Headed to Belize for 10 Days? Savor this 10 Day Belize Itinerary!
Embarking on a 10-day Belize adventure with this Belize itinerary which offers the perfect blend of beachfront bliss and thrilling mainland exploration. Spend four nights in the vibrant island town of San Pedro, followed by four nights at the enchanting Drift Inn Cayo on the mainland. With leisure days on arrival and departure, this itinerary ensures ample time to immerse yourself in the wonders of Belize. Get ready for an unforgettable journey!
Days 1-4: San Pedro Island Retreat
Upon arrival, take a leisurely day to unwind and soak up the sun on San Pedro’s stunning beaches. Relax at Drift Inn Belize, your cozy beachfront retreat, and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere. Stroll along the shoreline, indulge in fresh seafood at local eateries, and savor tropical cocktails as the sun sets.
On day two, set off on a full-day snorkeling excursion to the famous Great Blue Hole, a world-renowned underwater sinkhole teeming with marine life. Dive into crystal-clear waters, marvel at colorful coral formations, and swim alongside majestic creatures such as nurse sharks and stingrays. You can snorkel this site or dive it. As another option, you could use this day for a fishing trip or a day sailing trip!
Spend day three exploring the town’s charming streets and vibrant culture. Visit the Belizean Melody Art Gallery, explore local shops, and indulge in delicious Belizean cuisine. Spend the afternoon unwinding at Secret Beach, a hidden gem with serene waters and picturesque surroundings. You can book a boat trip to get there or rent a golf cart! There are restaurants and bars there, but you’ll want a few beverages for the trip out there (about 45 minutes).
Day four offers the opportunity to dive deeper into San Pedro’s underwater wonders. Take a half-day snorkeling trip to Hol Chan Marine Reserve and Shark Ray Alley. Swim among mesmerizing coral reefs and encounter incredible marine species, including friendly nurse sharks and graceful stingrays. If you want to make it a full day, opt for a day sailing trip to Caye Caulker with snorkel stops at Hol-Chan. You’ll spend lunch time at the sister island to San Pedro and relax awhile on this small caye before headed back to San Pedro.
San Pedro Restaurant Recommendations
Budget-Friendly:
El Fogon: Indulge in authentic Belizean cuisine without breaking the bank. Try their flavorful stewed chicken or savory rice and beans.
Sandy Toes Beach Bar & Grill: Enjoy beachfront dining with reasonably priced seafood dishes, tasty appetizers, and refreshing drinks while admiring the stunning ocean views.
Sandbar Beachfront Restaurant: Unwind with your favorite drink during their lively happy hour, enjoying the laid-back ambiance and beachfront setting. Great value for money and pizzas!
Mid-Range:
Elvi’s Kitchen: A beloved San Pedro institution serving mouthwatering seafood and Belizean specialties. Don’t miss their famous conch fritters and delectable lobster dishes.
Blue Water Grill: With a diverse menu featuring fresh seafood, grilled meats, and vegetarian options, this waterfront restaurant offers a delightful dining experience with a touch of elegance.
Purple Pelican: Enjoy a memorable dining experience at this lagoon front restaurant, offering a fusion of international and Belizean cuisine paired with stunning views of the island.
Days 5-9: Mainland Adventures at Drift Inn Cayo
Transfer to Drift Inn Cayo, your gateway to thrilling mainland adventures. Spend the day settling into the charming accommodation nestled amidst lush greenery. Enjoy the serene ambiance and embrace the beauty of the surrounding nature. It takes roughly 5 hours to transfer between San Pedro and Cayo if taking the cheapest route of the water taxi and the local bus. You can also use a tour to make your way to the area by booking a trip with pick-up/drop-off! You could stop by the Belize Zoo or do a zip-line or cave tubing trip enroute.
On day six, embark on an unforgettable exploration of the majestic Mayan ruins at Xunantunich. Marvel at the intricate architecture of the ancient structures and ascend to the top of El Castillo for panoramic views of the Belizean jungle. This day can also be paired with zip-lining or cave tubing if you didn’t do it the previous day. If not, make your way to San Ignacio town and explore the quaint town. If you want dinner recommendations, we suggest Guava Limb or The Aguada.
Day seven presents an opportunity to discover the mesmerizing Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM) Cave. Traverse through underground chambers, marvel at crystalline formations, and witness ancient Mayan artifacts, including human sacrificial remains. This extraordinary experience offers a glimpse into Belize’s rich cultural and historical heritage. This cave exploration trip may be the most exciting, interesting tour you’ve been on! You’ll want to bring socks, water shoes, and be sure to have a t-shirt or cover up. You cannot enter the sacred Mayan grounds in just a swimsuit.
Day eight allows for a relaxing escape amidst the natural wonders. Opt for an adventurous trip out to see the pristine rivers, immersing yourself in the lush surroundings and enjoying the gentle currents. You can do this through a tour or independently with a rental car. One of our favorite destinations to be in nature is at Rio Pools in the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve. You can find waterfalls, caves, and other beautiful sights on a day out in Mountain Pine Ridge.
San Ignacio area Restaurant Recommendations
Budget-Friendly:
Pop’s Belizean Restaurant: Delight in authentic Belizean flavors at Pop’s, offering budget-friendly dishes like stewed chicken, rice and beans, and hearty Belizean breakfasts.
Ko-Ox Han Nah: This cozy restaurant serves affordable Maya and Belizean cuisine, featuring dishes like traditional tamales, garnaches, and hearty stews.
Mid-Range:
Guava Limb Restaurant & Café: Discover a fusion of Belizean and international flavors at Guava Limb. Enjoy their creative menu featuring fresh seafood, Belizean-inspired pastas, and vegetarian options in a charming setting.
The Aguada Restaurant: Experience the flavors of Belize at The Aguada, offering a blend of local and international dishes. Try their Belizean buffet, grilled meats, and refreshing tropical drinks while enjoying the picturesque river views.
Hode’s Place: Known for their delicious barbecue and Belizean classics, Hode’s Place offers a relaxed atmosphere and a menu featuring grilled meats, seafood, and tasty side dishes.
Day 10: Farewell to Belize
Relish your last day in Belize with leisure time to relax and reflect on your incredible journey. Take a peaceful nature walk near Drift Inn Cayo, unwind by the pool, or simply savor the tranquility of the surroundings.
On your final day, bid farewell to Belize, cherishing the memories of your island and mainland explorations. Depart with a sense of awe and gratitude for the diverse experiences this remarkable country has offered.
10 Day Belize Itinerary Conclusion
A 10-day adventure in Belize, with four nights in San Pedro and four nights on the mainland at Drift Inn Cayo, promises the perfect balance of island relaxation and thrilling mainland exploration. Immerse yourself in vibrant underwater worlds, uncover ancient Mayan ruins, and embrace the natural wonders of Belize. This unforgettable journey will leave you with cherished memories and a profound appreciation for the beauty and diversity of this incredible country.
Visiting Belize? Stay with Drift Inn
Are you ready for an adventure in Belize? Look no further than Drift Inn. Our comfortable and affordable accommodations provide all the necessities for your trip, including premium mattresses, private bathrooms, A/C, hot water, and WIFI. Plus, our convenient location on the island or in Cayo puts you just steps away from the beach and easy access to all major tour sites.
But we don’t just offer a place to rest your head. Drift Inn is a community of travelers who live to explore and make new connections. Our staff can organize tours and excursions, from trips to the Blue Hole to golf cart or car rental. And with opportunities to meet other guests at the bar, participating in tours, and gathering for live music, you’ll never be short of company. So, book your stay with Drift Inn and start planning your Belizean dream adventure today.