Your journey begins in Belize, unwind on the island of Caye Caulker before diving into Garifuna culture with an immersive drumming experience at Palmento Grove. Continue your exploration at Belize’s Tropical Education Centre, where you’ll encounter diverse wildlife. The adventure deepens as you venture into the mystical Crystal Maiden caves in the lush Cayo jungle.
Entering Guatemala, discover the ancient ruins of Tikal, the serene Petén Lake, and the charming Flores Island. Journey through the turquoise rivers of Semuc Champey, wander the Mayan market and ceremonies of Chichicastenengo and soak in the breathtaking views of Lake Atitlán. Your expedition concludes in the colonial town of Antigua, with optional ascents of the majestic Acatenango or Pacaya volcanoes.
Extend your adventure with extra nights in Antigua Guatemala, where you can embark on guided treks to the majestic Pacaya or Acatenango Volcano for an unforgettable finale. Please carefully read this article before making your decision on whether or not to do the Acatenango Trek.
Notes on Coordination & Availability:
Overlanding is your gateway to discovering hidden gems and making extraordinary connections in off-the-beaten-path destinations. It’s an adventure that calls for physical and mental readiness, flexibility, and an open mind.
As part of the adventure, expect some flexibility. Travelling through remote areas and navigating unpredictable border crossings may lead to adjustments in stops, accommodations, activities, and meals. Please note that the described driving hours are estimates and do not include time for activities, meals, or border crossings. They can also be affected by road closures or other unforeseen conditions.
Before booking, be sure to check out our Frequently Asked Questions Page, where we address possible scenarios you might encounter.
Recommended Arrival Airport: Belize City International Airport (BZE). 🇧🇿
Arrival Airport Transfer: To get to our joining hotel on Caye Caulker, you will need to take a taxi from BZE airport to the Belize City water taxi terminal, and then a ferry to the island. 🚕🛥️ To avoid any hassle with local drivers and ferry tickets, we highly recommend adding our Pre-arranged Airport-to-Island Transfer Service ($60 USD per person) during your booking process.
Your First Night: Your first night in Caye Caulker is included! 🏨 You can arrive at any time during the day to check in, drop your bags, and start enjoying the island’s “Go Slow” vibes. 🌴🏝️
Welcome Meeting & Dinner: We officially kick off the expedition with an essential Welcome Meeting at 4:30 PM at the hostel’s reception on Day 1, followed immediately by our Welcome Dinner. 🍽️✨ Please ensure your flight and ferry timings allow you to arrive at the accommodation before 5:00 PM.
Last Night Included / Tour Ends: At our ending hotel, located in the heart of Antigua Guatemala. 🏨🇬🇹
Recommended Departure Airport: La Aurora International Airport (GUA) in Guatemala City. ✈️
Departure Airport Transfer: To get from Antigua to the GUA airport, we highly recommend booking a shared shuttle van directly through our hotel front desk upon arrival. 🚐 Alternatively, a private taxi can be arranged for around $50 USD. 🚕
| DAY | ACCOMMODATION | BREAKFAST | LUNCH | DINNER | DRIVING HOURS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DAY 1 | HOTEL | 0.8 h | |||
| DAY 2 | HOTEL | 4.0 h | |||
| DAY 3 | HOSTEL | CG | 4.5 h | ||
| DAY 4 | HOSTEL | IN | |||
| DAY 5 | CAMP | IN | IN | IN | 3.0 h |
| DAY 6 | CAMP | IN | IN | 3.0 h | |
| DAY 7 | CAMP | IN | IN | IN | 2.0 h |
| DAY 8 | HOTEL | IN | 3.0 h | ||
| DAY 9 | HOTEL | IN | 2.5 h | ||
| DAY 10 | HOTEL | IN | IN | 7.5 h | |
| DAY 11 | HOTEL | IN | IN | 0.5 h | |
| DAY 12 | CAMP | IN | IN | IN | 2.0 h |
| DAY 13 | HOTEL | IN | 7.0 h | ||
| DAY 14 | HOTEL | IN | IN | ||
| DAY 15 | HOTEL | IN | 3.0 h |
What’s Included: A mix of hosted meals and authentic regional dining is included throughout the journey (see the specific breakdown at the top of this page). 🌮✨
Van Cooking & Bonding: On certain days, we cook together using our professional van equipment. It is an iconic part of the overland experience and a great way to bond as a group! 🚛🥑
Local Flexibility: For the remaining meals, you are free to explore local restaurants at your own pace, try our handpicked recommendations, or join group dining options. 🍟🍹
Dietary Needs: We happily accommodate most dietary restrictions (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free). Please note that options can be limited during remote roadside lunch stops. 🥕🌾
Our carefully selected accommodations set us apart from the rest. We dedicate ample time to finding the best locally-owned stays with top-notch value. Comfort, central locations, and charming colonial styles are our priorities. Lupita’s mix of cosy hotels, eco-friendly community stays, and well-equipped campsites ensures you experience the best of each destination. For those remote adventures, get ready for authentic, basic camping.
Our hotel rooms typically feature two double beds and private bathrooms for every two people, with options for queen or triple rooms available on request at some stops. For camping, we provide all the necessary gear, including foam mats, air mats with pillows, sleeping bags, and liners. You’ll share a spacious tent designed for four with just one other person from the same sex.
Want to know more about where you’ll be staying? Ask for our full accommodation list, which is kept private to preserve the uniqueness of our routes!
Upgrades are usually available when camping or in hostels, but can’t always be guaranteed. Priority check-in is given to those on the standard package. You can also opt for a single tent while camping—just let us know during the booking process. For more details, check out our accommodation section on the FAQ page.
We’re all about giving you the best experience possible, with must-do activities that other tours leave out. When you compare, you’ll see our trips are the best deal around!
+ many other free and optional activities to enjoy!
You can choose from any of these optional extras during the booking process:
Indicate your preferences on your booking notes if you want to book any of the following services, which are subject to availability:
This trip is rated as Moderate,
Your tour features a blend of activities and a few longer driving days. You’ll have camping nights and some treks, so a good fitness level and adventurous spirit are important. While no prior experience is required, you should be comfortable with swimming and hiking. Expect to encounter heat and humidity, but you’ll also have opportunities to relax at comfortable hotels and scenic spots.
You’ll need to carry your bags in certain situations, such as from parking to the hotel or onto boats, and be prepared to navigate stairs and high steps at archaeological sites and in the van. Some activities, such as the ATM Cave and the Acatenango Hike (Extension A), can be strenuous and may involve challenging terrain or high altitudes.
The Yucatán Peninsula, Belize, and East Guatemala are fantastic year-round destinations, but the sweet spot for your trip is from November to May. This is when the weather is typically drier, cooler, and less humid, making it ideal for exploring. For the last bit of our tour, the Guatemalan highlands offer pleasant hiking weather, with lows around 10°C and highs of 27°C. For those joining us on the Acatenango volcano, be ready for chilly nights at around 4000m above sea level.
Optionally, you can bring other items such as 1 set of casual clothes for evenings out, a pouch or money belt inside your clothing for extra safety, and a book to read during your vacation.
If you are opting for the Acatenango Trek Extension, make sure to pack appropriate gear. You can also rent what you need before the tour starts:
Our carefully selected accommodations set us apart from the rest. We dedicate ample time to finding the best locally-owned stays with top-notch value. Comfort, central locations, and charming colonial styles are our priorities. Our mix of cosy hotels, eco-friendly community stays, and well-equipped campsites ensures you experience the best of each destination. For those remote adventures, get ready for authentic, basic camping.
Our hotel rooms typically feature two double beds and a private bathroom for every two people, with queen or triple rooms available on request at some stops. For camping, we provide all the necessary gear, including air mattresses with pillows, sleeping bags, and liners. You’ll share a spacious tent designed for four with just one other person of the same sex, and you can optionally upgrade to a single tent or sometimes to cabins.
