Belize

Belize is a country that feels like a well-kept secret. Tucked between Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula and the lush jungles of Guatemala, it is a rare destination that offers both world-class Caribbean diving and ancient Maya mysteries in one single trip.

Whether you’re seeking the adrenaline of a jungle trek, the serenity of a remote island, or the charm of a diverse culture that blends Maya, Garifuna, and Mestizo traditions, Belize is a destination that promises perfection at every turn.

Why we love Belize

Belize is perhaps the only place on earth where you can spend your morning exploring a 2,000-year-old stone temple and your afternoon snorkeling in the world’s second-largest barrier reef. It is laid-back, English-speaking, and incredibly diverse—a tropical paradise that hasn’t lost its soul to over-tourism.

The Most Beautiful Places in Belize

From the northern cayes to the southern peaks, these are the destinations you cannot miss:

1. Ambergris Caye & Caye Caulker

The northern islands are the gateway to the Caribbean. While Ambergris Caye offers luxury resorts and the bustling life of San Pedro, Caye Caulker is the place to “Go Slow.” With no cars and only sandy paths, it’s the ultimate spot to find a hammock, a cold Belikin beer, and a view of the turquoise horizon.

2. The Great Blue Hole

A UNESCO World Heritage site and a bucket-list legend. This massive marine sinkhole is best seen from above on a scenic flight to truly appreciate its perfect indigo circle, or explored from below by experienced divers seeking a prehistoric underwater world.

3. San Ignacio & The Cayo District

Escape the coast for the “Wild West” of Belize. San Ignacio is the heart of the country’s adventure scene. From here, you can explore the ATM (Actun Tunichil Muknal) Cave—a sacred Maya underworld—or stand atop the massive temples of Caracol, hidden deep within the Chiquibul Forest.

4. Placencia

A charming seaside village at the tip of a long, narrow peninsula. Placencia boasts the best beaches on the mainland and serves as a launching point for the stunning Silk Cayes. It has a sophisticated yet barefoot vibe that is perfect for couples and families alike.

5. Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve

A surprising landscape of granite hills, pine forests, and dramatic waterfalls. Visit the Rio On Pools for a natural waterslide experience or marvel at the 150-foot Big Rock Falls.

Highlights of a Tour Through Belize

  • Swim with Sharks: Head to Shark Ray Alley at Hol Chan Marine Reserve for an exhilarating snorkel alongside gentle nurse sharks and stingrays.
  • Maya History: Visit the riverside ruins of Lamanai, accessible only by a scenic boat ride through the jungle, or cross the river by hand-cranked ferry to reach Xunantunich.
  • The Wildlife: Look for jaguars in the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary—the world’s only jaguar preserve—or listen for the roar of Howler Monkeys in the canopy above.

Essential Travel Tips

  • When to go: The dry season runs from late November to May, offering perfect sunshine. For fewer crowds and lower prices, the “Green Season” (June to October) offers lush landscapes and warm tropical showers.
  • Getting around: Small “puddle jumper” flights are the most scenic way to travel between the islands and the mainland. For the adventurous, car rentals allow you to explore the Hummingbird Highway at your own pace.
  • Language: Belize is the only English-speaking country in Central America, though you’ll hear plenty of Kriol and Spanish along the way.
  • Currency: The Belize Dollar (BZD) is pegged 2:1 to the US Dollar, and USD is widely accepted everywhere.