3 weeks covering the best of coastal Belize and cultural Guatemala. Explore the cayes by kayak and enjoy inland Mayan ruins and wildlife. Full Belize Active 2009 GAP 6 15 Max 15, Avg 10 Central America Guatemala, Belize Belize City Belize City Belize Belize Culture/History, Kayak/Canoe 22 3 Standard http://www.gapadventures.com/images/banners/belize/belize_floatingswimmer.jpg Arrive in Belize City at any time. As you cross the border into Guatemala, you’ll immediately notice a different culture, punctuated by a heavy Mayan influence and Spanish language. Take a Spanish lesson, followed by a visit to a medicinal garden in San José. The next day, explore the mysterious ancient city of Tikal, buried deep in the rainforest. The forest of Mountain Pine Ridge, the Mayan cave of Actun Tunichil Muknal, tubing down a lazy river or visiting local Mayan sites, including the famous Xunantunich, are all options here. Pick your choice and enjoy your stay; did we mention there is also some great food and wildlife? Our local crew will expertly guide you on the many twists and turns of the local rivers. Canoe experience is not required, as our guides know the rivers well and are happy to share their knowledge of the local wildlife with you. Back to the Cayo district to squeeze in anything you missed the first time around. After the jungle jaunt, it is time to slow things down for some serious R & R. Sun, sand, fantastic snorkelling and diving opportunities are now the focus. Enjoy a full-day snorkel trip out to the barrier reef where you may have the chance to swim with nurse sharks, stingrays and barracudas. Explore Belize City at your leisure. Depart Belize City by bus for the small coastal town of Placencia. Wander this unspoiled fishing village and enjoy its golden beach. Don't forget to sample the seafood. Travel by motorboat to begin our sea kayaking adventure. Exact starting point and route vary depending on local conditions as we spend the next 4 days kayaking between islands with possible stops in a variety of cayes near the Gladden Split Marine Reserve. Paddle for approximately 2 to 4 hours per day, with plenty of time for relaxation and other activities. At night, we camp under the stars. After a morning paddle or snorkel, return to the mainland town of Placencia. Spend a night on the town with your fellow kayakers. Arrive in Belize City at any time. Since there are no planned activities, check into the hotel and enjoy the city.

For many years Belize has been a relatively unknown destination, and tourists have only recently begun to explore this fascinating country. Mention “Belize” and conjure up visions of unbelievably clear blue waters, diving and snorkelling along the barrier reef and remarkable marine life. Belize consists of massive amounts of jungle vegetation, ancient Mayan ruins, and above all, friendly, easygoing people. Belize is this and much more!

In many ways, Belize has more in common with its Caribbean rather than its Latin neighbours, although it has plenty of distinctively Central American features as well. It exhibits a unique blend of cultures that include Maya, Mestizo, African, European, Arabic and Asian. English is the first official language (as a former British Colony) and Spanish runs a close second, though the locals speak Creole the majority of the time.

Belize City straddles the estuaries of Haulover Creek, part of the Belize River, which empties into the Caribbean Sea. At 60000 inhabitatnts, this is a small, but busy, city and we recommend that you do not go wandering alone at night.

With Belize's independence in the early 1980s life has changed somewhat. To get a taste of what colonial life was like "back when," visit Belize City before the old Swing Bridge is replaced and one can no longer watch the twice daily traffic jam when the bridge pivots to allow tall-masted boats to pass through and out into the sea.

You should know that Belize City is not a Caribbean "paradise." The city is aging, rustic, and although perched on the edge of the gorgeous Caribbean, has no beaches. Antiquated clapboard buildings on stilts (often unpainted, weathered, tilted or streaked with age) line the narrow streets. Such buildings are slowly being replaced by concrete structures and a few modern glitzy buildings.

Residents of Belize City take pride in the local attractions. It has the oldest Protestant church in Central America, St. John's Anglican Cathedral. This lovely old building is the only typically British structure in the city and is surrounded by well kept lawns. In 1812, slaves in Belize built this graceful piece of architecture using bricks brought as ballast on sailing ships from Europe. Several Mosquito Coast Kings (from the Waiki tribe) were crowned in this Cathedral with much pomp and grandeur. The last king was crowned in 1815.

The Supreme Court Building is located across from Belize City's Central Park. The antiquated town clock sits atop the white clapboard building and shows a different time from all four sides (each wrong since it stopped running); locals nicknamed it the “four-faced liar.” The Government House is another example of colonial Caribbean architecture.

Bliss Promenade meanders along the waterfront and eventually runs to the Bliss Institute, where social functions and seminars are held. This is the location of a theatre, museum and library, as well as the National Arts Council. Take a look at the display of Mayan stelae and altars retrieved from the Cayo District.

Please note: the heat and humidity of Belize may affect you upon arrival, with a general sense of lethargy and/or loss of appetite. This is no cause for alarm, it is simply your body’s reaction to the heat. Be sure to drink plenty of water (cold bottled water is available everywhere) and do not attempt too much in any given day. We prefer fan-cooled rather than air conditioned rooms to avoid having to acclimatize to the heat and humidity every time you go outside. This is also a more energy efficient method compared to air conditioning.
Depart Belize City by bus after breakfast, and cross the border into Guatemala. Immediately notice the difference in culture, with the heavy Mayan influence and Spanish language. Here we have entered Guatemala’s northeast jungle Petén region. The descendants of the Maya of Chichén Itzá migrated to the Petén area several centuries after the collapse of the great Mayan cities in the Yucatán.

Visit the mysterious lost city of Tikal, buried deep in the rainforest. Tikal is probably the most impressive of all sites in the Mayan world, intensified by its secluded setting. It boasts a dense concentration of wildlife and the highest pyramids of the Mayan Civilization. The sheer scale of the ruins at Tikal is daunting. Even if you only make it to the main plaza and spend an hour relaxing in deep contemplation, you will certainly not be disappointed. The central area, with its five main temples, forms by far the most impressive section. To explore beyond this you can wander endlessly into the maze of smaller structures and outlying complexes hidden in the jungle growth. A local bilingual guide will accompany us through the site during our foray into Tikal.

It was in this region of great natural beauty that their descendants founded the city of Tayasal, on an island in Lake Petén-Itzá. They lived here for about four hundred years, isolated and forgotten by the rest of the country, including the Spanish conquistadors. It was not until 1697 that this small city was finally conquered by a military expedition led by Martín de Ursúa, who stumbled upon the city by accident. The city of Tayasal was transformed into the city of Flores, officially founded by the Spanish in 1700. It remained an isolated area, relying on the subsistence farming of corn and beans and the gathering of chicle (gummy rubber obtained from trees).

Despite the recent growth in the Petén, Flores remains a small island town, with narrow, cobble-stoned streets, small, brightly painted houses and friendly people. Few modern conveniences are embraced here, and though the island is now attached to the mainland by a causeway, many of the locals still get around by cayuco (dug-out canoe). All in all, Flores remains one of the most scenic and charming towns in the Petén. It is particularly attractive to visitors because of Lake Petén-Itzá, a large lake (12 km long and 3 km wide) offering all sorts of possibilities for fun including swimming, boating, fishing, bird watching, a small zoo and a nature preserve.

In order to gain an appreciation for this area of Guatemala, enjoy a day excursion to San José located on the shores of Lake Petén Itzá. Arrive at the local school where we receive a group Spanish lesson. Attached to the building is "La Casa de Las Plantas" where local women make soaps, hand creams and shampoos from local medicinal plants, all available for sale. A short walk from here is a small medicinal garden where a local guide will explain what plants are grown here and the medicinal purposes they serve. Continue walking to the nearby community of San José where we stop for a picnic lunch and refreshing swim in the lake before returning to Flores.

The rainy season in the Petén is generally from mid-May until early January. Be prepared to get wet. Make sure you have plastic bags to wrap around the items in your daypack while hiking, and bring a good (light) waterproof jacket. Also make sure that you have strong insect repellent. The dry season runs January until mid-May. During this time you need to make sure you have adequate sunscreen. Return to Belize and the town of San Ignacio, situated on the banks of the Macal River. San Ignacio is perfectly situated to visit the sites of the surrounding countryside. All activities here are optional, so the choice is yours: explore the Mayan cave of Tunichil Muknal, containing relics dating back 1400 years, visit the butterfly gardens or go tubing or canoeing through the natural limestone caves of the region.

The San Ignacio/ Mountain Pine Ridge area is the highlight of the trip for some travellers to Belize. The Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve covers almost 500 square kms (310 square miles) and only controlled logging is allowed. Interesting stops include Hidden Valley Falls, spectacular waterfalls dropping more than a 300 m (984 ft) over the granite edge of the jungle. Further along you will cross the Rio On, and a climb over an assortment of worn boulders and rocks will bring you to a delightful site with waterfalls and several warm water pools. The Mountain Pine Ridge area is also renowned for its system of caves, the biggest and most famous being the Rio Frio Cave. There is an enormous arched entrance into the kilometre-long cave, the largest in Belize.

Also well worth a visit, the Cave of the Stone Scepter, Actun Tunichil Muknal involves a 45-minute jungle hike to the opening of the cave, wading across a river three times before the adventure begins! Inside the cave, you’ll find a Mayan cermonial site. There you will be amazed by the natural museum of Mayan relics left just as it was by the Maya 1400 years ago. Ceramic pots, skulls, and calcified skeletons will enthrall even the most experienced speleologist.

Days trips can also be arranged to Xunantunich,an impressive Maya ceremonial centre located on a natural limestone ridge providing a grand view of the entire Cayo District and Guatemalan countryside. The tallest pyramid on the site, El Castillo, has been partially excavated and explored, and the east side of the structure displays a unique stucco frieze. The plaza of the ceremonial centre houses three carved stellae. You can get a group together and hire a taxi to take you to the site. Getting there includes crossing a narrow river by a hand-cranked ferry which shuttles you across! There is a small fee to enter the grounds and a guide can give you the lowdown on the site. Enjoy the slow pace of the river as our local crew expertly guides you on the many twists and turns of the Belize River. Previous canoe experience is not required as the local expert guides know the rivers well and are happy to share their knowledge of the flora, fauna and history of the area. Depending on the season, either canoe upstream or downstream, visiting either Vaca Falls or paddling through the Community Baboon Sanctuary. Spend at least half of each day canoeing, with plenty of time for swimming and enjoying the scenery. Note that we camp for the nights we are on the river. Make sure you bring waterproof bags to help keep your things dry. Please note that for the 2 nights of camping, no bathroom facilities are provided. The guides will brief you on environmentally safe practices in this regard.

After three days and two nights on the river, you will return to San Ignacio for two more nights. Anything you were not able to fit in the first time you were here? Now is your chance! After the jungle jaunt, approach life in the slow lane for some serious R&R. All thoughts of the jungle are replaced with sun, sand and fantastic snorkelling and diving opportunities. Snorkel on a full day trip out to the barrier reef where you may have the chance to view nurse sharks, stingrays, barracuda, and other marine life.

Caye Caulker is a relaxed and easy-going island with friendly and welcoming local residents. The main street is a sandy pathway through the centre of town surrounded by small bakeshops and seafood stands. There is not much to do on the island except relax and explore the reef. Snorkel and dive boats leave daily for full or half-day outings to the reef, Hol Chan Marine Reserve, the Blue Hole and manatee spotting tours at Swallow Caye. These animals are gentle giants but sadly are one of the most endangered marine mammals on the planet.

The barrier reef is the world's second longest (after Australia’s) and offers some truly amazing sights including coral canyons and an astonishing range of tropical fish, Manta Rays, sharks and barracudas, as well as the more mundane, edible varieties of fish.

The night of day 14 may be in either Belize City or on the island. Transfer by water taxi back to Belize City to meet people who may be joining the tour. Day 15 is both the departure day for the Hummingbird Highway and the arrival day for Kayak Belize tour. No activities have been planned, however there will be a briefing in the evening regarding the upcoming segment of the tour. Depart Belize City by van for the small coastal town of Placencia. Spend the first afternoon getting acquainted with this charming town and its golden beach. Enjoy fresh seafood for dinner at one of the delightful restaurants in town.

Most Belizeans agree that Placencia is one of the nicest places in the country to visit. One of the oldest villages in the country, Placencia hasn't been spoiled by high-rise hotels or huge tour groups which have transformed many other once-placid Caribbean locations. There is an informality that's very special and highly contagious. After spending a day getting used to the laid back Belizean lifestyle, grab your paddle and prepare for your adventure. Travel by motorboat to the jumping off point for our kayaking adventure. Exact starting point and route vary depending on local weather and other conditions—we try to stay one step ahead of everyone else! Spend the next 4 days kayaking between islands and we may stop in a variety of cayes near the Gladden Split Marine Reserve. Paddle for approximately 2 to 4 hours per day, which will leave you with plenty of free time to snorkel, relax on the beach, explore, read or do more paddling around the islands. Sleep on the islands in tents, or, if you prefer, under the stars. Beach picnics will occur everyday and food will consist of fresh fish, fruit and vegetables. In April you have the chance to spot Whale Sharks, a gentle giant that is the world’s largest fish and harmless to humans.

More than 300 cayes (pronounced “keys”) lie just off the mainland of Belize. They range in size from no more than a half-block-long patch of mangrove forest to the largest, which is 45 km long and 7 km wide. Some of these islands are inhabited by people, while others only by wildlife. Most of the cayes lie within the protection of the Belize Reef (almost 320 km long), which parallels the mainland. Without the protection of the reef, the islands would be washed away by the constant pounding of the surf.

Within the reef the sea is calm, shallow and inviting. The water is an even more enticing rich, crystalline shade of turquoise. Mangroves provide wonderful breeding grounds for the magnificent sea life that attracts divers from all over the world. The cayes provide the appropriate habitats for incredibly diverse marine life. Sand beaches, swaying palm trees and mangroves are just a few of the attractions that draw visitors here year after year. The reef is the world's second longest (after Australia) and offers some truly amazing sights including coral canyons and an astonishing range of tropical fish, manta rays, sharks and barracudas, as well as the more mundane and edible varieties of fish.

We have found that a kayak offers an unmatched first-hand, natural experience off the Belize coast. Explore at your own pace and with minimum environmental impact. Take the time to notice that Belize operates at a natural rhythm. This is your opportunity to slow down, take time to relax and enjoy life the way the locals do! In no time you will be maneuvering your kayak like a pro and you will glide through the water like a fish. We use single and two-person sea kayaks on our expedition, which are fully equipped with everything you need to make your trip safe and enjoyable. Your local guide has over 25 years experience kayaking in the Belizean Cayes and will have you feeling at home in your kayak before you know it.
Remember, NO PREVIOUS KAYAKING EXPERIENCE IS NECESSARY. Return to Placencia after a morning paddle or snorkel, and enjoy a well-deserved fresh water shower, dinner and a real bed at our comfortable seaside hotel. Early morning flight to Belize City to connect with your international flight. 2239 2139 1359 1119 2939 1999 1669 2449 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 450 USD 2239 2139 1359 1119 2939 1999 1669 2449 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 450 USD 2239 2139 1359 1119 2939 1999 1669 2449 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 450 USD 2239 2139 1359 1119 2939 1999 1669 2449 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 450 USD 2239 2139 1359 1119 2939 1999 1669 2449 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 450 USD 2239 2139 1359 1119 2939 1999 1669 2449 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 450 USD 2239 2139 1359 1119 2939 1999 1669 2449 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 450 USD 2239 2139 1359 1119 2939 1999 1669 2449 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 450 USD 2239 2139 1359 1119 2939 1999 1669 2449 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 450 USD 2239 2139 1359 1119 2939 1999 1669 2449 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 450 USD 2239 2139 1359 1119 2939 1999 1669 2449 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 450 USD 2239 2139 1359 1119 2939 1999 1669 2449 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 450 USD 2239 2139 1359 1119 2939 1999 1669 2449 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 450 USD 2239 2139 1359 1119 2939 1999 1669 2449 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 450 USD 2239 2139 1359 1119 2939 1999 1669 2449 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 450 USD 2239 2139 1359 1119 2939 1999 1669 2449 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 450 USD 2239 2139 1359 1119 2939 1999 1669 2449 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 450 USD 2239 2139 1359 1119 2939 1999 1669 2449 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 450 USD 2239 2139 1359 1119 2939 1999 1669 2449 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 450 USD 2239 2139 1359 1119 2939 1999 1669 2449 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 450 USD 2239 2139 1359 1119 2939 1999 1669 2449 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 450 USD 2239 2139 1359 1119 2939 1999 1669 2449 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 450 USD 2239 2139 1359 1119 2939 1999 1669 2449 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 450 USD 2239 2139 1359 1119 2939 1999 1669 2449 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 450 USD 2239 2139 1359 1119 2939 1999 1669 2449 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 450 USD 2239 2139 1359 1119 2939 1999 1669 2449 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 450 USD 2239 2139 1359 1119 2939 1999 1669 2449 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 450 USD 2239 2139 1359 1119 2939 1999 1669 2449 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 450 USD Accommodation Hotels/bungalows (15 nts), Camping (6 nts). Associated RT Project Optional visit to Planeterra community projects Combination This trip combines our Hummingbird Highway BHH, and Kayak Belize BKS tours. Departure Departs Mondays, twice per month (Oct-Apr) DepEnd Mon-Mon Group Leader Tour leader from days 1 to 15. GAP adventures representative and qualified kayak guide. Group Size Max 15, Avg 10 Highlights Belize City, Tikal, San Ignacio, Belize and Macal Rivers, Caye Caulker, Placencia, Sea Kayaking between Cayes. Max Pax 15 Meal Budget Allow USD400 for meals not included. For additional expenses, see trip details. Meals Included All meals while canoeing/kayaking/camping. Min Pax 6 Recommendation StartFinish ex Belize City Testimonial "This was simply a great tour. It was the perfect balance between inland and coastal adventure." - Frederic Ashby travelled on Full Belize Transport Public bus, Van, Canoe, Private van, Local flight, 1 and 2-person ocean kayaks, Motor boat. What's Included Spanish lesson followed by a medicinal garden visit, Guided tour of Tikal archaeological site, 3-day fully guided jungle canoe trip, Full day snorkelling on the Belize Barrier Reef, 4-day guided kayaking trip with cook and support staff. A Couple of Rules Illegal drugs will not be tolerated on any trips. Possessing or using drugs not only contravenes the laws of the land but also puts the rest of the group at risk. Smoking marijuana and opium is a part of local culture in some parts of the world but is not acceptable for G.A.P Adventures Adventure travellers. Our philosophy of travel is one of respect towards everyone we encounter, and in particular the local people who make the world the special place it is. The exploitation of prostitutes is completely contrary to this philosophy. Our group leader has the right to expel any member of the group if drugs are found in their possession or they use prostitutes.
Arrival Complications We don't expect any problems, and nor should you, but if for any reason you are unable to commence your trip as scheduled, as soon as possible please contact your starting point hotel, requesting that you speak to or leave a message for your trip leader (if you are not on a group tour please refer to the emergency contact details provided in this dossier). If you are unable to get in touch with your leader, please refer to our emergency contact details. If you have pre-booked an airport transfer and have not made contact with our representative within 30 minutes of clearing customs and immigration, we recommend that you make your own way to the Starting Point hotel, following the Joining Instructions. Please apply to your travel agent on your return for a refund of the transfer cost if this occurs.
Associated Planeterra Project On this tour you may have the opportunity to visit the following Planeterra project:

CORNERSTONE FOUNDATION
The Cornerstone Foundation is a registered non-profit humanitarian service organization that offers a variety of valuable programs to people in need in the small town of San Ignacio, Belize.

The programs offered through the Cornerstone Foundation have constantly been evolving and are based on specific needs within the community.

Relief & Aid
Through this program seniors, the ill and disabled are supported by a weekly food program whereby food such as rice, beans and meat when available are delivered to their homes. Children whose families cannot afford to provide them with food at lunch are able to participate in Cornerstones’ basic but nutritious lunch feeding program.

HIV/AIDS Education
HIV infection in Belize is the highest in Central America. This program collaborates closely with other local efforts to raise community awareness of high-risk behaviors, provides support for those who are living with AIDS, and conducts activities to change attitudes and reduce stigmatization.

Women's Issues
Supporting the move of local women towards greater independence and self-sufficiency is the focus of this program. Self-esteem building, ending domestic violence, training peer counselors, and teaching job skills are part of this program.

Disabilities
This program serves individuals, families, caregivers, teachers and others, helping to meet the physical, social, emotional, and material needs of the disabled. Belize has minimal information about special needs, limited physical therapy, nearly no equipment, and few professionals trained to work with learning and other disabilities.

Literacy
Although English is the country's official language, most Belizeans grow up speaking local indigenous languages instead. Cornerstone's Literacy and English Second Language (ESL) classes are offered to children, adults, developmentally disabled students which improves their ability to participate more fully in Belizean society and the economy.

It is possible to visit the Cornerstone project office on some tours that pass through San Ignacio, Belize. To arrange a visit please speak to your G.A.P Adventures tour leader.

How You Can Help
Each year we work with the staff of Cornerstone to identify the needs of their programs. In the past we have supported Cornerstone’s Literacy and Disabilities programs and with your support we can help with continued annual donations through the Planeterra Foundation. G.A.P Adventures pays all administration costs so that 100% of each donation goes to the projects we support.

For more information about this project and/or to make a donation please visit our website www.planeterra.org or contact us at info@planeterra.org
Brochure Intro A fantastic journey covering the best of coastal Belize and cultural Guatemala. Kayak your way around cayes in Belize, try your hand at jungle camping along the Macal River and explore some of the best Mayan ruins in the world. Checklist - Passport (with photocopies)
- Travel insurance (with photocopies)
- Airline tickets (with photocopies)
- USD cash and travellers cheques
- Credit card (see personal spending money)
- G.A.P Adventures vouchers, pre-departure information and dossier
- G.A.P Adventures vouchers and dossier
- Camera and film
- Reading/writing material
- Binoculars
- Cover for backpacks
- Pocketknife
- Purification tablets or filter
- Fleece top
- Windproof/waterproof jacket
- Small towel and swim wear
- 4 shirts/t-shirts
- Sun hat
- 1 pair of shorts
- 2 pairs of long trousers
- 1 pair hiking pants/track pants
- Hiking boots/ sturdy walking shoes
- Sport sandals
- Sunblock
- Sunglasses
- Toiletries (biodegradable)
- Watch or alarm clock
- Water bottle
- Flashlight
- First-aid kit (should contain lip salve, Aspirin, Band Aids, anti-histamine, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, re-hydration powder, DEET bug repellant, extra prescription drugs you may be taking).

Special requirements for this trip:
- Sleeping bag (light) (these can be rented though quality may vary).
- Thermarest or sleeping mat recommended
- Snorkel gear provided as part of snorkel trip. (May wish to bring your own)
- Waterproof bags for gear while canoeing/kayaking (recommended to bring one dry bag for items such as camera and perhaps for a dry t-shirt or jacket and a second dry bag for your sleeping bag, a few changes of clothes, and toiletries)

Please note that a support boat that will carry most of your gear while kayaking and you will only need to carry immediately necessary items in your kayak. Extra luggage not required for the kayaking portion of the tour may also be safely stored on land until your return from the sea. Departure Tax Airport tax - USD35
Departure fee when leaving Belize by land - BZ 37.50 or USD 18.75
Entry fee for Guatemala - Q 10.00 or USD 1.50 Detailed Trip Notes Dossier Disclaimer The information in this trip details document has been compiled with care and is provided in good faith. However it is subject to change, and does not form part of the contract between the client and G.A.P Adventures. The itinerary featured is correct at time of printing. It may differ slightly to the one in the brochure. Occasionally our itineraries change as we make improvements that stem from past travellers, comments and our own research. Sometimes it can be a small change like adding an extra meal along the itinerary. Sometimes the change may result in us altering the tour for the coming year. Ultimately, our goal is to provide you with the most rewarding experience. Please note that our brochure is usually released in November each year. If you have booked from the previous brochure you may find there have been some changes to the itinerary.

VERY IMPORTANT: Please ensure that you print a final copy of your Trip Details to review a couple of days prior to travel, in case there have been changes that affect your plans.
Dossier Intro 3 weeks covering the best of coastal Belize and cultural Guatemala. Explore the cayes by kayak and enjoy inland Mayan ruins and wildlife. Emergency Contact Should you need to contact G.A.P Adventures during a situation of dire need, it is best to first call our local office in San José, Costa Rica. If for any reason you do not receive an immediate answer, please leave a detailed message and contact information, so that we may return your call and assist you as soon as possible.

G.A.P Adventures San José, Costa Rica,
Open Monday to Friday, 9am to 6pm local time (GMT –6).
Tel: Int. Dialing Code + 506 2231 4708.

Costa Rica Emergency Cell Phone: +506 8322 9140 (after office hours).

If you are unable for any reason to contact our local office in Costa Rica,
we have a toll-free line within North America (or our regular direct line), which will connect you directly with our Toronto office. In the event that you cannot get through, you can reach a member of our Operations department at the mobile number below.

Toll-free, North America only: 1 800 465 5600.
Calls from the UK: 0870 999 0144.
Outside North America and the UK: +1 416 260 0999.
Mobile: + 1 416 305 6139.
Emergency Fund Please also make sure you have access to at least an additional USD200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund, to be used when circumstances outside our control (eg. a natural disaster) necessitate a change to our planned route. This is a rare occurrence!
Feedback After your travels, we want to hear from you! Your feedback information is so important to us that you'll receive a special discount code for free online prints and we'll give you 5% off the price of your next G.A.P Adventures trip if your feedback is completed on-line within 30 days of finishing your trip. Please visit http://www.gapadventures.com/evaluations
Free Online Trip Journals An online Trip Journal is a great way to record stories and photos as you travel, not to mention sharing your experiences with friends. Encourage your family and friends to follow in your footsteps as you explore the world! With templates for over 300 G.A.P Adventures trips already online all you have to do to get started is log in, choose your trip and your departure date, it's quick and easy! Head to http://www.gapadventures.com/trip_journal. Group Leader Description All G.A.P Adventures group trips are accompanied by one of our group leaders, a G.A.P Adventures representative, or an expedition team. The aim of the group leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting- we think it's the best of both worlds. Health You should consult your doctor for up-to-date medical travel information well before departure. We recommend that you carry a First Aid kit as well as any personal medical requirements. Please be aware that quite often we are in remote areas and away from medical facilities, and for legal reasons our leaders are prohibited from administering any type of drug including headache tablets, antibiotics, etc. When selecting your trip please carefully read the brochure and itinerary and assess your ability to cope with our style of travel. Please refer to the Physical and Culture Shock ratings for trip specific information. For travellers over 70 years a completed Medical Form is required. G.A.P Adventures reserves the right to exclude any traveller from all or part of a trip without refund if in the reasonable opinion of our group leader they are unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to themselves and/or the rest of the group. Important Notes 1. Please note that this tour is a combination of several G.A.P Adventures tours. As such, your group tour leader, fellow passengers, or vehicle may change between the individual tour sections.

2. On the island camping trip, no bathroom facilities are provided! The guides will brief you on environmentally safe practices in this regard.

3. Please note that this trip is a combination of multiple G.A.P Adventures tours. As such, the staff and/or particular vehicles operating your tour may change between tour segments. You may also expect some group members to join or leave the tour, between tour segments.

4. Both solo (1 person) and tandem (2 person) kayaks are used and group members may be asked to rotate to give everyone a chance to experience both types of kayak.

5. Due to the fact that we use small, simple local hotels in Placencia, it may be necessary on occasion to split the group's accommodation arrangements between two locations. Itinerary Disclaimer While it is our intention to adhere to the route described below, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the itinerary and on occasion it may be necessary, or desirable to make alterations. The itinerary is brief, as we never know exactly where our journey will take us. Due to our style of travel and the regions we visit travel with G.A.P Adventures can be unpredictable. The Trip Details document is a general guide to the tour and region and any mention of specific destinations or wildlife is by no means a guarantee that they will be visited or encountered. Aboard expedition trips visits to research stations depend on final permission.

Additionally, any travel times listed are approximations only and subject to vary due to local circumstances. Joining Hotel Belize City
The Coningsby Inn
76 Regent street
Belize City, Belize
Ph: (011-501-2)271566

For BFB080407 - April 7th/08 departure, joining hotel is:
HOTEL MOPAN
55 REGENT ST
BELIZE CITY, BELIZE
TEL: 227- 7351 Joining Instructions The best way to get to the arrival point hotel is via taxi from the airport – there are fixed rates from the airport. ($25 USD at time of writing)

Please note that Day 1 is an arrival day and no activities have been planned, so you may arrive at any time. Similarly the last day is a departure day in which no activities are planned. Your Tour Leader will organize a short meeting soon after arrival, during which you will meet other tour participants and receive information about general and specific aspects of the trip. Your Tour Leader will contact you at the hotel on Day 1 and make sure you are settled comfortably. If you arrive late, s/he will leave you a message detailing what time and where you should meet the next morning. Keeping in Touch If you need to be contacted while travelling we recommend that you set up an email address that can be accessed on the road, rather than relying on postal mail. Email cafes are becoming increasingly commonplace and cheap throughout the regions we visit, and have quickly become the preferred way for our leaders and travellers to stay in touch. If someone wishes to contact you in an emergency while you are on one of our trips we recommend that they contact your local booking agent, or refer to our Emergency Contact. We recommend that family and friends don't try to contact you through phoning hotels en route, as our hotels are subject to change, and our hotel receptions often don't have English speaking staff.
Laundry Laundry facilities are offered by some of our hotels for a charge. There will be times when you may want to or have to do your own laundry so we suggest you bring non-polluting/biodegradable soap. Local Flights All local flights are included in the cost of your tour unless otherwise noted. It is important that we have your passport information at the time of booking in order to process these tickets. Internal flight tickets are issued locally and will be given to you prior to the flight departure.
Local payment description Most of our adventure tours involve a local payment. This is the final payment of your tour price, paid locally. Paying locally facilitates the flow of funds into countries that we travel through and also helps to reduce the overall price of the tour. This helps G.A.P Adventures keep our prices competitive and in-turn, pass our cost savings onto you. Payment is to be made to your leader or G.A.P Adventures representative upon arrival in cash in the requested currency. Please see our website, brochure or your trip documents and invoice for Local Payment.
Meals Eating is a big part of traveling. Travelling with G.A.P Adventures you experience the vast array of wonderful food that is available out in the world. Generally meals are not included in the trip price when there is a choice of eating options, to give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat. It also gives you more budgeting flexibility, though generally food is cheap. Our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. There is no obligation to do this though. Your group leader will be able to suggest favourite restaurants during your trip. The above information applies to G.A.P Adventures group trips. Please refer to the meals included and budget information for included meals and meal budgets.
Medical Form Our small group adventures bring together people of all ages. It is very important you are aware that, as a minimum, an average level of fitness and mobility' is required to undertake our easiest programs. Travellers must be able to walk without the aid of another person, climb 3-4 flights of stairs, step on and off small boats, and carry their own luggage at a minimum. Travellers with a pre-existing medical condition are required to complete a short medical questionnaire, which must be signed by their physician. This is to ensure that travellers have the necessary fitness and mobility to comfortably complete their chosen trip. While our leaders work hard to ensure that all our travellers are catered for equally, it is not their responsibility to help individuals who cannot complete the day's activities unaided. Please refer to the physical ratings in this Trip Details document for more information.
Please note that all passengers traveling to Antarctica are required to fill out this questionnaire.

The medical questionnaire can be found online at:

www.gapadventures.com/online_medical_form.
Money Exchange Credit cards are useful, for cash advances, but Visa cards are the most widely accepted cards. ATMs are NOT widely available, and there are no guarantees that your credit cards will actually work in Latin America, making cash and travellers cueques a preferrable option. . You should be aware that to purchase products or services on a credit card a fee of 5%-10% usually applies. Do not rely on credit or debit cards as your only source of money. A combination of US dollar cash, travellers cheques and cards is best. Always take more rather than less, as you don't want to spoil the trip by constantly feeling short of funds.

CURRENCY EXCHANGE TIP: Please be advised that slightly torn notes, notes that have been heavily marked or are faded may be difficult to exchange. It is best to bring notes in fairly good condition, in denominations lower than 100USD (or equivalent).

GUATEMALA ATMs: Please note that daily withdrawal limits in this country are extremely low, currently set at 1000 quetzales - less than 140 USD. It is advisable to arrive with enough cash, if your daily needs exceed this amount.

As currency exchange rates can fluctuate often we ask that you refer to the following website for daily exchange rates: www.xe.com
Newsletter Our adventure travel e-newsletter is full of travel news, trip information, interesting stories and contests. To avoid missing out on special offers and updates from G.A.P Adventures, subscribe at www.gapadventures.com/newsletter_signup
Optional Activities All prices are per person, in USD amounts and are subject to change as services are provided by third party operators.

Flores:
Boat tour: Lake Petén Itzá $12
Guided tour of Tikal - $60 divided by number of participants - approx. $6-12
Entrance fee for Tikal ruins $8
Transport to/from Tikal $8

San Ignacio (Belize):
Canoe rental $12
Barton Creek Cave $25 (4-hour return trip)
Mountain Pine Ridge $35
Full-day caving $80
Horseback riding $20-$50
Bicycle rental $2.50/hour
Butterfly farm $7.50
Xunantunich $8
River Tubing $12

Caye Caulker:
Snorkel trips $25 - $45
Blue Hole dive tour $180
Manatee & dolphins tour $60
Snorkel equipment rental $5 (day)
Windsurfing $15 (for board & instruction/hour)
Sea kayaking $12.50 (half-day) Two-tank dive $60 -75
Sunset Sail Rum cruise $25 Our Commitment to Responsible Travel in Antarctica Planeterra-The G.A.P Adventures Foundation Through G.A.P Adventures’ commitment to responsible tourism we have developed Planeterra – the G.A.P Adventures Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to making a positive difference in the lives of people and communities around the world through support of international charities, local organizations and community projects in the places that we visit on our tours. G.A.P Adventures matches all individual donations and pays all administration fees, which means that 100% of each donation is doubled and goes directly to support our projects. For more information about Planeterra and the projects we support, or to make a donation, please visit www.planeterra.org

Planeterra Dollar-A-Day Program
Our Dollar-A-Day Program provides travellers with the opportunity to help us give back to the people and places visited on our tours by donating one dollar per day for the duration of their tour. 100% of these proceeds will go directly to support our Planeterra projects.

To participate in this program please indicate at the time of booking that you would like to participate in G.A.P Adventures’ Dollar-A-Day program, either by clicking the check box online, or by advising your GA.P Adventures specialist or travel agent. (Note: Donation will be charged in the currency of your booking) Responsible Travel Being a responsible tour operator is at the heart of what G.A.P Adventures is all about. From the start, G.A.P Adventures has been committed to offering low-impact tours that benefit traveller and host alike. While our sustainable tourism policies are constantly evolving, our commitment to socially conscious, grassroots style travel has never changed. We work with local communities, businesses and individuals to develop sustainable tourism opportunities that help local economies while minimizing negative environmental and cultural impacts.

For more information about our commitment to responsible travel, please visit the Sustainable Tourism section of the G.A.P Adventures website: www.gapadventures.com
Safety and Security Many national governments provide a regularly updated advice service on safety issues involved with international travel. We recommend that you check your government's advice for their latest travel information before departure. We strongly recommend the use of a neck wallet or money belt while travelling, for the safe keeping of your passport, air tickets, travellers' cheques, cash and other valuable items. Leave your valuable jewellery at home - you won't need it while travelling. Many of the hotels we use have safety deposit boxes, which is the most secure way of storing your valuables. A lock is recommended for securing your luggage. When travelling on a group trip, please note that your group leader has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if it is deemed necessary due to safety concerns. Your leader will accompany you on all included activities. During your trip you will have some free time to pursue your own interests, relax and take it easy or explore at your leisure. While your group leader will assist you with options available in a given location please note that any optional activities you undertake are not part of your itinerary, and we offer no representations about the safety of the activity or the standard of the operators running them. Please use your own good judgement when selecting an activity in your free time. Although the cities visited on tour are generally safe during the day, there can be risks to wandering throughout any major city at night. It is our recommendation to stay in small groups and to take taxis to and from restaurants, or during night time excursions.

Single Travellers We believe single travellers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers joining group trips are paired in twin share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. Some of our Independent trips are designed differently and single travellers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price.
Spending Money Every traveller is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travellers may drink more than others while other travellers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip.
Tipping It is customary in Latin America to tip service providers such as waiters, at approximately 10%, depending on the service. Tipping is an expected - though not compulsory - component of your tour program and an expression of satisfaction with the persons who have assisted you on your tour. Although it may not be customary to you, it is of considerable significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels. There are several times during the trip where there is opportunity to tip the local guides or drivers we use. Recommendations for tipping drivers and local guides would range from $5-10 USD per day depending on the quality and length of the service; ask your tour leader for specific recommendations based on the circumstances and culture.

Also at the end of each trip if you felt your G.A.P Adventures Tour Leader did an outstanding job, tipping is appreciated. The amount is entirely a personal preference, however as a guideline $20-25 USD per person, per week can be used. Travel Forum - The Watering Hole Be sure to stop by The Watering Hole, our adventure travel forum. If you're interested in meeting others booked on your upcoming trip, check out the Departure Lounge section of our forum and introduce yourself. Otherwise, just drop in at anytime to share some travel tips, ask questions, meet other travellers and quench your thirst for travel. Our forum is located at wateringhole.gapadventures.com. Travel Insurance Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate on any of our trips. When travelling on a group trip, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance has been sighted by your leader, who will take note of your insurance details. When selecting a travel insurance policy we require that at a minimum you are covered for medical expenses including emergency repatriation. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. If you have credit card insurance we require proof of purchase of the trip (a receipt of credit card statement) with a credit card in your name. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer, the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number.
Trip Specific Responsible Travel Please make sure to ask for permission while photographing local people! Trip Specific Safety Belize City is very dangerous during the night. Also on Caye Caulker exercise caution and do not walk around alone at night. There have also been cases of drinks being spiked here. Validity Valid for all trips departing January 1, 2009 - December 31st 2009. Visas All countries require a valid passport (with a minimum 6 months validity). Contact your local embassy, or consulate for the most up-to-date visa requirements, or see your travel agent. IT'S YOUR RESPONSIBILITY TO HAVE THE CORRECT TRAVEL DOCUMENTATION.

**Attention SWISS clients: please make sure to get a MULTIPLE-ENTRY visa upon arrival in Belize! This will save you some hassle upon return to Belize after the Guatemala side-trip.** We Want Your Photos If you've got some great photos form your G.A.P Adventures travels, then post them online in our community! You can share photos - and videos - with our travellers from around the world. Simply go online to www.gapadventures.com/community to check out what other people have shared! We often have photo and video contests running too, so be sure to check our website often!
What to Take We recommend the use of a duffel bag or backpack (whatever you find easiest to carry). A good size daypack is also essential. Your Fellow Travellers As you travel on a group trip you will be exposed to all the pleasures and maybe some of the frustrations of travelling in a group. Your fellow travellers will probably come from all corners of the world and are likely to be of a variety of ages too. We ask you to be understanding of the various needs and preferences of your group - patience with your fellow travellers is sometimes required for the benefit of everyone's travel experience. Remember too that you have responsibilities to the group. If you are requested to be at a place at a certain time, ensure that you don't keep the rest of the group waiting. We have found time and time again that the very best trips we operate are those where the dynamics within the group work well - this takes just a little effort on your part.