Belize In Three Days: An Adventure Guide

Belize is a small Central American country with a lot to offer, from ancient ruins to pristine beaches. It is a great destination for eco-tourists, history buffs, and foodies.

If you're spending three days in Belize, you might want to check out San Pedro on Ambergris Caye, a tropical island that's a quick flight from the US mainland. It's a great spot for snorkelling, diving, deep-sea fishing, and guided tours of underground caverns.

You could also visit the Great Blue Hole, a giant marine sinkhole that's a popular diving site, or explore the ancient Mayan ruins at Xunantunich, Caracol, or Cahal Pech.

If you're looking for a more relaxed vibe, Caye Caulker, Ambergris Caye's smaller sister island, offers a go slow Caribbean atmosphere. It's a great place to enjoy the beach, go windsurfing, or take a day trip to see the local manatees.

For nature lovers, the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary is home to jaguars, while the Belize Zoo is the perfect place to see native wildlife, including tapirs and scarlet macaws.

With its mix of culture, history, and natural beauty, Belize truly has something for everyone.

Explore ancient Mayan ruins

Belize is home to hundreds of ancient ruins, including around 33 Mayan archaeological sites in various states of excavation and disrepair. Here is a 3-day itinerary for exploring ancient Mayan ruins in Belize:

Day 1: San Ignacio and Xunantunich

Start your day in San Ignacio, a small town in the Cayo district with a quaint, small-town vibe. Visit the San Ignacio Farmers Market, the largest of its kind in Belize, where you can enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and sample local produce. Then, head to Capello's Art Gallery, which showcases local artists and offers a glimpse into the soul of Belize.

In the afternoon, make your way to the Xunantunich ruins, just twenty minutes from San Ignacio. This Mayan ceremonial centre, inhabited between AD 700 and 1000, features intricate sun god masks and offers stunning views of the surrounding jungle. Climb to the top of El Castillo, the second tallest temple in Belize, and listen for the growls of howler monkeys in the distance.

Day 2: Cahal Pech and Caracol

Begin your day at Cahal Pech, a Mayan ruin located just outside of San Ignacio. This complex consists of seven plazas, temples, residential buildings, ball courts, an altar, and a sweat house, all situated on just 2 acres. Discover the history of this site, which was once the royal acropolis-palace of an elite Mayan ruling family.

Next, venture to Caracol, the largest Maya archaeological site in Belize. Located in the Cayo District, this ancient city was once one of the most powerful in the Maya world. Explore the majestic temples, five plazas, and the astronomical observatory. Spend time wandering through the 30 square miles of thick jungle surrounding the site.

Day 3: Lamanai and Altun Ha

On your third day, head north to Lamanai, one of the oldest continuously occupied Maya sites in Belize. Situated near the New River Lagoon, Lamanai offers a stunning jungle setting. Discover the ruins and keep your eyes peeled for the submerged crocodile that gives this site its name.

In the afternoon, visit Altun Ha, the ruins closest to Belize City. Stroll through the flat grassland land to the two large central plazas and pyramids. Admire the sophisticated reservoir constructed by the Mayans and explore the surrounding nature, where armadillos, bats, squirrels, foxes, and white-tail deer roam.

Snorkel at Hol Chan Marine Reserve

Belize is a small country, but it's packed with natural wonders and historic sites. If you're spending three days in Belize, snorkelling at Hol Chan Marine Reserve is a must. Here's everything you need to know to make the most of your visit.

About Hol Chan Marine Reserve

Hol Chan Marine Reserve is one of the most popular snorkelling and diving sites in Belize. Located just four miles south of San Pedro Town, it's easily accessible by boat. The reserve covers approximately three square miles and is part of the Belize Barrier Reef, the largest barrier reef in the Western Hemisphere.

The reserve is divided into different zones based on marine habitat. It's home to a diverse array of marine life, including over 160 species of fish, nearly 40 species of corals, five types of sponges, eight types of algae, two types of seagrasses, and three species of sea turtles. You might even spot manatees!

Planning Your Visit

There are several tour companies that offer snorkelling trips to Hol Chan Marine Reserve. Most tours also include a stop at Shark Ray Alley, located just three minutes from the reserve. Here, you can swim with nurse sharks and southern stingrays.

Tours typically last around two to three hours and depart daily in the morning. It's recommended to book your tour in advance, especially during peak season.

What to Expect

When you arrive at Hol Chan Marine Reserve, you'll be guided to the channel's edge, where you'll find vibrant coral formations, crevices, and overhangs inhabited by green eels and lobsters. The reserve is known for its exceptional snorkelling, with clear waters offering visibility of up to 100 feet. Even inexperienced snorkellers can enjoy this activity, as the waters are relatively shallow.

Keep in mind that there may be several tour groups at the reserve at the same time, so it can get a bit crowded. However, guides will ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable experience.

Combining Your Trip

If you're looking to make the most of your day, consider combining your snorkelling trip with other activities or destinations. Some tour companies offer packages that include a visit to Caye Caulker, a laid-back island nearby. You can explore the island, grab a bite to eat, and experience the local culture.

Alternatively, you can opt for a full-day tour that includes multiple snorkelling stops, such as Shark Ray Alley, Coral Gardens, and the North Channel of Caye Caulker, where you might spot manatees.

Tour the Actun Tunichil Muknal Cave

Belize is a treasure trove of history and nature, with hundreds of ancient ruins and an abundance of wildlife. The country is filled with tons of wildlife, including pumas, jaguars, monkeys, and birds. It is also home to hundreds of ancient ruins, including around 33 Mayan archaeological sites.

One of the most notable sites in Belize is the Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM) Cave, deemed the #1 Sacred Cave destination in the world by National Geographic. This cave is not just a geological wonder with its crystalline stalactites and stalagmites but also a historical site, serving as a natural museum of ancient Mayan artifacts and a sacred burial place.

Day 1:

• Start your day early and head to San Ignacio, a small town in the Cayo district with a vibrant culture and a colourful history.
• Visit the San Ignacio Farmers Market, the largest of its kind in Belize, where you can enjoy local produce and experience the multicultural atmosphere.
• Check out Capello's Art Gallery, which showcases the work of local artists and gives you a taste of the soul of Belize.

Day 2:

• Get ready for an early start as you make your way to the Actun Tunichil Muknal Cave, located about an hour and a half drive from San Ignacio.
• Upon arrival, strap on your helmet and embark on a flat jungle hike of about forty-five minutes to the cave entrance. Along the way, you'll cross three streams, with the help of a rope for the first crossing.
• At the mouth of the cave, you'll take a short swim (10-15 seconds) into the dark underworld, where you'll find an extensive underground maze of tunnels, passageways, and chambers.
• As you explore the cave, you'll climb over rocks, wade through water, and navigate through small spaces. You'll also encounter ancient artifacts and skeletal remains, including the famed "Crystal Maiden."
• The exploration of the cave will take approximately 3 hours, after which you'll head back to the parking lot for a delicious Belizean lunch.

Day 3:

• Spend the day relaxing and reflecting on your incredible experience in the ATM Cave.
• Visit some of the other nearby attractions, such as the Green Iguana Conservation Project or the Belize Zoo.
• Enjoy the local cuisine and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Belize before heading back home.

Relax on the beach at San Pedro

San Pedro, located on Ambergris Caye, is a charming beach town with a variety of resorts, restaurants, and bars. It is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the sun, sea, and sand. Here is a guide to help you make the most of your time in San Pedro:

Where to Stay

San Pedro offers a range of accommodation options, from luxurious resorts to budget-friendly hotels. Here are some highly-rated resorts in the area:

• Grand Caribe Belize: Located 2.2 miles from the town centre, this resort offers an outdoor pool and 902 feet of private beachfront.
• Pelican Reef Villas Resort: Features free bikes, free private parking, an outdoor swimming pool, and a garden.
• Villas Secreta Beachfront Resort: Boasts an outdoor swimming pool, garden, a shared lounge, and a bar.
• Sunset Caribe Belize: Located in San Pedro, this resort offers kitchenettes and cable flat-screen TVs.
• Ramon's Village Resort: Situated 1640 feet from Playa San Pedro, this resort includes a restaurant, free private parking, a shared lounge, and a garden.
• Mahogany Bay Resort and Beach Club: Just an 8-minute walk from San Pedro Beach, this resort provides free bikes, free private parking, an outdoor swimming pool, and more.

Beach Activities

With calm and shallow waters, the beaches of San Pedro are ideal for swimming and various water sports. Here are some activities to enjoy during your relaxing beach vacation:

• Swimming: Take a dip in the warm waters of the Caribbean Sea. Most resorts have docks with roped-off sections for swimming.
• Dock Swimming: For deeper water, try swimming off one of the docks.
• Sunbathing: Soak up the sun on the sandy beaches or relax in the shade of the coconut palm trees.
• Water Sports: Rent equipment or join tours for activities such as snorkelling, scuba diving, windsurfing, and zip-lining.
• Boat Trips: Explore the surrounding area by boat, including nearby islands and the Barrier Reef.

Dining and Nightlife

San Pedro offers a variety of dining options, from local cuisine to international flavours. Here are some recommendations for dining and nightlife:

• Local Cuisine: Sample delicious and affordable local dishes, such as fry jacks and authentic Belizean food.
• Fine Dining: For a swanky dinner, try restaurants like Bird's Isle Restaurant or Celebrity Restaurant & Bar.
• Beachfront Dining: Enjoy a meal with a view at beachfront restaurants like Old Belize Exotic Beach & Bar and Sandy Toes beach bar.
• Nightlife: Experience the vibrant nightlife of San Pedro, including bars, pubs, and clubs. Head to the town centre or explore the beachfront for a variety of options.

Whether you're looking for relaxation, water sports, or culinary delights, San Pedro has something for everyone. So, pack your swimsuit, sun hat, and sunscreen, and get ready to enjoy your beach vacation in this tropical paradise!

Take a scenic flight over the Great Blue Hole

Belize is home to the Great Blue Hole, a giant marine sinkhole that is one of the country's most popular attractions. The best way to experience the Blue Hole is by taking a scenic flight, which offers a bird's-eye view of this natural wonder. Here's everything you need to know to plan your flight over the Great Blue Hole:

Booking Your Flight

Scenic flights over the Blue Hole are available daily from Belize City Municipal, Caye Caulker, or San Pedro. There are three main companies offering flights: Tropic Air, Maya Island Air, and Astrum Helicopters. Booking in advance is essential, and it's recommended to book at least a month ahead to secure your spot.

What to Expect

The flights offer a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see the Blue Hole from above. The flight to the Blue Hole takes about 20 minutes, and the pilots will circle the hole several times to ensure everyone has a chance to take photos. The total flight time, including the journey there and back, is typically around one hour.

Cost

The flights are not cheap, with prices ranging from $250 to almost $300 per person. However, it's worth noting that the helicopter tours offered by Astrum Helicopters are more expensive than the prop plane flights.

When to Go

The Blue Hole tours operate year-round, but for the best chance of clear and sunny weather, it's ideal to go during the dry season, from December to May.

Other Things to See

In addition to the Blue Hole, you'll also fly over other stunning sights in Belize. This includes the Belize Barrier Reef, Turneffe Atoll, Lighthouse Reef, and the coastline of Ambergris Caye. Keep your eyes peeled, and you might even spot manatees, rays, or dolphins!

Final Thoughts

Taking a scenic flight over the Great Blue Hole is an unforgettable experience and definitely worth adding to your bucket list. It's the best way to appreciate the sheer size and beauty of this natural wonder, and with daily flights available, it's easy to include this in your travel plans to Belize.

Frequently asked questions