The Territory Of Belize: Understanding Its Land Area And Significance

Belize is a small Central American country located on the Caribbean coast of the Yucatán Peninsula. Covering an area of 22,966 square kilometres (8,867 square miles), it is roughly twice the size of Jamaica and slightly larger than El Salvador or Massachusetts. The country is bordered by Mexico to the north, Guatemala to the west and south, and the Caribbean Sea to the east.

Belize's landscape is characterised by mountains, swamps, and tropical jungle. The southern half is dominated by the rugged Maya Mountains, while the northern half consists of limestone lowlands and swamps. The country also boasts a 386-kilometre (240-mile) coastline, fringed by dozens of small islands known as cayes.

With a small population of around 397,483 (as of 2022), Belize is the least populated and least densely populated country in Central America.

Belize's land borders

Belize is located on the northeast coast of Central America, with a total land area of 22,960-22,970 square kilometres (8,865-8,867 sq mi). It is bordered by Mexico to the north, Guatemala to the west and south, and the Caribbean Sea to the east. Belize also shares a water boundary with Honduras to the southeast. The country has a diverse geography, including mountains, swamps, and tropical jungles, with a coastline of 174 miles (280 km) along the Caribbean Sea.

The northern half of Belize consists of flat, swampy coastal plains, with heavy forestation in some areas. This region is drained by several rivers, including the Belize River, the New River, and the Hondo River, which also forms the northern border with Mexico. The lowlands of the north are in stark contrast to the south, which is dominated by the rugged Maya Mountains, a range that stretches across the country in a southwesterly to northeasterly direction. The Maya Mountains are a low mountain range, with the highest peak being Doyle's Delight at 1,124 m (3,688 ft).

The western border with Guatemala does not follow any natural features and runs north-south through lowland forests and highland plateaus. This border has been a source of tension between the two countries, with Guatemala claiming sovereignty over approximately 53% of Belize's mainland. Despite mediation efforts by various entities, the border dispute remains unresolved as of 2020.

Belize's small population of 397,483 (as of 2022) is spread across its land area, with a population density of 17.5/km2 (45.4/sq mi). The country is divided into six districts and further into 31 constituencies. Belize's capital, Belmopan, is located inland, about 50 miles (80 km) west of the previous capital, Belize City, which remains the country's cultural and economic centre.

Belize's coastline

The northern lowlands of Belize encompass the northernmost parts of the country. The land in this region is flat and marshy and is home to Belize's most productive agricultural lands, primarily used for sugarcane and citrus fruit cultivation.

The coastal plains stretch along the eastern side of the country, bordering the Caribbean Sea. The area mainly consists of swampy savanna and lagoon-laced mangrove.

Belize City, the largest city in the country, is a gateway to the country's most popular islands, including Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker. It is also home to the international airport, making it a common stop for many international travellers.

The coastline of Belize, with its diverse ecosystems and natural wonders, plays a significant role in the country's tourism and economy while also providing a habitat for a rich variety of marine and terrestrial flora and fauna.

Belize's mountain ranges

Belize is a country located on the northeastern coast of Central America. It has an area of 22,970 square kilometres (8,867 sq mi) and a population of 397,483 (2022). The country is bordered by Mexico to the north, the Caribbean Sea to the east, and Guatemala to the west and south.

The Maya Mountains remain a top attraction in Belize due to their amazing views, unspoiled landscapes, abundant wildlife, and numerous waterfalls found in the area. Many of Belize's national forests and protected conservation areas are found partially or wholly inside the Maya Mountain range. The Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, often regarded as the best jaguar preservation site in the entire world, is located in south-central Belize and covers 150 square miles.

The Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve, located in the central mountains of Belize, is another protected area covering over 106,000 acres of land, predominantly pine forest. Notable sections of the reserve include Barton Creek, Rio Frio Caves, Big Rock Falls, and Hidden Valley Falls.

Belize's rivers

Belize is a small country with an area of 22,960 to 22,970 square kilometres (8,865 to 8,867 square miles) and a population of around 397,483 (as of 2022). It is known for its beaches, but also has around 35 major and minor river catchments or watersheds that drain into the Caribbean Sea.

In northern Belize, there are only three major rivers: the Hondo, the Boots, and the New River. In contrast, southern and central Belize are home to 18 major rivers, thanks to the mountainous terrain and increased rainfall. The Belize River, also known as the Old River, is one of the country's most significant waterways. It runs for 290 kilometres (180 miles) through the centre of Belize and is vital for drinking water and other domestic uses. The river is navigable despite its 78 runs or rapids and has been a vital route for commerce and communication. The Belize River is formed by the merging of the Mopan River and the Macal River, which flow through lush landscapes and offer opportunities for canoeing, tubing, and exploring ancient Maya sites.

The New River, located near the ancient Maya city of Lamanai, is a popular destination for tourists interested in wildlife and history. The Monkey River, in the southeast, offers an ecotourism experience with mangroves, birds, fish, and monkeys. The Mopan River, in western Belize, is known for its pristine beauty and spans the border with Guatemala. The Macal River, accessible near San Ignacio, flows through the pristine environment of the Maya Mountains and is also a popular spot for tubing and canoeing.

These rivers, spanning from the Belize Old River in the north to the Sarstoon in the south, were once the ancient highways of the Maya. Today, they continue to play an essential role in the country's tourism, ecology, and the daily lives of Belizeans.

Belize's lagoons

Belize is a small country located on the northeastern coast of Central America, with a total land area of 22,960 square kilometres (8,865 square miles). The country is bordered by Mexico to the north, Guatemala to the west and south, and the Caribbean Sea to the east. With a diverse landscape, Belize is home to mountains, swamps, tropical jungles, and a captivating network of water bodies.

Belize boasts a plethora of lagoons that contribute to its natural beauty and ecological significance. These lagoons, formed by the country's many rivers and its location on a limestone shelf, provide vital habitats for a diverse array of wildlife, including fish, birds, and crocodiles. They also offer popular destinations for tourists seeking recreational activities such as fishing, kayaking, and birdwatching.

One notable lagoon in Belize is the Placencia Lagoon, located on the Placencia Peninsula in southern Belize. The peninsula, known for its sandy beaches and charming Creole village, offers a range of tourist attractions. The lagoon itself is an important breeding ground for saltwater crocodiles, marine turtles, and manatees, and it provides a habitat for numerous bird species.

Another significant lagoon is the Aguacate Lagoon, a private reserve near the Mennonite community of Spanish Lookout in western Belize. This herbaceous swamp, with its permanent waterlogged vegetation, is a birdwatcher's paradise and also offers opportunities for hiking and canoeing. Additionally, it is believed to be the site of an unexcavated ancient Maya settlement.

The Black Creek Lagoon, part of the Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary, is another protected area in Belize. This large, shallow lagoon is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including jaguars, crocodiles, monkeys, and birds.

Belize's Button Lagoon, within the Buttonwood Nature Reserve, and the Chiwa Lagoon, within the Chiwa Forest Reserve, are two more examples of the country's ecologically rich lagoons. These shallow bodies of water are surrounded by mangroves and support a variety of bird, crocodile, and fish species.

The lagoons of Belize, with their natural beauty and ecological significance, play a crucial role in the country's economy and offer a wealth of opportunities for exploration and recreation. They showcase the country's commitment to preserving its diverse wildlife and natural landscapes.

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