Belize Vacation: Know Before You Go

Belize is a small Central American country packed with adventure, nature, and culture. It boasts the world's second-largest barrier reef, drawing divers and snorkelers from across the globe. The country is also home to hundreds of islands, ancient Mayan ruins, lush rainforests, and a diverse range of wildlife.

Belize is known for its laid-back atmosphere and diverse natural beauty. The country's landscape includes turquoise waters, coral reefs, and towering Maya temples nestled within lush rainforests. The official language is English, but you'll also hear Spanish, Garifuna, Mayan, and Creole.

When planning a trip to Belize, it's important to consider the weather. The dry season, from late November to mid-May, offers warm temperatures and clear skies, but it's also the peak tourist season. If you don't mind light showers and fewer crowds, the rainy season, from June to mid-November, can be a great time to visit, with reduced hotel rates.

There are plenty of options for getting around Belize, including air travel, car rentals, ferries, taxis, shuttles, and buses. The country is generally safe, but petty crimes and pickpocketing can occur, especially in tourist areas. It's always a good idea to stay vigilant and take standard safety precautions.

Whether you're seeking relaxation on pristine beaches or thrilling jungle expeditions, Belize has something for everyone.

Belize's ancient ruins and natural wonders

Belize is home to a plethora of ancient ruins and natural wonders.

Ancient Ruins

Belize has more than 600 Mayan sites, making it a top destination for those wanting to explore the mysterious Maya empire.

Caracol

Caracol is one of the most important Mayan ruins in Belize. It was once home to more than 140,000 people and covered an area larger than modern-day Belize City. The site features majestic temples, ball courts, an astronomic observatory, reservoirs, and hieroglyphics. Caracol's Caana pyramid is the tallest man-made building in Belize.

Lamanai

Lamanai, located in northern Belize, is the longest-occupied site in Mesoamerica. It features Mayan ruins that were inhabited for over 3,000 years. The site includes the High Temple, the Jaguar Temple, and the Mask Temple, as well as ball courts. The name Lamanai means "submerged crocodile", and the site is known for its proximity to the New River Lagoon.

Xunantunich

Xunantunich is a Mayan ruin located near the village of San Jose. It is accessible via a ferry ride from San Jose Succotz and a hand-cranked cable ferry over the Mopan River. The site includes the El Castillo temple, several plazas, and over two dozen palaces and temples. Xunantunich is believed to be much older than the structures that were built in the 7th century, with some experts estimating that people lived there 3,000 years ago.

Cahal Pech

Cahal Pech is one of the oldest-known ruins in the Belize River Valley, dating back to around 1000 BC. The site features two ball courts and approximately 34 structures, including temples, residential buildings, and a sweat house. The hilltop location offers panoramic views of San Ignacio and the Belize River Valley.

El Pilar

El Pilar is a Maya site located in the Cayo District, believed to be three times the size of Xunantunich. The site includes over two dozen plazas, residential structures, elite household compounds, and ceremonial structures. El Pilar is still in the early stages of excavation, offering a glimpse into the everyday lives of ancient Mayans.

Cerros

Cerros is the only Mayan ruin in Belize located along the coast. Several structures have been submerged due to rising sea levels, but there are still remains to explore, including a funerary building and stucco-facade buildings. Cerros is known for its unique E-Group structural complex found in Maya architecture.

Altun Ha

Altun Ha is one of the best-excavated archaeological sites in Belize and is easily accessible, located about an hour's drive north of Belize City. The site consists of two main plazas surrounded by Mayan temples, pyramids, and residential structures. Altun Ha is known for the discovery of a jade carving of the Mayan sun god, Kinich Ahau, which is featured on Belizean banknotes.

Natural Wonders

Belize is filled with natural attractions, including lush rainforests, towering peaks, and underwater caves.

Great Blue Hole

The Great Blue Hole is a giant marine sinkhole located on Lighthouse Reef Atoll. It is Belize's most famous attraction, offering wall dives along its outer edges where divers can observe a diverse array of sea life.

Belize Barrier Reef

The Belize Barrier Reef is the second-largest reef system in the world, stretching along the country's coastline. It is known for its vibrant corals and crystal-clear waters, making it a crucial biodiversity hotspot for the Caribbean region.

Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM Cave)

The ATM Cave, located near San Ignacio, is a geologic marvel and one of the most important sacred caves in the world. It features ancient Maya ceremonial sites, including intact pottery and crystallized skeletal remains.

Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve

The Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve, located about two hours south of San Ignacio, offers a unique landscape of granite outcroppings and pine forests. It includes natural attractions such as Big Rock Falls, Thousand Foot Falls, and the Rio On Pools.

Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary

The Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary in Southern Belize is the world's first jaguar preserve. It provides excellent wildlife viewing opportunities and hiking trails leading to waterfalls and rivers.

These are just a few examples of the ancient ruins and natural wonders that Belize has to offer. Whether you're interested in exploring ancient civilizations or experiencing the country's rich biodiversity, Belize has something for everyone.

The Belize Barrier Reef and scuba diving

Belize is a scuba diver's dream, boasting the world's second-largest barrier reef and pristine marine ecosystems. The Belize Barrier Reef is the largest in the Northern Hemisphere, and part of the Mesoamerican Reef, which is the Western Hemisphere's longest. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996, the Belize Barrier Reef is a must-see for divers of all skill levels.

The reef is easily accessible from popular diving hubs such as Caye Caulker, Ambergris Caye, and Placencia. Liveaboards, or boats that offer accommodation and diving trips, are also a popular option for those who want to dive, eat and sleep surrounded by the breathtaking underwater world.

The Great Blue Hole, located near Lighthouse Reef, is undoubtedly the star attraction for divers in Belize. Made famous by Jacques Cousteau, this giant marine sinkhole is a spectacular underwater spectacle. With its steep-walled depressions and contrast of dark blue waters with the turquoise of the surrounding shallow reefs, it is truly a sight to behold. The Great Blue Hole is often combined with a dive at Half Moon Caye, known for its pristine marine fauna and flora, and stunning above-water scenery.

For those seeking a more isolated diving experience, Glover's Reef Atoll offers crystal-clear waters and healthy coral reefs that extend to impressive depths. This atoll is part of the Glover's Reef Marine Reserve, which was designated a World Heritage Site in 1993. Here, divers can spot manta rays, eagle rays, Atlantic bottlenose dolphins, and a variety of shark species.

The Hol Chan Marine Reserve, just off the coast of Caye Caulker and Ambergris Caye, is another popular diving and snorkelling spot. This reserve is known for its thriving marine life, including elkhorn coral, brain coral, barracuda, and even manatees during the wet season. Shark Ray Alley, located within the reserve, offers a unique opportunity to swim with nurse sharks and stingrays.

The Belize Barrier Reef and its surrounding marine ecosystems offer a diverse range of diving experiences, from exploring dramatic sinkholes to gliding through coral canyons. With its warm, clear waters and abundant marine life, Belize is a scuba diver's paradise, offering something for divers of all skill levels.

Getting to and around Belize

There are several ways to get to and travel around Belize. The major international airport in Belize City is where most international travellers first land. From there, you can take a $25 USD taxi ride to the ferry dock and hop on a ferry to the surrounding islands.

If time is more of a concern than money, flying is usually the best option for many Belize tourists. Maya Island Air and Tropic Air are the two main carriers servicing Belize. A flight from Belize City to your final destination should cost around $100 USD one-way.

Renting a car is also popular in Belize, especially if you plan on doing a lot of inland adventures. There are major car rental agencies, including some of the top brands. It is wise to discuss your potential route with the agency or a local with knowledge of the roads. Driving in Belize can be hazardous due to wildlife and speed bumps, so it is best to stick to driving during the day.

If your adventures are taking you out to islands, such as Caye Caulker or San Pedro, you probably don't want to rent a car. Instead, you can take a ferry from Belize City to Caye Caulker for a starting price of $42 BZD one-way, or to San Pedro (Ambergris Caye) for $62 BZD one-way.

There are also official taxis, which can be identified by their green license plates. These are considered a safe and reliable form of transportation, but they do not run on meters, so you should agree on a price before entering the vehicle.

Finally, you can usually find shuttle services, tour operators, or buses to get you to most areas in Belize. The bus is the cheapest travel option, with fares costing between 5-25 BZD depending on the distance travelled. However, the buses are typically run-down and routes can be difficult to navigate.

Where to stay

Belize is a small country with a lot to offer, from stunning beaches to amazing water sports. Here are some of the best places to stay in Belize:

Belize City

Belize City is the largest city in the country, located on a small peninsula surrounded by the Caribbean Sea. It is home to a variety of historical, cultural, and architectural attractions, as well as great food and a vibrant nightlife. Belize City is also well-connected, making it easy to explore the rest of the country. The city has a range of accommodation options, from hostels to hotels and Airbnb.

Caye Caulker

Caye Caulker is a small island located off the coast of Belize, known for its relaxed atmosphere and affordable prices. It offers a range of outdoor activities, including scuba diving, snorkelling, and sunbathing. The island is divided by a channel known as "the Split," with a beautiful white-sand beach and a lively bar scene. Caye Caulker has many budget-friendly accommodation options, as well as some boutique hotels.

San Pedro

San Pedro, located on Ambergris Caye, is a bustling village offering delicious cuisine and sightseeing opportunities. It is also known for its lively nightlife, with a variety of pubs and clubs. San Pedro has a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to luxury resorts.

Corozal

Corozal is a small, friendly town located on the mainland near the Mexican border. It offers Mayan ruins, golden sand beaches, and a variety of culinary experiences. Corozal is a popular destination for expats and retirees, offering a laid-back lifestyle and a glimpse into the traditional Belizean way of life. Accommodation options include hotels, guesthouses, and Airbnb.

San Ignacio

San Ignacio is a small town in central Belize, close to the Guatemalan border. It is known for its proximity to Mayan ruins and outdoor adventures. The town has a lively local atmosphere, with a variety of bars and restaurants. San Ignacio offers a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hotels and hostels to luxury resorts.

What to eat and drink

Belize's food scene is a mix of Latin American and Caribbean influences, with Creole flavours dominating the local restaurant scene. Here's what to eat and drink when you're there:

Rice and Beans

The quintessential Belizean dish, this is a spicy and smoky combination of white rice and red beans, cooked together in coconut oil or coconut milk, and seasoned with plenty of recado (also known as achiote), salt pork, onions, and peppers. It is usually served with a chunk of stewed chicken, beef, or fried fish.

Seafood

Belize's long Caribbean coastline means seafood is the star attraction. Look out for grilled, broiled, steamed, or fried spiny lobster (in season mid-June to mid-February), as well as red snapper, grouper, shrimp, and conch. Lobster festivals are held in San Pedro, Caye Caulker, and Placencia when the season opens on June 15.

Hudut

One of the best-known Garifuna dishes, hudut is fish cooked in coconut milk with plantains.

Cochinita Pibil

A traditional Maya dish, cochinita pibil is slow-roasted pork, marinated in sour orange juice and flavoured with recado (a local spice made from annatto seeds). The meat is then wrapped in plantain leaves and slow-cooked in an underground oven or clay oven.

Ceviche

A cold marinade of fish, conch, and/or shrimp "cooked" in lime juice and seasoned.

Salbutes and Garnaches

Delectable little appetizers, these are also a quick lunch option. Garnaches are small tortillas fried and topped with beans, shredded onion, cabbage, and cheese. Salbutes have a softer base, with recados and other spices.

Tamales

A Maya staple, tamales are squares of cornmeal stuffed with chicken, pork, game meat, or beans, along with green peas, onion, and tomato chunks. They are wrapped in smoked plantain leaves and steamed over an open fire.

Johnny Cakes and Fry Jacks

Johnny cakes are small, baked bread cakes made with flour and coconut milk. Fry jacks are similar but deep-fried. Both are commonly eaten for breakfast, often with eggs.

Drinks

Belize's national beer is Belikin, which comes in several varieties, including lager, stout, and premium. Local rum is also a good choice, and there are several varieties of wine made from cashew, craboo, blackberry, and other fruits. Fresh fruit juices are widely available, with orange, lime, and pineapple being the most popular.

Frequently asked questions