Combination trip Belize – Diving in the Barrier Reef & to the rainforest
A journey of stunning contrast: from diving at tropical atolls in the Barrier Reef to exploring in the tropical rainforest. A perfect adventure, also for families.
Travel period
Features
Starting from
The best of Belize: beautiful diving and to the tropical rainforest
Belize is one of the most beautiful diving destinations in the Caribbean. Off the coast lies the impressive Belize Barrier Reef, the second largest in the world. During your dives you will discover colorful coral gardens, cayes and atolls and swim past eagle rays, turtles, nurse sharks and schools of tropical fish.
Your stay begins at the Hamanasi Adventure & Dive Lodge, right on the beach. Set in a tropical garden full of birds and other animals, the lodge offers plenty of opportunities to be active in addition to diving. With bikes, kayaks and sup-boards, you can explore the coast and mangroves at your own pace or just relax and enjoy the tranquility.
Then you’ll travel inland and discover a very different side of Belize: the Maya Forest. Here you stay at Black Rock Lodge, in the middle of the jungle. You can hike, kayak, horseback ride or tub and encounter colorful birds, howler monkeys and tapirs along the way. With any luck you might even see a jaguar. The lodge is an ideal place to experience nature up close and at the same time completely unwind.
It is a trip with a beautiful contrast: the impressive underwater world of the barrier reef and the pristine jungle of the rainforest, with plenty of room for adventure, nature and relaxation.
Best travel time for a diving vacation to Belize
The best travel time for this trip is from December to April. During these months it is dry season, with sunny weather, calm sea and optimal visibility for diving. This is also when the rainforest shows its best side.
Average Temperatures
Wetsuit advice for diving in Belize
For Belize’s Caribbean waters, a 3mm wetsuit is generally recommended. You can also consider a shorty if you don’t get cold easily, but with multiple dives a day, a long suit is more comfortable.
What will you experience on this diving vacation?
View itinerary here
Day 1 & 2 | Travel to Belize
Today you fly to Belize City. There are several options to fly to Belize from Europe. Often you make a stopover in Panama, Mexico or the U.S. and the flight takes a total of 15 to 17 hours. The time difference (7-8 hours earlier in Belize) makes it feel like you’re on the road longer, but you leave on day 1 and arrive on day 2.
Upon arrival at the airport, a transfer will be waiting for you to take you to the Hamanasi dive resort to bring. This is a drive of about 2 hours. You will be warmly welcomed with a welcome drink and have the rest of the day to set yourself up in the beautiful resort.
Day 3 | Diving in South Water Caye Marine Reserve
The next few days are all about diving! Here is a sample program, the dives may be made in a different order. This always depends on weather conditions and safety. This week you will also make a night dive! The diving school agrees with you when this will take place.
You start the week with 2 dives in the South Water Caye Marine Reserve, one of Belize’s largest and most beautiful marine parks and part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. A caye is a small island, often created from sand and coral debris on or next to a reef. Along the coast of Belize there are hundreds of them, ranging from uninhabited sandbars to idyllic islets with palm trees and a lodge.
This marine park spans over 47,000 acres and includes coral reefs, mangroves and lagoons. You will see colorful coral gardens, coral walls and tropical fish. Eagle rays, turtles and the occasional nurse shark also show up here.
Day 4 | Diving in the Tobacco Caye Range
The next day you will make 2 dives in the Tobacco Caye Range. It is a special place on the edge of the Barrier Reef and consists of a series of small cayes with beautiful coral reefs and sea grass beds. It is a protected area, so you will find immense marine life. Large schools of juvenile fish use this area as their nursery, and you also have a chance of seeing seahorses, turtles, eagle rays and barracudas.
The surface interval is on the small island itself: a break among palm trees on a special island.
Day 5 | Optional activities
Today you have time to take it easy. You have free use of the lodge’s kayaks and bicycles to explore the area at your own pace. The surrounding nature is beautiful and offers plenty of opportunities to be active or just relax.
If you want to make it something special, you can join an excursion through the resort. For example, it is possible to visit a Mayan temple or take a refreshing dip at a nearby waterfall.
Day 6 | Diving in Glover's Reef Atoll
Today, 3 dives are scheduled at Glover Reef Atoll, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Located about 45 km offshore, this atoll is famous for its enormous biodiversity. The atoll consists of dozens of small islands and is surrounded by a long reef ring. It is about 1.5 hours by boat.
During the dives you will see huge coral formations, deep canyons, swim-throughs and caves. The variation in habitats attracts a wide variety of marine life: from colorful reef fish and moray eels to sharks, eagle rays and occasionally even dolphins. Glover’s Reef is also known as an important spawning ground for the endangered Naussau grouper. They gather here in large numbers for the breeding season.
Good to know: the dive trip to Glover’s Reef Atoll requires a minimum of 8 divers. If the trip to the atoll is not possible, it will be replaced by an extra day of diving on the Barrier Reef and a half-day participation in a regular inland tour.
Day 7 | Diving at Southern Barrier Reef
Today you will dive at the Southern Barrier Reef – one of the most beautiful and pristine parts of Belize’s reef. From Hamanasi, you will depart again for the South Water Caye Marine Reserve, a protected area stretching from just above Tobacco Caye to the Grand Channel. The boat ride takes about 30 to 40 minutes; enough time to look out over the turquoise sea and dream away at what awaits you underwater.
The southern part of the reef is visited by relatively few divers. That makes every dive here extra special. You’ll dive past steep walls, sand channels and the reef’s characteristic “spur and groove” formations.
Underwater is a feast of life and color. You often encounter turtles, moray eels, barracudas, king mackerels, eagle rays and southern stingrays. If you look closely, you will also discover the reef’s tiny inhabitants: Pedersen shrimp, colored gobies at their cleaning stations and the elegant spotted drum. And sometimes, if you’re lucky, you’ll see manta rays, hammerhead sharks, jewfish or even dolphins up close.
Well-known dive sites in this area include Jason’s Wall, Elsie’s Aquarium, Carrie Bow, South Water Wall, Trick Ridge, Hell Hole and The Abyss.
Day 8 | Bird watching over the grounds of Hamanasi
On the last day at Hamanasi Resort, there is plenty of opportunity to relax and explore the area one last time.
You will take a guided walk through the resort’s garden; a paradise for bird lovers. As you walk among the tropical flowers and trees, you will see countless colorful species pass by. From hummingbirds vibrating silently in the air to toucans jumping noisily from branch to branch, it’s like a mini-safari.
You can also bike, kayak or supp, use of which is included with your stay so that’s the perfect chance to get out on the water.
Day 9 | Departure to the Black Rock Lodge
After breakfast you will leave for Black Rock Lodge, which is located in the middle of the rainforest. The lodge is 160 km away and the drive to it takes about 3 hours.
It is a special place, hidden in the heart of the rainforest. You will stay in an eco-resort with 20 cabins that blends completely with the natural environment of the Cayo district. The 250-acre site stretches along the banks of the Macal River and borders the Don Elijio Panti Nature Reserve/National Park.
Belize’s rainforest covers more than half of the country and is home to incredible biodiversity, from jaguars and howler monkeys to rare birds and exotic plants. It is a world of tranquility, adventure and unspoiled nature, providing a stunning contrast to the tropical atolls on the coast.
Day 10 to 12 | On adventure in the rainforest
During your days at Black Rock Lodge, adventure takes center stage. From the lodge, you can participate in a variety of activities that let you truly experience the rainforest and culture of Belize. Whether you want to discover the ancient history of the Maya, explore caves or just look for wildlife and colorful birds – the possibilities are endless.
Black Rock Lodge partners with Black Rock Expeditions, one of the best tour operators in Belize. Experienced, certified guides provide a wide range of excursions daily, from jungle tours and river adventures to cultural trips. With their knowledge, enthusiasm and personal touch, they make every tour unforgettable.
In addition to these adventures, there is, of course, also room to relax: enjoy the tranquility at the Macal River, be surprised by the sounds of the jungle, and completely unwind in this unique setting.
On-site activities at Black Rock Lodge
During your stay at Black Rock Lodge, you hardly have to leave the area for adventure. Directly from the lodge you can participate in a variety of activities suitable for young and old. So you can canoe or kayak the Macal River, relax on a tubing experience with rapids and the Black Rock Waterfall, or head into the jungle for hikes – both day and night to spot wildlife. They also include yoga and swimming in the river.
A special excursion is the trip to Flour Camp Cave, where you combine hiking with caving. Inside the cave you will find Maya artifacts and impressive rock formations, followed by a hike to an unexcavated Maya temple and hidden rainforest ruins.
Many activities are free, but some require a surcharge because a specialized guide, equipment or transportation is required. All excursions go ahead with a minimum of two participants.
Day 13 | Return trip
After breakfast, say goodbye to the jungle and depart for Belize City for your flight home. The drive from Black Rock Lodge to Belize Airport takes about 3.5 hours and takes you through Belize’s impressive landscape, past rivers, villages and tropical rainforest. Along the way, you can enjoy nature and the country’s rich wildlife one last time before returning home with unforgettable memories.
Highlights of this trip
What can you expect from nature in Belize?
Wildlife spotting
Belize is a paradise for nature lovers. In the rainforest and along the rivers you can look for jaguars, howler monkeys, tapirs and colorful birds. Guided daytime or nighttime hikes let you experience the rich animal life of the Maya Forest up close. It is a unique opportunity to discover the biodiversity of Central America and see wildlife in their natural habitat – an unforgettable adventure for young and old.
Belize Barrier Reef
The Belize Barrier Reef is one of the most impressive coral reefs in the world and a paradise for divers and snorkelers. Here you will find colorful coral formations, large schools of tropical fish, sea turtles and predatory fish such as reef sharks. The reef stretches along the coast of Belize and includes impressive atolls and the famous Blue Hole. The marine life is exceptionally diverse, making every dive an unforgettable experience.
Maya Forest
Maya Forest, Belize’s rainforest, is an extraordinary environment where dense jungle, the Macal River and hidden Mayan ruins converge. The area is home to many wild animals, from monkeys to birds, and offers an impressive mix of nature and history. It is a place where you can explore, hike and experience the tranquility of the rainforest, a unique contrast to the tropical shores of Belize.
The accommodations
The stay and the diving school
Hamanasi Adventure & Dive Resort
Hamanasi is located on the southern coast of Belize, between the Maya Mountains and the Belize Barrier Reef. It is a small resort with a focus with diving and other adventure sports. The resort is located right on the beach and in a strategic location to reach most beautiful dive sites of Belize. There are a total of 30 rooms, a pool, restaurant, bar, store and direct access to the beach.
You’ll stay in a Beachfront room, equipped with a king bed or two queen beds. The colorfully tiled bathrooms offer plenty of space for all your toiletries. A hammock awaits you on your private veranda overlooking the beach, jetty and infinity pool. Here you will enjoy both sunrise and sunset.
Other room types
Prefer something more spacious or luxurious? In addition to the Beachfront Rooms, other room types are available. From family rooms to more exclusive suites, there is always an option to suit your needs and comfort level.
Black Rock Lodge
Black Rock Lodge is a charming eco-lodge with 20 cabins located in the heart of Belize’s rainforest. The resort is located on a huge property along the Macal River, adjacent to the Don Elijio Panti Nature Reserve in the Cayo District. The lodge offers a unique experience in nature, with comfortable and cozy accommodations that reflect Belize’s indigenous culture.
You can enjoy various activities here, including hiking, bird watching and exploring the surrounding jungle. The lodge features an organic restaurant, a pool with spring water and beautiful place for both yoga and massage. Sustainability is paramount; the resort uses solar and hydropower and has its own organic farm.
The dive center
The diving school and facilities
Dive Hamanasi
As part of the resort, there is Dive Hamanasi, a PADI 5-Star dive resort. Its ideal location allows Hamanasi’s professional, PADI-certified team to take divers to some of Belize’s most beautiful sites, including vast stretches of the pristine Southern Barrier Reef and three of the four Caribbean atolls. Popular dive sites include Glover’s Reef Atoll, Turneffe Islands Atoll, Lighthouse Reef Atoll, the Blue Hole, Half Moon Caye and more.
The diving school has 3 boats specifically designed for divers and snorkelers and a well-trained team that takes excellent care of guests and their equipment. Hamanasi offers a full range of rental equipment and Nitrox, as well as a wide range of courses for all levels, from beginners to advanced divers wishing to take a specialty course.
Travel costs
What is included
This dive vacation to Belize is available from CHF 5.564 per person based on two people in one room. The diving trip can be expanded as desired. A number of things are included by default in this travel package.
Prices are subject to price changes, increases or changing exchange rates. Flights are always based on the cheapest possible booking class.
Want to know more about this diving vacation to Belize? Get in touch with us!
Included in this diving trip, from CHF 5.564 p.p.
- 7 nights in Hamanasi on full board basis
- Coffee, tea and iced tea
- Welcome drink on arrival
- Dive package consisting of 10 dives
- Guided bird-watching on the grounds of Hamanasi
- Tour of organic garden at Hamanasi
- Use of kayaks and bicycles
- 4 nights at Black Rock Lodge based on lodging
- River tubing
- Sustainability tour
- Return transfers
- VZR & Administration fee
Excluding
- Flight to Belize from CHF 705 p.p.
- Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages at Hamanasi
- Activities at Black Rock Lodge (from $30)
- Surcharge for guide, special equipment or return road transfer for on-site activities at Black Rock Lodge
- Dive & Travel Insurance
✈︎ The quoted (international) flight prices are indicative prices and based on departures from Europe. However, we can arrange flights from any location worldwide. Booking your own flights is of course also possible.
Optional
- Nitrox ($15 per tank)
- Diving equipment ($55 per day)
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Frequently asked questions about Belize
Diving general
You make exclusively boat dives.
Basically, with an Open Water certificate, you can already do many dives here. However, the dive sites of some atolls are deep, so you will appreciate it more with at least an Advanced Open Water certificate. To participate in the Lionfish Spearfishing Adventure, you must also be at least advanced certified.
If you like to dive at The Blue Hole, this resort is not the best place to be. Dive trips to The Blue Hole are offered, but it is 2.5 hours on the boat for a single trip. In addition, there must be at least 8 divers and it costs $410 per person.
Would you like to dive at The Blue Hole? Then you can choose either a liveaboard or a resort closer to this atoll. Feel free to ask us about the possibilities.
This is an optional dive for those who want it and can be done instead of 2 reef dives.
During the Lionfish Spearfishing Adventure, you will have the unique opportunity to fight the invasive lionfish. Belize actively supports initiatives to remove this hungry species from its waters.
Before the dive begins, there is a briefing explaining the lionfish: the ecological threat this fish poses in the Caribbean and why it is responsible to hunt this species. During the first dive, the Divemaster shows where the lionfish are located, how they are caught and safely recovered. During the surface interval you will learn how to clean your fish.
During the second dive, you can try spearing the lionfish yourself, under the supervision of the divemaster. It is important that you have a good trim underwater, and the divemaster will judge if you are experienced enough to be allowed to spear dive. All lionfish caught are recorded to track progress in controlling the population and then prepared in Hamanasi’s kitchen. You can taste the result of your effort at dinner that evening!
This depends on the dive site. The farthest dive site in 1.5 hours by boat; if you stay closer it’s about 20 minutes.
Yes, it is possible to make a night dive. There is 1 night dive on the Barrier Reef included in the dive package.
No, there is no house reef. All dives are made by boat.
Yes, PADI courses are given.
Yes, the diving school is on resort property. You will find the diving school in a convenient place: on the beach, near the small harbor where the boat leaves.
Diving equipment
Both tanks are available.
Yes, you can. If you bring your own equipment it’s no problem at all.
Yes, you can dive here with nitrox. The additional cost is $15 per tank.
Yes, renting a full set costs $55 per day.
You can leave your diving equipment at the dive center after diving.
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