Tucked away in Central America, bordered by Mexico to the north, Guatemala to the west, and the sparkling Caribbean Sea to the east, Belize is a tiny nation with an outsized reputation among seasoned travelers. Often overshadowed by its larger neighbors, this English-speaking country is a tapestry of turquoise waters, ancient Mayan ruins, lush rainforests, and vibrant multicultural communities. For European adventurers seeking off-the-beaten-path destinations, North American travelers craving a quick tropical escape, or global wanderers in search of unspoiled natural beauty and rich history, Belize offers an unparalleled blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive deep into Belize’s most captivating attractions, uncovering their unique features, must-try experiences, and insider tips to help you plan an unforgettable journey.

Marine & Island Wonders: The Sapphires of the Caribbean

Belize’s Caribbean coastline is a playground for water lovers, boasting some of the world’s most extraordinary marine landscapes. From the iconic Great Blue Hole to laid-back island getaways, these destinations showcase the country’s status as a top-tier tropical destination.

The Great Blue Hole: A Natural Wonder of the Underwater World

No trip to Belize is complete without a visit to the Great Blue Hole, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most recognizable natural landmarks on the planet. Located approximately 70 kilometers off the coast of Belize City, this massive marine sinkhole is a testament to the earth’s geological wonders, formed over 15,000 years ago during the last Ice Age when rising sea levels flooded a system of limestone caves.

From above, the Great Blue Hole appears as a perfect circular void of deep indigo blue, contrasting sharply with the lighter turquoise waters of the surrounding Lighthouse Reef Atoll. The hole stretches 300 meters across and plunges to a depth of 124 meters, creating a surreal “eye of the ocean” effect that is nothing short of breathtaking. For photographers and adventure seekers, a scenic flight over the Blue Hole is an absolute must—small planes depart from Belize City and Ambergris Caye, offering panoramic views that capture the scale and beauty of this natural phenomenon.

Beneath the surface, the Great Blue Hole is a mecca for advanced divers. Unlike many popular dive sites that cater to beginners, this location requires a high level of experience due to its depth, strong currents, and low light conditions. Divers who make the descent are rewarded with a glimpse into an otherworldly underwater landscape: ancient stalactites and stalagmites line the cave walls, remnants of the time when the hole was above sea level. The waters are also home to a variety of marine life, including reef sharks, nurse sharks, hammerhead sharks (seasonal), sea turtles, and colorful tropical fish. Many dive operators offer combined “flight + dive” packages, allowing visitors to experience both the aerial views and the underwater magic in one day.

Insider Tips: The best time to visit the Great Blue Hole is during the dry season (December to April), when sea conditions are calm and visibility underwater is at its peak (up to 40 meters). The rainy season (June to November) can bring rough seas and reduced visibility, so it’s important to check weather forecasts before booking. All dives must be led by a certified guide, and divers are required to have advanced open water certification or higher. Don’t forget to bring a waterproof camera if you’re diving, but note that flash photography is prohibited in some areas to protect the delicate marine ecosystem.

Ambergris Caye: Belize’s Premier Island Getaway

As Belize’s largest island, Ambergris Caye (locally known as “La Isla Bonita”) is a tropical paradise that lives up to its reputation as a diver’s backyard and a beach lover’s dream. Stretching 40 kilometers long and just 1 kilometer wide at its narrowest point, the island is surrounded by the Belize Barrier Reef, the second-largest coral reef system in the world, making it an ideal base for water-based activities.

The heart of Ambergris Caye is San Pedro Town, a colorful, laid-back Caribbean village where golf carts are the primary mode of transportation (cars are rare and unnecessary here). The town’s main street, Front Street, is lined with vibrant pastel-colored buildings, boutique hotels, open-air restaurants, and souvenir shops. At night, the street comes alive with the sounds of reggae music and the aroma of grilled seafood, creating a lively yet relaxed atmosphere.

One of the island’s top attractions is the Hol Chan Marine Reserve, located just a short boat ride from San Pedro. Translating to “Little Channel” in Maya, Hol Chan is a protected area that encompasses four distinct zones: a mangrove forest, a seagrass bed, a coral reef, and a deep channel. The reserve is a snorkeler’s paradise, with calm, shallow waters that are perfect for beginners. Here, you can swim alongside nurse sharks (harmless to humans), southern stingrays, sea turtles, and schools of colorful fish like parrotfish and angelfish. Many tour operators offer guided snorkeling tours of Hol Chan, often combined with a visit to Shark Ray Alley, a shallow sandbar where sharks and rays gather to be fed (a thrilling yet safe experience).

Beyond water activities, Ambergris Caye offers plenty of ways to relax and unwind. Spend your afternoons lounging on the island’s white-sand beaches, such as Secret Beach or Tres Cocos Beach, where you can soak up the sun and listen to the gentle lapping of the waves. For a more active experience, try a sunrise or sunset yoga class on the beach, or rent a kayak to explore the island’s mangrove lagoons. Foodies will love the island’s seafood scene—don’t miss the chance to try fresh grilled lobster, conch fritters, and ceviche at one of San Pedro’s beachfront restaurants, paired with a cold Belikin beer (Belize’s national beer) or a tropical fruit smoothie.

Getting There: Ambergris Caye is easily accessible from Belize City. You can take a small plane (15-minute flight) with airlines like Tropic Air or Maya Island Air, which offers stunning aerial views of the coastline and reef. Alternatively, you can take a high-speed ferry (1.5 to 2 hours) from Belize City’s Marine Terminal, which is a more budget-friendly option. Once on the island, golf cart rentals are widely available (starting at around $25 per day), and taxis (also golf carts) are a convenient way to get around if you don’t want to drive.

Caye Caulker: The “Go Slow” Island Paradise

For travelers seeking a more laid-back, bohemian vibe, Caye Caulker is the perfect alternative to Ambergris Caye. This small, low-key island, located just 20 kilometers northeast of Belize City, embraces a “Go Slow” philosophy that is evident in every aspect of life—from the leisurely pace of the locals to the absence of cars (golf carts and bicycles are the main modes of transportation).

One of Caye Caulker’s most iconic attractions is the Split, a natural channel that divides the island into two parts. Formed by a hurricane in 1961, the Split is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and socializing. The water here is crystal clear and calm, with a sandy bottom that makes it ideal for wading. Surrounding the Split are a handful of beach bars and restaurants, where you can grab a drink or a bite to eat while enjoying the views. At sunset, the Split comes alive with locals and tourists alike, watching as the sky turns shades of orange, pink, and purple over the Caribbean Sea.

Caye Caulker is also a great destination for wildlife lovers. One of the island’s most unique experiences is a manatee-watching tour. These gentle, slow-moving marine mammals (also known as sea cows) can often be spotted in the shallow waters around the island, especially in the mangrove lagoons. Guided tours take visitors by boat to manatee hotspots, where you can observe these fascinating creatures in their natural habitat (swimming with manatees is not allowed, but you can get close enough to take photos and watch them feed on seagrass).

In addition to manatee watching, Caye Caulker offers excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities. The island is located just a short boat ride from the Belize Barrier Reef, and many tour operators offer day trips to Hol Chan Marine Reserve, Shark Ray Alley, and other nearby dive sites. For a more unique experience, try a night snorkel, where you can see bioluminescent plankton lighting up the water as you swim—a magical, otherworldly sight.

The island’s main village is a charming, walkable area lined with colorful wooden houses, small cafes, and artisan shops. The local food scene is focused on casual, affordable eats, with street stalls and small restaurants serving up dishes like jerk chicken, grilled fish, and rice and beans (a Belizean staple). Don’t miss the chance to try a “fry jack,” a popular Belizean breakfast food—fluffy, fried dough served with beans, cheese, or jam. In the evenings, the village’s small bars and reggae clubs come alive with music, offering a relaxed, friendly atmosphere where travelers can mingle with locals and other visitors.

Insider Tips: Caye Caulker is a budget-friendly destination, with plenty of affordable accommodation options, including hostels, guesthouses, and small hotels. Many of these are located within walking distance of the beach and the village center. Bicycle rentals are cheap (around $5 per day) and are a great way to explore the island’s quieter areas. If you’re visiting during the peak season (December to April), it’s a good idea to book accommodation in advance, as the island can get busy. For a truly authentic experience, try to visit during one of the island’s local festivals, such as the Caye Caulker Lobster Fest (June) or the Go Slow Festival (November), which celebrate the island’s culture and seafood.

Rainforest & Wildlands: The Mysterious Realm of the Maya

Beyond its coastal wonders, Belize is home to some of Central America’s most pristine rainforests and ancient Mayan ruins. This interior region offers a stark contrast to the country’s beaches, with dense jungles, winding rivers, and archaeological sites that tell the story of the Maya civilization, which once thrived here over a thousand years ago.

Belize Rainforest: A Biodiversity Hotspot

Covering over 60% of Belize’s land area, the Belize Rainforest is one of the most biodiverse ecosystems in Central America. This lush, tropical jungle is home to a wide range of plant and animal species, including jaguars, howler monkeys, toucans, scarlet macaws, and poison dart frogs. It’s also crisscrossed by rivers, waterfalls, and cenotes (natural sinkholes filled with freshwater), making it an ideal destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers.

The gateway to the Belize Rainforest is San Ignacio, a charming town located in the Cayo District, about a 2.5-hour drive from Belize City. San Ignacio is a popular base for rainforest adventures, with a wide range of tour operators offering guided hikes, river trips, and wildlife encounters. One of the most popular activities is a night jungle hike, where you’ll venture into the rainforest after dark with a local guide, armed with a flashlight. This is the best way to spot nocturnal animals, such as ocelots, kinkajous, and tarantulas, as well as bioluminescent fungi that glow in the dark.

Another must-try experience in the Belize Rainforest is a river tubing or canoeing trip. The Macal River and the Mopan River are popular spots for these activities, offering calm waters that wind through the jungle. As you float downstream, you’ll have the chance to spot howler monkeys swinging from the trees, herons wading in the water, and maybe even a crocodile sunning itself on the riverbank (don’t worry—they’re usually shy and will move away if approached). For a more adrenaline-pumping adventure, try a zip-lining tour, which lets you soar through the jungle canopy, getting a bird’s-eye view of the rainforest and its inhabitants.

For those interested in indigenous culture, a Maya herbalism tour is a fascinating experience. Led by local Maya shamans, these tours teach visitors about the medicinal properties of the rainforest’s plants, many of which have been used by the Maya for centuries to treat a variety of ailments. You’ll learn how to identify plants like the neem tree (used for skin conditions) and the soursop tree (used for digestive issues), and may even get to participate in a traditional healing ceremony.

Insider Tips: The best time to visit the Belize Rainforest is during the dry season (December to April), when the weather is cooler and there’s less rain. However, the rainy season (June to November) can also be a great time to visit, as the jungle is lush and green, and waterfalls are at their most impressive. Be sure to wear lightweight, breathable clothing, sturdy hiking boots, and insect repellent (preferably with DEET) to protect against mosquitoes. It’s also a good idea to bring a reusable water bottle, as staying hydrated is important in the hot, humid jungle.

Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM Cave): The Mayan Underworld

Often ranked among the world’s top 10 sacred caves, Actun Tunichil Muknal (commonly known as the ATM Cave) is a must-visit for anyone interested in Mayan history and adventure. Located in the Cayo District, about a 45-minute drive from San Ignacio, this ancient cave was once a sacred site for the Maya, who used it for religious ceremonies and human sacrifices.

The journey to the ATM Cave is an adventure in itself. After a 45-minute hike through the rainforest (where you’ll pass through dense jungle, cross rivers, and spot wildlife like howler monkeys and toucans), you’ll reach the cave entrance, where you’ll need to swim 40 meters into the cave (life jackets are provided). Once inside, you’ll spend the next 2-3 hours wading through shallow water, climbing over rocks, and navigating narrow passages, all while your guide shares the history and significance of the cave.

The highlight of the ATM Cave tour is the “Crystal Maiden,” the perfectly preserved skeleton of a young Maya girl who was sacrificed to the gods over 1,400 years ago. The skeleton is covered in a thin layer of calcite, which gives it a sparkling, crystal-like appearance—hence the name. The cave is also home to a variety of ancient Mayan artifacts, including pottery, tools, and other human remains, all of which are in remarkably good condition due to the cave’s stable temperature and humidity.

Important Rules: To protect the cave’s delicate ecosystem and ancient artifacts, all visitors must be accompanied by a certified guide (no self-guided tours are allowed). Photography is strictly prohibited inside the cave (including cell phones), as the flash can damage the artifacts and disturb the calcite formations. Visitors are required to wear appropriate clothing (swimwear under lightweight, quick-drying clothes) and water shoes with good traction (the rocks inside the cave are slippery). Children under the age of 12 are not allowed on the tour, and visitors with mobility issues or health conditions (such as asthma or heart problems) should avoid it, as the hike and cave exploration can be physically demanding.

Cahal Pech Archaeological Site: A Mayan Palace Overlooking San Ignacio

For travelers short on time or looking for a more accessible Mayan ruin, Cahal Pech is the perfect choice. Located just a 10-minute walk from downtown San Ignacio, this small but impressive archaeological site was once a royal palace for the Maya elite, dating back to around 1000 BCE.

Cahal Pech (which means “Place of Ticks” in Maya, a name given to it by local farmers who once used the area for grazing) covers an area of 3 acres and features 34 structures, including temples, palaces, and residential buildings. The site’s main attraction is its central pyramid, which offers panoramic views of San Ignacio, the Macal River, and the surrounding rainforest. Climbing to the top of the pyramid is a must—especially at sunrise or sunset, when the sky is filled with warm light and the town below is quiet.

One of the unique features of Cahal Pech is its well-preserved ball court, where the Maya played a sacred game known as pok-ta-pok. The game, which involved hitting a rubber ball through stone hoops using only the hips, elbows, and knees, was more than just a sport—it had religious and political significance, and the losing team (or sometimes the winning team) was often sacrificed to the gods. The ball court at Cahal Pech is one of the best-preserved in Belize, with the stone hoops still intact.

The site also has a small museum, where you can see artifacts unearthed during excavations, including pottery, jade jewelry, and stone tools. Guided tours are available (recommended for first-time visitors), and the guides are knowledgeable about the site’s history and the Maya civilization. Unlike larger archaeological sites like Tikal (in Guatemala) or Chichén Itzá (in Mexico), Cahal Pech is relatively quiet, making it a peaceful place to explore and learn about the Maya.

Insider Tips: Cahal Pech is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and admission is affordable (around $10 for adults, $5 for children). The best time to visit is in the morning, when the weather is cooler and the light is ideal for photography. If you have more time, consider combining a visit to Cahal Pech with a trip to Caracol, one of Belize’s largest and most impressive Mayan ruins. Located about a 2-hour drive from San Ignacio, Caracol features the Caana Pyramid (also known as the “Sky Palace”), which is the tallest man-made structure in Belize, standing at 43 meters tall. Climbing to the top of Caana offers stunning views of the surrounding rainforest, and the site is much less crowded than other major Mayan ruins.

Cultural & Ecological Wonders: Unique Belizean Experiences

Belize’s charm isn’t just in its natural beauty and ancient history—it’s also in its diverse culture. The country is home to a mix of ethnic groups, including Maya, Creole, Garifuna, Mennonite, and expats from around the world, each contributing their own traditions, food, and music to Belizean culture. In this section, we’ll explore some of the best ways to immerse yourself in Belize’s unique cultural heritage and ecological wonders.

Belize Barrier Reef: The Second-Largest Coral Reef System in the World

Stretching over 300 kilometers along Belize’s Caribbean coast, the Belize Barrier Reef is the second-largest coral reef system in the world (after Australia’s Great Barrier Reef) and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This vast ecosystem is home to over 1,400 species of fish, 70 species of hard and soft corals, and a variety of marine mammals, reptiles, and invertebrates, making it one of the most biodiverse marine environments on the planet.

One of the most popular spots on the Belize Barrier Reef is Shark Ray Alley, a shallow sandbar located near Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker. Here, you can stand in waist-deep water as dozens of nurse sharks and southern stingrays swim around you, often coming within inches of your legs. The sharks and rays are used to human presence (they’re fed by tour guides), and while they may look intimidating, they’re harmless to humans. This is a thrilling experience for visitors of all ages, and it’s a great way to get up close and personal with these fascinating marine creatures.

Another must-visit spot on the reef is the Coral Gardens, a shallow area filled with colorful soft corals, sea fans, and tropical fish. This is an ideal destination for families and beginner snorkelers, as the water is calm and the marine life is abundant. You’ll see schools of parrotfish, angelfish, and clownfish (made famous by the movie Finding Nemo), as well as sea turtles and maybe even a octopus hiding in the coral.

For more experienced divers, the Belize Barrier Reef offers a variety of advanced dive sites, including wall dives, wreck dives, and cave dives. The Blue Corner Wall, located near Ambergris Caye, is one of the most famous dive sites in Belize, featuring a vertical wall that drops from 15 meters to over 1,000 meters. The wall is covered in colorful corals and sponges, and it’s home to a variety of large marine life, including reef sharks, hammerhead sharks (seasonal), and manta rays.

Conservation Efforts: The Belize Barrier Reef is a fragile ecosystem, and conservation efforts are ongoing to protect it from threats like climate change, pollution, and overfishing. Many tour operators are committed to sustainable tourism practices, such as limiting the number of visitors per site, not feeding the marine life (except in designated areas like Shark Ray Alley), and using eco-friendly sunscreen (which doesn’t harm the coral). As a visitor, you can do your part by following the “leave no trace” principle—taking all trash with you, not touching the coral or marine life, and using reef-safe sunscreen.

Belize Zoo: A Sanctuary for Native Wildlife

Often referred to as “the best small zoo in the world,” the Belize Zoo is a unique wildlife sanctuary located about a 30-minute drive from Belize City. Unlike traditional zoos, which often house animals from around the world, the Belize Zoo only cares for native Belizean animals that are injured, orphaned, or cannot survive in the wild. The zoo’s mission is to educate visitors about Belize’s wildlife and promote conservation efforts, and it does so in a natural, open-air setting that mimics the animals’ natural habitats.

One of the zoo’s most famous residents is Barton, a jaguar that was rescued as a cub after being found orphaned in the wild. Jaguars are Belize’s national animal, and they’re often difficult to spot in the wild, making the Belize Zoo one of the best places to see these majestic big cats up close. Other celebrity animals at the zoo include howler monkeys (known for their loud, haunting calls), scarlet macaws (vibrant red, blue, and yellow parrots), tapirs (large, pig-like mammals), and crocodiles.

The zoo offers a variety of educational programs and activities, including guided tours, animal feeding sessions, and night tours (which let you see nocturnal animals like ocelots and kinkajous). There’s also a small museum and gift shop, where you can learn more about Belize’s wildlife and purchase souvenirs made by local artisans. The zoo is wheelchair accessible, and there are plenty of shaded areas and benches where you can rest and cool off.

Insider Tips: The Belize Zoo is open daily from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM, and admission is around $15 for adults and $8 for children. The best time to visit is in the morning, when the animals are most active and the weather is cooler. If you’re interested in seeing wild jaguars, consider booking a night tour of the nearby Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, which is the world’s first jaguar reserve. These tours are led by experienced guides and offer a chance to spot jaguars, as well as other wildlife like tapirs and howler monkeys, in their natural habitat.

Cultural Village Experiences: Immerse Yourself in Belize’s Diversity

Belize’s multiculturalism is one of its greatest assets, and there’s no better way to experience it than by visiting one of the country’s many cultural villages. These villages offer a chance to learn about the traditions, food, and music of Belize’s different ethnic groups, from the Maya to the Garifuna to the Mennonites.

One of the most popular cultural experiences is a visit to Hopkins Village, a small coastal village located in the Stann Creek District. Hopkins is home to a large Garifuna community, descendants of West African, Carib, and Arawak peoples who were exiled to the Caribbean in the 18th century. The Garifuna are known for their vibrant music (including punta and paranda) and dance, and many tour operators offer Garifuna drum lessons and dance workshops in Hopkins. You can also learn how to cook traditional Garifuna dishes, such as hudut (a fish stew served with coconut rice) and cassava bread, during a cooking class.

For a taste of Mennonite culture, visit a Mennonite farm in the Cayo District or the Orange Walk District. The Mennonites are a religious group known for their simple lifestyle, traditional farming practices, and handcrafted goods. Many Mennonite farms offer guided tours, where you can learn about their farming methods (which are often organic and sustainable) and sample fresh, homemade foods like cheese, bread, and jam. You can also purchase handcrafted items like furniture, quilts, and pottery made by Mennonite artisans.

Another great cultural experience is a Maya chocolate-making workshop. The Maya were the first people to cultivate cacao (the bean used to make chocolate) over 3,000 years ago, and chocolate has long been an important part of Maya culture. During a workshop, you’ll learn about the history of cacao, from the Maya’s sacred use of it as a currency and ritual drink to its modern-day production. You’ll also get to grind cacao beans into chocolate paste using traditional tools (like a metate, a stone grinding slab) and make your own chocolate bar or truffles, using ingredients like cinnamon, vanilla, and chili peppers.

Insider Tips: Many cultural villages and experiences require advance booking, especially during the peak season. It’s a good idea to book through a reputable tour operator or your hotel, as they can arrange transportation and ensure that the experience is authentic and respectful of the local culture. When visiting cultural villages, be sure to dress modestly and ask permission before taking photos of locals or their homes. Remember that these are living communities, not tourist attractions, so be respectful of the locals’ way of life.

Practical Travel Tips for Belize

To help you plan a smooth and enjoyable trip to Belize, here are some essential practical tips from a local guide:

Best Time to Visit

The dry season (December to April) is the most popular time to visit Belize, as the weather is sunny and dry, with low humidity and calm sea conditions. This is the ideal time for beach activities, snorkeling, diving, and exploring the rainforest. However, this is also the peak tourist season, so accommodation and tour prices are higher, and popular attractions can be crowded.

The rainy season (June to November) is a more budget-friendly time to visit, with lower prices and fewer crowds. The weather is hotter and more humid, with afternoon rain showers (which are usually short-lived). This is a great time to visit the rainforest, as the vegetation is lush and green, and waterfalls are at their most impressive. However, sea conditions can be rough during the rainy season, and some dive sites may be closed due to weather. Hurricane season runs from June to November, so it’s important to check weather forecasts and travel insurance policies if you’re visiting during this time.

For European travelers, the period from late January to March is a great time to visit, as it avoid the Christmas and New Year crowds (which are popular with North American travelers) and offers mild weather and good sea conditions.

Transportation

Belize has a relatively small and easy-to-navigate transportation network, with several options for getting around:

• Domestic Flights: Small airlines like Tropic Air and Maya Island Air offer daily flights between Belize City and other major destinations, such as Ambergris Caye, Caye Caulker, San Ignacio, and Placencia. These flights are fast (15 to 30 minutes) and offer stunning aerial views, but they can be expensive (around $100 to $150 one-way). Booking in advance is recommended, especially during the peak season.
• Ferries: High-speed ferries operate between Belize City and the major islands (Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker). These are a more budget-friendly option than flights, with tickets costing around $25 to $35 one-way. The ferry ride takes 1.5 to 2 hours, and ferries run several times a day.
• Buses: Belize’s bus system is affordable and reliable, with buses connecting Belize City to most major towns and cities. The main bus companies are Novelo’s Bus Line and James Bus Line. Buses are air-conditioned (for the most part) and comfortable, but they can be slow, especially on rural roads. A one-way bus ticket from Belize City to San Ignacio costs around $10 and takes 2.5 to 3 hours.
• Taxis & Private Drivers: Taxis are available in most major towns and cities, and they’re a convenient way to get around if you don’t want to take the bus. Taxis are metered in Belize City, but in other areas, you’ll need to negotiate the fare before getting in. Private drivers are also available for hire, which is a good option for families or small groups who want to explore at their own pace. Prices for private drivers start at around $100 per day.
• Rental Cars: If you want to explore Belize’s interior at your own pace, renting a car is a good option. However, note that many rural roads are unpaved and can be rough, especially during the rainy season. You’ll need a valid driver’s license from your home country, and it’s recommended to get a 4×4 vehicle for off-road driving. Rental prices start at around $50 per day (for a small car) and $100 per day (for a 4×4).

Safety & Health

Belize is generally a safe country for travelers, but like any destination, it’s important to take basic safety precautions:

• Belize City: While the tourist areas of Belize City (like the Marine Terminal and the Swing Bridge) are safe during the day, it’s best to avoid walking alone at night, especially in downtown areas. Stick to well-lit, busy streets, and use taxis if you need to get around after dark.
• Tourist Areas: The major tourist areas, such as Ambergris Caye, Caye Caulker, and San Ignacio, are very safe, with low crime rates. However, it’s still a good idea to keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas like the Split in Caye Caulker or the markets in San Ignacio.
• Health: Malaria is present in some parts of Belize’s interior, but the risk is low for most travelers. It’s recommended to use insect repellent (with DEET) and wear long sleeves and pants at night, especially if you’re visiting the rainforest. There’s no risk of yellow fever in Belize, but it’s a good idea to be up-to-date on routine vaccinations (like measles, mumps, and rubella) before traveling. Tap water is safe to drink in most tourist areas, but it’s a good idea to stick to bottled water in rural areas. If you get sick during your trip, there are good hospitals and clinics in Belize City, San Ignacio, and other major towns.

Currency & Language

The official currency of Belize is the Belize dollar (BZD), which is pegged to the US dollar at a rate of 2 BZD = 1 USD. US dollars are widely accepted throughout Belize, so there’s no need to exchange money if you’re coming from the US. Credit cards are accepted at most hotels, restaurants, and tour operators, but it’s a good idea to carry cash for small purchases, especially in rural areas.

English is the official language of Belize, which makes it easy for English-speaking travelers to communicate. However, you’ll also hear Spanish (spoken by many Belizeans, especially in the northern and western parts of the country), as well as Creole (a dialect of English), Garifuna, and Maya languages.

Unique Experience Bucket List

• Swim through the ATM Cave and stand in the presence of the Crystal Maiden.
• Take a scenic flight over the Great Blue Hole and capture its iconic “eye of the ocean” view.
• Snorkel with nurse sharks and stingrays in Shark Ray Alley.
• Go night hiking in the Belize Rainforest and spot bioluminescent fungi and nocturnal animals.
• Learn to play the Garifuna drums and dance to punta music in Hopkins Village.
• Climb to the top of the Caana Pyramid at Caracol and enjoy panoramic views of the rainforest.
• Relax in a hammock on the beach at sunset, listening to the sound of the Caribbean Sea.
• Taste traditional Belizean dishes like rice and beans, fry jacks, and grilled lobster.
• Go manatee watching in the mangrove lagoons around Caye Caulker.
• Participate in a Maya chocolate-making workshop and make your own chocolate bar.

Belize is a destination that defies expectations—a small country with a wealth of natural beauty, ancient history, and cultural diversity. Whether you’re diving into the depths of the Great Blue Hole, exploring ancient Mayan ruins, or relaxing on a quiet beach, Belize offers an experience that is both thrilling and rejuvenating. So pack your bags, leave your worries behind, and get ready to discover the hidden gem of Central America. Your Belizean adventure awaits.