Belize

Tourist Guide
Xunantunich showing heritage elements and indigenous culture
Natural beauty, coral reefs, wildlife reserves and ancient Maya ruins welcome visitors and outdoor adventurers to this small country in Central America.

Rich with breathtaking natural scenery, Belize presents a magnificent setting for exploring the outdoors. Swim with colorful marine life amid pristine coral reefs in the Caribbean Sea. Traverse national parks and protected jungles in search of Belizean wildlife. Discover archaeological ruins that showcase the country’s Mayan and indigenous culture.

A major highlight of Belize is its 240-mile (390-kilometer) Caribbean coastline. Here, you’ll find the Belize Reef, a remarkable collection of islands and coral reefs, known locally as “cayes.” Enjoy excellent snorkeling at Ambergris Caye Beach. Swim with nurse sharks and stingrays at Hol Chan Marine Reserve. Try windsurfing and kitesurfing at Caye Caulker. Plunge into a 407-foot (124-meter) deep sinkhole on a scuba tour of the Blue Hole National Park.

A national conservation program means that Belize’s interior landscapes remain largely unspoiled. The Cayo District is home to rainforests, cave systems and Maya ruins, including Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve, Actun Tunichil Maknal and Caracol. Spot rich birdlife in Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary and jaguars in Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary. Join canoeing and rafting adventures on the Macal River and Mopan River.

Historical and bustling Belize City presents an intriguing alternative to the country’s natural attractions. Admire fading colonial architecture, visit museums and experience a culture that blends African, Asian, European and Latin influences. Visit Dangriga, an artsy town and home of the Garífuna African-Caribbean indigenous group.

Toward the south of the country is Placencia Peninsula and a stretch of powdery, white-sand beaches dotted with laidback beach resorts. Try snorkeling at Tobacco Cayes and swim with whale sharks at Gladden Spit from April to June.

Belize is more expensive than most other Central American countries, although budget travelers can get around using a reliable and cheap network of public buses. Belize’s main language is English, however, Spanish is also widely spoken. The country’s natural beauty, consistently warm temperatures and welcoming locals make it a great place to visit year-round.

Popular cities in Belize

Placencia Beach showing general coastal views and a sandy beach
Placencia
Known for Beaches, Tours and Relaxing
Go diving at one of the cays in this charming beach town and take a boat tour of the national park.

Reasons to visit

  • Placencia Beach
  • Maya Beach
  • Placencia Peninsula
Caye Caulker which includes a beach
Caye Caulker
Known for Islands, Tours and Snorkelling
Watch clouds and listen to waves while lying in a hammock, go snorkeling in crystal-clear water and dance all night to feel-good reggae beats on this tropical island.

Reasons to visit

  • Playa Asuncion
  • Caye Caulker Sand Volleyball Court
  • Caye Caulker Marine Reserve
San Pedro which includes swimming, tropical scenes and general coastal views
San Pedro
Known for Beaches, Snorkelling and Islands
See how this former fishing village has transformed into a stunning Caribbean destination centered on the acclaimed Hol Chan Marine Reserve.

Reasons to visit

  • Belize Chocolate Company
San Ignacio
San Ignacio
Known for Tours, Jungles and Historical
Get away to San Ignacio! Enjoy the ruins, history and mountains.

Reasons to visit

  • Cahal Pech Mayan Ruins
Blue Hole National Park which includes rainforest and a lake or waterhole
Belmopan
Known for Jungles, Tours and Rivers
Experience relaxing Belmopan: its jungle, riverfront and more!

Reasons to visit

  • Blue Hole National Park
Belize City
Belize City
Known for Excursions, Historical and Islands
Get away to Belize City! Enjoy the boating, ruins and culture.

Belize