Silk Cayes & Turtle Ray Ally Snorkeling | From San Ignacio

The Reef & Rainforest Road Trip. Just because you are staying in the jungle doesn't mean you have to miss the ocean. This full-day expedition takes you from the Mayan Mountains of San Ignacio to the pristine white sands of the Silk Cayes. You will snorkel the world’s second-largest barrier reef, swim with massive sea turtles and nurse sharks, and experience the famous Hummingbird Highway—all in one epic day.

At A Glance

• Departs From: San Ignacio Town, Santa Elena, or Benque Viejo
• Destinations: Placencia Peninsula & Silk Cayes Marine Reserve
• Duration: Extended Day (Approx. 10-11 Hours)
• Intensity: Moderate (Scenic Drive + Active Swimming)

The Experience

1. The Scenic Drive (Hummingbird Highway)

Your day starts early with a private drive down the Hummingbird Highway. This is widely considered the most beautiful drive in Belize. You’ll wind through jungle-covered mountains, pass citrus orchards, and see the famous "Sleeping Giant" mountain formation before arriving at the coast in Placencia.

2. The Paradise Islands (Silk Cayes)

From Placencia, we board a boat for a 20-mile ride out to the Silk Cayes. These are picture-perfect "desert islands" with sugar-white sand and palm trees, surrounded by turquoise water. You’ll enjoy a guided snorkel session on the coral reef, spotting angelfish, barracuda, and vibrant coral formations.

3. The Shark & Turtle Encounter (Turtle Ray Ally)

The highlight of the day! We take the boat to a special zone known locally as Turtle Ray Ally. Here, fishermen used to clean their catch, attracting friendly Nurse Sharks, huge Loggerhead Turtles, and Southern Stingrays. You can jump in and swim right alongside these gentle giants—an experience often compared to the famous "Shark Ray Alley" in the north, but with fewer crowds.

Itinerary Snapshot

• 6:00 AM: Early Pickup in San Ignacio (Coffee stop included).
• 8:30 AM: Arrive in Placencia & Board Boat.
• 9:30 AM: Arrive at Silk Cayes (Snorkel Session 1).
• 11:30 AM: Beach BBQ Lunch on the island.
• 1:00 PM: Turtle Ray Ally (Snorkel with Sharks/Turtles).
• 3:00 PM: Boat ride back to Placencia.
• 3:30 PM: Drive back to San Ignacio (Nap time!).
• 6:00 PM: Drop-off at your hotel.

Trip Essentials

What to Bring: Swimsuit, change of dry clothes for the drive back, sunscreen (reef safe), hat, sunglasses, and a camera (GoPro recommended).

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are the sharks safe?
Yes. The Nurse Sharks are bottom-feeders and are very docile. They are accustomed to snorkelers and are generally harmless unless provoked. Your guide will ensure safe interactions.

2. How long is the drive?
It is approximately 2 to 2.5 hours each way from San Ignacio to Placencia. However, the drive is incredibly scenic, passing through the Mayan Mountains and citrus valleys. We make stops for restrooms and snacks as needed.

3. I don't know how to swim well. Can I go?
Yes. Life vests are mandatory and provided for everyone. The water at the Silk Cayes is often shallow enough to stand in some areas, and the guides will be with you in the water at all times.

4. Is lunch included?
Yes! We provide a lunch on the island (usually a beach barbecue style or Belizean stew chicken) along with fruits and refreshments.