Belize Things To Do

Although a young nation, Belize is proud of its rich cultural heritage and history. Belize was once a main center of Maya civilization with over 15 partially excavated Maya sites throughout the country. The Belize jungle has something for everyone from reptile-phobes and dolphin-devotees to monkey-lovers and bird-watchers.

Great for: scuba diving, snorkeling and jungle excursion
Location: Central America
Population: 315,000
Size: 8,868 sq miles
Capital City: Belmopan
Airport: Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport, BZE
Language: English, Spanish, Creole, Mayan
Currency: Belize dollar (BZ$ or BZD) - check exchange rate
Time zone: Central time zone
Area code: 501

Did you know?
Belize is home to the longest barrier reef in the western hemisphere.

Take  the sting out of coordinating an outing, and choose a tour that sates your jungle passion. Go cave-tubing by flashlight in a clear-water river in Jaguar Park, spy crocs on a majestic river safari, weave through Mayan ruins on a medicinal rainforest walk, or spend the day on a quiet caye snorkeling and swimming with dolphins.

Experience the longest barrier reef in the western hemisphere some 185 miles in length. With over 200 islands off the coast of Belize including 3 of the Caribbean’s 4 atolls, the Belize Barrier Reef is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and marine activities abound.

Dry off to stroll the sandy streets of the unpaved island paradise of San Pedro (the same San Pedro that Madonna sings of in the song La Isla Bonita) where brightly-colored storefronts, lively outdoor bars, and the putt-putt of golf carts (the only rental cars around) remind island visitors to slow down, take their shoes off, and relax.

Nature & Wildlife

Landmarks

Diving & Snorkeling

Enjoy the many wonders of the ancient Mayan ruins and capture a vision of the Howler monkeys in their natural habitat.

Nature & Wildlife in Belize:

Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary - Head to Cockscomb Basin for raw jungle and rugged mountain trails that will keep you on your toes. The almighty jaguar, 300 species of birds, and myriad flora and fauna exist among the park's 100,000 plus acres, situated in close proximity to the Maya Mountains.

Pick up a trail map at the visitor center and register in the hut by the entrance before proceeding 6 miles west to the reception center or sanctuary headquarters. Hikers, be prepared for trails that, though excellently maintained, may require crossing small rivers and traipsing through mud. Long pants, shirts and bug spray are recommended.

Belize Landmarks:

Belize was once a main center of Maya civilization with over 15 partially excavated Maya sites throughout the country and hundreds more awaiting discovery.

The Ancient Maya Temple of Xunantunich - Xunantunich is a major ceremonial center and one of the country's larger excavated sights. The view from the highest pyramid, El Castillo, is remarkable as it offers a view of Belize to the east and Guatemala to the west.

Lamanai - Lamanai is one of the larger Maya sites in Belize and lies nestled in the forest. Trails between each temple and plaza reveal more natural wonders such as Howler monkeys. Prepare to tour the dwellings, courts and temple ruins as well as Belize's largest Pre-Classic structure, a hillside temple overlooking the New Belize River. This 950-acre archeological reserve is also home to the country's only archaeological museum. When you are done perusing the artifacts, trade in your archeologist's hat for a botanist's cap and learn about the healing herbs of the Belizean rainforest.

Diving & Snorkeling in Belize:

Ambergris Caye - With a prime location a few hundred yards from the world's second-longest barrier reef, Ambergris Caye ranks as one of the best diving and snorkeling spots in the world. Take a short flight or water taxi from Belize to Ambergris Caye to explore a barrier reef teeming with bright coral, delicate sea fans, and tropical fish.

Goff’s Caye - A day trip to Goff's Caye (pronounced key) is a fine way to spend time snorkeling and hanging out with the dolphins and manatees of Belize without having to trek too far from Belize City.

Barrier Reef - Belize's barrier reef is a must-see on any serious diver's wish list, but it's also so easily accessed, and submerged in water so shallow, that even novice snorkelers can behold its wonder. 180 miles long, the reef is the second longest in the world. (Only Australia's Great Barrier Reef is longer.) Coral, sea fans, and fish ranging from tiny iridescent angelfish to giant nurse sharks are plentiful.

Hol Chan Marine Reserve - Hol Chan is Mayan for "little channel," and that's exactly what the star attraction is at this small marine sanctuary. Just 25 yards wide and 35 feet deep, the channel provides some of the easiest and most spectacular diving and snorkeling on earth. Swim with graceful rays, gentle nurse sharks, and grouper fish against a backdrop of neon coral. The reserve is marked by buoys, and easily reached as a day trip from San Pedro--where you'll find no shortage of boat crews eager to take you there.

• A valid passport is required for entry into the country of Belize. Canadian and U.S. citizens do not need a visa.
• Non-U.S. citizens, please contact the nearest consulate or embassy of the country to which you are traveling to determine your entry/visa requirements.
• There is a departure fee charged at the Belize airport.
• Passport, visa and travel advisory information may be found at the U.S. Department of State's Belize pages. Although most travel to international destinations is completed without incident, Caribbean-TravelDeals.com urges passengers to review travel prohibitions, warnings, announcements and advisories prior to booking.