Cayo Espanto's Instagram Guide
Editor's Note: While we continue to practice social distancing (opens in new tab), we encourage readers to check the Centers for Disease Control website (opens in new tab) for the latest information on how to travel safely during the COVID-19 pandemic We encourage you to do so. In the meantime, bookmark this Instagram travel guide, and you'll love it.
Three miles off the coast of Belize, near Ambergris Caye (opens in new tab), the private island resort of Cayo Espanto (opens in new tab) beckons.7 secluded villas, each with its own private dock, turquoise waters, infinity pool, a hammock, and meticulously wading sand open to five one-bedroom villas, two two-bedroom villas, and one overwater villa with a view of fish swimming at your feet. They are accompanied by two dedicated butlers, who provide complete privacy until you call them on a whim via walkie-talkie.
This luxury destination is not cheap, with all-inclusive rates starting at $1,695 per couple. Another option is to rent out the entire island for about $15,000 per night for a group of up to 18 people. This cost includes personalized menus prepared by a talented chef and pampering by a staff that will help you create the most memorable vacation of your life. Every moment is filled with pleasant surprises, from arrival (where you are greeted with champagne) to departure (where you find your dirty laundry washed and folded for easy packing). For off-island adventures, the concierge can arrange spectacular excursions such as a helicopter tour over the Great Blue Hole or an exploration of ancient Mayan ruins.
See below for what other adventures await you during your trip to Cayo Espanto.
Traveling to Cayo Espanto takes a few steps, but the resort makes it a seamless process. After flying into Belize City, you will be greeted by a Cayo Espanto representative who will escort you to your local flight aboard Tropic Air to San Pedro, which is about a 15-minute ride. (A negative COVID-19 test is required to enter Belize (open in new tab), but if you do not have time to get one in the three days before your arrival, you can take a quick test at the Belize City airport for $50 when you get off the plane. You will also need a negative COVID-19 test (open in new tab) before returning to the U.S.). Another welcoming face will meet you in San Pedro to direct you to the Cayo Espanto boat for the 10-minute trip to the private island. When Cayo Espanto appears before you and you find yourself greeted by a lineup of island staff (all proudly wearing masks, of course), you will know you have arrived in paradise.
Your dream vacation begins with a post-flight massage to relax your muscles. Whether you choose to have a spa treatment at a private dock, villa, or on the beach, the expert hands of the onsite massage therapist are a heavenly treat.
About a 30-minute boat ride from Cayo Espanto is the Hol Chan Marine Reserve (open in new tab), famous for its snorkeling. Guides point out marine life of interest and ensure that visitors do not disturb the protected area. While swimming in the warm blue waters, keep your eyes peeled for mudrays, turtles, and moray eels. Nearby, "in the mood for adventure," is Shark Ray Alley (open in new tab), where you can swim with nurse sharks.
Take a small plane and fly to Lamanai (open in new tab) to explore this historic Mayan site. After landing on a dirt airstrip, climb into a jeep to venture into a rainforest filled with ancient Mayan temples and palaces.
Head out to sea to catch fish and lobster with an experienced guide. After catching your catch, your guide will find a sandy beach and build a fire to grill your fresh catch for lunch. Relaxing under the swaying palms and tucking into the day's catch, we redefine "sea to table."
With so little nightlife on Cayo Espanto, one might wonder what to do at night. Don't worry. Our dedicated butlers have prepared a variety of special treats, including a private movie theater on the beach. Other nights, you may be surprised by bonfires, stargazing, and s'mores.
Cayo Espanto's chefs will prepare daily menus tailored to your preferences based on a food preference survey you fill out prior to your arrival. From your morning cup of coffee to the perfect four-course dinner, every meal is created just for you. To mix up your island dining, the butler can serve your meals in a variety of locations: at the end of your dock at dusk, on a secluded candlelit beach, or in bed with a good 'ol breakfast.
Belize's famous Blue Hole (open in new tab) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is part of Lighthouse Reef (open in new tab). The extraordinary area was created by a massive underwater sinkhole that stretches to a depth of 407 feet. View it from a helicopter taking off from Cayo Espanto's own helipad or soak up the scenery in a small Tropic Air airplane.
If you've fallen in love with Cayo Espanto, book your trip here (opens in new tab).
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