Belize's Alluring Offerings

Belize is a small country on the northeastern coast of Central America, offering a diverse range of attractions for visitors. From its stunning natural wonders to its rich cultural heritage, Belize has something for everyone. Here is an introduction to what Belize has to offer.

Belize boasts a diverse landscape, from its lush jungles and rugged mountains to its pristine beaches and coral reefs. The country is home to the Belize Barrier Reef, the second-largest reef system in the world, offering unparalleled scuba diving and snorkelling opportunities. The reef is part of the globally significant Mesoamerican Biological Corridor, showcasing Belize's commitment to environmental conservation.

In addition to its natural wonders, Belize has a rich cultural and historical heritage. The Maya civilization flourished in Belize between 1500 BC and AD 300, leaving behind impressive ruins such as Xunantunich, Caracol, and Altun Ha. Belize also has a diverse society, with influences from Creole, Mestizo, Garifuna, and Mayan cultures, among others. The country gained independence from the United Kingdom in 1981 and is now a parliamentary constitutional monarchy with a diverse political landscape.

Belize offers a range of activities for visitors, including exploring ancient ruins, snorkelling or diving in the reef, hiking through nature reserves, and enjoying the local cuisine. Popular destinations include the Hol Chan Marine Reserve, the Great Blue Hole, the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, and the towns of San Ignacio, Placencia, and San Pedro.

While Belize offers a wealth of attractions, it is important to be mindful of safety concerns. Violent crime is a concern, particularly in Belize City, and tourists should exercise caution and be vigilant. Additionally, Belize faces territorial disputes with neighbouring countries, and travellers should stay informed about potential risks.

Overall, Belize is a captivating destination, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural diversity, and historical intrigue. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, Belize has something to offer.

Explore the Cayes

Belize is home to hundreds of islands known as cayes, pronounced "keys" like the Florida Keys. The largest of these, Ambergris Caye, is a popular destination for water sports, especially snorkelling and scuba diving. The island's biggest settlement, San Pedro Town, is a bustling hub full of restaurants, bars, stores, and hotels. Ambergris Cye is also a great base for exploring other Belize islands and attractions on the mainland, such as Altun Ha and the Belize caves.

For a more laid-back experience, head to Caye Caulker, Ambergris Caye's smaller, more relaxed sister island. Here, you won't find any cars, only golf carts, bikes, and foot traffic. Caye Caulker caters more to backpackers than luxury travellers, with mid-range hotels, condos, and hostels. While it doesn't have any prime beaches, "The Split" north of town is great for swimming and socialising, and incredible diving and snorkelling spots are just a short boat ride away.

If you're looking for a more secluded island experience, head to the southern cayes, such as Tobacco Caye and South Water Caye. Tobacco Caye is a tiny island with a population of just about two dozen people. It's a budget-friendly destination known for its warm waters, palm trees, and starry skies. South Water Caye, meanwhile, offers 15 acres to explore, including a rare sandy beach at the southern end.

For divers and snorkelers, Glover's Reef Atoll is a must-visit destination. It's been named a World Heritage Site by UNESCO due to its unmatched biodiversity. Most people stay in dorms, thatched cabins, or camp at the Glover's Reef Resort.

• Turneffe Atoll: The largest atoll in Belize, known for its wall dives. There are two high-end resorts on the atoll.
• St. George's Caye: Once the largest settlement in Belize, now home to the luxury St. George's Caye Resort. It's also the site of the Battle of St. George's Caye, celebrated nationwide on September 10.
• Lighthouse Reef and the Great Blue Hole: The Great Blue Hole, made famous by Jacques Cousteau, is one of the top scuba sites in the world. Most people dive here on day trips from Ambergris Caye or Caye Caulker, but basic cabins are also available on Lighthouse Reef's Long Caye.

Visit the Belize Zoo

Belize is home to the Belize Zoo and Tropical Education Center (TBZTEC), a non-profit organisation founded by Sharon Matola in 1983. The zoo is located on a 30-acre facility at Mile 29 on the George Price Highway, roughly halfway between Belmopan and Belize City. It is open from Monday to Saturday, from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm, and on Sundays from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm.

The Belize Zoo is the oldest wildlife rescue and rehabilitation facility in Belize, with over 45,000 visitors annually. It is home to more than 160 animals, representing 43 native species, and employs over 45 Belizeans. The habitats designed for the animals reflect their natural settings, providing an immersive educational experience for visitors. The zoo is also the first nature destination in Belize that is accessible to persons with physical disabilities.

The zoo was founded by Sharon Matola, who began caring for a handful of wild animals that had been part of a natural history documentary. When filming was completed, she decided to start a zoo, and forty years later, the "backyard zoo" has become a world-renowned wildlife education centre. The animals at the zoo are rescued, confiscated from the illegal wildlife trade, or transferred from other rehab and zoological facilities.

The Tropical Education Center (TEC) is an 84-acre site adjacent to the zoo, serving as a lodge, learning centre, and training facility. It offers accommodations, meals, hot/cold showers, a natural history library, and a lecture hall. Activities at the TEC include birdwatching, savannah trail hikes, river canoe trips, and nocturnal tours of the zoo.

The Belize Zoo provides a unique opportunity to connect with Belize's natural heritage and learn about its diverse wildlife. With its accessible facilities and immersive educational experiences, it is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in wildlife conservation and rehabilitation.

See Xunantunich

Xunantunich is an ancient Mayan archaeological site in western Belize, about 70 miles (110 km) west of Belize City, in the Cayo District. It is perched atop a ridge above the Mopan River, within sight of the Guatemalan border, which is just 0.6 miles (1 km) to the west.

The name Xunantunich means "Maiden of the Rock" in the Maya languages Mopan and Yucatec, combining "Xunaan" (noble lady) and "Tuunich" (stone for sculpture). The "Stone Woman" refers to the ghost of a woman claimed to inhabit the site, dressed completely in white with fire-red glowing eyes.

Xunantunich is the second-tallest structure in Belize, at some 130 feet (40 m) tall. It is believed to have served as a Maya civic ceremonial centre to the Belize Valley region in the Late and Terminal Classic periods. The site is broken up into four sections – Group A, Group B, Group C, and Group D, with Group A being the most significant. The core of the city occupies about one square mile (2.6 km2), consisting of a series of six plazas surrounded by more than 26 temples and palaces.

One of Xunantunich's better-known structures is the pyramid known as "El Castillo". It is the “axis mundi” of the site, or the intersection of the two cardinal lines. El Castillo is the second-tallest building in Belize, after the temple at Caracol. Visitors can climb to the top of the pyramid, which offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding area, including the river valley and neighbouring Guatemala.

Xunantunich is a fascinating site for those interested in Mayan history and culture. The site boasts impressive architecture, carvings, and friezes, and offers a glimpse into the advanced engineering systems of the Mayan people. Visitors can explore the various excavated ruins and even climb some of the structures. The site also has a small museum with a collection of artefacts and replicas, providing insight into Mayan history and culture.

To get to Xunantunich, the largest nearby city is San Ignacio, about a 30-minute drive away. Alternatively, it is about a 2.5-hour drive from Belize City. Visitors can drive themselves or take a tour, which includes transportation to the site. Part of the adventure is crossing the Mopan River via the Xunantunich Hand Cranked River Ferry, which transports both people and cars.

Guides are available at the site, and it is highly recommended to hire one to gain a deeper understanding of the history and significance of Xunantunich. The guides can provide interesting facts and insights that would otherwise be missed.

Xunantunich is an impressive and informative site, offering a glimpse into the rich history and culture of the Mayan civilisation. It is a must-visit destination for those interested in exploring ancient ruins and learning about Belize's past.

Wander the Hol Chan Marine Reserve

The Hol Chan Marine Reserve is a protected area of natural beauty, just off the coast of Belize, covering around 18 square kilometres of coral reefs, seagrass beds, and mangrove forests. The name 'Hol Chan' comes from Mayan and means 'little channel'. The reserve is divided into four zones, with different rules for fishing and tourism activities.

The reserve was established in 1987, in response to dwindling fish stocks and increasing tourism in the area. It is managed by the Hol Chan Marine Reserve Trust Fund Committee, with funds generated from visitor fees. The reserve has four main goals:

• Preserving an area of the coral reef ecosystem
• Providing recreational and tourist services while maintaining the utility of the area for fisheries
• Providing an opportunity for education and research within the park
• Conserving genetic resources

The Hol Chan Cut is a natural break in the reef, around 23 metres wide and 9 metres deep, and is rich in marine life. Over 160 species of fish have been recorded, along with forty types of coral, five species of sponge, two seagrasses, three species of sea turtle, and three marine mammals. The mangrove forests act as nurseries for many fish species, and manatees are rare visitors.

There are many tour options for visitors to the reserve, including snorkelling and scuba diving. It is considered a beautiful and well-kept area, with abundant sea life and biodiversity. However, some recent reviews mention issues with overcrowding and litter, which may detract from the experience.

Explore Actun Tunichil Muknal

Actun Tunichil Muknal, also known as the Cave of the Crystal Sepulchre or ATM, is a must-see for anyone visiting Belize. This ancient cave system, discovered in 1989 and opened to the public in 1998, offers a unique insight into the rituals and practices of the Maya civilisation.

The cave is located in the Tapir Mountain Nature Reserve, near San Ignacio in the Cayo District, and is accessible via a 45-minute jungle trek. Visitors should be prepared for varied terrain, including several river crossings, and a challenging hike inside the cave, which involves swimming, climbing, and squeezing through tight spaces. It is recommended that you wear water shoes, quick-dry clothing, and socks, and bring a change of clothes, as you will get wet.

Inside the cave, you will find an extensive collection of Maya artifacts, including ceramics, stoneware, and skeletal remains. One of the most famous skeletons is the Crystal Maiden, believed to be a 17-year-old sacrifice victim whose bones have crystallised over time. The ceramics are also significant, as they are marked with "kill holes", indicating their use for ceremonial purposes.

The cave is home to a diverse range of animal life, including bats, large freshwater crabs, crayfish, catfish, and various tropical fish. Large invertebrates and predatory spiders can also be found in the cave, along with otters and agouti.

The tour typically lasts around 7 hours, including the jungle trek, and a lunch break at the Archaeology Base Camp. The cost is USD 125 per person, including a professional guide, transportation, gear, lunch, and entrance fees.

Actun Tunichil Muknal offers a fascinating glimpse into the past and is well worth the effort for those seeking an adventurous and educational experience.

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