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 the ultimate way to discover hidden gems and build authentic connections off the beaten path. This raw style of travel requires physical and mental readiness, flexibility, and a true sense of adventure.
🌍 Embracing the Unexpected: Travelling through remote areas and navigating border crossings means things can change. Expect occasional, flexible adjustments to stops, accommodations, activities, or meals.
⏳ Driving Times: All described driving hours are careful estimates. They do not include stops for activities, meals, border crossings, or unpredictable conditions like road closures.
📋 Get Fully Prepared: Before hitting the road with us, please review our Pre-Departure Information and FAQ pages to fully understand the overland lifestyle and the scenarios we 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 Stays: We handpick locally-owned cosy hotels, eco-friendly community stays, and campsites that offer comfort, central locations, and regional charm. 🌿✨
Room Sharing: All accommodations (hotel rooms and tents) are shared with just one other traveller of the same sex. Rooms feature two beds and private bathrooms; triple or queen rooms are available on request. 🛏️🔒
Camping & Upgrades: We provide all premium camping gear (tents, air mattresses, sleeping bags) for our remote stops. You can optionally upgrade to a single tent, single room, or local cabins during booking. 🔑🚛
Our itineraries are packed with bucket-list experiences and cultural immersions that other operators charge extra for. When you compare, you’ll see why Lupita offers the best value on the road!
🤿 Caye Caulker: Half-day Snorkelling Tour at the barrier reef.
🥁 Hopkins: Garifuna Cultural & Gastronomical immersion.
🌿 Belize Zoo: Guided visit to the Tropical Education Centre.
💀 ATM Cave: Guided expedition to the Crystal Maiden Cave (Actun Tunichil Muknal).
🛕 Tikal: Guided sunrise/day tour at the Archaeological Site.
🌊 Semuc Champey: Entrance & exploration of the turquoise limestone pools.
🎨 Chichicastenango: Visit the famous indigenous market & witness Mayan ceremonies.
🌋 Lake Atitlan: Lower Mayan Trail trek + visit to the Amigos de Santa Cruz NGO.
🏡 Colonial Towns: Guided introductory orientation walks in Flores and Antigua.
+ Plenty of free time and optional adventure add-ons along the route! 🗺️
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:
