Ambergris Caye
This is the largest island in Belize and one of the most popular destinations in the country for island-seekers. It is approximately 15 minutes by flight and 1 hour by water taxi from Belize City. It features the most resorts in the country including a number of dedicated dive resorts and the finest array of restaurants, shops and bars. You will enjoy its tropical charm, island life and the daily adventures available.
Along the entire length of Ambergris Caye, the reef which is only 1/2 offshore comprised of spectacular three dimensional coral formations which include canyons, grottoes and tunnels. The more common reef fishes do not appear here in great numbers compared to elsewhere. However, there are a greater number of pelagic fish such as sharks and rays and a considerable number of porpoise and turtles.
History & Culture
The heartbeat of Ambergris Caye is the bustling town of San Pedro situated on the southern end of the island, most of the island activities are centered here. The town is named after Saint Peter, the patron saint of fishermen. Founded in the mid-1800s, it was a refuge for Mestizos (people of mixed Spanish and Indian bloodlines) fleeing the Yucatan War of Caste in Mexico. San Pedro Town is the island hub. It’s where everything begins and ends, including air and water taxi arrivals and departures.
The Town is a delightful blend of the Caribbean, seasoned nicely with a touch of the Yucatan and a dash of old Key West served with the island warm, Belizean hospitality. Tiki bars, seaside restaurants and night clubs dot the waterfront and Main Street. This is the perfect place for visitors who would like to mix in a little night life with lots of fun in the sun. There are hotels, guesthouses, boutiques, dive stores and a full menu of places to eat and drink in town. The lifestyle is laid-back and easy going.
Golf carts are the most convenient way to get around and the primary means of transportation on the island. Some of the resorts located outside the town are within walking distance. For those that aren’t, bicycles, golf carts and water taxis are readily available.
Tours & Activities
One of the most popular snorkeling sites off the coast of Ambergris Caye is Shark Ray Alley; here you can interact up close and personal with the sharks and stingrays. The water is about eight feet deep hence an excellent place to see sharks and stingrays up close and personal.
Another favorite spot is Hol Chan Marine Reserve, a five-square-mile underwater park at the southern end of the caye. The park is located about four miles southeast of San Pedro Town and is a haven for marine life. The coral is thick and full of color, graced with a never ending parade of fish darting in and out. The shallow waters make this a popular spot for divers and snorkelers alike.
Snorkeling: $50 per person + $10 park fees
There are also an abundance of spectacular local dive sites. The following are a few of the best ones.
– Robles Point – Mexico Canyons – Pescador Tunnels – Palmero Canyons – Basil Jones Canyons – Mexico Cut – Tres Cocos Cut and much more!$90 per person for 2 tank dives
Dive Sites
3 Tank dives at the most spectacular sites are included:
- The Great Blue Hole (divers go down to about 130ft / 40 meters)
- Half Moon Caye Wall (maximum depth of 50ft-60ft / 15-18 meters)
- Long Caye Wall also known as The Aquarium (maximum depth of 50ft-60ft / 15-18 meters)
The Blue Hole and the island of Half Moon Caye are natural monuments and as such are protected areas which require park entry fees as follows:
- Blue Hole: US $30
- Half Moon Caye:: US $10
Total: US $40 (which must be brought in cash to be paid on the island of Half Moon Caye)
Note: To dive the Blue Hole you are require to have a recent logged dive within 6 months and at a minimum depth of 80ft. If these requirements are not met you should consider doing a local dive before heading out to the Blue Hole.
Itinerary
Pick Up: Done via boat between 5:15 to 5:30am depending on where you are staying. Complimentary pick up extends from Tuto (north) all the way down to Pelican Reef (south).
Food includes, continental breakfast, lunch, fruits throughout the day, refreshments and drinks on the way back.
Price: $285 per person + $40 park fees (cash)
Not Included: 12.5 % Government Sales Tax. Equipment Rental & Gratuities not included
This is one of the best cave tours in Belize. The Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM) Cave has been declared the world’s most sacred cave by National Geographic. Journey back in time to explore this sacred cave, previously untouched for thousands of years!
All-inclusive Tour Includes:
- Roundtrip flight to/from Belize City, entrance fees, equipment, packed lunch and water (meal preferences can be arranged)
- Departure Time from the island is 7 AM
- Your pick-up in Belize City is scheduled for 8 AM sharp – so it is critical that you board the flight on time!
- Your tour will be with a certified gold-standard tour operator, with an ATM-licensed guide.
What to bring?
- Closed-toe or water shoes (no flip flops)
- Pair of socks (mandatory)
- Change of Clothes and Towel
- Bug spray
- No type of cameras
- Cash for Snacks and Tips
Price: $270 per person based on double. $380 for single
The Lamanai Mayan Ruin archeological site is located along the bank of the New River which is Belize largest fresh water system.
This tour is by boat from Ambergris Caye to Belize City, then by vehicle to the village of Tower Hill Village where you will board another boat and ride down the New River to Lamanai. The journey up and back down the river is very scenic with birds, monkeys & crocodiles. Your guide will point out various species and their habitats seen along the way.
Includes:
- All transportation by sea and land
- Continental breakfast on the way to Belize City
- Lunch served under the canopy of the jungle
- Guided tour of the ruins and a jungle hike
What to bring?
- Bright colored clothing
- Footwear suitable hiking
- Insect repellant
- Camera
- Water
Price: $190 per person, two people minimum
On this tour you will travel round trip by water taxi between Ambergris Caye and Belize City; one hour & 30 minutes each way. You will journey along Caye Caulker, Caye Chapel, and mangroves and get a glimpse of St. George’s Caye before arriving at riverside taxi station in Belize City where you will meet your tour guide. From there you will board their private vehicle as you begin the scenic journey on the George Price Highway to Caves Branch. After a brief introduction to your guide, gear, and instructions you undertake the most amazing cave tubing experience there is.
Included:
- Round trip boat transfer to mainland
- Round trip land transfer to Caves Branch
- Snacks and lunch
- All cave tubing gears
- Sales taxes
What to bring?
- Light bright colored clothing
- Footwear suitable hiking or wet shoes
- Insect repellant
- Camera
- Water
Price: $210 per person, two people minimum. (Family and group rates available)