DISCOVER CENTRAL AMERICA SINCE THE DAYS OF THE ANCIENT MAYA, WHO FLOURISHED ALONG this coast some 1,500 years ago, civilization has had relatively little impact. Much of Belize remains genuine wilderness, with large expanses of dense tropical forest, miles of wild rivers, abundant bird life—and the largest, healthiest coral reef systems in North America. Few cruise lines venture into the areas we visit; National Geographic Quest is your only access, and the perfect platform for exploring. Using our fleet of Zodiacs, kayaks, and paddleboards, you’ll explore crystalline waters, and land on isolated cays, some inhabited by seabird colonies, others mere patches of sugar-white sand with a scatter of palm trees. Guanacaste, Costa Rica’s scenery is remarkably varied, ranging from towering active volcanos, to intricate mangrove and coral systems, and pristine beaches. Try zip-lining for the first time, or horseback riding through the jungle, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Take a hike to spot white-faced capuchin monkeys, turquoise-browed motmots, and with luck, scarlet macaws. Strap on a snorkel to spot rays, turtles, and a colorful array of tropical fish. And take home indelible memories of a sojourn in a rare dry tropical forest.
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