Currency
Belize currency exchange is extremely easy for American visitors. The Belize dollar is locked at $2 Belize = $1 USD. So it’s very easy to see how much something is costing in USD when you go shopping. Most accommodations and tours are listed in US$ prices, and most restaurants, shops, etc. are listed in BZ$. Nearly everyplace readily accepts USD currency. Most also should accept traveler’s checks as long as you write your passport number or driver’s license number on the back. Large bills (anything above a $20) are a little more difficult to cash. Shopkeepers generally ask you to spend a minimum amount.

ATMs are also available across the country, particularly in most tourist destinations- including Placenica,Punta Gorda, Belmopan, Dangriga, Belize City, San Pedro Ambergris Caye, Caye Caulker, Orange Walk, San Ignacio and Corozal.

Geography
Belize is located in Central America and it is bordered to the north by Mexico, to the south and west by Guatemala and to the east by the Caribbean Sea. We are a diverse country with various cultures and languages. We also have the lowest population density in Central America with 35 people per square mile or 14 people per square kilometer.

Belize is also known for its extreme biodiversity and distinctive ecosystems. On the coast, there is a swampy coastal plain with mangrove swamps. In the south and interior there are hills and low mountains. Most of our land is undeveloped and is forested with hardwoods. It is a part of the Mesoamerican biodiversity hotspot and it has many jungles, wildlife reserves, a large variety of different species of flora and fauna and the largest cave system in Central America. Some species of Belize’s flora and fauna include the black orchid, the mahogany tree, the toucan and tapirs.

History
The first people to develop Belize were the Maya around 1500 B.C.E. As shown in archeological records, they established a number of settlements here. These include Caracol, Lamanai and Lubaantun. The first European contact with Belize occurred in 1502 when Christopher Columbus reached the area’s coast. In 1638, the first European settlement was established by England and for 150 years, many more English settlements were set up.

In 1840, Belize became a “Colony of British Honduras” and in 1862, it became a crown colony. For one hundred years after that, Belize was a representative government of England but in January 1964, full self government with a ministerial system was granted. In 1973, the region’s name was changed from British Honduras to Belize and on September 21, 1981, full independence was achieved.

Language
Come to Belize and you’ll hear familiar words of the English language. In fact, we are the only English language-speaking country in Central America. While English is the official language of Belize, Kriol is the language that we all speak.

When you hear us, you know you’re in a country unlike any other. Even our most up-tight citizens sound relaxed. We have a Caribbean lilt and our words seem a bit shorter. But don’t worry, you’ll understand everything and we may teach you a few phrases you don’t know.

Here, even our language is a diverse adventure. Spanish, African-based Garifuna, Maya-Kekchi, Maya Mopan, Mandarin, German are just a few of the languages that form the unique dialects we speak throughout the country.

Here are a few different ways you’ll hear “good morning”
“Gud Mawnin” – Kriol
“Buiti Binafi” – Garifuna
“Buenos dias” – Spanish

People
From the moment you arrive in Belize – whether you are an adventure traveler, part of a family trip or in the country for a relaxing beach vacation – Belize people and culture make you feel as welcome and comfortable, like nowhere you’ve ever visited.

In Belize, our traditions and customs are varied and represent more than eight diverse cultures. For generations, the people of Belize have demonstrated a cultural commitment to preserve the country’s unique charms. This enduring promise to the land, the waters and you, our visitor, inspires all to achieve a genuine and intimate connection to a variety of extraordinary experiences.

We are truly a melting pot of colorful personalities, making our 321,115 residents the country’s greatest resource for tourism. The Belizean people are made up of Maya, Mestizo, Kriol, Garifuna, East Indian, Mennonite, Arab and Chinese.

There also are a number of expatriates in Belize from Canada, Europe and the United States – and many of them retire here. A blending of cultures has resulted in one of the happiest and most peaceful countries in the region and a widespread reputation as one of the world’s friendliest tourist destination.

In Belize (formerly British Honduras), English remains the official language, but the most diverse language in Belize is Kriol (Belizean Creole). Other languages spoken include Garifuna, Mandarin, Spanish and Maya.

Weather
One of the nicest things about visiting Belize is the weather. With an average yearly temperature of 84° F (29°C), it’s always warm, yet comfortable. Costal sea breezes as well as our jungle and rainforests keep you cool even in the hottest summer months while winters can be cool but never very cold. In short, the climate is pretty much near perfect. Even in winter (November-March) the temperature in Belize rarely falls below 60°F (16°C), while the summer (May-September) is around 86°F (30°C). Humidity is also fairly consistent at around 85 percent.

Belize’s dry season is between February and May and has significantly lower rainfall than the rest of the year. When it does rain, it is usually in mild, short bursts.

June through December is our wet season, when parts of the country receive up to 150 inches of rain and the heavy, sometimes wild storms associated with the Caribbean occur, usually in the late afternoons. The most frequent rainfall usually happens in June or early July and is punctuated by a break in late July or August known as the “little dry.”

We also have a hurricane season, and while statistically Belize does not attract many major direct hits, it does get its share of severe tropical weather with high winds and rain. However, we have cooperative early warning network that we share with our neighbors. Our safety, evacuation and other procedures have proven to be effective, so no worries.

No matter what season you visit, there’s plenty to do and see down here.

Getting Around
Travelers can navigate the country by plane, bus, car, boat or horse, that’s right, horse. Below is a list of the many ways to discover our great country. We hope to see you soon.

Transportation includes local airlines, helicopter, rental cars, tour operators and buses that make getting around Belize easy. Remember to pack your sense of adventure, whether you’re headed to the beach, a dive site, Maya temples or any combination. Be ready for a journey.

For a small nation, we have a well-planned highway and road system that connects all mainland towns, villages and attractions. This system allows travelers to fashion a unique combination of experiences in one of the last unspoiled places on earth.

There are small airports in Belize centrally located around key points of interest in the country, bus terminals in most towns and boat services operating from all major coastal regions and island towns.

Travel via local airlines in passenger aircraft is the fastest and most popular means of transportation throughout Belize, especially for itineraries that combine different in-country locations. Flight schedules are coordinated with the arrival and departure of international flights, for even more convenient traveling and exploring.

Belize City and the Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport (PGIA) are hubs for most rental agencies, with localized services available in the larger tourism destinations.

Boats, known locally as water taxis, are the primary means of transportation between the islands and the mainland and, of course, to barrier reef attractions. Regularly scheduled water taxis operate between Belize City, Caye Caulker and San Pedro.

Where to go and stay in Belize will depend on what you want to do and experience during your vacation in Belize. The country has various top destinations and each location offers a different side of Belize, whether it is the Belizean people, unique natural landscapes or amazing activities.

The towns and cities in mainland Belize are great for ecotourism jungle adventures, while the islands/ cayes and coastal villages are perfect for sun, sand and sea activities. Fortunately, the country is very small and you’ll be able to visit both jungle and beach destinations to experience the most of Belize in a short amount of time.

Ambergris Caye
Ambergris Caye is Belize’s largest island and the most popular place to go in Belize. San Pedro is the name of the town on the Caye and it has a lively downtown scene with lots of restaurants and beach bars. The main activity on the island is world-class diving and snorkeling at the barrier reef. The island maintains a low-key, laid-back vibe, earning a devout following of regular travelers who return again and again, and in some cases, just never leave.

Caye Caulker
The tiny island of Caye Caulker is a popular stop for backpackers and budget travelers, and those just looking to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life back home. With vibrant turquoise waters and a hip local vibe, the island is popular with travelers wanting to experience local Belizean culture while still enjoying a tropical vacation. Same as Ambergris Caye, the main activities are snorkeling and diving the reef. Also popular is just relaxing, swimming, and drinking at “The Split”, a narrow channel that splits Caye Caulker into two.

Cayo
The Cayo District is probably the number one stop for travelers looking to spend a few days on Belize’s mainland. It’s wealth of natural attractions, the concentration of Mayan ruins and caves, and its excellent display of local cuisine have earned Cayo, in particular, San Ignacio Town, the distinction of being known as the eco-tourism hub of Belize. Most travelers first visit Cayo and then make their way to the cayes or coastal towns.

Placencia
Placencia is quickly growing and becoming one of the more popular spots for travelers wanting a coastal spot on Belize’s mainland. Once a sleepy village, the peninsula is now home to some of the most luxurious resorts in the country, mainly due to the beautiful sandy beaches and easy access to the Southern part of Belize’s reef. Fortunately, its growth spurt has not affected its quiet charm and Placencia village remains a quiet getaway spot where golf carts are still a popular mode of transportation.

Hopkins
Even though Hopkins has grown from being a small fishing village, the area has retained its seaside charm and resisted over-commercialization. You will feel the Garifuna culture at every turn in the village, along with a gateway to a wealth of water and nature activities. Highlights in Hopkins includes the friendly Garinagu people, incredible diving and snorkeling sites, and exotic nature adventures.

Belize City
With the only international airport in Belize (PGIA), Belize City acts as the main gateway to the country. Most people, however, don’t spend longer than a day or two there. If you do decide to explore the old capital, don’t forget to check out all the historical sites and attractions, including nearby attractions such as the Belize Zoo and the Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary. The City of Belize is home to the largest concentration of large hotels, conference facilities, and even the first cruise ship terminal.

Glover’s Reef
Glover’s Reef Atoll is one of Belize’s southernmost islands and atolls and is the prime destination for Caribbean explorers. Since the Southern Barrier Reef is just off its shore, the collection of cayes are popular for those interested in diving and snorkeling. Glovers is also popular for kayaking since a few kayaking expeditions are based there. Although Glovers was first inhabited by the Maya, it is named after two pirate brothers, John and Rodger Glover, who discovered the island in the 1750s.

Orange Walk
Referred to as “Sugah City” throughout the country, Orange Walk is one of the sweetest districts in Belize with the unmistakable aroma of sugarcane filling the air. Much like its other northern neighbor, Corozal, Orange Walk is home to many Mestizos – a cultural blend of Spanish and Yucatec Maya who fled Mexico during the Caste War. Look for Spanish influence in both the architecture and cuisine. The main activities include visiting the Lamanai Maya site and the Rio Bravo Conservation Area.

Toledo
Toledo is the southernmost district of Belize and is sometimes referred to by locals as the “Forgotten Land”. Due to it’s rural and remote location, this district is not heavily visited by people. This, of course, may be good or bad, depending on what someone is looking for in their Belize vacation. The district is home to many Mayas who live in scattered and sparsely populated villages, and the main settlement, Punta Gorda, has a large East Indian population.

Corozal
Corozal is the northernmost district of Belize and similarly to Orange Walk, it is primarily populated by Mestizos. This district is very popular for expats who are seeking a laid-back lifestyle in small coastal villages such as Sarteneja or Consejo Shores but want easy access to nearby Chetumal in Mexico which offers all the modern infrastructures of a major North American city. Attractions in Corozal include visiting Maya sites, exploring the Shipstern Nature Reserve, and experiencing the simple life of small fishing villages.

GRAB YOUR OAR AND GET OUT THERE.
CANOEING
Whether you’re a beginner at canoeing or really know your way around a boat, we have the waterways for any paddling traveler. Tour companies and jungle lodges also cater to canoe travelers, with some of the best areas being on the Mopan and Macal Rivers in the Cayo District. There, you can paddle through the jungle, see wildlife, then make your way through little villages to get a look at how life is in less traveled areas. As long as you’re there, you may want to dock your boat and take a jungle hike or stop and say hi to the villagers. After all, just because the river keeps going doesn’t mean you can’t stop and make some new friends.

TRAVELERS, MOUNT UP.
HORSEBACK RIDING
In fact, some of our most beautiful places can only be accessed on foot or hoof.

Horseback riding tours can be arranged through many resorts or tour operators. Popular tours travel through the jungles of the Cayo District, or you can see Maya sites like El Pilar, Xunantunich and Cahal Pech.

In northern Belize, you can find horseback riding at the Mennonite community of Blue Creek. Saddle up and explore unexcavated Maya mounds and the farmlands and planes, stretching across the region. It’s a ride you surely won’t forget.

THE BIG ONES ARE ALWAYS BITING IN BELIZE.
FISHING
From spi to fly to trolling, our abundance of game fish guarantees excellent sport fishing all year round. Since many rivers empty into the Caribbean Sea, you’re practically guaranteed a daily catch, not to mention the fact that our guides have no problem sharing their own “secret” spots with guests.

Explore Turneffe Atoll, which provides you with some of the most desired areas in the world for fly-fishing. Bonefish, permit and tarpon are everywhere here. In fact, Belize is one of few places where you can fish a Grand Slam—bonefish, permit and tarpon all in the same day. How many times do you get to win a Grand Slam on a vacation?

DIVE RIGHT IN
SCUBA DIVING
Divers from all over the world come to Belize for a diving experience unlike anywhere else. We’re home to the largest barrier reef in the Northern Hemisphere and three of four coral atolls in the Western Hemisphere, with drop sites inside and outside of the reef. From masters to newly certified divers, there’s a dive site for everyone here in Belize.

DISCOVER WHAT’S HAPPENING BENEATH…
SNORKELING
Even if you’ve never snorkeled before, our knowledgeable local guides will help you explore the kaleidoscope of colors found in hard and soft corals, sponges, and over 500 species of fish and marine life.

There are hundreds of snorkeling sites of varying depths along the Belize Barrier Reef. Every snorkel spot is a little different from the other and if you go back to the same spot, each time you will see something different.

From schools of fish, to turtles, to the occasional barracuda, there’s a lot going on underwater. Check for yourself, you won’t be disappointed.

THE MYSTERIES OF MAYA WITHOUT THE TRAPS OF TOURISM.
ARCHAEOLOGY
With only a small percentage of our ancient Maya temples uncovered, it’s not uncommon to come across ancient pieces of pottery or hear that a distant hill is actually a temple.

Whether you want to explore for an afternoon, a day or a week, the ancient Maya sites are well worth it. All sites are managed by the Institute of Archaeology and have interpretive centers, as well as trained guides to show you around.

From Caracol and Cerros to Lamanai and little villages and forest areas, pretty much anywhere you go here, you’ll find ancient Maya temples. Get your hat and whip ready, Belizean-a-Jones.

THE OPEN TRAIL IS WAITING FOR YOU.
HIKING
As intimidating as some of our trails may look on a map, don’t worry. Most are designed in loops so you easily return to your starting point. Some trails are self-guided, some require the expertise of a licensed tour guide who can point out birds, wildlife and local plants.

Whatever level of hiker you consider yourself, we have the trail to match what you’re looking for. Take a day tour or spend several days camping—either one provides you with the chance to encounter exotic tropical plants and birds, or to see wildlife, including howler monkeys, crocodile, or the tracks of the elusive jaguar and tapir (just hope they’re only the tracks).

SET SAIL FOR ADVENTURE.
SAILING
Hidden coral heads make navigation tricky, so if you’re up for it, this could be your most rewarding sailing experience ever. If not, charter a boat and let our people do the work. It’s your vacation. Spend it the way you like.

TAKE TO THE SEAS, SOLO OR WITH FRIENDS.
KAYAKING
Look down on the clear waters to see the reefs, fish, rays and sea turtles. Overhead there are migratory birds and sunshine for days. By the way, pack some sun screen.

Coastal and island resorts offer kayaks for short excursions up the beach and around the islands while professional kayak outfitters offer multiday packages that operate from a single base camp. Or you can do an island hopping tour. Either way, when the water calls, we have the answer.

GET TO KNOW OUR FEATHERED FRIENDS.
BIRDING
Over 500 species of feathered friends call Belize home from time to time. Some of the best places to see migrant and resident water birds are Crooked Tree and the seashores of Belize.

Like everything else here, you can easily watch birds while doing something else. Going on a zip-lining trip? You may see a toucan. Cruising the Hummingbird Highway to San Ignacio? Pull over and check out a few birds. In the Cockscomb Basin Forest Reserve? So are birds.

If you want someone to show you birds, our resorts and tour operators offer birding trips that will show you all the birding hot spots. So, no matter if you just want to check out a few exotic birds or you’re a full-blown “twitcher,” here, all you really have to do is look up.

EXPLORE THE MYSTERIES OF THE UNDERWORLD…
CAVING
We have thousands of caves in Belize. They range from easy walks to challenging hikes that can often turn into squeezes, crawls, climbs, rappels and swims. Choose your cave accordingly.

In most caves, you’ll find extensive stalactite and stalagmite formations and pottery shards. Others have ancient intact pottery (Che Chem Ha) and human remains (sometimes intact skeletons, like in Actun Tunichil Muknal Cave) and other natural formation such as underground waterfalls (Blue Creek, Caves Branch). Just about the only thing you won’t find in our caves is boredom.

BELIZE BARRIER REEF
185-MILE NATIONAL MONUMENT
The Belize Barrier Reef sits just miles off the coast of Belize and is part of the larger Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, second in size only to the Great Barrier Reef in Australia. Home to hundreds of species of coral and fish, it is a hot spot for divers, snorkelers and biologists from all over the world.

THE LARGEST REEF SYSTEM IN THE NORTHERN HEMISPHERE
For 185 miles, explore all that the reef has to offer, including swimming with whale sharks near the Placencia coast, diving deep into the Great Blue Hole and snorkeling off more than 400 white sandy islands that surround the reef.


500 SPECIES OF FISH FOUND ON THE REEF
Listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, the Belize Barrier Reef provides a crucial balance within the surrounding marine system. Help us preserve this reef when you visit by wearing reef-safe sunscreen, avoiding contact with the coral, and picking up trash and recyclables on the beach.

MAYA HEARTLAND
THE PAST IN OUR PRESENT
No matter what vacation you take in Belize, our history is there. Ancient Maya temples are hidden throughout the country, leaving glimpses of the past you can discover for yourself. The temples you’ll find here make for a vacation unlike any you’ve taken before.

1,400 RECORDED MAYA SITES
Belize is thought to be the heart of the Maya civilization that dominated Central America during its height, due to the number and concentration of temples compared to other regions. The Maya left behind 1,400 recorded sites and an incredible amount of evidence of their presence in Belize, including ceremonial temples, structures and artwork made of jade, stone and clay.

THE MAYA CIVILIZATION DOMINATED CENTRAL AMERICA FROM 250–900 AD
Archaeologists and students from all over the world come to Belize each year to study clues left behind from this ancient civilization.

You can find many of the artifacts and works of art on display in the Museum of Belize in Belize City, including the largest carved jade object ever discovered.

THE MYSTERIES OF MAYA WITHOUT THE TRAPS OF TOURISM
With only a small percentage of our ancient Maya temples uncovered, it’s not uncommon to come across ancient pieces of pottery or hear that a distant hill is actually a temple.

Whether you want to explore for an afternoon, a day or a week, the ancient Maya sites are well worth it. All sites are managed by the Institute of Archaeology and have interpretive centers, as well as trained guides to show you around.

From Caracol and Cerros to Lamanai and little villages and forest areas, pretty much anywhere you go here, you’ll find ancient Maya temples. Get your hat and whip ready, Belizean-a-Jones.

BELIZEAN CULTURE
MANY RHYTHMS, ONE HEARTBEAT
Our small country isn’t defined by one culture, but a unique blend of influences from all over the world. It’s this blend that gives the people of Belize the distinct ability to make anyone feel welcome. While you may be far from it when you visit, we’ll make you feel right at home. From cuisine to language to dancing, explore the cultures and traditions that make Belize so unique.

RICE & BEANS IS A DIFFERENT DISH THAN BEANS & RICE
From the language to the food, the Creole (or “Kriol”) culture always leaves you wanting more. Its origins date back to the late 1700s when British settlers and African slaves gave birth to this new Creole population and they remain one of the staple cultures of Belize.

THE CREOLE CULTURE MAKES UP 24% OF THE BELIZE POPULATION.
Popular Creole dishes are universally enjoyed throughout Belize and include Rice and Beans, Beans and Rice (yes, they are two different dishes), Stew Chicken and Salad, and “Boil Up.”

The Kriol language is best described as a broken English dialect that is understood (mostly) and spoken by all cultures in Belize.

THE MESTIZO MAKE UP 48% OF THE BELIZE POPULATION
MESTIZO
Mestizo—a culture of the past that is still present today. Mestizo is a vibrant culture whose heritage originated from the Maya and Spanish. Today, the majority of Mestizo descendants populate districts in Northern Belize.

THE MESTIZO ARE PEOPLE OF MIXED SPANISH AND MAYA DESCENT
As documentations indicate, a Spanish sailor named Gonzalo Guerrero had shipwrecked off the coast of Belize shortly after the New World discovery. It was this arrival that eventually sparked a new friendship between the Maya Ruler, Nachanhan, and Guerrero. Eventually, this Spanish ally married Nachanhan’s daughter and their children were seen as the first Mestizo of Belize.

With the blending of these cultures came a fusion of traditions, practices and foods, unique to Belize. Take a trip to the North to immerse yourself in this foodie-haven and celebrate the many festivities held annually to celebrate Mestizo culture.

THE GARIFUNA CREATED PUNTA: A HYPNOTIC DRUMBEAT MUSIC.
GARIFUNA
This Belizean culture is known not only for their vibrant colors and delicious food, they’re the creators of a popular hypnotic drumbeat music, punta. The rhythm of the drums will let you hear, feel and move to the Garifuna culture in Southern Belize.

GARIFUNA SETTLEMENT DAY IS CELEBRATED ON NOVEMBER 19.
November 19 commemorates the arrival in 1823 of the Garifuna (descendants of Carib, Arawak and West African people) and their contribution to the Belizean landscape. In 2001, UNESCO proclaimed the Garifuna language, music and dance to be among the masterpieces of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity.

With festivals throughout the year, it’s impossible not to experience the warm and vibrant Garifuna culture during your visit to Belize.

THE MAYA CULTURE BEGAN AS EARLY AS 1500 BC
MAYA
The Belizean Maya occupation began as early as 1500 BC, but it was not until sometime between 250 AD and 900 AD that the Maya population is thought to have exceeded 1 million people. However, much about the ancient Maya still remains a mystery.

MAYA POPULATION IN BELIZE REACHED 1 MILLION IN 250 AD
Maya culture is still alive and well in Belize. Today, you can tour authentic sites left by this great culture and, in many cases, be guided through these sites by a direct descendant―a modern-day Maya. In many cities, you can also find Maya cuisine and festivals celebrating this ancient civilization.

To explore Maya sites in Belize, check with your hotel or local tour operators throughout the country to see what ancient Maya temples are open for exploration. And if you get the chance, be sure to speak with contemporary Maya families. They will be happy to tell you about their culture and share stories that have been passed down through generations.

DIVE RIGHT IN
SCUBA DIVING
Divers from all over the world come to Belize for a diving experience unlike anywhere else. We’re home to the largest barrier reef in the Northern Hemisphere and three of four coral atolls in the Western Hemisphere, with drop sites inside and outside of the reef. From masters to newly certified divers, there’s a dive site for everyone here in Belize.

400 ISLANDS TO EXPLORE
The water at the reef is some of the best in the world. Crystal clear with visibility routinely extending hundreds of feet, you’ll always get the best view and diving experience. No matter what month you’re visiting, surround yourself with warm water and plenty of marine life to take in including corals, sharks, turtles and stingrays.

THE GREAT BLUE HOLE IS 406 FEET DEEP
The Belize Barrier Reef is home to the Great Blue Hole–one of the greatest geological wonders of the world. Just 43 miles off the mainland, it is easily experienced on a day trip. A site for more experienced divers, a deep dive into the Great Blue Hole will unveil a whole new world full of rare fish and stalactites not found in other sites near the water’s surface.

Apart from the famous Great Blue Hole, Hol Chan Marine Reserve, Ambergris Caye, and dozens of other sites off the coast of Belize are listed as some of the top destinations for divers in the world.

Infinite Shades of Blue…
The Great Blue Hole is undeniably Belize’s biggest tourist seduction, and for good reason. Guidebooks are crammed with the ubiquitous “Jacques Cousteau” line and a must for scuba divers. But what is often overlooked (pun intended) is seeing the 407-feet deep funnel-shaped UNESCO World Heritage Site from a narrow 6-seater plane.

The cobalt-colored sinkhole, part of the Lighthouse Reef Atoll, lies just 43 miles from the mainland.

The Tour: The entire aerial roundtrip tour takes about 1.5 hours. After a mere half-hour or so in a light aircraft – and through at least four shades of blue – you will be able to spot the Blue Hole in the horizon. The ride to the sinkhole itself is one entirely devoid of ordinary. After passing the first reef, the water becomes more tumultuous; white-tipped waves crashing against one another resemble squirming white specks.

Though some might be unnerved by the tiny size of the plane (you have to crouch to get in), it allows every single passenger a clear uninterrupted view of the watery marvel. This is where the pilot’s skills really come in. No angle is left unturned as the aircraft dips to the left, dips to the right, then flies literally parallel to the Blue Hole. Infinite opportunities for all kinds of Blue Hole #selfies.

After the dizzying – but amazing – tricks, the plane gently lowers to a bewildering 100 feet above the sinkhole.

A few feet more, and you’d feel like skimming your fingers atop the water.

The facts
406.9 feet deep, 1049.8 wide
43 miles off the mainland
UNESCO World Heritage Site
Consists of Hammerhead Sharks, among other extraordinary marine life

Other attractions: There’s more than just a pretty, giant hole in our sea; on the way, the two reefs are a sight to behold, like two shades of blue chastely kissing. There is also a large ship-wreck some little ways a way from the sinkhole. Although the history of it is unclear, the rusting relic feels like a little keepsake from the vast ocean.

SHIRTS, SHOES AND WORRIES ARE OPTIONAL.
PLACENCIA PENINSULA
Known locally as “Barefoot Perfect,” Placencia Peninsula is 16 miles of golden sand, the only golden-sand beaches on mainland Belize. After hanging out on the beach, snorkeling and scuba diving, head into town and get a feel for what a traditional Kriol (Creole) fishing village is like. There are also village restaurants, bars and art galleries. About the only thing Placencia doesn’t offer is stress. It’s just not allowed here.

Snorkel with the stingrays
As translated in Maya as “Little Channel,” the Hol Chan Marine Reserve refers to the deep cut or “quebrada” in the barrier reef off Ambergris Caye. This protected zone encompasses a total of 13,632 acres of marine waters, which includes four (4) zones:

– Zone A: Coral Reef (640 acres)
– Zone B: Sea Grass Beds (5,376)
– Zone C: Mangroves (6,336)
– Zone D: Shark Ray Alley (1,280)

Located approximately four (4) miles south of San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, this top snorkeling zone is Belize’s first marine reserve legislated in July 1987.

Its popularity has been primarily centered on the schools of friendly docile nurse sharks, silver and colorful fishes. This snorkeler haven is also home to a few endangered species of marine life, such as: Loggerhead Turtle, Green Turtle, Nassau Grouper, Star Coral, Staghorn Coral and Elkhorn Coral.

Birds and big cats are found in the Mountain Pine Ridge
Located in the highlands of the southern zone of western Belize, the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve offers cool temperatures and reveals splendid natural monuments. Within its 300,000 acres of protected pine forests, you will find sites including Thousand Foot Falls, the largest fall of Belize and the Central American region, as well as the cave Rio Frio, a quarter-mile cave, to name a few.

Expeditions can be carried out by mountain bike, on foot or on horseback (horses for hire on site). Venture among the pines to examine the colorful vegetation, various bird species and other animal life such as tapir, cougar, jaguar and ocelot. The Pine Ridge is the region par excellence to reconnect with nature, so enjoy!

Get acquainted with our animal friends
Everyone is family here, from the iguanas and agoutis that wander along the pathways, to the zookeepers and maintenance crew, and the harpy eagles… Within these 29 acres of a forest oasis within tropical savanna, you will meet over 150 animals that call it home. It’s an experience that will forever shift your views on zoos, plus it’s all accessible by wheel chair!

Discover the Belize Zoo, home to the rehabilitated, orphaned and rescued wildlife of Belize!

As a tropical mecca for biodiversity, the wetlands, jungles, rivers and seas make Belize a haven for the most exotic wildlife residents, including: tapirs, jaguars, spider monkeys, keel-billed toucans, scarlet macaws, and more!

Be acquainted with the wildlife of the jungles without being in the jungles at the Belize Zoo…

Getting Here: Take a drive, hop on the bus, or book a tour. The Belize Zoo is located only 29 miles from Belize City, on the George Price Highway. Opened 8:30 a.m to 5:00 p.m. (daily), the Belize Zoo has undergone construction to enhance the experience of not only its guests but also its residents.

Be-on-the-lookout: There’s so much to see (over 45 species to be exact)!

Meet “Lindo,” a rescued jaguar who now serves as one of the Zoo’s “jaguar ambassadors.” You can get up close and personal with him in a unique experience called the “Lindo Link.”

“Luck” is the universal theme for the zoo animals that have been rescued and relocated here… You can find a little story of each animal as you tour the grounds. Get the VIP treatment. Why stand outside, when you can go in?

Your zookeeper guide will take you on a truly remarkable tour of some of the animals. Feed the very inquisitive Keel-billed Toucan (Belize’s National Bird), or get your photo taken next to a Tapir, our magnificent National Animal!

Think you’ve seen it all? How about experiencing wildlife at night? Sign up for a nocturnal tour of the Zoo and get a whole new perspective while the forest comes alive around you.

The Zoo even has a place to rest after an exciting day of wildlife encounters. The Tropical Education Center/Zoo Lodge, located a mile up the road from the Zoo itself, sits on 84 acres of tropical savanna, and provides a variety of accommodations and meals.

Animal lovers will find solace here. After all, the animals are priority #1… Join the Belize Zoo family, and share in the love of our wildlife community!

The submerged crocodile awaits
Boat up the New River from Orange Walk to the Lamanai Maya temples. On your boat ride, in addition to some amazing scenery, you’ll see wildlife like snail kites, jacana, morelet’s crocodile and iguanas.

Lamanai was occupied for more than 3,000 years, up until European contact. The Archaeological Reserve not only contains a museum with ancient Maya artifacts, but visitors can also see the remnants of two (2) 16th century Spanish churches and a colonial sugar mill established in 1860.

A major attraction of Lamanai is the well-preserved mask of a Maya ruler emerging from a crocodile headdress.

Lamanai, one of Belize’s largest Maya sites, sits on the bank of the 30-mile-long New River Lagoon in the Orange Walk District. It features monumental architecture of temples and palaces dating from the Classic and Pre-Classic Periods. Set in tropical forest and providing amazing views from several of its large temples, Lamanai provides you a unique glimpse into the culture of the Maya and the biological diversity of the tropical rainforest.

Lamanai is the community with the longest history of human habitation in Belize. It was settled around 900 B.C and was still occupied two and a half thousand years later, when Spanish missionaries arrived to the site in 1544. During their almost century- long domination, the Spanish built two “Ramada” Churches that were used in their efforts to Christianize the site’s inhabitants. Eventually, in 1640 the Maya in several frontier towns rebelled against churches and villages throughout Belize. By the 1800’s, investors began a sugar operation at Lamanai. A dramatic fall in world sugar prices, and outbreakes of malaria among the workers resulted in failure of the enterprise, and the mill and farm were abandoned, just a few years after its establishment.

Did-You-Know?
Liquid mercury was discovered in an offering that was placed below the ballcourt marker at this site! This represents one (1) of only two (2) examples of mercury found in the Maya world (the other was at Caracol, also in Belize).

One to check off your “bucket list.”
Known as one of the best dive sites in the world, the Blue Hole Natural Monument has become a diver’s pilgrimage. At 406.9 feet in depth and 1,049.8 feet in diameter, this collapsed cave is said to be a sediment trap, offering explorers excellent historical discoveries…

Exploring its depth is not easy. It has been said that the Blue Hole is like swimming down a mineshaft, only this mineshaft is inhabited by hammerhead sharks. Not for the faint of heart by any means, but if you’re a serious diver, the Blue Hole is a diving trip that should definitely be crossed off of your list.

As an established natural monument of Belize since 1996, this cave forms part of the Lighthouse Reef Atoll. This area is rich in marine diversity, particularly endangered species, though the Blue Hole itself contains few marine life.