Pure, exotic, fun, and unforgettable. This all-gay trip combines the lush jungles of Central America, the ancient ruins of the Mayans, and a stunning privately-rented entire island paradise. For 8 days, we'll find ourselves snorkeling with wild turtles, exploring ancient archeological sites, kayaking across impossibly blue seas, immersing ourselves in dense jungles, in what can only be described as pure paradise.
During the first few days of the trip we'll head into the jungles of the mainland, exploring some of the oldest and most impressive ruins in the world, and soaking in the nature and the cultural heart of Belize before heading out to our own luxury island paradise for 4 nights of Caribbean bliss where all meals are prepared by our own chef, and island activities abound.
Enjoying both land-based and sea-based adventures with good food, warm weather, and in good company. Experience the Caribbean the way nature intended; just you, a pristine sand beach and the crystal clear sea. Ray Caye is a Belize private island resort that offers an unspoiled environment for an authentic and unforgettable tropical experience.
What's Included?
• All taxes
• All group land and sea transfers within Belize
• Accommodations for your 8-day Detours experience
• All full breakfasts
• All full meals at our private island (drinks not included)
• Welcome dinner in Belize City
• Underground tubing/canoeing experience in San Ignacio
• All non-motorized watersports at our private island
• Mayan ruins visit in San Ignacio
• Group travel within Belize
• Two or more knowledgeable and fun Detours trip leaders
What isn't included?
• Meals and drinks outside of those listed above
• Activities outside of the those listed above
• International Airfare
• Optional gratuities
Belize Private Island Gay Tour & Holidays Itinerary
Day 1 - Belize City, Belize
Our adventure together begins in Belize City, just a couple hours from the US mainland, but seemingly a world away. While it's the largest city in the country, with a population of less than 60,000 it's far from overwhelming. Instead, this port city on the Caribbean coast has a warm, small-town feel. Our hotel is positioned right on the Caribbean shore, with beautiful views out into paradise.
Our first evening of the trip is spent here where we'll gather everyone together, have a big ol' group dinner, and start the fun of our final "10th birthday" celebratory trip! This is the start of your week to let loose, have fun, and enjoy the stunning beauty of the jungles, ruins, and yes, the private island that awaits us in Belize!
Days 2, and 3 - San Ignacio, Belize
Less than 2 hour drive from Belize City, we'll find ourselves in the town of San Ignacio, the base for exploring the jungles and Mayan ruins, and the cultural heart of the country. We'll spend two days here finding ruins hidden in the jungle, even one that's only accessible by a hand-cranked, and very short, ferry. The Mayans built incredible cities and temples all over this area and, while they don't get the attention that some of their Mexican sites have, they're equally impressive, without the crowds.
But it's not just the man-made sites that are impressive in this area. The cave systems offer plenty of unique opportunities to discover underwater rivers, impressive rock formations, and even an underground Maya ceremonial site, complete with artifacts that have been virtually untouched for years. We'll explore these caves together by tube or canoe as well as the ruins that surround San Ignacio.
Days 4, 5, 6, and 7 - Private Island
It's not every day you get the opportunity to rent an entire tropical island. But that's exactly what we're doing together! To get there, we'll boat out 17 miles off the mainland to our perfectly unspoiled paradise for 4 glorious nights. While you may wish to just soak in the natural beauty of the Silk Cayes Marine Reserve that surrounds you, or pamper yourself with spa treatments, there's also plenty of activities to keep ourselves busy during our 4 days here. We'll head out snorkeling with manta rays and turtles, take out the water toys, take an island-hopping day trip, have a bonfire on the beach, enjoy fabulous meals (they're all included too), swing in our hammocks, and much more.
With 4 nights at our island paradise, we've got time to unpack our bags and really soak in the fun and relaxation that comes with a private tropical island.
Day 8 - Belize City, Belize
On the final day of the trip we'll return to Belize City where we'll say all our goodbyes and head off with plenty of memories of an amazing adventure together.
We'll arrive back into the city at around 11:00am, so you're welcome to book your departing flight from BZE airport any time after 1:00pm on this 8th day.
If you'd rather stick around Belize and maybe explore other islands off the coast then feel free to stay and keep exploring this beautiful country!
Trip Notes
Arrival & Departure
This trip begins and ends in Belize City so, when you're ready to book your international flights, you'll want to fly into and out of Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport (airport code BZE). Many of our travelers choose to arrive prior to the trip's starting date to give themselves some time to rest and get over some jet lag prior to meeting the group.
As Belize City is not known as a popular tourist destination itself, we don't suggest arriving any more than a day prior to the trip starting. If you'd like us to set up any additional nights of accommodation in Belize City, or if you'd like us to arrange for a private driver to meet you on arrival and transfer you to our group hotel, just let us know! Accommodation rates change often, so just reach out to us for current group hotel rates.
Weather
Don't worry about getting chilly here. Belize has a subtropical climate, and our stay in Belize happens at the beginning of their dry season so, while there's always a possibility of a bit of rain, you should expect warm temperatures throughout the trip. Daytime highs around 85 F / 30 C, and nighttime lows around 70 F / 21 C. It's always a good idea to bring some "just in case" rain gear and a warm outfit, even if we are expecting sun and warmth.
Money
Belize uses their own Belize Dollar as their primary currency. The value is permanently fixed to the value of the US dollar at a rate of 2 BZD to 1 USD. All businesses in Belize will accept both BZD and USD, so it's important to have some of either, as they would rarely accept currencies other than these. Credit cards are accepted in most places, but it's always good to have some cash on hand for those things that are cash-based.
Additional spending budget? Your big-ticket items and most meals are included through the trip, but you'll want to budget for additional spending such as additional meals, drinks, shopping, activities, etc. These costs can vary with differing personal habits but we suggest expecting to spend an additional $500 USD at the lower end for the more budget-conscious and $800 USD at the higher end for the splurgers. We suggest arriving to Belize with some US Dollars or Belize Dollars in cash for those few things along the way that can't be paid with credit cards.
Meals
Most of your meals are included in this trip, including all meals at our fabulous private island, who will be cooking up some fantastic feasts during our stay. You can expect a variety of American and Caribbean meals on offer through the trip and vegetarian diets and allergies can be accommodated. If you have a very restrictive diet, please reach out to us prior to your trip so that we can make arrangements for you in Belize.
What to bring?
Given the expected warm temperatures, you'll likely spend the vast majority of your time in Belize in shorts and t-shirts! But you'll also want to ensure you bring comfortable walking shoes too. If you've got your own snorkelling mask, that would be a good idea to bring as well. Apart from these things, you'll want to bring anything that you'd normally take on a beach vacation. Flip flops, sunscreen, hat, and any personal items. It’s common to hear people wishing they’d packed less stuff, but we’ve never heard anyone complain that they didn’t bring enough. Even if you realize you forget to pack some crucial item you can always pick up a replacement once you arrive in Belize.
Solo Travelers
No problem! Don’t worry, lots of our travelers come solo and our trip will provide plenty of chances to meet great people. As far as your accommodations go, you’ve got two choices. During registration you can choose a shared room, where we'll pair you up with another solo group member in a room with two beds, or you can choose a private room.
Accommodations
Belize City, Belize Radisson Fort George Hotel
Set right on the waterfront, looking out to the Caribbean Sea, our hotel in Belize City is in the best spot to enjoy the view, the seaside promenade, and the downtown area. The hotel has a full-service marina, 3 restaurants, a bar, cafe/bakery, and a fitness centre too.
San Ignacio, Belize San Ignacio Resort
Set amid 7 hectares of jungle next to the Macal River, this upscale hotel is 1 km from Cahal Pech Mayan Ruin in the downtown San Ignacio area. Featuring jungle views, the airy, polished rooms and suites are decorated with local art, and provide balconies or terraces with hammocks.
Private Island
Silk Cayes Marine Reserve Ray Caye Island Resort Occupying a private island within the Silk Cayes Marine Reserve, this secluded resort near the Belize Barrier Reef is all ours for 4 nights!
Non-motorized water sports equipment is complimentary. Other amenities include an open-air grill restaurant/bar and an outdoor pool, as well as a sports field and a dive center. Massages are available too.
Rooms #19 & #20. One King Bed. The ultimate in views on this island paradise can be found in the two honeymoon suites, a new addition to the island. Facing Belize’s Silk Caye and fringe reef, these suites are everything you’ve dreamt of in island accommodation. They offer ultimate privacy and breathtaking views from their private verandas. The spacious bathrooms offer a jacuzzi, double sinks and large rainfall shower heads, all with a reef view as well. The veranda decking is crafted from local Belizean Cabbage Bark and each suite features a personal plunge pool to allow guests to cool off in the seclusion of their own private space.
$ 3,880
Oceanfront Villa with Private Plunge Pool
Rooms #3 & #12. One King bed. This room is part of the 3-unit Oceanfront Villa complex (each with its own separate entrance). Your room comes with its own private veranda, a private plunge pool, a kitchen, and plenty of space to sprawl. Ceiling fans, air conditioners, eco-friendly toiletries, an in-room safe for valuables, high speed Wi-Fi connection, snorkel gear and use of all of the resort’s non-motorized water toys are available for the duration of your stay.
$ 3,450
Oceanfront Villa
Room #1. One King Bed. This room is part of the 3-unit Oceanfront Villa complex (each with its own separate entrance). Your room comes with its own private veranda and plenty of space to sprawl. Ceiling fans, air conditioners, eco-friendly toiletries, an in-room safe for valuables, high speed Wi-Fi connection, snorkel gear and use of all of the resort’s non-motorized water toys are available for the duration of your stay.
$ 3,660
Oceanfront Cabana
Room #4. This room is its own private oceanfront cabana, with its own private veranda and plenty of space to sprawl. Ceiling fans, air conditioners, eco-friendly toiletries, an in-room safe for valuables, high speed Wi-Fi connection, snorkel gear and use of all of the resort’s non-motorized water toys are available for the duration of your stay.
$ 2,960
Solo Travelers
Oceanfront Villa Single
Room #2. Single occupancy. This room is part of the 3-unit Oceanfront Villa complex (each with its own separate entrance). Your room comes with its own private veranda, a walk-in closet, and plenty of space to sprawl. Ceiling fans, air conditioners, eco-friendly toiletries, an in-room safe for valuables, high speed Wi-Fi connection, snorkel gear and use of all of the resort’s non-motorized water toys are available for the duration of your stay.
$ 4,260
Oceanfront Cabana Single
Rooms #5, #7, #9. Single occupancy. One King bed. This room is its own private oceanfront cabana, with its own private veranda and plenty of space to sprawl. Ceiling fans, air conditioners, eco-friendly toiletries, an in-room safe for valuables, high speed Wi-Fi connection, snorkel gear and use of all of the resort’s non-motorized water toys are available for the duration of your stay.
$ 3,830
Oceanfront Cabana Shared
Rooms #6, #8. Two Queen beds. This room is its own private oceanfront cabana, with its own private veranda and plenty of space to sprawl. Ceiling fans, air conditioners, eco-friendly toiletries, an in-room safe for valuables, high speed Wi-Fi connection, snorkel gear and use of all of the resort’s non-motorized water toys are available for the duration of your stay.
$ 2,960
Oceanfront Villa Single
Rooms #10 & #11. Single Occupancy. One King Bed. This room is part of the 3-unit Oceanfront Villa complex (each with its own separate entrance). Your room comes with its own private veranda and plenty of space to sprawl. Ceiling fans, air conditioners, eco-friendly toiletries, an in-room safe for valuables, high speed Wi-Fi connection, snorkel gear and use of all of the resort’s non-motorized water toys are available for the duration of your stay.
$ 3,720
Ocean View Island Room Single
Rooms #13 & #14. Single occupancy. One King bed. Located in the center of the island, the new Island House has second floor views that no other accommodation on the island has. Smaller, more cozy rooms are featured in the Island House. Ceiling fans, air conditioners, eco-friendly toiletries, an in-room safe for valuables, high speed Wi-Fi connection, snorkel gear and use of all of the resort’s non-motorized water toys are available for the duration of your stay.
$ 3,550
Garden View Island Room
Rooms #16 & #18. Single Occupancy. One King bed. Located in the center of the island, the new Island House has second floor views that no other accommodation on the island has. Smaller, more cozy rooms are featured in the Island House. Ceiling fans, air conditioners, eco-friendly toiletries, an in-room safe for valuables, high speed Wi-Fi connection, snorkel gear and use of all of the resort’s non-motorized water toys are available for the duration of your stay.
$ 3,440
Ocean View Island Room Shared
Room #15. Two Twin beds. Located in the center of the island, the new Island House has second floor views that no other accommodation on the island has. Smaller, more cozy rooms are featured in the Island House. Ceiling fans, air conditioners, eco-friendly toiletries, an in-room safe for valuables, high speed Wi-Fi connection, snorkel gear and use of all of the resort’s non-motorized water toys are available for the duration of your stay.
