Belize's Best Destinations

Belize is a small country in Central America, with a population of under 400,000. It is bordered by Mexico, Guatemala and Honduras, and has a coastline along the Caribbean Sea.

Belize is known for its diverse ecosystems, including coral reefs, rainforests, and wildlife such as jaguars, toucans, and howler monkeys. It also boasts ancient Mayan ruins, such as Caracol, Xunantunich, and Cahal Pech.

Belize is divided into six districts, with the capital city of Belmopan and the largest city of Belize City.

The country has a diverse culture, with many different ethnic groups, including the Maya, Creole, Garifuna, Mestizo, and East Indian communities. English is the official language, but other languages such as Spanish, Belizean Creole, and Mayan languages are also widely spoken.

Belize is a popular tourist destination, offering outdoor activities such as snorkelling, scuba diving, sailing, and kayaking, as well as cultural experiences and natural wonders.

Ambergris Caye

The island is a popular destination for divers, snorkelers, fishermen, and sailors, offering easy access to the Belize Barrier Reef and the Blue Hole, a 400-foot deep circle of limestone teeming with marine life. The Hol Chan Marine Reserve, located about 4 miles from the shore of Ambergris Caye, is a popular spot for snorkelling and diving, offering a diverse range of marine life, including stingrays, eels, and nurse sharks.

In addition to its natural attractions, Ambergris Caye also offers a variety of restaurants, bars, and hotels. The town of San Pedro has a lively, energetic downtown area with shops, bars, and restaurants, as well as beachside lounges and luxury hotels. The golf cart is the preferred mode of transportation on the island, adding to its unique charm.

For those seeking a more secluded experience, Secret Beach on the west side of the island offers calm, crystal-clear waters. This once-deserted spot has now become a popular destination, with beach bars and restaurants lining its shores.

Whether you're looking for outdoor adventures, water sports, or a relaxing getaway, Ambergris Caye has something for everyone. Its combination of natural beauty, diverse activities, and vibrant culture make it a top destination for visitors to Belize.

San Ignacio

When it comes to accommodation, San Ignacio offers a range of options, from small boutique hotels and guest houses in the downtown area to remote eco-lodges and jungle resorts outside the town. The best time to visit San Ignacio is during the dry season, from December to April, when the weather is clear and sunny. However, this is also the most expensive time to visit, so travelling during the off-season can be a more affordable option.

Punta Gorda

PG is a seaport and fishing town on the Caribbean Sea. It is a great destination for those looking to explore the densest jungles in Belize, as well as the nearby Maya community and ruins. The town itself has a few restaurants and bars, as well as accommodation options.

One popular hotel is the Copal Tree Lodge, which offers luxury rooms built into the hillside and a restaurant that is often visited by howler monkeys. The lodge also has a rum distillery onsite, where you can see how Copalli Rum is made.

There are many activities to do in and around PG. The town is known for its pure chocolate and the experience of making it. There are tours where you can make your own chocolate, from picking the cacao fruit to grinding the beans. There is also excellent snorkelling in the area, particularly at Snake Cayes, where you can spot amazing marine life without the crowds.

PG is also home to the Maya site of Lubaantun, which features three ball courts and five main plazas, making it the largest site in the south. Another nearby Maya site is Nim Li Punit, near the village of Indian Creek. Here, you can see the longest stelae yet discovered in Belize (and possibly the second-longest in the Maya area).

For those looking to cool off, the Rio Blanco Falls in the Rio Blanco National Park is a series of waterfalls that end in a plunge pool. It is a popular area for picnics and birdwatching, involving minimal hiking.

Placencia

The village has a laid-back, no-shoes ambience, with golf carts and beach cruiser bikes being a popular mode of transportation. The pedestrian-only Placencia Sidewalk, recognised by the Guinness Book of World Records as the narrowest main street in the world, is a 4,000-foot-long stretch adorned with colourful murals and artwork, lined with coffee shops, art galleries, shops, and restaurants.

The beaches along the Placencia Peninsula are dotted with small resorts that offer dive and snorkel trips to the reef, about 17 miles away. Day trips to nearby cayes, such as Laughing Bird Caye and Silk Cayes, are also popular, offering protected snorkelling and swimming spots, white sand beaches, and palm trees for shade.

On the mainland, nearby attractions include the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, home to some of Central America's last surviving jaguars; the Monkey River, where visitors can learn about native wildlife and plants; and ancient Maya ruins such as Nim Li Punit and Lubantuum.

The best time to visit Placencia is during the dry season, from November to April, for beautiful days with clear blue skies. However, this coincides with the high tourism season, so accommodations and tours are more expensive.

Caye Caulker

The primary mode of transportation on Caye Caulker is by golf cart or bicycle, although walking is also a popular option as the island is only five miles long. The island's motto, 'Go Slow', is embraced by both residents and tourists, creating a relaxed and pedestrian-friendly atmosphere.

The Split, a channel that divides the island in two, is a popular hangout spot for travellers and locals. The calm, shallow waters make it a perfect place to cool off, and the Lazy Lizard serves up bar food and drinks. Caye Caulker is also known for its excellent seafood, with street grills cooking up fresh seafood until the late afternoon.

The best time to visit Caye Caulker is during the dry season from January to April, as you can expect sunny days and clear blue skies. However, this is also the busiest and most expensive time to visit. The island's Lobsterfest, held during the last week of June, is a great time to visit if you want to experience the local culture and cuisine.

Frequently asked questions