Exploring Belize's Blue Hole: A Guide To Witnessing The Wonder

The Great Blue Hole in Belize is a bucket-list destination for divers around the world. This giant sinkhole, nearly 1,000 feet across and almost 400 feet deep, is a 2.5-hour boat ride from San Pedro. It was made famous by Jacques Cousteau, who explored the sinkhole in 1971/1972 and discovered submerged stalactites.

The Blue Hole is part of the Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. While divers can explore the underwater caves and stalactites, those who prefer to stay dry can take in the optical perfection of the Blue Hole from above with a scenic flight. Boat trips and flights to the Blue Hole often include visits to other popular dive sites like Half Moon Caye and The Aquarium.

Getting to Blue Hole, Belize

The Great Blue Hole is a breathtaking ring of coral encircling a huge, underwater sinkhole located in the shallow waters of the Lighthouse Reef Atoll. It is roughly 1,000 feet across and over 400 feet deep. It is the largest geological formation of its kind in the world.

The Blue Hole is located off the coast of Ambergris Caye, Belize. To get there, you will need to first fly to Cancun, Mexico, and then take another flight to Belize City. From there, you can take a short flight to Ambergris Caye. Alternatively, you can take a bus or drive to Ambergris Caye.

Once you arrive on Ambergris Caye, you can arrange for a speedboat to take you to the Blue Hole early in the morning. The boat ride will take approximately 2.5 hours each way, so be prepared for a long day. There are also tours available that include a boat ride to the Blue Hole and two other shallow dives on the larger Barrier Reef Reserve System, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. These tours typically depart from San Pedro, the main town on Ambergris Caye.

If you prefer to see the Blue Hole from above, there are aerial tours available that depart daily. You can book a flight with a regional airline like Tropic Air or a helicopter tour with a company like Astrum Helicopters. These flights typically last around one hour and offer stunning views of the Blue Hole and the surrounding reef systems.

When planning your trip to the Blue Hole, keep in mind that it is a challenging dive due to its depth. It is recommended only for advanced divers with over 30 dives under their belt. If you are not a certified diver, you can still enjoy snorkelling at the Blue Hole or opt for the aerial tour instead.

The best time to visit the Blue Hole is during the dry season, from January to May, to avoid the rainy season and enjoy pleasant warm weather.

Best time to visit Blue Hole, Belize

The best time to visit the Great Blue Hole in Belize depends on your preferences and priorities. The dry season in Belize, which runs from November to April, offers optimal weather conditions for diving and snorkelling. During this period, you can expect sunny and dry weather with minimal rainfall and calm seas, providing excellent visibility for underwater exploration. However, this is also the peak tourist season, so you should expect crowds and higher prices.

On the other hand, the rainy season, from May to October, offers the opportunity to witness more diverse marine life, such as whale sharks and hammerhead sharks. While rainfall can be heavy, it usually occurs in intermittent bursts, leaving plenty of time for outdoor activities. However, visibility for diving and snorkelling may be slightly reduced due to increased sediment in the water.

For the perfect balance, consider visiting during April, May, and June. During these months, you'll have peak visibility, fewer crowds, and the potential to see whale sharks.

Activities at Blue Hole, Belize

The Great Blue Hole in Belize is a popular destination for tourists and divers alike. Here are some activities you can do at this breathtaking location:

Scuba Diving

The Great Blue Hole is a dream destination for scuba divers worldwide. The Blue Hole is a giant marine sinkhole located near the centre of Lighthouse Reef, one of three atolls of Belize. It is over 400 feet deep and 1000 feet across, making it the largest geological formation of its kind. The Blue Hole offers a unique diving experience, with its enormous underwater stalactites and stalagmites, and the opportunity to see Caribbean Reef Sharks and other marine life.

Snorkelling

While some sources suggest that snorkelling at the Blue Hole may not be as rewarding as diving or a flyover, it is still an option for those who want to explore the site.

Flyover Tours

In recent years, scenic flyover tours have become a popular way to experience the Great Blue Hole. These tours, offered by local airlines such as Tropic Air, provide breathtaking views of the Blue Hole and the surrounding reefs. The aerial perspective truly showcases the massive size of the hole, which can even be seen from space.

Boat Tours

The Blue Hole can also be experienced via boat tours, which typically depart from resort towns such as San Pedro, Caye Caulker, and Hopkins. These tours usually include a stop at the Blue Hole for diving or snorkelling, as well as visits to nearby attractions such as Half Moon Caye and the Aquarium.

Live-Aboard Vessels

For those seeking a more immersive experience, Live-Aboard vessels offer week-long dive expeditions to the Great Blue Hole, providing the opportunity to explore the site in depth and enjoy the surrounding marine environment.

Whether you choose to dive, snorkel, fly over, or boat around the Great Blue Hole, it is sure to be a memorable experience. This unique natural wonder, with its deep blues and mysterious underwater caves, is a must-see attraction in Belize.

Blue Hole, Belize aerial tours

The Great Blue Hole in Belize is a famous natural wonder and a popular bucket list item for travellers. It is the biggest underwater sinkhole in the world and is located in the Belize Barrier Reef, the second largest coral reef system in the world. The best way to appreciate the Blue Hole is by taking a scenic flight, which offers breathtaking bird's-eye views of this incredible site.

Tour Options

There are several tour companies that offer aerial tours of the Blue Hole, including Tropic Air, Maya Island Air, and Astrum Helicopters. The flights depart from either Belize City Municipal, Caye Caulker, or San Pedro, and typically last for about an hour. The planes vary in size, with some being 3-seaters and others accommodating up to 12 passengers.

Booking and Pricing

It is necessary to book your aerial tour in advance, and prices typically range from $250 to $300 USD per person. The cost may be higher for the co-pilot seat. It is recommended to book early as these tours are popular and spaces fill up quickly.

Best Time to Fly

Although aerial tours of the Blue Hole operate year-round, the dry season from December to May offers the best chance of clear and sunny weather.

What to Expect

During the flight, you will be treated to stunning views of the Belize Barrier Reef, Turneffe Atoll, the Great Barrier Reef, and the dramatic contrast of the turquoise sea turning a deep navy blue at the Blue Hole. The plane will circle the Blue Hole several times at a low altitude, providing excellent photo opportunities.

Other Considerations

If you are interested in scuba diving or snorkelling at the Blue Hole, it is important to note that these activities may not offer the same perspective as an aerial tour. The Blue Hole is very deep, and the best way to appreciate its circular shape and stunning contrast with the surrounding reef is from above.

Accommodation near Blue Hole, Belize

There are several accommodation options near the Blue Hole in Belize. Here are some suggestions:

Itza Resort

Itza Resort is a secluded beachfront paradise located on Lighthouse Reef Atoll, just 14 miles from the Blue Hole. It offers world-class diving, snorkelling, and fishing opportunities. The resort is committed to sustainability and offers tropical beachfront rooms, with nature's rhythms and the sea's melodies providing a tranquil backdrop.

Sunbreeze Hotel

The Sunbreeze Hotel is an excellent choice for divers, located on the beachfront in San Pedro, Ambergris Caye. It features an on-site dive shop, clean and spacious rooms, and a swimming pool. The hotel's restaurant is renowned for its sushi, and the hotel offers various dive packages tailored to the best sites.

Sunbreeze Suites

If you prefer self-catering, Sunbreeze Suites, the sister hotel of Sunbreeze Hotel, is an intimate beachfront property with only 21 suites. Each suite has a private balcony overlooking the beach and the Caribbean Sea. The fully-equipped kitchen and spacious dining area make it ideal for those seeking an apartment-style stay.

Turneffe Island Resort

Turneffe Island Resort is located 25.9 miles from the Blue Hole and offers a luxurious and indulgent experience. The staff is warm and accommodating, ensuring an unforgettable stay.

Shaka Caye Island Resort

Shaka Caye Island Resort is 39.3 miles from the Blue Hole and provides a small, intimate island experience. The staff treats guests like family, and the resort offers excellent amenities and activities.

Hamanasi Resort

Hamanasi Resort in Hopkins is another option, offering elegant and casual accommodations with great food and excursions. It has oceanfront rooms and luxury treehouses, and guests can also enjoy meals at local restaurants in Hopkins.

These are just a few of the many accommodation choices near the Blue Hole in Belize, each offering its own unique experience and amenities.

Frequently asked questions