Carnival Cruise Port Guide: Belize City

Belize City, located in the country of Belize, is a popular cruise port destination in the Caribbean. The port offers a range of attractions and activities for visitors, including Mayan archaeological sites, wildlife adventures, and water sports. While the port itself is located within walking distance of the city centre, the majority of attractions are several miles away. Belize City is known for its diverse culture, combining Caribbean and Spanish influences, and its friendly local population. English is the official language, and US dollars are widely accepted, making it a convenient destination for American tourists.

Mayan archaeological sites

Belize is considered to have been the centre of the ancient Maya world. The Maya Empire evolved around 350 BC in the lowlands of Belize and northern Guatemala and lasted until around 900 AD. Today, the country is home to hundreds of Mayan archaeological sites, including some of the most important in the world.

Caracol

Caracol, which means 'the snail' in Spanish, is located in the Chiquibul Forest Reserve in western Belize, near the border with Guatemala. It is the largest known Maya centre in the country and contains the remains of thousands of structures. It was the centre of one of the largest Maya kingdoms and played a significant role in the Classic period political struggles of the southern Maya lowlands.

Cerros

The site of Cerros is located on Corozal Bay in northern Belize and is notable as one of the earliest Maya sites. It features five temples, one of which is 72 feet tall, and a large canal system.

Lamanai

Lamanai is located on the New River in the Orange Walk District and is known for being the longest continually occupied site in Mesoamerica. It was inhabited from 1000 BC and was continuously occupied through the Spanish conquest of Yucatán. The site features three Mayan temples, Mask Temple, High Temple and Temple of the Jaguar, as well as ball courts.

Altun Ha

Altun Ha is located 31 miles north of Belize City and was a major ceremonial and trade centre during the Classic Period. The most significant find at the site is the Maya Jade Head, which represents the Mayan Sun God, Kinich Ahua.

Xunantunich

Xunantunich is a Classic Period ceremonial centre located on the Western Highway across the river from the village of San Jose Succotz. It features six major plazas, more than 25 temples and palaces, and an astronomical carved frieze. The highest ruin is 133 feet tall, making it the second tallest temple in Belize.

Cahal Pech

Cahal Pech is located on a hill that overlooks the twin towns of San Ignacio and Santa Elena in the Cayo District. The site features temple pyramids, two ball courts, an altar and five plain stelae.

Santa Rita

Santa Rita is a Mayan ruin in northern Belize that dates from 2000 BC. It is what remains of Chactemal, an ancient Mayan city that is the genesis of the Mestizo people. The site features fishing net sinkers and other objects that point to its coastal importance, as well as jade and gold ornamentation.

Wildlife adventures

Belize City is known for its lush tropical forests and wildlife parks, offering plenty of opportunities for wildlife adventures. Here are some ideas for wildlife adventures in and around Belize City:

Lamanai Mayan Ruins and River Boat Safari

The Lamanai Mayan Ruins and river boat safari excursion offers a combination of history and nature. The adventure begins with a bus tour through the original colonies of British Honduras, winding through the Belize River Valley. This is followed by a riverboat cruise through the rainforest, where you can observe exotic wildlife, before reaching one of the largest Mayan ceremonial sites ever discovered.

Xunantunich Mayan Ruins

The Xunantunich Mayan Ruins provide an immersive experience for those seeking to explore ancient Mayan culture. This site, located a 77.8-mile (125 km) distance from the cruise port, encompasses you in the mystique of Mayan temples, ball courts, and massive palaces. The excursion also includes lunch in the nearby city of San Ignacio, allowing you to sample the local culture and cuisine.

Wildlife Sanctuaries and Manatee Watching

Belize is home to several wildlife sanctuaries that offer unique experiences. The Little Guana Caye Bird Sanctuary, located 41 miles (66 km) from the cruise port, is accessible by ferry and provides an opportunity to observe various bird species. The Community Baboon Sanctuary, situated in Bermuda Landing village, is 27.2 miles (43.8 km) away and offers a chance to learn about the local wildlife. Manatee watching is another popular activity, with tours departing from the port and taking you 23 miles (37 km) to observe these gentle creatures in their natural habitat.

Cave Tubing and Ziplining

Belize is renowned for its cave tubing and ziplining adventures. The Crystal Caves in the Blue Hole National Park, located 62.1 miles (100 km) from the cruise port, offer a thrilling experience. Combine this with ziplining through the rainforest canopy for an adrenaline-filled day.

Snorkeling and Scuba Diving

Belize boasts the second-largest barrier reef in the world, providing exceptional snorkeling and scuba diving opportunities. The Mesoamerican Reef, just a short distance from the cruise port, is home to an array of marine life, including sharks, rays, and sea turtles. Popular spots for snorkeling include Rendezvous Caye and Shark Ray Alley. For scuba diving, Turneffe Atoll and Hol Chan Marine Reserve are renowned destinations.

These suggestions provide a glimpse of the wildlife adventures available in and around Belize City. Each option offers a unique blend of nature, culture, and excitement, allowing you to explore the beauty and diversity of Belize.

Tender boats

The tender boats offer a safe and efficient means of transportation for cruise passengers arriving in Belize City. Due to shallow waters in the Caribbean Sea near the port, cruise ships cannot dock directly and must anchor about two miles from the coast. This distance is quickly covered by the tender boats, which are operated by local authorities.

Upon arrival at the Fort Street Tourism Village, passengers can explore the terminal, which offers basic services, modern amenities, shops, and restaurants. The terminal is located within walking distance of Belize City's downtown area, including attractions such as the Museum of Belize and St. John's Cathedral.

The tender boats in Belize City provide a seamless connection between the cruise ships and the shore, ensuring that passengers can comfortably and conveniently access the city and its surrounding attractions.

Local food and drink

Belize City is a great place to sample authentic Belizean cuisine and immerse yourself in the local culture and traditions. Here is a guide to the local food and drink scene in Belize City.

Belizean cuisine is heavily influenced by its Latin American and Caribbean neighbours, with Creole flavours taking centre stage. The basis of any Creole meal is rice and beans, often cooked together in coconut oil and served with a choice of meat, including beef, chicken, or fried fish. This hearty dish is commonly found in smaller restaurants and is a staple in the Belizean diet.

When in Belize City, you'll want to sample the excellent seafood on offer. Red snapper, grouper, barracuda steak, conch fritters, and fresh shrimp are just some of the delicious options available. For a true taste of Belize, try the "dollah chicken," a local favourite of fried chicken, or indulge in some Creole specialities like cow-foot soup.

If you're feeling adventurous, there are some unique dishes to try, such as chicken foot ceviche, stewed iguana, or baked gibnut. These unconventional delicacies might be outside your comfort zone, but embracing the local cuisine is all part of the cultural experience.

Belize City also caters to a variety of international tastes. You'll find a range of Indian and Chinese restaurants, with Sumathi Indian Restaurant and Friendship Chinese Restaurant being popular choices. For Italian gelato, Tutti Frutti, run by Italian expats, is a must-visit.

In terms of drinks, Belikin, Belize's main beer, is a popular choice and comes in several varieties, including regular, stout, and premium options. For something stronger, local rum is the best deal, available in both dark and clear varieties. Wine lovers can sample the unique cashew-nut and berry wines produced locally, while fruit juices like orange, lime, and pineapple are also widely available.

So, whether you're dining in a rowdy, crowded local spot or enjoying a quiet meal at an upmarket restaurant, Belize City offers a diverse and exciting culinary experience that reflects the country's rich cultural blend.

Shopping

Belize City's cruise port terminal is located at Belize's Tourism Village. The cruise ships anchor in the bay of Belize, as the waters near the coast are too shallow. Passengers are then tendered to the cruise port terminal via high-speed boats, which takes around 20 minutes.

The cruise port terminal has all the basic services and modern amenities, including shops, restaurants, and bars. The terminal is also a safe area to explore on foot. However, there is not much to see or do outside the terminal, which has been described as "not particularly appealing or safe" to explore alone.

The city's commercial centre is located along Albert Street, where you can find banks and shops. There is also a small music shop selling Belizean and Caribbean CDs and cassettes.

The city is divided by the swing bridge at Haulover Creek's mouth. The bridge is manually operated and is opened twice a day. The city's newest attraction is the Museum of Belize, which is located close to the US Embassy. The museum was once a prison and allows visitors to explore Belizean history and the Mayan legacy.

The Fort Street Tourism Village has around 30 shops selling souvenirs, tobacco, liquors, perfumes, rum cake, regional chocolate, Caribbean clothing, and exotic local crafts. The Jungle Gift Shop is a large store that sells souvenirs, hats, caps, t-shirts, swimwear, toys, and clothing for men, women, and children.

Other shops in the Fort Street Tourism Village include:

• Diamonds International
• Duty-free shops (liquor, tobacco, and perfume)
• Moho Chocolate Factory and Gift Shop
• Tanzanite International

Frequently asked questions