Belize
8 days, 5+ races, countless adventures!
OVERVIEW
MAP & ITINERARY
WHAT TO EXPECT
PLAN YOUR TRAVEL
BOOK YOUR TRIP
FAQ
Run the Jewel of the Caribbean
Tucked away in Central America, Belize is a tropical paradise known for its natural beauty and laid-back culture. Home to the Belize Barrier Reef, the second-largest coral reef system in the world, there is tons of marine life in this incredible coastal country.
With such a vibrant ecosystem and unique geography, we'll spend the week spotting wildlife, touring caves, and snorkeling in premier waters. Lather on the sunscreen and join us in Belize!
QUICK INFO:
- Hotels, meals, and local transport included!
- International flight not included
- Covid-19 vaccination not required
- Next Trip: February 10-17, 2024
- 8 days/7 nights all-inclusive trip
- 5+ trail runs and hikes (7-12K)
- Daily afternoon activities
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS:
Run through Mayan ruins
Tube and swim through famous cave systems
Explore life under the sea
"...you're guaranteed to leave with tired legs and a full heart."
- 2022 Global Adventurer
Meet Your Host Country: Belize
On the eastern coast of the Yucatan Peninsula, Belize is a remarkable mix of culture and language — from the ancient Mayans to Belizean Creole.
Belize is a water-lovers paradise. From world-class snorkeling at the Belize Barrier Reef to the curious nature of the Great Blue Hole, the Belizean coast is an incredible natural wonder.
Inland, Mayan ruins and jungles exploding with wildlife make Belize a "must do" bucket list destination. Keep your eye out for animals like tapirs and howler monkeys!
CAPITAL
Belmopan
LANGUAGE
English and Belizean Creole
CURRENCY
Belize Dollar
WEATHER
80° / 70° in
February
LANDSCAPE
Lush jungle and golden beaches
KNOWN FOR
Chocolate and hot sauces
What's in a Name?
The name Belize has a few possible origins. One proposition refers to the Belize River and comes from the Mayan word belix which means "muddy-watered." The other most common explanation comes from the Mayan phrase bel Itza, "the road to Itza."
Double the Heat
While Belize's geography makes it warm year-round, there's another factor that turns up the heat here in the Yucatan — hot sauce! Marie Sharp's sauces, jams, and jellies are world-famous foods that have delivered heat and flavor to Belize and the world for over 40 years.
Ancient Mayan Ruins
Belize is home to twelve major Mayan ruins and probably many more that have yet to be uncovered. Popular ruins include Lamanai (we travel here!), Caracol, and Xunantunich.
The Global Adventures Experience
The Best Dang Team On The Planet
Tireless travel directors, local guides, trail runners, photography gurus, and staff medics...we're all here to make your experience one for the ages.
Ask Us Any Question
Our event directors love to talk all things 'Global Adventures'. From travel advice to making sure a trip meets your needs, there is no question too big or too small!
All of The Fun, None of The Work
We've done the hard parts for you. Once you book your trip, our expert team handles all the details. From mapping out scenic runs to finding the comfiest beds and local grub.
Plus, we take care of that boring stuff like local transportation and even laundry.
All that's left is to book your flight and call in sick from work ;)
Who Goes On A Global Adventure?
Solo Travelers
connect with your curiosity
You can arrive solo, but you're never alone. Surrounded by like-minded travelers, you just may find your new travel companion — and a new favorite hobby to boot!
Dating + Daring
Entertain novelty
You may be partners, but that doesn't mean you want the "typical" romantic getaway. You two are more of the high-adventure type.
Hop on in!
Best Buds
LET MOMENTS BECOME MEMORIES
When's the last time your friends have had an excuse to get away? If smiling and laughing your butts off while exploring beautiful destinations isn't a good enough reason to get together, we don't know what is!
Turning a New Leaf
embolden your heart
Chin up and feet forward! You're looking for change or at least a week to turn your back on whatever you left behind. Escape, refresh, and leave with a new perspective.
Belize Itinerary
Please note that this is an example of activities and quality stays you will enjoy with us. Changes may occur based on weather, logistics, and new opportunities. We will always search for comparable alternatives when a change is made.
Scroll to explore!
Adventure Overview
- Day 1: Welcome to Placencia
- Day 2: Cockscombe Basin
- Day 3: St. Herman's
- Day 4: San Ignacio
- Day 5: Lamanai/Boat to Ambergris Caye
- Day 6: San Pedro
- Day 7: Playa Secreta
- Day 8: Depart from Belize Port
Saturday (Day 1): Welcome to Placencia, BZ
Welcome to Belize! We will rendezvous at the airport before boarding our chartered buses to drive to Placencia where we will spend our first night.
At the hotel, enjoy dinner and drinks while we review the week's upcoming adventures and introduce you to your Event Director and fellow travelers!
- Welcome dinner & orientation
- The Placencia Resort
- Welcome dinner & orientation
- Event check-in: approx. 2:00pm
Sunday (Day 2): Cockscombe Basin
Woohoo! Welcome to your first full day in Belize! We're starting with a lovely loop run in the jungle. This flat course should be a nice way to start the week.
Fill up on lunch and then we're off to sample hot sauce at Marie Sharp's tasting room and factory. Known for zesty sauces, jams, and jellies, this afternoon will delight your tastebuds!
- Hot sauce tasting, free afternoon
- Balam run (7.2km)
- The Placencia Resort
- Placencia, BZ
Monday (Day 3): Cave Tubing in San Ignacio
Take a break from the heat and become a leisurely spelunker for the day!
Our St. Herman's Cave run leads us through the jungle where we hope to see some of the local wildlife. A lunch break at Teaky Tavern prepares us for a chill afternoon of cave tubing — we'll relax and float through St. Herman's Cave.
- Cave tubing!
- St. Herman's Cave (5.6km)
- Cahal Pech
- San Ignacio, BZ
Tuesday (Day 4): Actun Tunichil Muknal Caves
We start the morning with a flat, paved run (a treat after yesterday's more challenging terrain). Ixchel, the Mayan goddess of midwifery is the inspiration behind this run's name. Anthropology suggests that ancient Mayans worshipped Ixchel at the cave we visit today, the Actun Tunichil Muknal!
Lunch follows the cave tour and then the afternoon is yours to explore San Ignacio or simply relax at the hotel with a swam or spa massage.
- Actun Tunichil Muknal cave tour, free afternoon
- Ixchel's Underworld (8km)
- Cahal Pech
- San Ignacio, BZ
Wednesday (Day 5): Lamanai Mayan Ruins
Have your camera ready on this run! We'll board a boat to get to our start line, so relax and enjoy the scenic river cruise this morning. Then, we're running around the Lamanai Mayan Ruins, one of the more popular ruins in Belize.
In the evening, we head to the coast for a private sunset sail before retiring to our hotel at Ramon's Village for a group dinner and good night's rest.
- Lamanai Mayan Ruins tour, wildlife cruise & tour
- Lamanai Mayan Ruins (5.6km)
- Coco Beach Resort
- Boat ride to San Pedro Island
- San Pedro, BZ
Thursday (Day 6): Snorkeling on San Pedro
Your legs get a rest today! Shift into beach mode as we spend the day at Hol Chan Marine Reserve where we'll snorkel among sea turtles, nurse sharks, and sting rays!
When we're done snorkeling, we'll have a tasty lunch and board a scenic flight to see the famous Blue Hole from the air!
In the evening you'll get time to explore San Pedro and try one of the many restaurants serving up island fare - like the famous Truck Stop! Explore by foot or rent a golf cart for maximum sightseeing.
- Snorkeling with sharks, Blue Hole flight
- No run today!
- Coco Beach Resort
- San Pedro, BZ
Friday (Day 7): Beach Day on Sen Pedro
Chill out and hang out on our last day at Secret Beach. We'll run from the hotel to this "secret beach" where we have an afternoon of food, relaxation, and fun waiting for you at the finish line.
Challenge your new friends on our floating obstacle course, and soak up the sun before our farewell beach party at Secret Beach!
- Beach day, aquatic obstacle course
- Secret Beach (6.4km)
- Coco Beach Resort
- San Pedro, BZ
Saturday (Day 8): Depart from Belize City
We're sorry to say it but even this adventure must come to an end. You're free to stick around and explore some more on your own or head home to tell your friends and family about your week abroad. Either way, it's not "goodbye," it's "until next time."
Run with us through Belize!
Registration for this event will open on July 7. Mark your calendars and use the links below to start planning.
What to Expect from Your Global Adventure
Get some insight on how a Global Adventure works from booking to farewells.
Quick Planning Guide
- Keep an eye out for emails from us three months before your trip - we'll send detailed packing and itinerary info and a group WhatsApp chat to get acquainted!
- Belize's weather is balmy in February. Pack for sun, jungles, and beaches.
- Bring some Belize dollars for souvenirs and snacks.
- Avg. 50-75 people per trip
Before You Arrive
What to Expect From Us
After registration, you'll receive a welcome email with information to get ready for your Global Adventure! After this initial email, you can expect to hear from us regularly starting about 3 months before with further trip details, a packing list, a detailed trip itinerary, and more!
Keep an eye on your mailbox - we'll also send you a welcome packet with swag one month before your trip.
Your Pre-Trip Homework
boOK YOUR FLIGHT
Flights or other transportation to our host country are not included in the trip cost. You'll want to book these well in advance to get the best prices.
GET COVERED
We recommend having travel insurance to keep you protected while you're out enjoying each day. Companies like Safety Wing offer flexible coverage for your trip.
While we no longer require participants to be vaccinated, we encourage you to understand the travel requirements of each country you will visit or pass through on a layover.
COMPLETE YOUR TRAVELER PROFILE
Once registered, you'll have a traveler profile with us in RunSignup. Leading up to the trip, we will ask you to complete this profile with information about your flights, dietary needs, etc. This information is private to our event directors and is used to coordinate nitty-gritty trip logistics.
Want to chat with other Global Adventures runners?
Join our community of travelers on Facebook!
Daily Life on a Global Adventure
While each adventure is unique, the info below captures the daily schedule of a typical Global Adventure.
MORNING Run (~7:00 am)
Ok, we know you're on vacation, but starting the day early means we get to show you so much more. You didn't think we'd be sleeping on this trip...right?
On most trips, we'll have breakfast at the hotel before departing for a 7-12K trail run. Pack your day bag (included as trip swag!) with a fresh outfit and an activity for the journey.
After the race we'll regroup to shower (when available) and refuel with lunch.
AFTERNOON activity (~11:00 AM)
After our run, each day brings something new! We'll have lunch and then head out for a range of activities depending on your Global Adventure.
Active Adrenaline - These trips keep your heart racing with more active fun like glacier treks, rock-climbing, kayaking, and more.
Culture Kick - These trips focus on giving you a backstage pass to each country's culture. We'll tour historical sights, learn traditional skills, and taste the local fare.
Expect to have a few hours of free time each afternoon to explore the towns we visit and take in the grandeur of the landscape. Our goal is to have enough adventure to fill your days without feeling rushed from location to location.
Evening wind down (6-8:00 PM)
It's time to wind down and enjoy the night! We'll have dinner together as a group at a local restaurant or at the hotel. Dinners typically include set menu options and wine or beer.
For two of the evenings you will be free to explore and find dinner on your own (not included in trip cost). Ask our local team for recommendations...or grab some food at the hotel, turn your phone on silent, and enjoy hotel amenities to re-coop from an active day. The night is yours!
We got you! Expect a team text before bed with details on tomorrow's race, weather conditions, and packing suggestions.
Trail Runs and Hikes
Our trail runs will take you into the countryside, where you'll feel like part of the iconic landscapes that drew us here. We'll have crew on course to mind you, markings to guide you, and finish line food to revive you.
You can take these runs at your own pace - or go for gold! At the end of the week everyone earns a Global Adventures finisher medal, plus special awards for our group members.
run difficulty & training
A typical Global Adventures trip includes 6 trail runs ranging from 7-12K in length. Most of our Belize trail runs are relatively flat and of easy to moderate difficulty. It is not uncommon for us to walk the uphill portions and run when the terrain is flat or downhill. If you want to train, we recommend working up to back-to-back trail runs with varied elevation gain.
We ask runners to maintain at least a 20-minute per mile trail pace on these runs.
Belize TRAIL runs
Exact trails, distances, and the order we run them may vary from trip to trip depending on weather and trail conditions.
Balam Run (7.2 km)
Route: Flat loop
Terrain: Dirt trail
Level: Moderate
We'll be deep in the jungle - so prep for humidity and lush greenery!
St. Herman's Cave Run (5.6 km)
Route: Mostly flat point-to-point
Terrain: Single-track dirt trail through the forest
Level: Easy to moderate
Our second jungle run under shady treetops
Ixchel's Underworld (8 km)
Route: Some elevation point-to-point
Terrain: Dirt trail
Level: Moderate
This is a tough, sunny run that is worth the extra push!
Lamanai Mayan Ruins Run (5.6 km)
Route: Shady jungle point-to-point
Terrain: Packed mud, stones, and roots
Level: Moderate
It's time to run through ruins! We'll weave over and around the ancient Mayan structures of Lamanai.
Secret Beach Run (6.4 km)
Route: Sunny flat course that ends at the ocean!
Terrain: Gravel and sandy road.
Level: Moderate
Let's go to the beach! Expect sand, sun, and calm breezes.
Run with us through Belize!
Registration for this event will open on July 7. Mark your calendars and use the links below to start planning.
Plan Your Travel
Now that you're as excited as we are, let's get down to the nitty gritty details of your adventure.
Travel Details
Arrival (Saturday):
- Please plan to arrive in Placencia mid-afternoon on the first day of your trip
- Philip SW Goldson International Airport (BZE), Belize City, Belize
- Check in at The Placencia Resort & enjoy our welcome dinner!
Depart (Saturday):
- Please plan to depart after mid-day on Saturday, as we'll take a boat back to Belize Port in the morning
- Philip SW Goldson International Airport (BZE), Belize City, Belize
- Check out of our hotel and return to Belize City in the morning
Packing & Prep
Coverage: You may want to consider travel insurance for such an epic adventure! Companies like Safety Wing offer flexible coverage for your trip.
Packing List: These are fast-paced events. We'll send you a packing list before the trip to help you feel ready to tackle...well, just about anything!
Training: Adventurers of various skill levels can enjoy our running adventures. If you want to train, we recommend working up to back-to-back trail runs with varied elevation gain.
Check out the Belize trail runs for more info on what to expect!
Ask Us Any Question
Our event directors love to talk all things 'Global Adventures'. From travel advice to making sure a trip meets your needs, there is no question too big or too small!
Upcoming Trip Dates
2024 Dates
February 10-17, 2024
8 Days | 7 Nights
$4,500
per guest
Based on double-occupancy rooms. Flights not included.
only a $500 refundable deposit due at registration!
Got Questions? We've Got Answers:
Included in all Global Adventures
- 5+ trail runs or hikes (7-12K)
- Expert team of staff, guides, and a medic
- Daily activities and outings
- Hotels and lodging
- Most meals (and drinks!)
- Local transport
- Travel swag and race medals
Payment & Policy Info
Pricing Breakdown
Trip Pricing:
$4,500 (double occupancy room)
$6,000 (single occupancy room)
Deposit:
$500 (refundable until 5 months before the event)
Trips are refundable minus a fee until 3 months before the event. Please read the Registration Policy for maore info.
Registration Policies
Frequently Asked Questions
Registration & Trip Planning
Will I need a passport or visa?
This is an international running adventure. A valid passport is required for participation. Though every country is different, a good rule to follow is that your passport should not expire within 6 months of your planned travel.
We do not anticipate that you will need a visa. However, visa requirements vary by country and by nationality. If you are unsure, please reach out to us and we will help you determine whether you will need to apply for a visa at all, in advance, or on arrival.
How much does a Global Adventures trip cost?
All Global Adventures trips include the cost of daily hotels, included group activities and entrance fees, domestic transportation in the host country, and most food and drinks.
The cost of your flight to and from the host country is not included to allow participants to choose the travel options that are right for them.
Looking for the exact cost of this trip? Head to the Book Your Trip tab!
Are there discounts available?
We do not currently offer any discounts for Global Adventures trips.
What are the hotels like?
We typically have 3-star lodging booked for you. Rooms will be comfortable, clean, and safe, but no frills; a place that you would feel ok relaxing in!
On some adventures, we have alternative lodging like glamping tents. Check your itinerary and the photo gallery for pictures and additional information.
Who goes on Global Adventures trips?
From solo travelers to groups, teens to the silver-haired, seasoned thrill-seekers to those ready to step out of their comfort zone for the first time - these trips offer an experience for everyone. Our past adventurers come from all walks of life but all share a love of life and a willingness to challenge themselves.
Seriously. Don't be afraid to come alone. You are sure to leave with new friends, new confidence, and approximately 800 photos of moments that took your breath away!
How much free time will we have?
Our days start between 6:30-7:00 am for breakfast before we head out run the trails. Expect to have a few hours of free time each afternoon to explore the towns we visit and take in the grandeur of the landscape. Our goal is to have enough adventure to fill your days without feeling rushed from location to location.
In addition, all Global Adventures will have 2 free evenings- you'll be able to walk around town and maybe stop by that cute pub you passed earlier in the day for dinner!
Can you accommodate dietary restrictions?
If you have a particularly specific or complex dietary requirement, please reach out to us. While we cannot guarantee full accommodations, we'll always try our best!
Are there any age restrictions?
There are no age restrictions for attending these running trips. As long as you are comfortable with the runs and activities, we'll be glad to have you whether you're 12 or 112 years old!
Some of our Global Adventures trips do involve alcohol-oriented events like whiskey tastings, so please keep this in mind. For activity-specific restrictions, read below:
Patagonia Trips: The glacier hike is restricted to ages 64 and under. Individuals 65 and older are not permitted to participate, but we will try to find an alternate activity for them.
Ireland Trips: The whiskey tasting event is 21+
What Covid-19 measures are being taken?
While much of these trips is spent in the great outdoors, there's still a level of risk with any travel. Here's what we can do to limit that risk:
First, While we will no longer require the vaccine, we strongly encourage everyone traveling with us to make sure you're aware of the Covid-19 travel restrictions of each country you will visit or pass through on a layover.
Second, we have a staff medic on each trip. Please let us know right away if you have any symptoms or just need a test for travel purposes. They will be able to help you locate and schedule Covid testing as needed. We will also have rapid tests and masks on hand.
Lastly, staying healthy is a group effort. We ask all our adventurers to respect each others boundaries and preferences. If you remain unsure of the risks, we encourage you to wait to take a Global Adventures trip until you feel confident joining us!
The Races & Activities
How difficult are the runs?
Global Adventures are meant to challenge you. That being said, we welcome runners of various levels and will support you towards the finish line.
Each day we’ll be running/hiking between 7-12K (approx. 3-6 miles). Most of these runs will have a decent amount of elevation gain. It is not uncommon for us to walk the uphill portions and run when the terrain is flat or downhill.
We plan for runners to maintain at least a 20-minute per mile trail pace on these runs. If we believe this pace becomes too difficult for a runner, we may ask them to sit out a run or offer a shorter course for them.
Do I have to run every day?
This is your vacation- you should do what you want!
If you want to take a break for a day or two, then by all means do it. Our goal is to make sure you have the best possible experience on the trails, whatever that means for you.
Are there aid stations?
There are no aid stations in these trail runs.
Most adventurers choose to wear a hydration backpack or carry a water bottle in hand (along with a few gels or other snacks as needed).
You are required to bring your own hydration system. Our team loves the hydration options developed by Nathan Sports. Give them a look!
Will we run into animals on the trails?
If you are lucky, you’ll get to see some local wildlife (Moose, goats, whale, oh my!) We will be visiting wild places and encounters with animals are always a possibility. However, we will be on well traveled trails which tend to keep the animals away.
All Global Adventures trips partner with expert guides from the area to provide tips on staying safe on the trails. Mosquitos will vary greatly with the climate and even changes year-to-year. We recommend packing mosquito repellent.
Can I bring someone who doesn't run?
If you want to bring a partner to the event that doesn’t want to participate in the runs, that’s totally fine. They'll still get to join in the daily activities and explore the destination - just not on the trails. They can join us as a fast hiker (20 minutes per mile) if they choose!
Just sign up for the event as a regular participant, but let us know in the registration notes that your partner is not running.
What other activities will we be doing?
Each Global Adventure is different - expect a range of activities like historical tours, boat cruises, hands-on workshops, and more!
For activities specific to this trip, check out the itinerary. You'll also receive a detailed daily itinerary a few weeks before your arrival date.
Not passport ready? Join the email list.
We'll send you updates about registration opening, price jumps, and more to keep you on track!
Still have questions? Our team loves to talk to new adventurers! Schedule a chat with us.
