Apple Vacations: Belize's Top Travel Companion

Apple Vacations offers travel packages to Belize, a tropical paradise in Central America. With its pristine beaches, lush jungles, and vibrant wildlife, Belize is an ideal destination for those seeking adventure and relaxation. Apple Vacations provides exclusive deals to top-rated resorts and hotels, making it easy for travellers to explore the natural wonders of Belize, including the famous Barrier Reef. From scuba diving and snorkelling to exploring Mayan temples, Belize has something for everyone. Apple Vacations' flexible payment options and customer-rated hotels ensure a stress-free booking experience, so you can focus on enjoying your dream vacation in this breathtaking country.

Scuba and snorkelling along the Barrier Reef

Belize is a small country located between Mexico and Guatemala, boasting over 400 islands, stunning white sandy beaches, 298 kilometres/185 miles of coastline, and the longest unbroken barrier reef in the Western Hemisphere. It is an excellent place for scuba diving and snorkelling enthusiasts.

The Belize Barrier Reef is a living coral reef described as solid mounds of submerged limestone and is the richest and most diverse habitat in the ocean. The Mesoamerican Barrier Reef borders nearly the entire length of Belize, about 192 miles, and all snorkelling in Belize is located on this reef or the offshore atolls.

The Hol Chan Marine Reserve, located in Ambergris Caye, is a popular spot for snorkelling and diving. It is known for its vibrant coral reefs and the variety of marine life, including stingrays and nurse sharks. The reserve is also accessible by sailboat, offering a unique way to explore the area.

Another famous snorkelling and diving site is the Blue Hole, a huge sunken cave that was the subject of a documentary by underwater explorer Jacques Cousteau. While it is an iconic spot, some may find it underwhelming as a snorkelling location due to its depth.

For those seeking a more remote experience, the three offshore atolls of Lighthouse Reef, Turneffe Atoll, and Glover's Reef offer excellent snorkelling opportunities. These atolls are located 30-60 miles offshore and require a long boat ride to reach. Lighthouse Reef is the farthest out, surrounded by a reef and shallow waters, with the famous Blue Hole at its centre. Half Moon Caye, within Lighthouse Reef, is a great snorkelling spot with perfect depths.

Glover's Reef, the most southern atoll, is considered the best for snorkelling among the three outer atolls. It is surrounded by a reef, with a shallow interior dotted with coral heads. You can spend weeks exploring this atoll, and there are a few rustic resorts available for accommodation.

When planning a scuba diving or snorkelling trip to Belize, it is important to consider the water temperature and visibility. The water temperature varies between 78°F and 84°F throughout the year, and visibility is generally excellent on the barrier reef and atolls, often exceeding 100 feet.

Belize offers a unique combination of adventurous and relaxing experiences, with its stunning beaches, lush jungles, and vibrant wildlife. Whether you are an experienced diver or a beginner, Belize has something for everyone.

Ambergris Caye

The island is known for its stunning natural beauty, glowing aqua waters, and abundant marine life. It is home to the Belize Barrier Reef, the second-largest barrier reef in the world, and the Blue Hole, a 400-foot deep circle of limestone teeming with marine life.

In addition to water sports, Ambergris Caye also has a lively town called San Pedro, named after the patron saint of fishing, St. Peter. San Pedro offers a mix of resorts, hotels, restaurants, and nightlife. The town has a unique blend of a gritty, authentic local feel and a tropical vacation vibe.

The island also boasts a variety of dining options, including fresh ceviche, conch fritters, stone crab, and lobster. Belize Food Tours is a great way to get a taste of local specialties and explore the layout of San Pedro.

For accommodations, Ambergris Caye has a broad range of options, from smaller cabanas to modern condos, luxury resorts, and private rental homes.

Getting to Ambergris Caye requires a plane or boat ride from the mainland, as it is an island. Both Tropic Air and Maya Island Air offer hourly flights to the island, or you can take a water taxi.

The cost of living on Ambergris Caye is higher than in most other regions of Belize due to its popularity and the need to transport goods to the island. However, it offers a wide range of activities, amenities, and luxuries not always found elsewhere in the country.

Mayan temples and cultural sites

Belize, a Central American country on the Caribbean coast, is known for its gorgeous beaches, lush jungles, and vibrant wildlife. It is also home to several Mayan temples and cultural sites, making it an ideal destination for those interested in history and exploration. Here is some information about some of the Mayan temples and cultural sites in Belize:

Mayan Temples:

• Xunantunich: Located in western Belize, Xunantunich is a Classic Period ceremonial centre with impressive structures, including the second-tallest temple in Belize, standing at 133 feet tall. The site offers a panoramic view of the entire river valley and features well-preserved sun god masks. It is easily accessible by a hand-operated ferry across the Mopan River.
• Altun Ha: Altun Ha is a major ceremonial and trade centre situated 31 miles north of Belize City. The area is rich in wildlife, and the site features two principal plazas. The highlight of Altun Ha is the Maya Jade Head, representing the Mayan Sun God and being the largest jade object carved in the Mayan civilisation.
• Caracol: Located within the Chiquibul Forest Reserve in western Belize, Caracol is the largest known Maya centre in the country. It features "Canaa" (Sky Place), the tallest pyramid or man-made structure in Belize at 140 feet tall. Caracol was once a powerful Maya kingdom and contains the remains of thousands of structures.
• Cahal Pech: Cahal Pech, meaning "Place of Ticks," was the royal acropolis-palace of an elite Mayan ruling family during the Classic Period. The site consists of seven plazas and over 30 structures, including temples, residential buildings, ball courts, and an altar. It offers a beautiful panoramic view of the surrounding area.
• Lamanai: Lamanai, meaning "submerged crocodile," is one of the largest Maya ceremonial centres and is located on the New River in Orange Walk District. It was occupied for over two millennia and features more than 719 mapped structures, including two 16th-century Christian churches. Lamanai can be accessed by boat or by an all-weather dirt road.
• Cerros: Located on Corozal Bay in northern Belize, Cerros is one of the earliest Maya sites, reaching its peak during the Late Preclassic period. It features five temples, one of which is 72 feet high, plazas, and a large canal system. Part of the site is now underwater.

Cultural Sites:

In addition to the temples mentioned above, there are several other cultural sites in Belize that showcase the rich history and culture of the Mayans:

• Barton Creek Cave: Located in the Cayo District, Barton Creek Cave contains a wide range of cultural remains left by the ancient Maya, including artifacts, hearths, modified cave formations, and human remains, indicating its ritual importance.
• Nim Li Punit: Located in the Toledo District, Nim Li Punit features the longest stela in Belize and offers a beautiful view of the Toledo coastal plain and rainforests. The site includes a main plaza, a ball court, and a collection of impressive stone stelae.
• Lubaantun: Lubaantun, or "Place of the Fallen Stones," is a Late Classic ceremonial centre in the Toledo District. It is known for its unique construction style using dressed stone blocks without mortar, resulting in the disintegration of the structures over time.

National parks

Apple Vacations does offer vacation packages to Belize, which is located on Central America's Caribbean coast. The country is known for its gorgeous beaches, lush jungles, and the Northern Hemisphere's largest barrier reef, making it a popular destination for diving and snorkelling.

Belize is also home to several national parks, which offer a diverse range of natural landscapes and activities. Here is a detailed overview of some of the notable national parks in Belize:

Laughing Bird Caye National Park

Laughing Bird Caye National Park is a small island off the coast of the Placencia Peninsula. It offers crystal-clear waters, lush nature, and excellent snorkelling opportunities. It's a great place to relax and enjoy the sun while also providing a chance to explore the Belize Barrier Reef ecosystem.

Blue Hole National Park

Blue Hole National Park features a unique natural wonder, the Blue Hole, which is a sought-after diving experience. Divers can explore an actual submarine sinkhole and spot reef sharks, hammerheads, and other sea life. The park also has helpful rangers and offers hiking trails, including the Antelope Falls trail, which leads to a nice swimming hole.

Mayflower Bocawina National Park

Mayflower Bocawina National Park offers a variety of trails, including the Antelope Trail, which is graded as steep. The park is great for families, as it caters to visitors of all ages, and has informative rangers. It also features waterfalls and swimming holes, providing a refreshing experience in the jungle setting.

Bacalar Chico National Park and Marine Reserve

Bacalar Chico National Park and Marine Reserve is located on an island and can be reached by boat. It offers a unique experience of exploring the Mayan-built channel separating Mexico and Belize. The park provides a blend of history and natural beauty, making it a fascinating destination.

Billy Barquedier National Park

Billy Barquedier National Park features two challenging hikes, including a steep hike to a valley lookout. The park offers a rewarding experience with a waterfall swim after the challenging hikes. The rangers are friendly and helpful, ensuring a pleasant visit.

Rio Blanco National Park

Rio Blanco National Park is a pristine and beautiful river surrounded by jungle. It offers a self-guided exploration of flora, fauna, and interpretation signs. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including troops of monkeys. Visitors should be cautious of muddy and slippery conditions after rainfall.

Guanacaste National Park

Guanacaste National Park showcases the diverse flora and fauna of Belize. It is named after a massive tree that survived logging. The park is an excellent destination for birdwatching and offers the chance to spot rare local mammals such as the kinkajou and paca.

Elijio Panti National Park

Elijio Panti National Park is home to the Offering Cave, formerly known as Secret Cave. This cave was once believed to be a path to the underworld by the Mayas. It requires a knowledgeable guide like Don Antonio, who is trained to bring tourists into the cave. The park offers a unique caving experience and provides insight into Maya history.

Five Blues Lake National Park

Five Blues Lake National Park is known for its unique geography and isolation. While it may not offer much in terms of wildlife viewing, it provides a peaceful and quiet experience. Visitors should be prepared for the sun, as the lack of trees can make it hot during the day.

These national parks in Belize showcase the country's commitment to eco-tourism and the preservation of its natural beauty. They offer a diverse range of activities, from hiking and birdwatching to diving and snorkelling, ensuring that visitors can fully immerse themselves in the country's stunning natural environments.

Blue Hole Natural Monument

Apple Vacations does offer trips to Belize, a country that is home to gorgeous beaches, lush jungles, and the largest barrier reef in the Northern Hemisphere. One of the most popular attractions in Belize is the Blue Hole Natural Monument, a unique natural wonder and a sought-after diving experience.

The Blue Hole is a giant marine sinkhole located off the coast of Belize. It lies near the centre of Lighthouse Reef, a small atoll about 70 kilometres from the mainland and Belize City. The hole is circular in shape, with a diameter of about 318 metres and a depth of approximately 124 metres. It is believed to have formed during the last glacial period when sea levels were much lower, and as the ocean began to rise, the cave system flooded and eventually collapsed, creating what is known as a "vertical cave" in the ocean.

The Blue Hole is a popular destination for recreational scuba divers, who can take a thrilling descent into the submarine sinkhole and explore the complex geological formations that lie in its depths. These formations include huge stalactites and stalagmites, some reaching 9-12 metres in length. The deeper one ventures, the clearer the water becomes, and the more intricate the formations become. Divers can also spot a variety of marine life, including reef sharks and hammerheads.

For those who are not certified divers, there are still plenty of options to experience the Blue Hole. Snorkelling is allowed in the nearby coral reefs, and it is possible to spot wildlife such as rays, turtles, and fish. Additionally, some dive tours offer the opportunity to snorkel at the top of the Blue Hole, which is bordered by a reef.

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