XUNANTUNICH OR TIKAL MAYAN RUINS at Crystal Paradise

Owned and operated by a Belizean family, located in the Cayo district of Belize, Crystal Paradise is a lodge nestled amidst a tropical forest and along side the beautiful Macal River, surrounded by beautiful palms and flowering trees, home to a variety of exotic birds. Strategically located to some of the most impressive Mayan ruins in Belize and Guatemala, Crystal Paradise is a wonderfully comfortable base for your explorations.

The Tut family is your host and the atmosphere is friendly and relaxing. A guided visit to nearby Xunantunich or Tikal is included in your program.

Active during the Classic Period, Xunantunich is composed of six major plazas. The most prominent structure is the pyramid "El Castillo" towering 130 feet high above the main plaza, and bearing a remarkable stucco frieze. This major ceremonial center is located on a natural limestone ridge, providing a panoramic view of the Cayo District.

Tikal is the largest known Mayan ruin in the world. The largest pyramid of all Mayan civilization (212 feet) and surrounding temples still extend above the Guatemalan jungle in Tikal National Park. In 1979, UNESCO named the park a "Monument of the World's Heritage."

Accommodations:

Double occupancy cabanas, hammocks and sitting area, ceiling fan and private bath with hot/cold running water and shower. Excellent traditional Belizean and International cuisine. After a day of activities, relax out on the deck, enjoy the botanical gardens or relax in a cozy hammock under a thatched roof palapa. The deck next to the dining room overlooks the valley and is an ideal place for spotting birds. Three spotting scopes and binoculars are available for birding -- frequent visitors include hummingbirds, tanagers, honeycreepers, and flycatchers.

Itinerary:

3 days/2 nights (PRE-TRIP or POST-TRIP)

Day 1:
Following your Oceanic Society expedition, you will be picked up in Belize City and transferred to Crystal Paradise Resort (approximately 2 hours). Arrive at the resort in time for lunch.

Afternoon on your own to relax, hike, go birding (with binoculars or using "spotting scopes" provided), or join an optional tour or activity available at the lodge (additional cost sign up and pay at the resort).

Day 2:
Mayan ruins excursion: Xunantunich: After breakfast, half-day guided tour to Xunantunich Mayan Ruins. Return to the resort in time for lunch. Afternoon at leisure, dinner, relaxing evening and overnight at the resort.

OR

Day 2:
Tikal: After breakfast, full-day guided tour to Tikal Mayan Ruins in Guatemala. Belizean style lunch will be prepared in the morning to take on the excursion. Return to the resort in time for dinner. Relaxing evening and overnight at the resort.

Day 3:
An early morning breakfast, then transfer to the Belize City International Airport in time for your flight home.

XUNANTUNICH OR TIKAL MAYAN RUINS EXTENSION COSTS:

2007 Extension Costs: (payment due 14 days after registration)

w/Xunantunich Mayan Ruin Tour (half-day):

$425 per person/double occupancy

$495 single occupancy (traveling w/others)

$665 single traveler

w/Tikal Mayan Ruin Tour (full-day):

$530 per person/double occupancy

$610 single occupancy (traveling w/others 2 minimum)

Costs Include:

Belize city transfers, accommodations, breakfast & dinners (lunch on your own), Mayan ruins guided tour as indicated.

Costs Do Not Include:

Lunches, Border exit tax of $18.75 per person between Belize and Guatemala for Tikal.