The Belize Blue: A Natural Wonder

Belize is famous for its sparkling blue waters, which have been described as ranging from brilliant navy blues to the lightest, clearest turquoises imaginable. The country's coastline is hugged by the Belize Barrier Reef, the largest barrier reef outside of Australia, providing a vibrant blue vista for visitors. The water's blue hues are not limited to the reef, however, and can also be found in the heart of Belize at the Inland Blue Hole, a gateway to underwater caves. The Great Blue Hole, a giant marine sinkhole off the coast of Belize, is another popular destination for divers. With its year-round balmy weather, Belize is a perfect getaway destination for those seeking to relax amidst intense sapphire-blue waters.

Ambergris Caye: a scuba diver's paradise

A Tropical Paradise

Belize is home to some of the world's bluest waters, and Ambergris Caye, its largest island, is a true tropical paradise. With white sands and aquamarine waters, it's no wonder that Ambergris Caye is Belize's most popular tourist destination. The island offers stunning natural beauty, from its glowing aqua waters to its abundant marine life, all surrounded by the country's characteristic turquoise seascapes.

A Scuba Diver's Dream

Ambergris Caye is a scuba diver's dream, with easy access to the second-largest barrier reef in the world. The Belize Barrier Reef, just a short boat ride from the island, is a diver's paradise, teeming with angelfish, elkhorn coral, cleaner shrimp, and stalactites. One of the reef's most famous spots is the Blue Hole, a 400-foot deep circle of limestone that divers can explore.

A Variety of Experiences

Whether you're a first-time snorkeler or an experienced diver, Ambergris Caye has something for everyone. For those who don't want to venture too deep, the Hol Chan Marine Reserve offers a two-stop snorkelling trip. The first stop is Hol Chan, where you can snorkel over the reef and see a variety of fish, rays, and eels. The second stop is the famous Shark Ray Alley, where you can jump in and swim with a tangle of sharks and stingrays.

A Rich History

Ambergris Caye has a rich history, first inhabited by the Maya as early as 200 B.C. The Maya dug a canal on the north side of the Mexican peninsula, creating the island. Today, the island's only town, San Pedro, named after the patron saint of fishing, retains its historic fishing village charm, with bicycle vendors and dogs lying in the sun along the busy roads.

A Relaxed Lifestyle

The cost of living on Ambergris Caye is higher than in most other regions of Belize, but it offers a relaxed and sophisticated lifestyle. Golf carts are the preferred mode of transportation, and the island boasts a variety of restaurants, bars, and beach clubs. The east side of the island, where San Pedro is located, is bustling with resorts, hotels, and homes enjoying cool sea breezes and gorgeous ocean views.

So, whether you're a scuba diver, snorkeler, or just looking for a tropical paradise to relax and explore, Ambergris Caye is the perfect destination. With its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and variety of experiences, it's no wonder that Ambergris Caye is a favourite among travellers.

The Great Blue Hole

Dive excursions to the Great Blue Hole are full-day trips, usually consisting of one dive in the Blue Hole and two additional dives in nearby reefs. The Blue Hole is for advanced divers, and diving in the caves typically involves descending to a depth of 135 feet. When diving in a group of ten or more, it is recommended to have at least three divemasters present.

The Belize Barrier Reef

The reef is an important natural asset to Belize, as it protects the coastline from the damaging effects of wave action, tropical storms, and hurricanes. It is also vital to the country's fishing industry and is a top tourist destination, attracting almost half of its 260,000 visitors. The most common reason people visit the reef is to see the Great Blue Hole, but other attractions include the Hol Chan Marine Reserve, where snorkelers and divers can see a variety of marine life, including fishes of every colour imaginable, nurse sharks, sea turtles, and manta rays.

In 1996, the Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System, which includes seven marine reserves, 450 cayes, and three atolls, was designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. The site totals 960 square kilometres (370 square miles) in area. Despite protective measures, the reef remains under threat from oceanic pollution, uncontrolled tourism, shipping, and fishing. Other threats include hurricanes and coral bleaching due to global warming and increasing ocean temperatures.

Inland Blue Hole

The Inland Blue Hole is a stunning natural feature located within the Blue Hole National Park in Belize. This sapphire-coloured sinkhole is a must-see for any traveller seeking to immerse themselves in the country's natural beauty.

Nestled within the lush tropical rainforest of the park, the Inland Blue Hole is a breathtaking sight to behold. Surrounded by verdant jungle vegetation and limestone rock walls, the 25-foot-deep (8 metres) swimming hole invites visitors to take a refreshing dip in its crystal-clear waters. The water in the Blue Hole is part of an intricate underground cave system that eventually flows into the Sibun River, adding to the allure of this natural wonder.

For those eager to explore the Inland Blue Hole, there are two main approaches. Adventurous souls can opt for a 45-minute hike through the dense forest from the park's main entrance. Alternatively, for those seeking a more relaxed journey, driving further down the highway and parking in a secondary lot shortens the walk to a mere 5 minutes through the jungle, leading to concrete steps that descend to the swimming hole. It is important to note that recent rainfall can alter the colour and clarity of the water, turning it a murkier green.

The Inland Blue Hole is not just a visual delight but also a gateway to underwater caves. Visitors can explore these caves, either independently or with a guide, to uncover the secrets of the ancient Mayan civilisation. Beyond the designated turnaround point for independent explorers, Mayan artefacts such as pottery and spears await discovery under the guidance of an experienced local guide.

In addition to its natural beauty, the Inland Blue Hole offers a serene escape for those seeking tranquility. The surrounding jungle provides a peaceful atmosphere, and the nearby trails within the park offer opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife spotting. Howler monkeys, with their distinctive calls, are a common auditory companion during the hike to the Blue Hole.

Overall, the Inland Blue Hole in Belize is a captivating destination that combines natural beauty, historical intrigue, and outdoor exploration, making it a must-visit for nature enthusiasts, adventurers, and those seeking a unique tropical experience.

Hol Chan Marine Reserve

The reserve is located off the coast of Belize, near Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker. It incorporates the southernmost marine and coastal areas of Ambergris Caye, including the barrier reef, seagrass beds, and the mangrove islands of Boca Chica and Cangrejo Shoals. The area is known for its diverse marine life, including sea turtles, dolphins, manatees, stingrays, nurse sharks, and numerous species of fish and coral.

The reserve is managed by the Hol Chan Marine Reserve Trust Fund Committee, which replaced the informal advisory committee in 1994. The majority of the funds for the park's upkeep is generated from the fees charged to visitors for access to Zones A and D. These fees are collected through a yearly licensing scheme for tour guide boats.

In addition to its natural beauty, Hol Chan Marine Reserve also holds cultural significance. The area is home to key nesting beaches for marine turtles, and the coral reef ecosystem plays a crucial role in maintaining a healthy reef system. The reserve also provides educational and research opportunities, fostering knowledge and interest in the coastal environment.

Frequently asked questions