Explore Belize on our snorkeling liveaboard! Experience a special itinerary featuring Lighthouse Reef, Half Moon Cay, and Turneffe Atoll, some of the most beautiful coral reefs in the Caribbean.
Overview
Experience a snorkeling adventure onboard the Belize Aggressor III, a luxury 110 ft. yacht fully chartered for our group. During this snorkeling adventure, we will spend most of our time exploring the shallow reefs of the Belize Barrier Reef where sea turtles, nurse sharks, barracudas, and colorful reef fish thrive. We’ll venture into the pristine waters of Half Moon Cay, Turneffe Atoll and Lighthouse Reef, including the legendary Great Blue Hole.
Trip Highlights
- Discover the greatest marine biodiversity in the Caribbean! Belize coral reefs are the habitat for more than 500 fish and 100 invertebrate species. The reefs are home to sea turtles, hundreds of types of corals, sponges, and sea fans. The majority of the reef’s most iconic species are easy to spot at snorkeling depth.
- We will Explore the three atolls of Belize, including the UNESCO-listed Lighthouse Reef, home to the Great Blue Hole, an iconic marine sinkhole.
- This Belize liveaboard features 15 to 20 snorkeling locations in remote coral reefs, along with an adventurous nighttime snorkeling experience. Most of our visited locations will be pristine coral plateau and drop-offs where reef life thrives.
- We will privately explore the Belize Reef System aboard the Belize Aggressor III, a 18-passenger yacht fully chartered for our group. All cabins have private bathrooms and showers, with hot water and air conditioning.
Day 1 :
Arrival in León - Pilgrimage Begins
Arrive in León, the historic capital of the ancient Kingdom of León. Check into your hotel and explore the magnificent Gothic cathedral, famous for its stunning stained glass windows. Visit the Basilica of San Isidoro and discover the city's rich history. Attend the pilgrimage briefing, receive your credencial (pilgrim passport), and prepare for tomorrow's journey. Evening welcome dinner with traditional Leonese cuisine.
Day 2 :
León to Astorga - First Steps
Begin your Camino journey with a 20km walk from León to Astorga. Leave the city through the historic old town and follow the yellow arrows across the Meseta plateau. Pass through small villages like Virgen del Camino and enjoy the wide-open landscapes. Arrive in Astorga, famous for its Episcopal Palace designed by Antoni Gaudí and the Cathedral of Santa María. Explore the chocolate museum and sample local specialties.
Day 3 :
Astorga to Ponferrada - Mountain Views
Walk 18km through the beautiful Maragatería region toward the Montes de León. Pass through Foncebadón, the highest point of today's journey at 1,500 meters, and visit the Iron Cross (Cruz de Ferro), where pilgrims traditionally leave a stone. Descend into Ponferrada, dominated by the impressive 12th-century Templar Castle. Explore the old town and learn about the Knights Templar's role in protecting pilgrims.
Day 4 :
Ponferrada to Villafranca del Bierzo - Wine Country
Enjoy a scenic 18km walk through the beautiful Bierzo valley, famous for its vineyards and wine production. Pass through Cacabelos, known for its archaeological sites and wine cellars. Arrive in Villafranca del Bierzo, often called the 'Little Santiago' due to its numerous churches and monasteries. Visit the Romanesque Church of Santiago, where sick pilgrims unable to continue received the same indulgences as those reaching Santiago.
Day 5 :
Villafranca to O Cebreiro - Entering Galicia
Challenge yourself with a 17km uphill walk to O Cebreiro, crossing from Castile and León into Galicia. This historic village at 1,300 meters elevation features traditional palloza houses with thatched roofs. Visit the pre-Romanesque church where a famous Eucharistic miracle occurred in the 14th century. Experience authentic Galician culture and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Tonight's accommodation offers traditional Galician hospitality.
Day 6 :
O Cebreiro to Sarria - Galician Countryside
Descend 22km through typical Galician countryside, passing through small villages like Triacastela and Samos with its ancient Benedictine monastery. Walk through green valleys, ancient oak forests, and pastoral landscapes dotted with traditional stone houses. Arrive in Sarria, an important Camino town where many pilgrims begin their final 100km to Santiago. Explore the medieval fortress ruins and enjoy Galician cuisine.
Day 7 :
Sarria to Santiago de Compostela - Journey's End
Complete your final 22km to Santiago de Compostela, passing through typical Galician villages and eucalyptus forests. Feel the excitement building as you approach the cathedral spires. Enter Santiago through the historic old town and experience the emotional moment of reaching the Cathedral of Santiago. Attend the Pilgrim's Mass at noon if possible, where pilgrims from around the world gather. Collect your Compostela certificate and celebrate your achievement.
Cost
Cost Includes
- • 6 nights accommodation in hotels and traditional pilgrim hostels
- • Daily breakfast and 3 dinners
- • Professional English-speaking guide throughout the journey
- • Luggage transfer between accommodations daily
- • Credencial (pilgrim passport) and credential stamps
- • Emergency support vehicle for rest stops and assistance
- • Compostela certificate processing assistance
- • All entrance fees to churches and monuments mentioned
- • Detailed route maps and guidebook
- • Pre-departure briefing and orientation
Cost Excludes
- • International flights to/from Spain
- • Airport transfers (can be arranged separately)
- • Lunches during walking days
- • Personal travel insurance
- • Tips for guides and local services
- • Personal expenses and souvenirs
- • Additional accommodation before/after the tour
- • Alcoholic beverages not included with meals
- • Optional activities not mentioned in itinerary
- • Medical expenses and personal medications
What fitness level is required for the Camino de Santiago walking tour?
A moderate fitness level is required. You should be comfortable walking 15-22 kilometers (9-14 miles) per day on varied terrain including hills and uneven paths. Regular walking or hiking experience is beneficial but not essential. We recommend starting a walking fitness program 6-8 weeks before departure.
What should I pack for the Camino pilgrimage?
Pack lightweight, moisture-wicking clothing, comfortable broken-in walking boots, rain gear, a warm layer, sunhat, sunscreen, and personal medications. Since luggage is transferred daily, you can bring a normal suitcase plus a small daypack for daily essentials. We provide a detailed packing list upon booking.
Will I receive an official Compostela certificate?
Yes! Upon completing the walking tour, you’ll be eligible to receive the official Compostela certificate from the Pilgrim’s Office in Santiago de Compostela. This requires walking at least 100 kilometers and collecting stamps in your credencial (pilgrim passport) which we provide at the start of your journey.
What type of accommodation is provided along the Camino?
Accommodation includes a mix of comfortable hotels and traditional pilgrim hostels (albergues) that maintain the authentic Camino experience while providing modern amenities. All accommodations have private bathrooms, and we ensure quality standards while preserving the pilgrimage atmosphere.
Is the tour suitable for solo travelers and what about group dynamics?
Absolutely! The Camino is perfect for solo travelers, and many pilgrims walk alone. Our small group size (2-12 people) creates an intimate, supportive environment. You’ll also meet other international pilgrims along the route, making it easy to connect with like-minded travelers sharing this transformative experience.
