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Top Belize Attractions
Belize tours are suitable for all types of travelers, from adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers to history buffs and culture seekers. With its stunning landscapes, vibrant marine life, ancient Mayan ruins, and diverse cultural heritage, Belize promises unforgettable adventures.
Here are some of the diverse experiences you can enjoy on Belize tours:
- Splashing and exploring the cave Actun Tunichel Muchtal (ATM), one of the coolest caves you'll ever visit
- Scuba diving the epic Blue Hole - an underwater stalactite-filled deep chamber in the center of an atoll, and appearing from above as a giant sinkhole of velvety deep blue sea
- Seeing jaguars at the Belize Zoo
- Relaxing on Ambergris Caye
- Paddling dusky jade rivers and floating through caves
- Participating in adventure activities like leaping from beautiful waterfalls and zip lining through the canopy of lush tropical rainforests
- Snorkeling or diving the world's 2nd largest barrier reef
- Swimming close enough to touch giant sea turtles at Hol Chan Marine Reserve
- Staying at a jungle eco-lodge and awakening to the sounds of monkeys and birds of paradise
- Exploring the Mayan ruins of Caracol, an impressive site rising from the snarled jungle with five plazas and an enormous pyramid
- Hopping over the border for a quick trip to Guatemala to see the famous Mayan ruin of Tikal
- Devouring Belizean fry jacks - a decadent yet dainty fried bread with papaya jam for breakfast
Belize Tours & Travel Guide
Belize Attractions & Landmarks Guide
Nestled in Central America just south of Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula, with an idyllic Caribbean coastline, Belize boasts the world's second-largest barrier reef, thick interior jungles, and Mayan ruins to explore.
It’s a quick flight from the United States to Belize, and the country attracts tourists to its various exotic tropical attractions, outdoor adventure, and Mayan culture, both old and new.
A Belize guided tour will take you far beyond the beaches, allowing you to discover the heart and soul of this beautiful and increasingly popular destination.
Cities in Belize
Belize is home to several vibrant cities, each offering unique attractions and experiences for travelers. Here are some of the most famous tourist cities in Belize:
Belize City
Belize City is the busiest and most populous city in the country. It is located on the Caribbean Sea and is the principal port and financial and industrial hub of Belize.
Known as a cultural hotspot, it’s where the country’s hustle and bustle happens. If you’re flying internationally, you’ll likely land here first.
Belize City offers fascinating historical sites like the Belize Museum and St. John’s Cathedral, and the city’s lively markets and cultural festivals are not to be missed.
San Ignacio
San Ignacio is the second-largest city in Belize and another cultural gem. It’s a major tourist hotspot because of its proximity to some incredible sites. Imagine exploring the ancient Mayan ruins of Caracol and Cahal Pech or even going cave tubing through ancient caves!
San Ignacio is also a gateway to the lush jungles, rivers, and wildlife of the Cayo District, making it perfect for adventure seekers.
San Pedro
San Pedro, located on Ambergris Caye, is a beach lover’s paradise. Picture yourself on sandy beaches with crystal-clear waters, enjoying beach bars and awesome restaurants.
It’s a fantastic spot for snorkeling and diving, especially at the Hol Chan Marine Reserve and the Great Blue Hole. The laid-back vibe during the day and vibrant nightlife make San Pedro a favorite among tourists looking for a fun and relaxing vacation.
Placencia
Placencia is a charming coastal village known for its stunning beaches and relaxed atmosphere. Whether you’re into snorkeling, diving, or kayaking in the nearby Laughing Bird Caye National Park, Placencia has it all.
It’s also great for fishing and exploring the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary. Don’t forget to stroll along the famous Placencia Sidewalk, lined with shops, cafes, and art galleries.
Belmopan
Belmopan, the capital city of Belize, might be smaller than Belize City, but it’s the administrative heart of the country. It’s known for its neat layout and government buildings.
Check out the George Price Centre for Peace and Development and the nearby Guanacaste National Park. Belmopan’s central location makes it an excellent base for exploring other parts of Belize.
Orange Walk Town
Orange Walk Town, affectionately called “Sugar City” due to its sugar cane industry, is in northern Belize.
This town is your gateway to the Lamanai Archaeological Reserve, where you can explore well-preserved Mayan ruins surrounded by lush jungle. Orange Walk is also fantastic for bird-watching, especially at the nearby Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary.
Belize: A Jungle Paradise
Belize boasts an idyllic locale in Central America, perched between Yucatan, Mexico, Guatemala, and the Caribbean Sea. Despite its small size, the country packs a punch when it comes to adventure and cultural offerings.
The long stretch of the Caribbean coastline provides countless sandy cayes and beaches, many uninhabited for an island-hopping dream come true.
The world's second-longest barrier reef just offshore (home to the stunning Blue Hole) draws scuba divers and snorkelers worldwide.
The interior of Belize is a tangle of jungles, with all the adventure activities and wildlife viewing opportunities that a rich tropical forest entails. Forests cover 60% of the country, and more than 36% are under some form of protected status.
Eco-travel is possible and encouraged, from the UNESCO World Heritage reef on the coast to surprisingly luxurious eco-lodges in the rainforest.
Aside from the varied microclimates and topography, Belize is also a melting pot of people and languages. Soak up Latin American culture and history alongside laid-back Caribbean hospitality, with a touch of post-colonial influence from the UK (Belize was a British territory until 1981).
The blend is intoxicating. English is the official language, but Belizean Creole, Garifuna, and Maya dialects are also widely spoken. The cuisine is a similar jumble of influence, brought to life with fresh seafood, salsas, rum, cacao, and tropical fruits.
Top Nature Parks in Belize
Belize is a haven for nature lovers, offering many stunning parks showcasing its rich biodiversity and breathtaking landscapes. From lush rainforests to pristine marine reserves, these parks provide endless opportunities for adventure and exploration.
Here are some of the top nature parks to visit in Belize:
Chiquibul National Park
Chiquibul National Park, at 264,000 acres, is Belize’s largest National Park. It surrounds the Mayan city of Caracol, an archeological site that is still being worked on. The park is also home to Belize’s highest mountain, Doyle’s Delight.
In addition to great archeological history and mountain hiking, the park has waterfalls and river pools. Species found in the park include Yucatan spider monkeys, jaguars, kinkajous, ocellated turkeys, and keel-billed motmots.
Cockscomb Basin National Park
Cockscomb Basin National Park is a reserve that protects the forest and the jaguar population — it’s the world’s first Jaguar reserve. Don’t miss the waterfalls, mountain views, wildlife tracks, great nature trails, and diverse bird species in the park.
Bacalar Chico National Park
Bacalar Chico National Park is 41 square miles of protected land and sea and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is only accessible via boat. This is an awesome place to snorkel because it is so protected, and because of the distance, very few visitors make the trip.
Expect to see extra colorful coral, plenty of fish, and potential opportunities to see manatees, turtles, crocodiles, pumas, and jaguars. While it’s a bit of a stretch to get there (a one-hour boat ride from San Pedro), it’s worth the visit.
Mayan Archeological Sites in Belize
The backbone of any trip to Belize is the extraordinary Mayan history of the area, once the epicenter of the ancient Maya civilization. Mayan influence courses throughout the country and is essential to its core.
The captivating, crumbling ruin complexes spread throughout the interior are well worth a day trip. Some of these mysterious cities and temples are said to have inspired the Indiana Jones films.
Here are some must-visit Mayan sites in Belize:
Caracol: Caracol is one of the largest and most impressive Mayan sites in Belize. Located in the Chiquibul Forest Reserve, it features towering pyramids, plazas, and intricate carvings. The main pyramid, Caana, offers breathtaking views of the surrounding jungle.
Xunantunich: Xunantunich, meaning "Stone Woman," is easily accessible from San Ignacio. The highlight is the El Castillo pyramid, which stands at 130 feet and provides panoramic views of the Belize River Valley. The site is also known for its beautiful stucco friezes.
Altun Ha: Located near Belize City, it’s famous for the Temple of the Masonry Altars, depicted on the Belizean $2 bill. This site was an important trading center and features several well-preserved structures and plazas.
Lamanai: Lamanai, meaning "Submerged Crocodile," is situated along the New River Lagoon. Accessible by boat, this site is known for its high temple, impressive ball courts, and the Mask Temple with its intricate stone carvings.
Cahal Pech: Located near San Ignacio, it is one of the oldest known Mayan sites in Belize. It features a royal acropolis, plazas, and several structures, providing a glimpse into the early Classic period of the Mayan civilization.
Nim Li Punit: Nim Li Punit, in southern Belize, is known for its extensive collection of stelae, including one of the tallest in Belize. The site also features plazas and structures with stunning views of the Maya Mountains.
Belize Scuba Diving and Diving Packages
Belize is a balmy island in the Caribbean with miles of white sand beaches, friendly weather, and over 400 tropical islands. Its calm, clear waters and possession of an 185-mile-long barrier reef also make it a prime scuba diving location.
Here is our list of the top four places to dive in Belize:
The Blue Hole: The most famous underwater feature of Belize, the Blue Hole, is 400 feet deep and has a diameter of 1000 feet. Inside, you can see strange geological formations from when the Hole wasn’t underwater and have the chance to see a wide variety of sharks.
The Belize Barrier Reef: Competing with Australia’s Great Barrier Reef for size and variety, the Belize Barrier Reef hosts a huge range of pristine dive sites. Dive between the colorful coral for a close look at sea turtles, over 500 species of Caribbean fish, reef sharks, and octopi.
Gladden Spit: The Gladden Spit is one of the world’s best locations to dive with whale sharks. Either snorkel or dive with these gentle giants in their haunt near Palencia.
Shark Ray Alley: Originally an area of the sea where the fisherman cleaned and gutted their haul, these shallows continue to attract many nurse sharks and rays that aren’t shy around humans.
Best Beaches in Belize
Belize is renowned for its stunning coastline and crystal-clear waters, making it a paradise for beach lovers. Whether you're looking for a lively beach scene or a secluded spot to relax, Belize has a variety of beautiful beaches to suit every taste. Here are some of the best beaches to visit in Belize:
Placencia: Located in southern Belize, it’s home to some of the country's most incredible beaches. The 16-mile coastline offers numerous pristine beaches known for their white sand and gorgeous blue Caribbean waters. It’s an excellent place to visit the Belize Barrier Reef.
Ambergris Caye: Ambergris Caye is the best snorkeling place in Belize. Here, you’ll find top-of-the-line snorkeling and water sports. Since it’s one of the more popular beaches in Belize, it can get crowded, but you can easily hire a boat and head north to escape the crowds. Remember to visit the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef (the Great Mayan Reef).
Village of Hopkins: If you want an authentic, laid-back beach experience, consider visiting the town of Hopkins, about 140 from Belize City. The area is natural, with no high-rise buildings and no paved paths. Resorts are far away from the beaches, more towards the city, which allows for a more natural, tranquil beach experience.
Caye Caulker: There are no cars in Caye Caulker, and the only way to reach the area is via water taxi. Transportation options are either walking or renting a bike. Everything on Caye Caulker is close by. Spend your days snorkeling, cave tubing in Belize ruins, and swinging in a hammock.
Silk Cayes: Silk Cayes makes for a great day trip option, as the island has no accommodations. This is an excellent place to dive and snorkel. You can see sharks and stingrays swimming by while on the beach!
The Best Belize Group Tour Excursions
Almost all guided tours include some self-directed time for exploring the city independently. Here are some suggestions for what to do during these free periods.
Tour the Mayan Ruins
There are over 25 documented Mayan ruins in Belize, and you should take the opportunity to see at least one archaeological site in Belize.
Whether you visit the stone altars of Altun Ha, the tall stone pyramid of Xunantunich, or the grisly human sacrificial skulls at Actun Tunchil Muknal, you are sure to be awed by the impressive remains of one our antiquity’s most remarkable peoples.
Caving
For those with a sense of adventure, try taking a trip into the darkness and go caving. Belize has a vast and impressive system of caves in the jungle, commonly known as the Mayan Underworld.
These caves were used by the Mayans as early as 300 A.D. Depending on which cave you visit, you can either climb down or consider rafting through it on an underwater river.
Baboon Sanctuary Tour
A short trip from Belize City, the Community Baboon Center is great for families who may have some free time on their small group tour. It is home to over 3,500 howler monkeys and hundreds of species of birds.
The monkeys are used to humans and accustomed to being fed, which means you won’t have any problems getting a close look.
A Day in Belize City
Many Belize tours fly in and out of the country’s old capital, Belize City. Therefore, it’s likely that you will have some free time in this area before, after, and in between other stops. Although this is one of the very few urban areas in the city, it is not usually a top attraction.
If you’re looking for an excursion within the city, try authentic Belizean food in one of the top restaurants or get some historical perspective by visiting a Museum in Belize.
Food in Belize
Belizean food staples include naturally grown fruits, vegetables, and herbs planted and harvested locally. Many family homes have fruit trees in their backyards, which supply the family with fresh products to build their meals.
Here are some top dishes to try on your Belize tour:
Tamale: The Belizean Tamale is a staple in Belizean cuisine. It is made of corn dough and meat, such as chicken, pork, or beef. The cull mixture consists of corn flour, recado, garlic, and peppercorn, and then the spices are added. Belizean Tamales are boiled in plantain leaves.
Hudut: Hudut is another popular food in Belize. It consists of half-ripened mashed plantains, bananas (mashed by hand), and coconut milk.
Salbutes: Salbutes are a snack food made from tiny corn tortillas fried and topped with chicken, cabbage, avocado, and hot sauce. A similar food is ganache, a tortilla topped with cheese and beans.
Conchita Pibil: Conchita Pibil is a classic Mayan dish. Slow-roasted pork and vegetables are layered onto a soft tortilla. Usually eaten in the morning through lunchtime, fry jacks are a savory staple. Puffy, soft tortillas are filled with cheese, beans, and sometimes meat.
Belize Cultural Activities
Belize is a melting pot of cultures, offering a rich tapestry of traditions, music, dance, and cuisine. From vibrant festivals and traditional crafts to immersive historical experiences, Belize's cultural activities provide a fascinating insight into the diverse heritage of this beautiful country.
Here are some cultural activities you won’t want to miss while visiting Belize:
Caracol: This archaeological site is still being excavated. It was one of the largest cities in the Mayan world, with a population of around 150,000. Remember to visit the temples, reservoirs, and ballcourts featured at the site.
Actun Tunichil Muknal: This is a great cultural activity with a fun outdoor experience. Start by trekking through the jungle to reach the beginning of the cave, then swim through onto the rock shelves. The rock shelves have ollas and skulls scattered throughout. Climb the ladder to find the “crystal maiden” skeleton.
Lamanai Temple: It dates back to the first settlement, at least 1500 years BC, and construction continued until the Spanish arrived in the first half of the 16th century AD. The Lamanai Temple is a great place to learn about the history of the Maya civilization.
Churches: Churches were built on top of Mayan monuments. The history itself is incredible, but this makes for another fun adventure: You get to see some amazing (and massive) temples and take a boat through the rainforest.
Wildlife Tours in Belize
Belize is a great travel destination for wildlife lovers. Here are just some of the species you can expect to spot (some easier than others!):
Jaguars: Jaguars are a common animal in Belize, though previously, there was concern that the population was dwindling. Later, more jaguars were found than expected, meaning there is hope that the population will continue to grow. There is a jaguar reserve at the Cockscomb Basin National Park.
Scarlet Macaw: Scarlet Macaw is a large, colorful bird covered in brilliant red, blue, and yellow feathers. The bird measures around 2.5-3 feet in length. If you go to the rainforest, you will likely find these beautiful birds flying through the air.
Baird’s Tapir: Belize’s national animal, the Baird’s Tapir, is related to the rhinoceros and the horse. The Tapir has a large nose and loves to look for food to snack on. It can reach up to three feet tall and six feet long, weighing up to 600 pounds.
Ocelot: The ocelot is sometimes called the “dwarf leopard” and has black spots on its fur, which help camouflage it while looking for prey. These small “big cats” can be up to three feet long, about a foot and a half tall, weighing around 30 pounds. While the ocelot has excellent eyesight, they have white rings around their eyes, which help their night vision by reflecting light into their eyes.
Howler Monkeys: Howler monkeys, also known as baboons to the locals, are often found hanging around the treetops. They love to make sure everyone is awake at sunrise with their loud morning howl. They also like to howl during sunset and sometimes before a rainstorm. They live in troops of four or more.
Kinkajous: Kinkajous look like a combination of a cat and monkey, weighing 4-10 pounds and between 16-22 inches in height. They live on the tree tops and swing from tree to tree using their tails. They are the raccoons of the rainforest since they perform similar roles to raccoons in temperate forests.
Other Countries to Visit During Belize Tour
Are you in Belize and want to visit more countries? All the countries in the Central American region offer spectacular beaches, sunshine, jungle, and enough varied wildlife to please nature lovers everywhere. Moreover, they all have distinct cultures, cuisines, and languages.
Here are two other Central American destinations to consider that are similar to Belize:
Despite being about the size of Kentucky, Guatemala has tons to do. Known for the extensive Mayan ruins of Tikal (famously used as a filming location for Star Wars: Episode IV), Guatemala is an attractive place for history buffs to travel.
Guatemala has a reputation for uneasy political conditions, and safety concerns have caused many tourists to turn to more traditionally safe Central American countries.
Guided tours of Guatemala are a great way to experience the culture and history without needing to worry about traveling alone or figuring out where to go.
On the opposite coast and south of Belize, Costa Rica is known as one of the adventure travel capitals of the world. But there is so much more to this exciting country than just zip lines through the canopy.
The best vacation packages to Costa Rica incorporate adventure and ample wildlife viewing to see hundreds of rare and beautiful birds and other nature wonders that live in the many distinct rainforests of Costa Rica.
Belize Reviews & Ratings
Maya Encounteroperated by Intrepid Travel
was a fantastic trip
was a fantastic trip
Maya Encounteroperated by Intrepid Travel
The cost of the meals etc. was
The cost of the meals etc. was markedly more than the sugge...
Maya Encounteroperated by Intrepid Travel
great destinations and activities, comfortable efficient transport
great destinations and activities, comfortable efficient transport, very knowledge...
Maya Encounteroperated by Intrepid Travel
The trip gave me a good chance
The trip gave me a good chance to experience the attractions and integ...
Maya Encounteroperated by Intrepid Travel
The tour leader, Carlos Oropeza was the
The tour leader, Carlos Oropeza was the icing on the cake. His enthusiasm and professionalism made the trip all worth while despite some misgivings I had on the tri...
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