo Belize Belcampo Belize is a luxurious eco-lodge with 12 private cabanas that open into the heart of the Belizean jungle. The rooms at Belcampo Belize are elegantly furnished with sitting area, terracotta floors, vaulted ceilings, floor to ceiling windows and a terrace with hammocks that make the most of the stunning views of the rainforest. The showers also have floor to ceiling glass, so guests never miss a wildlife spotting opportunity.
28th June 2021 - Belize Hotels
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