Belize: An Adventurer's Paradise For The Ultimate Land Expedition

Island Expeditions in Belize offers a range of adventure tours and vacation packages to some of the country's most spectacular locations. With over 35 years of experience, the company specialises in small, expertly led trips that showcase the best of the best that Belize has to offer. Island Expeditions' tours include activities such as snorkelling, kayaking, fishing, scuba diving, and exploring ancient Mayan ruins and ceremonial caves. The company's Belize tour packages are designed to fit any group or taste and include lodge stays, as well as trips to the Belize Barrier Reef System and the country's tropical rainforests, rivers and ruins.

Snorkelling, kayaking and fishing

Belize is a tropical paradise for snorkelling, kayaking and fishing. The country's location on the Caribbean Sea means it boasts the second-largest Barrier Reef in the world, making it a prime destination for snorkelling and diving. The Belize Barrier Reef System comprises a world of white sand cayes and pristine coral reefs teeming with marine life.

Snorkelling

Belize's snorkelling spots can be divided into two categories: Cayes and Atolls. A caye is an island (often sandy) on top of a coral reef, while an atoll is a ring-shaped coral island surrounding a body of water. The cayes are found on top of the coral reef, and the atolls are located further out.

The Hol Chan Marine Reserve, located about 6km from Ambergris Caye, is one of the most popular snorkelling spots in Belize. It is known for its diverse marine life, including sea turtles, moray eels, angelfish, barracuda, stingrays, spotted eagle rays, and nurse sharks. The reserve is divided into four zones, each offering a unique experience.

Another popular snorkelling spot is Shark Ray Alley, located within the Hol Chan Marine Reserve. Here, you can observe nurse sharks and stingrays up close as they are fed by tour guides. The waters around Ambergris Caye are also renowned for their healthy reefs and clear visibility, making it an ideal location for snorkelling.

For those seeking a more relaxed atmosphere, the southern islands, such as Goff's Caye and Tobacco Caye, offer beautiful beaches and decent snorkelling opportunities. Tobacco Caye, in particular, is known for its potential to spot octopuses or even dolphins.

The three atolls in Belize's Barrier Reef—Turneffe Atoll, Lighthouse Reef Atoll, and Glover's Reef Atoll—offer shallow snorkelling in calm, protected waters. These atolls are home to a diverse range of marine life, including turtles, lobster, nurse sharks, and angelfish.

Kayaking

Belize also offers excellent kayaking opportunities, allowing you to explore the country's diverse ecosystems up close. The Belize Barrier Reef, with its 300-kilometre stretch of coral reef, is a popular destination for sea kayaking. You can paddle across the reef or explore the lesser-travelled areas by stand-up paddleboard.

The Lighthouse Reef is another prime location for kayaking. This pristine island getaway, fringed with flowing palm trees, offers the chance to explore the reef, forests, and historical locations.

Fishing

Belize is also a premier destination for fishing, with some of the best spots located near Ambergris Caye. The country's saltwater fly fishing destinations are renowned, and the rich waters of the Turneffe Atoll are particularly popular for fishing, diving, and marine ecotourism.

Whether you're snorkelling, kayaking, or fishing, Belize offers a wealth of opportunities to explore its breathtaking natural wonders and diverse marine life. With its year-round tropical climate and crystal-clear waters, Belize is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Ancient Mayan ruins and caves

Belize is home to over 600 ancient Mayan sites, with the land that is now Belize once being the heartland of the ancient Maya Empire. The ancient Maya civilisation spanned several millennia, with the Maya Empire evolving around 350 BC in the tropical lowlands of Belize and northern Guatemala.

Ancient Mayan Ruins

The ancient Maya civilisation began to break apart for unknown reasons between 600 and 900 AD, with the once-mighty cities swallowed up by the jungle. Today, many of the ancient ruins in Belize are surrounded by lush jungle foliage, with some still awaiting exploration.

Caracol

Historically the most important site, Caracol is located in the Chiquibul Forest Reserve in western Belize, near the border with Guatemala. The site was discovered in 1938 by a logger looking for mahogany, and was named 'Caracol' ('the snail' in Spanish) by the Archaeological Commissioner, A.H. Anderson. The site was the centre of one of the largest Maya kingdoms and contains the remains of thousands of structures. The city is known for defeating and subjugating Tikal, and the site features the largest pyramid or man-made structure in Belize, Canaa ('Sky Place'), which stands at 140 feet tall.

Altun Ha

Altun Ha is located 31 miles north of Belize City on the Old Northern Highway. The site was a major ceremonial and trade centre during the Classic Period, and features two principal plazas. The most significant find at Altun Ha is the Maya Jade Head, representing the Mayan Sun God, Kinich Ahua. This is the largest jade object carved in the Maya civilisation.

Xunantunich

Xunantunich is situated on the Western Highway across the river from the village of San Jose Succotz. The site can be reached by ferry and features six major plazas, more than 25 temples and palaces, and a museum. The highest ruin is 133 feet tall, the second-tallest temple in Belize. Well-preserved sun god masks decorate one side of the structure.

Cahal Pech

Cahal Pech is located in the San Ignacio Cayo district, on a hill that overlooks the twin towns of San Ignacio and Santa Elena. The site was inhabited from 1000 BC to around 800 AD and features 34 structures, including temple pyramids, two ball courts, an altar, and five plain stelae.

Lamanai

Lamanai is located on the banks of the New River Lagoon in the Orange Walk District. The site is one of the largest Mayan ceremonial centres in the region and features more than 719 mapped structures. The site's name, 'Lamanay' or 'Lamayna', means 'submerged crocodile' in Mayan, and the lagoon out front is filled with crocodiles. The site features the Mask Temple, the High Temple, and the Temple of the Jaguar, along with ball courts.

El Pilar

El Pilar is a 100-acre Maya site situated 12 miles northwest of San Ignacio in the Village of Bullet Tree Falls. The site has been occupied between 500 BC and 1000 AD and features 12 pyramids and 25 plazas.

Cerros

Cerros is located on a peninsula in Corozal Bay in northern Belize. The site is notable as one of the earliest Maya sites, reaching its peak during the Late Preclassic period. Several of the structures at Cerros have been submerged by rising sea levels. The site features five temples, plazas, and a large canal system.

Santa Rita

Santa Rita is a Mayan ruin in northern Belize that dates back to 2000 BC. The site is what remains of Chactemal, an ancient Mayan city that is the genesis of the Mestizo people. Santa Rita controlled trade routes within the boundaries of modern-day Mexico and Guatemala.

Nim Li Punit

Located in the Toledo District of Belize, Nim Li Punit features the longest stela in Belize, along with a range of other stone slabs and pillars. The site's name, which means 'Big Hat', is derived from a carving of a figure wearing a large headdress.

Lubaantun

Lubaantun is located north of the Colombia River, one mile past the village of San Pedro Columbia in the Toledo District. The site features five main plazas, two ball courts, and 14 major structures. The large pyramids and residences are made of dressed stone blocks with no mortar binding them together.

Ancient Mayan Caves

Caves were important ceremonial sites for the ancient Maya, and many caves in Belize have been discovered filled with artefacts and treasures left behind by Maya priests.

Actun Tunichil Muknal

The Actun Tunichil Muknal cave is an archaeological site of great significance, with many artefacts remaining, including the 'crystal maiden' and other remains of sacrifice.

Barton Creek Cave

Barton Creek Cave is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Cayo District. The site contains a wide range of cultural remains that were left within the cave as offerings by the ancient Maya, including artefacts, hearths, modified cave formations, and human remains.

Belize's second-largest barrier reef

Belize's Barrier Reef is a series of coral reefs that run parallel to the country's coastline. It is the second-largest coral reef system in the world, after the Great Barrier Reef in Australia. The Belize Barrier Reef is a 300-kilometre (190-mile) long section of the 900-kilometre (560-mile) Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System, which extends from Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula to the coast of Honduras.

The Belize Barrier Reef is a significant natural habitat and has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1996. It is home to a diverse range of marine life, including hundreds of invertebrate species, 70 hard coral species, and 36 soft coral species. The reef also provides a habitat for endangered species such as green, loggerhead, and hawksbill turtles, West Indian manatees, the American marine crocodile, and others.

The Belize Barrier Reef is a popular tourist destination, attracting scuba divers, snorkelers, and fishermen. It is also vital to the country's fishing industry, providing a major source of seafood such as lobster and conch. The reef has a long history of human use, dating back to the Maya civilisation, which used it as a fishing and trading centre from 300 BCE to 900 CE.

Despite its popularity, the reef faces several threats, including oceanic pollution, uncontrolled tourism, shipping, and fishing. Other challenges include hurricanes and the increasing ocean temperatures caused by global warming, which lead to coral bleaching. To protect the reef, the Belize government has implemented several measures, including moratoriums on oil drilling and commercial trawling, as well as development restrictions and fishing reforms.

The Belize Barrier Reef is an important natural asset for the country, and its continuation is crucial for the environment and the local economy.

Rainforest, rivers and wildlife

Belize is home to some of the world's most pristine and secluded rainforests, with more than half of the country's land consisting of dense sub-tropical rainforests. These rainforests are considered some of the oldest intact ecosystems on Earth, harbouring a vast array of plant and animal species. The warm climate and abundant rainfall create a dynamic and vibrant environment, teeming with life.

The rainforests of Belize cover the larger part of the country's mainland, including mountains, valleys, and other terrains. Here, you'll discover ancient caves, incredible waterfalls, and swimming spots. The dense rainforest also hides lost Maya cities, built over a thousand years ago, filled with mysterious carved stones, palaces, and pyramids.

Belize's rainforests are a nature enthusiast's paradise, boasting an astonishing variety of mammals, reptiles, amphibians, fish, insects, and birds. The country is home to over 700 tree species, 500 species of birds, and 250 varieties of orchids. Some of the rare and endangered animals found here include jaguars, armadillos, coaties, and tapirs, Belize's national animal. The rainforests also host a range of exotic birds, such as keel-billed toucans, harpy eagles, hawks, woodpeckers, and colourful parrots.

The Toledo District, in particular, has the biggest share of pristine rainforest. It offers the opportunity to explore the beautiful rainforest river, the Moho River, where the banks teem with wildlife, including giant iguanas, crocodiles, kinkajou, and birds of prey. The Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve, located in the Cayo District, is another must-visit destination. Here, you'll find some of the country's best waterfalls, including the highest waterfall in Central America, the Thousand Foot Falls.

For those seeking adventure, the rainforests of Belize provide a range of exciting activities. Zip-lining through the treetops, canoeing, kayaking, and stand-up paddling are just a few ways to explore these lush environments. Additionally, Belize's signature activity, cave tubing, allows travellers to venture into vast underground cave systems. Birdwatching, horseback riding, hiking, and swimming are also popular choices for those wanting to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Belize's rainforests.

Lodge stays and camping

Belize is known for its incredible rainforest lodges and jungle resorts, which are considered some of the best in the world. Here are some options for lodge stays and camping in Belize:

Lodge Stays

The country has a variety of lodges, from remote beachside cabanas to full-service resort lodges and jungle spas. Here are some specific options:

• Tobacco Caye Paradise: This lodge is located on a five-acre islet that is part of the South Water Caye Marine Reserve. It offers private "over-the-water" beach cabanas with wonderful decks overlooking the Caribbean Sea.
• Bocawina Rainforest Resort: This eco-friendly resort is located within the Mayflower Bocawina National Park, which boasts thousands of acres of lush jungle, refreshing waterfalls, and ancient Mayan sites. Visitors can enjoy activities such as hiking, birdwatching, ziplining, and rappelling down waterfalls.
• The Lodge at Big Falls: Located in southern Belize, this inland resort offers easy access to natural wonders, archaeological treasures, and a host of adventures, including eco-tours that introduce guests to the local Mayan culture, archaeology, and natural history of the area.
• Cahal Pech Village Resort: This award-winning hillside resort offers stunning views over San Ignacio in the Cayo District. It is conveniently located for visiting nearby attractions such as the Xunantunich archaeological site and the Belize Botanic Gardens. Amenities include a restaurant, bar, day spa, and three outdoor pools.
• Birds Eye View Lodge: This small, family-run lodge offers home-cooked meals and tour opportunities of the surrounding area. It is a convenient base for day trips to nearby attractions, such as the Mayan ruins of Lamanai and Altun Ha.

Camping

Belize also offers camping options for those seeking a more rustic experience. Here are some examples:

• Belize Marine Basecamp: Located on Half Moon Caye, Lighthouse Reef, this camp is situated within Belize's first national park. It offers comfortable wall-tent cabanas with wooden floors, a nightstand, and either single or double beds. The camp is powered by a small generator, and has freshwater showers, modern compost toilets, and propane-powered refrigeration.
• Glover's Reef Basecamp: This basecamp is located on Southwest Caye within the Glover's Reef Marine Reserve. It offers comfortable wall-tent cabanas similar to those at the Belize Marine Basecamp, with the addition of solar-generated electricity.
• Expedition Camping on the River: These camps are located in the jungle alongside rivers, offering spectacular settings and access to trails and watersheds. The camps are designed to be portable and have a minimal impact on the forest floor. They include comfortable, private bush toilets, and Mayan guides prepare simple yet delicious meals, including the guest-favourite Mayan Fire Roasted Chicken.

Whether you're looking for a luxurious lodge stay or a more rustic camping experience, Belize has a range of options to suit your needs.

Frequently asked questions