A beginner’s guide to Belize

A tiny country that packs a punch, Belize is the ultimate Caribbean vacation for beach-goers-come-adventurers. Tucked in-between Mexico and Guatemala, surrounded by the balmy oceans of the Caribbean Sea, Belize is an underrated destination chock-full of cultural richness, lively community spirit, and spectacular sites of ancient Mayan architecture. It’s also home to stunning biodiversity both above and below land. If you’re looking for a reason to go ahead and take the plunge, then get to grips with all this Central American nation has to offer with our beginner’s guide to Belize.

Jungle treks & Caribbean island-hopping

The topography of Belize means it has all the allure of both a jungle-swathed adventure destination, and a tropical island getaway. Whether you fancy a journey into the depths of a leafy rainforest, or to relax on the shores of a secluded bay, both are a possibility in one well-planned trip to Belize.

The Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary offers sensational guided trails and the chance to spot the elusive jaguar, while hidden waterfalls abound throughout the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest, where you can seek out incredible Mayan archaeological ruins on foot.

When you want to swap hiking boots for sand beneath your toes, the islands of Belize (called cayes) are infused with warm, white-sand beaches. The largest and most popular, Ambergris Caye, is home to the bustling town of San Pedro and well-equipped with all you could need for a comfortable coastal vacation. In quieter spots such as Hopkins you’ll find fewer tourist-driven hubs and more local goings-on, as well as fascinating Garifuna villages. 

A proud center for eco-tourism

It’s part of Belizean culture to care deeply about the outstanding environment they’re surrounded by at all sides. As a wonderland of different ecosystems – from caves to coral reefs, jungles to mountains – it’s home to an abundance of protected national parks and areas of natural beauty. Well-run conservation centers are dedicated to the rehabilitation of jaguars and baboons, alongside other diverse Belizean wildlife. Well, what more would you expect from one of the first countries to ban off-shore oil drilling and phase out single-use plastics? You’ll also have plenty of chances to stay in eco-lodges that practice green initiatives, with a focus on sustainability, protecting local life, and community-based tourism. With some thoughtful choices, you can enjoy everything Belize has to offer while contributing to its ongoing protection.

Ancient Mayan ruins & a multi-faceted heritage

As is the case across Central America, the Mayans thrived in these territories as far back as 1,500 BC, and remnants of their epic rule still exist in captivating plots throughout the islands. Jungle-shrouded ruins and the remains of old Mayan towns give insight into an ancient story we only partially know. Belize’s most impressive archaeological site is in Caracol, once a major city during the Classical period. The area includes a ball court, crumbling acropolis and the Sky Palace Pyramid, the highest man-made structure in all of Belize.

Mayan heritage has lasted into the present day in Belize. Maya communities exist mainly in the southern and western regions. The population is largely Mestizo, a mix of Spanish and Indigenous American heritages – while Creole people, and the Afro-Caribbean Garifuna people with their own distinct music and spiritual practices, also reside here.

Alongside ancient heritage sites are glimpses of Belize’s past as a British colony. This period was rather influential with over 60% of Belizeans speaking English as a first language, with Spanish a close second. The nation’s capital, Belize City is scattered with colonial buildings from this time, alongside some great museums which tell of the country’s intricate cultural tapestry in more detail.

Adventures both underwater & underground

As Belize is surrounded by crystalline waters, adrenaline sports such as diving, snorkeling and cave exploration are huge here. Belize’s Barrier Reef is the second-largest in the world, and UNESCO-protected – with exquisite marine life surrounding the cayes on most of the islands. With its inviting turquoise color, the Great Blue Hole is one of the most iconic dive sites, while Shark Ray Alley on Caye Caulker is ripe for sightings of rays and nurse sharks. Silk Caye is also thriving with diverse corals and shimmering tropical fish.

Those with an affinity for the extreme can take on the complex cave systems in Belize, a rewarding experience with many being accessible even for beginners. At caving hotspots such as Actun Tunichil Muknal Cave, Barton Creek Cave, Rio Frio Cave and so many more, the intricate limestone landscapes have created explorable secret worlds underground. Geological wonders lit by beams of sunlight, unique rock formations, and even ancient Mayan remains and artefacts can be discovered within. 

Jaguars & other wonderful wildlife

With such immense variety in ecosystems, you’d expect the wildlife in Belize to be spectacularly diverse, and it is. The likes of howler monkeys, jaguars, keel-billed toucans and tapirs can be spotted on day trips across Belize, and community-led conservation efforts are impressive. Though it’s never guaranteed to see jaguars, they are prolific in places such as the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, and guided walks led by park rangers may lead you to spot these magnificent creatures in the wild.

In other natural sites thick with rainforest, such as the Lamanai Reserve and Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary, or at higher elevations in the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest, you’re likely to come across an abundance of creatures – from scarlet macaws and baboons to ocelots, green iguanas and hummingbirds.

Get a taste of the Caribbean

Caribbean flavors define Belize’s culinary scene – coconut-infused rice and beans with delectable stewed chicken or fish; tropical fruits like pineapple, papaya and guava; the rich depth of flavor in locally-produced Mayan chocolate.

Belizeans are big on locally-sourced produce, and food generally tastes fresh and exciting. Try the sea-sourced delicacy, conch fritters – a deep-fried ball of dough mixed with tasty diced shellfish; or hudutu, a Garifuna dish of fresh-caught snapper, stewed in coconut milk with a side of plantain. To wash it down, Belize produces its own rum for a true taste of the Caribbean. Explore local markets, beachside bars and street food stalls to follow your taste buds through these highly sensory islands. 

Make it happen

If you’re ready to experience Belize for yourself, our local travel experts are on the ground and ready to help you plan the trip of a lifetime. Get in touch with them today with your ideas, and they’ll offer their local knowledge to craft you a vacation you won’t forget.