Belize: A Day Of Adventure

Belize is a small country in Central America, bordered by Mexico to the north, Guatemala to the west and south, and the Caribbean Sea to the east. It is a popular destination for tourists seeking adventure, nature, and Caribbean coastline.

If you only have one day in Belize, you might want to start by exploring the ancient Mayan ruins. Belize was once the centre of the Mayan empire, and there are several well-preserved sites throughout the country, including Altun Ha, Lamanai, and Caracol.

You could then head to the coast and snorkel or dive in the Great Blue Hole, a huge underwater sinkhole that is home to an array of marine life. Alternatively, stay above ground and take a helicopter tour for a bird's-eye view of the famous site.

If you're feeling adventurous, you could explore Belize's underground cave systems, either by hiking, swimming, or tubing through ancient Mayan sacred sites.

Finally, no trip to Belize would be complete without sampling some traditional Belizean food, such as grilled lobster, seafood soup, or fry jacks (a type of puffed-up tortilla).

Explore the ancient city of Caracol

Caracol is a large ancient Mayan archaeological site located in the Cayo District of Belize. It is believed to have been inhabited from around 1200 BC to around 950 AD, when the Mayan civilisation began to collapse due to famine, warfare and drought.

The site was first reported by a native logger named Rosa Mai, who came across its remains in 1937. However, excavation didn't begin until around 1950. It is estimated that it took over 300 years of man hours to uncover the ancient temples, and there is still much more to uncover.

Caracol is one of Belize's most stunning pieces of ancient history. The site covers roughly 25,000 acres and is renowned for its impressive size, housing the tallest human-made structure in Belize, the Caana (Sky Palace) pyramid, which stands at 143 feet tall. Archaeologists estimate that its population once peaked at 120,000 Mayas in the Classic Period, making it one of the largest cities in the Mayan world.

The central core of Caracol consists of three plaza groups surrounding a central acropolis and two ball courts, along with a number of smaller structures. The site has more than 100 tombs, as well as a rich array of hieroglyphic inscriptions.

• Visitors often make the hike to Caana's summit to drink in the panoramic views of the surrounding jungle.
• The journey to Caracol involves around 2 hours of off-road driving through dense forest. It is recommended that you go with a guide and a 4x4 vehicle.
• The road is a mixture of dirt and paved, but you will need a 4x4 to access it.
• Make sure you have a full tank of gas before you set off and do not attempt the drive when it’s raining or immediately after rain.
• Bring plenty of water – the sun is extremely unforgiving here.
• Bring bug spray – mosquitoes can be bothersome.
• There are currently no public transport options to get to Caracol, and it’s generally not possible to get a guide once you arrive, so book a tour or self-drive/guide.
• The site is open from 8:00 am – 5:00 pm and the entrance fee is $5.00 US.

Snorkel at Hol Chan Marine Reserve

Snorkelling at Hol Chan Marine Reserve is a must-do when visiting Belize. The reserve is located about 4 miles from the shore of Ambergris Caye and is the oldest reserve in Belize. Its name, "Little Channel", refers to a coral-filled gap in Belize's barrier reef. The reserve covers 3 square miles and is divided into four parts: the mangroves, the reef, the sea-grass beds, and Shark Ray Alley. It is known for its crystal-clear waters and abundant sea life, including stingrays, eels, nurse sharks, sea turtles, and many species of coral and fish.

On a snorkelling tour of Hol Chan, you'll have the opportunity to swim among vibrant coral formations and encounter a variety of marine life. You'll be guided to the channel's edge, where green eels and lobsters dwell among crevices and an overhang. You'll have the chance to see schools of jacks, groupers, and snappers up close. The reserve is perfect for inexperienced snorkelers, as it offers all the beauty of the Caribbean in shallow waters and white sands, with up to 100 feet of visibility.

If you're looking for a full-day adventure, combine your snorkelling trip to Hol Chan with a visit to Shark Ray Alley, located just 3 minutes away. Here, you'll have the thrilling experience of swimming with nurse sharks and southern stingrays. Shark Ray Alley is a feeding site for these creatures, so you're guaranteed an up-close encounter. You can also opt for a night snorkelling tour at Hol Chan, as most marine life in the reserve are nocturnal.

Whether you're a beginner or an experienced snorkeler, Hol Chan Marine Reserve offers a unique opportunity to explore Belize's underwater world and appreciate the country's efforts to protect its natural treasures.

Visit the Belize Zoo

The Belize Zoo is a non-profit wildlife education centre and the oldest wildlife rescue and rehabilitation facility in Belize. It is home to over 150 native wildlife species and is accessible to people with physical disabilities.

The zoo is located roughly halfway between Belmopan and Belize City, and is a 30-minute drive from the international airport. It is open from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm from Monday to Saturday and from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm on Sundays. The last admission is at 4:00 pm from Monday to Saturday and 3:30 pm on Sundays.

The zoo is spread across 30 acres of land and has over 40 species of animals. It is recommended that you wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes, insect repellent, sun protection, and rain gear. There is a large parking lot, a picnic area, a playground, and restrooms. The Visitors' Centre has storage lockers and free Wi-Fi, while the Wild Ting Gift Shop sells local arts and crafts, souvenirs, and snacks. The Harpy Cafe offers an all-day breakfast, drinks, and freshly baked pastries and desserts.

The zoo offers a variety of tours and experiences, including guided tours, and there is an adjacent Tropical Education Centre (TEC) that serves as a lodge, learning centre, and training facility.

Take a distillery tour at Copalli Rum

If you're looking for a unique experience in Belize, a distillery tour at Copalli Rum is a great option. Here's why you should consider it:

• Sustainability and Social Impact: Copalli Rum is more than just a distillery; it's a social and environmental mission. The brand was founded to preserve the rainforest of Southern Belize by providing alternative employment opportunities for the local community, reducing their reliance on the logging industry. This sustainable model has made Copalli the largest non-governmental employer in the region, positively impacting both the ecosystem and the livelihoods of its workers.
• Award-Winning Rum: In just four years, Copalli Rum has garnered acclaim from renowned publications like Forbes, Food & Wine, and Thrillist. It has also won several awards, including NYISC Double Gold (2023) for its Barrel Rested Rum, SIP Best in Class Platinum (2023) for its Cacao Rum, and SIP Platinum (2023) for its Premium White Rum.
• Zero-Impact Distillery: The Copal Tree Distillery, where Copalli Rum is crafted, was designed with a zero-impact philosophy. Every detail of the production process is carefully controlled to minimise any adverse effects on the environment and the region's biodiversity. This commitment to sustainability extends to the use of organic heirloom sugar cane, rainwater, and non-GMO yeast as the only ingredients in their rum.
• A Unique Rum Experience: Copalli Rum is not your typical rum. Unlike most rum brands, Copalli uses fresh-pressed sugar cane juice instead of molasses, resulting in a cleaner, fresher taste. Their rum is crafted with just three simple ingredients and no added sugars or flavours, allowing the spirit of the rainforest to shine through.
• A Range of Delicious Expressions: Copalli offers three distinct expressions: White Rum, Barrel Rested Rum, and Cacao Rum. The White Rum is a blend of pot and column still rum, perfect for cocktails or enjoyed on the rocks. The Barrel Rested Rum has a richer, sweeter profile, aged in American Oak bourbon barrels. The Cacao Rum is infused with organic cacao nibs, adding a rich chocolate flavour and aroma to the spirit.
• The Copal Tree Lodge Experience: The distillery is located adjacent to the Copal Tree Lodge, a 3,000-acre eco-tourism lodge. Guests at the lodge can enjoy a rum tour, cocktail mixology classes, and sample the rum at the on-site Rum Bar. The lodge offers a unique opportunity to explore the beauty of Belize while learning about the sustainable practices that Copalli Rum embodies.

Explore Maya ruins

Belize is home to the largest number of ancient Maya ruins in Central America. Here are some of the top Maya ruins to explore in Belize:

Caracol

The largest Maya archaeological site in Belize, Caracol is located in the Cayo District and is one of the most powerful cities in the ancient Maya world. It is still an active archaeological site, with ongoing excavations to uncover its secrets. The site spans 30 square miles of thick jungle, featuring five plazas, an astronomical observatory, and majestic temples. The Caana (Sky Palace) pyramid stands tall at 143 feet, offering panoramic views of the surrounding jungle. The roads leading to Caracol are well-maintained, providing a scenic drive through the Chiquibul Rainforest.

Lamanai Archaeological Reserve

Lamanai, meaning "submerged crocodile" in Yucatec Maya, is one of the oldest continuously occupied Maya sites in Belize. Located in northern Belize, it boasts impressive ruins nestled in a spectacular jungle setting near the New River Lagoon. Visitors can explore the three Maya pyramids, the remains of a 16th-century Spanish church, and various plazas and temples. Climbing the High Temple offers a panoramic view of the surrounding canopy, river, and lagoon. The Mask Temple, with its 13-foot-tall mask, is another highlight, featuring ancient artifacts linked to Maya, Aztec, and Olmec rulers.

Xunantunich

Xunantunich, which means "Stone Woman" in Maya, is located near San Ignacio and was the first Maya ruin opened to visitors in 1950. This ancient city once housed 200,000 people and features six major plazas, with "El Castillo" being the tallest structure. Visitors can take a hand-cranked ferry across the Mopan River and hike up to the site, enjoying the natural wonders along the way. Xunantunich offers a glimpse into the past with its distinctly carved friezes and the opportunity to spot spider monkeys.

Altun Ha

Altun Ha is a major ceremonial and trade center located near Belize City. It is easily accessible and features two large central plazas and pyramids. The site is renowned for the "Jade Head," the largest Mayan jade artifact discovered thus far. Another notable feature is the sophisticated reservoir constructed by the ancient Maya.

Cahal Pech

Cahal Pech, meaning "place of ticks" in modern-day Maya, was once the royal acropolis-palace of an elite Mayan ruling family. This small complex offers a commanding view of the Belize River Valley. The site includes seven plazas, temples, residential buildings, ball courts, an altar, and a sweat house situated on just two acres. A notable discovery at Cahal Pech was a royal burial chamber containing shell and bone ornaments, jade objects, pottery vessels, and obsidian blades.

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