Exploring ancient Maya sites and the exotic wildlife is a rite of passage when visiting Belize for the first time. What if we told you that you can do both when staying just a few minutes away from the international airport? The Best Western Plus Belize Biltmore Plaza makes it easy to see the best Belize has to offer with its Rainforest Adventure Package. You can make unforgettable memories without wasting precious time transiting from one place to the other. With Biltmore Plaza’s convenient location and easy direct booking, you can’t go wrong with an action-packed Belize itinerary. 

Discover the Maya Side of Belize 

It’s natural to want to explore the wondrous marvels that the Maya civilization left behind a millennia ago. And while the ancient temples are peppered throughout the Central American country, one is closer than you think. Just a couple of hours away from Belize City is the Lamanai Maya site.  Lamanai, which translates to Submerged Crocodile, is located in the Orange Walk District. Spend your first day adventuring at this famous landmark whose journey includes a riveting boat ride on the New River. Keep your eyes open for Spider Monkeys, Hawks, different species of birds, and green iguanas. All these and more reside on the banks of the historic New River. 

Birding at Lamanai. Photo by Duarte Dellarole

Once you arrive at the site, make sure to take as many photo ops as possible with the famous Temple of the Mask. Stay until dusk so you can admire the stunning sunset over the calm waters aboard your boat. By the time you return to Biltmore Plaza, you’ll want nothing more than a drink at the outdoor Jaguar Bar. 

Continue feeding your fascination with the Maya by visiting the towering structures at Xunantunich. Included in your package at Biltmore, this is a highlight you won’t want to miss. Another couple of hours west, Xunantunich is the pride and joy of San Jose Succotz, the small village home to Maya descendants.  If you’re feeling ambitious, climb to the top to admire the sweeping panoramic views of the jungle below. Take your leave early in the afternoon so by the time you’re back in the city, a refreshing swim at the Biltmore pool awaits you. 

Take a Walk on the Wild Side 

The Belize Zoo was Belize’s first wheelchair accessible nature destination. Image by Duarte Dellarole

As if your historical adventures weren’t enough, you get to come face-to-face with some of Belize’s wildest residents at The Belize Zoo. This excursion pairs nicely with your Xunantunich visit as the zoo is on the way to the Maya site. Become acquainted with all five big cats that call Belize home, and awe over the size of the Jabiru Stork’s wingspan. If you get too attached, you can even adopt an animal so your funds will go toward its care. It’ll be nice to know that you (reluctantly) left Belize after having given back to an institution that benefits greatly from your contribution. 

It’s hard to say no to such a perfectly curated package, especially when looking at what’s included in the 2 nights/3 days offer:

• Accommodation in Standard Room (Room Upgrade to King Bed or 2 Queen Beds available at an additional cost)
• Daily Buffet Breakfast
• Two Full-Day Rainforest Adventures with Lunch
• Round-trip Airport transfers
• All local taxes

For more information on this rainforest adventure ideal for a Spring Break-cation, feel free to check out Biltmore Plaza’s webpage here. 

Header image of Xunantunich Maya Site by ROEming Belize. All other images not captioned via Best Western Plus Belize Biltmore Plaza/Duarte Dellarole.