Written by Rosie Buddell for Charitable Travel
Life is what you make of it, and in Belize, there are ample opportunities to make it spectacular. We’ve outlined 5 of the most unmissable opportunities in this iconic country.
Ancient Sites
Belize has a rich Maya heritage, much like its neighbours, Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, and Nicaragua, and was once home to more than 2 million Mayas. Today, the Maya legacy is very much alive in vibrant traditions, culinary delights and the enduring connection of the modern-day Belizean people to their ancient ancestors.
Thanks to this heritage, Belize is home to numerous Maya sites, each revealing glimpses of this ancient civilisation. Among the most renowned is Caracol, a sprawling city that once stood as one of the largest in the Maya world, featuring impressive temples and palaces nestled within the lush rainforests of the Cayo District. Belize also harbours underground secrets like Actun Tunichil Muknal, a cave system where ancient artefacts and ceremonial offerings have been preserved for centuries.
Only a small percentage of Belize’s ancient world has been discovered, and it’s not unusual to hear that a distant hill is actually a temple or to find a piece of pottery on the ground.
Beach Bliss
More of a beach bum than an archaeological adventurer? Belize has 174 miles of coastline to entice you. Several pristine beaches with sunkissed sands, the turquoise waters of the Caribbean seas, and laidback beachside bars and restaurants invite you to kick back and relax. Whether you’re looking to bask in the sun, snorkel among lively coral reefs, or explore the diverse marine life, Belize’s beaches have it all.
Placencia’s idyllic shores are perfect for leisurely strolls, while Ambergris Caye beckons with its world-class diving and energetic beachfront nightlife.
For a more secluded experience, venture to the tranquil cays and atolls offshore, where you can relax in blissful seclusion or indulge in watersports like kayaking and paddleboarding. Belize’s coastal charm and array of activities make it a haven for those seeking a quintessential beach getaway.
Tropical Landscapes
Belize’s lush rainforests and national parks invite nature enthusiasts to explore a world of unparalleled biodiversity. With their emerald canopies, these immaculate ecosystems teem with exotic wildlife, including jaguars, howler monkeys, and many different species of birds. Venturing into the heart of these verdant realms, such as the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, the world’s first jaguar reserve, allows for thrilling hikes, waterfall swims and opportunities to connect with the dynamic flora and fauna.
Belize’s commitment to the conservation and preservation of its rainforests makes it a true haven for eco-adventurers, and a testament to the country’s natural beauty.
Underwater Paradise
The Belize Barrier Reef is the second largest in the world, extending the full length of the country, and forming an enormous lagoon along the coast. The 10,000-year-old reef is the ideal habitat for a wide variety of ocean life, from rock-like living coral to endangered sea turtles and over 500 species of fish.
Belize has committed to preserving over 10,000 square kilometres of its oceanic territory with 7 marine protected areas. This, combined with a ban on single-use plastics enacted in 2022, has made Belize a leader in conservation in the Caribbean.
Cultural Hotspots
Belizean culture is a vibrant tapestry woven from the threads of diverse ethnic influences, primarily Maya, Creole, Garifuna, Mestizo, and Mennonite traditions. This multicultural mosaic is celebrated through a rich tapestry of festivals and events.
The annual September Celebrations, including the Carnival Road March and St. George’s Caye Day, commemorate Belize’s history and independence with vibrant parades, music, and traditional dances. The Garifuna Settlement Day in November pays tribute to the Garifuna people’s arrival with drumming, punta dancing, and delicious cassava-based dishes. The San Pedro Lobster Festival in June is a culinary delight, featuring lobster-themed dishes that showcase Belizean seafood expertise.
These cultural celebrations reflect the warm and welcoming spirit of the Belizean people, inviting visitors to experience the heart and soul of this captivating nation.
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