Reasons to Visit Belize
The west of Belize is particularly well known for its spectacular stalactite-filled cave systems. Some, such as Actun Tunichil Muknal cave, are full of Mayan artefacts and sacrificial remains and involve an exhilarating adventure. Others, such as Barton Creek cave, can be viewed in a more relaxed way by canoe, while some can be reached simply by walking across slippery rocks.
Beautiful clear waters and the world’s second longest coral reef system surround Belize and incredible sealife awaits discovery. Even when diving to a depth of 40 metres with the sun streaming through the water, it feels as if you are only just beneath the ocean’s surface.
Belize is made up of hundreds of cayes and tiny islands called atolls surrounded by clear waters and stunning reefs. They make for ideal hideaways for those looking for some peace, relaxation and wonderful diving and snorkelling.
Caracol is the largest Maya archaeological site in Belize. Surrounded by rainforest, its most distinguishable feature is the massive pyramid capped by three temples that rises over 50 metres above the jungle floor. Teeming with wildlife, the historic remains of Tikal are also impressive and worth a visit.
You can't beat tramping through the hot and steamy rainforests in Belize. Especially in the early morning as the jungle comes alive with the incredible noise of howler monkeys barking and the squawks of macaws.
There is nothing quite like river-tubing in Belize. You walk with your tube through the steamy jungle until you get to the jumping in point from where your journey begins. Here, you simply sit in your tube and float down the river with nothing but the sounds of the forest surrounding you, through huge caverns with stalactites looming down at you out of the dark!
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Central America
Caracol is the largest Mayan archaeological site in Belize.
The Orange Walk district encompasses the northern part of Belize, notable for its agricultural production and areas of dense jungle.
The Cayo District incorporates the beautiful forests of western Belize, centred around the town of San Ignacio, near to the border with Guatemala. Caracol is the largest Mayan archaeological site in Belize, and in AD 650 it covered an area much larger than present day Belize City.
Most of Belize's atolls and outer cayes are only accessible by boat, and this remoteness, along with the stunning beaches and world-class diving, makes them all the more attractive to visit and spend a few days relaxing by the ocean.
The Toledo district, often described as Belize's last frontier, is home to numerous Mayan sites, dusty open savannah, orange groves, large river networks and caves galore.
The Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary, is an area known internationally as a bird watchers paradise. A trip here combines birding and national history and a visit to the only inland island in the country.
Belize is a tiny country nestled on the coast between Mexico and Guatemala. Pristine subtropical forests provide a haven for wildlife and shelter ancient Mayan ruins whilst the warm clear waters of the Caribbean lap beautiful sandy cayes offering access to the world’s second longest barrier reef; renowned for its spectacular snorkelling and diving. Infused throughout is the country’s culture influenced by Belize’s Afro-Caribbean roots, creating a fabulous laid-back atmosphere.
10 Days from £2,205pp
Explore the beautiful Cayo district and relax on the stunning beaches of Ambergris Caye on this comfortable short trip to Belize.
14 Days from £3,035pp
This classic Belize itinerary explores the main highlights of the country including the Cayo district, Orange Walk and Ambergris Caye.
16 Days from £4,335pp
A wonderfully active 16 day trip that takes in not only the highlights of Belize but takes you to some of the more unique areas including Toledo and the outer Atolls.
Approx. 13 hours (via the USA)
British Airways
GMT-6 hours
The best time to travel.
A good time to travel, but there may be some factors to be aware of.
Travel is possible, but this is not the best time of year.
Travel is not recommended.
Snow or ski season.
Further reading:When to GoHighlightsItinerary IdeasPlaces to GoThings to DoAccommodationAbout BelizeCountry Guides
Other countries in Central America, Mexico & Cuba:Costa RicaCubaGuatemalaHondurasMexicoNicaraguaPanama