Belize, located on the eastern coast of Central America, is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and diverse ecosystems. Home to ancient Mayan ruins, lush rainforests, and pristine coral reefs, Belize offers travellers a unique blend of adventure and relaxation. Key historical and cultural facts include Belize’s status as the only country in Central America where English is the official language and its vibrant mix of indigenous, Creole, Garifuna, and Mestizo cultures. Belize beckons with its warm hospitality, breathtaking landscapes, and endless opportunities for exploration.
Travel Essentials
- Currency: Belize Dollar (BZD), though USD is widely accepted.
- Official Language: English (Spanish widely spoken at the border with Guatemala as well)
- Main Airports: Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport (BZE) in Belize City and Sir Barry Bowen Municipal Airport (TZA) in San Pedro.
- Main Means of Transport: Domestic flights, water taxis, buses, rental cars, and golf carts (on islands).
- Best Time to Go: The dry season from late November to mid-April offers the most comfortable weather for outdoor activities and exploring. Low season runs from May to October, but there are records of weeks-long sunny weather and light afternoon or night rainfalls that don’t stop the adventure fun (accommodation prices are also down at this time).
Belize Bucket List: Must-See Spots
Belize City
Nestled on the coast of the Caribbean Sea, Belize City stands as a vibrant testament to the country’s rich history and cultural diversity.
As the largest city in Belize, it serves as a bustling urban centre teeming with life and energy. Here, visitors can wander through streets lined with colonial architecture, where pastel-coloured buildings echo the city’s Caribbean charm.
One of the city’s most iconic landmarks is the historic Swing Bridge, a testament to Belize’s colonial past and the only manually operated swing bridge in Central America. This can be a quick stop while waiting for your water taxi for one of Belize’s islands (only 5 minutes walk from there).
For a deeper understanding of the country’s heritage, travellers can explore the Belize Museum, which houses a fascinating collection of artefacts and exhibits tracing Belize’s history from ancient Mayan civilisations to modern times.
While Belize City is often seen as a gateway to the country’s other attractions, it offers its own unique blend of culture and history that can be worth exploring.
How long to stay: I would suggest spending half a day/a day here if possible in-between travels to other areas of Belize.
How to get to Belize City: from the airport, you can reach downtown Belize City or the Water Taxi pier (the San Pedro Belize Express Water Taxi) in approximately 30mins by car. Taxi (~25$) or a pre-arranged transfer (either via your accommodation or you can book it here) are your best bet.
Things to do in/around Belize City:
– If you have a free afternoon or morning to kill in Belize City, you could take part in a guided city tour or in a Belizean food tasting tour.
– Belize City could also be a good location to explore other areas as day-trips, especially if you don’t want to be constantly on the road with your luggage or don’t want to spend every night in different hotels. For example, Lamanai, one of the most famous Mayan ruins in Belize is only 2h away, and can be explored with this Guided Tour of Lamanai, with return trip to Belize City.
– Seeking more adventure? Cave tubing or a kayaking excursion inside the ancient cave system of Nohoc Chen Park (only 1h drive from Belize City) are excellent and fun options.
Caye Caulker
Just a short boat ride from Belize City lies the laid-back island of Caye Caulker, a haven for travellers seeking sun, sea, and relaxation.
With its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant Caribbean atmosphere, Caye Caulker embodies the essence of tropical paradise.
The island’s motto, “Go Slow“, reflects its unhurried pace of life, inviting visitors to unwind and embrace the island’s laid-back vibe. A testament to this way of life lies in the absence of cars on the island, creating a serene atmosphere where golf carts and bicycles are the primary modes of transportation, allowing visitors to immerse themselves fully in the island’s lifestyle.
One of the island’s main attractions is The Split, a body of water formed in 1961 when Hurricane Hattie split the island in two, creating a natural waterway that has since been offering stunning views of the turquoise waters and serving as a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and socialising.
Snorkelling enthusiasts will delight in exploring the nearby Hol Chan Marine Reserve, home to a colourful array of marine life, including tropical fish, rays, and even the occasional manatee.
In the evenings, visitors can sample fresh seafood at local eateries, dance to the rhythms of Caribbean music, and witness breathtaking sunsets at The Split painting the sky in shades of orange and pink. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, Caye Caulker promises an unforgettable island getaway.
How long to stay: at least 2 nights
How to get to Caye Caulker: water taxis are connecting multiple times daily Belize City (~21$, 45mins) and San Pedro (~21$, 30mins) with Caye Caulker. Daily connections are also available from and to Chetumal (Mexico). You can check schedule, routes and book the tickets online directly from San Pedro Belize Express Water Taxi. Tickets are also available for purchase at the Water Taxi piers.
Where to stay: La Isla Resort, just 5 mins walking from the Water Taxi pier, is a perfect location to stay at while visiting Caye Caulker. Colinda Cabanas is another colourful gem when it comes to accommodation on the island.
Top picks in Caye Caulker
1. Morning Yoga
What more perfect way to start your day than with a rejuvenating morning yoga session at Namaste Cafe, nestled in a treetop yoga studio overlooking the town. Afterward, you can indulge in a healthy breakfast to fuel your adventure day in Caye Caulker.
2. Best Snorkelling Tour Picks
One of the best activities in Caye Caulker is a snorkelling tour to the renowned Hol Chan Marine Reserve, where you’ll encounter an underwater paradise teeming with nurse sharks, manta rays, turtles, and colourful tropical fish. Be sure to check out my top picks for the best snorkelling tours to make the most of your experience: this Hol Chan Full-Day Snorkelling Tour or this 7-Stops Snorkelling in the barrier reef, both options including lunch and great snorkelling gear.
3. Sunset Activities
As the day winds down, savour the breathtaking beauty of Caye Caulker‘s sunsets. Head to the iconic Split, where you can enjoy a refreshing drink while soaking in panoramic views of the horizon. Alternatively, hop aboard a sunset boat tour for a unique perspective and unwind with drinks and snacks as the sky paints a masterpiece. Here my top pick: the Sunset Tiki Bar Cruise in Caye Caulker.
San Pedro
Situated on the picturesque island of Ambergris Caye, San Pedro beckons with its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and abundant marine life. Made famous by Madonna’s song “La Isla Bonita,” San Pedro exudes an irresistible charm that captivates visitors from around the world. The heart of San Pedro Town pulsates with activity, as colourful buildings line the streets and golf carts buzz along sandy pathways.
One of the island’s main draws is its proximity to the Belize Barrier Reef, the second-largest barrier reef in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Snorkelers and divers will be awe-struck by the reef’s kaleidoscope of coral formations, vibrant fish, and otherworldly marine creatures.
From San Pedro, visitors can embark on scenic flights to admire the Great Blue Hole from above, revealing its mesmerising circular shape amidst the a hundred shades of turquoise waters. The Great Blue Hole, located near the centre of Lighthouse Reef, is a giant marine sinkhole that stretches over 300 meters across and plunges more than 120 meters deep. This iconic site attracts divers from around the world with its stunning underwater formations and the opportunity to encounter unique marine species such as Caribbean reef sharks, giant groupers, and colourful tropical fish. For those seeking adventure below the surface, snorkelling and scuba diving trips from San Pedro offer the chance to explore the depths of this natural wonder.
Back on land, visitors can explore the island of Ambergris Caye boasting fantastic beach options for relaxation. Just a short drive away from San Pedro (~40mins by golf cart) lies Secret Beach, a not-so hidden gem known for its serene turquoise waters and soft white sand, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying breathtaking sunsets.
For those seeking a lively beach atmosphere, the swimming spots near San Pedro Town, along the overwater piers of the Palapa Bar and Wayo’s Beach Bar, or at the feet of Sandy Toes Beach Bar, offer a vibrant scene with drinks, water sports activities, and opportunities for socialising.
Meanwhile, tranquil stretches of coastline can be found further north, where visitors can escape the crowds and enjoy peaceful moments amidst the natural beauty of Ambergris Caye’s shores.
With its lively atmosphere, stunning natural beauty, and endless array of activities, San Pedro is a must-visit destination for any traveler seeking paradise in the Caribbean.
How long to stay: 2-3 nights
How to get to San Pedro: water taxis are connecting multiple times daily Belize City (~31$, 1.5h) and Caye Caulker (~21$, 30mins) with San Pedro. Daily connections are also available from and to Chetumal, Mexico (~71$, 30mins). You can check schedule, routes and book the tickets online directly from San Pedro Belize Express Water Taxi. Tickets are also available for purchase at the Water Taxi piers.
Where to stay: For a quiet, spacious, budget accommodation surrounded by nature, I recommend Belize Budget Suites. If you are looking for a more premium experience, check out The Watermark Belize Hotel. In general, San Pedro is the location in Belize where you can find the most accommodation, you can easily find one for every budget and comfort.
Top picks in San Pedro
1. The Great Blue Hole!
Experience the awe-inspiring beauty of the Great Blue Hole with a scenic flight over Belize’s iconic natural wonder. Marvel at the breathtaking views of the turquoise waters and the Belize Barrier Reef from above. Check the flight schedule and book your unforgettable adventure directly on the Tropic Air website.
2. Best Snorkelling Options
If you did not have the chance to do it yet, dive into the crystal-clear waters of the Hol Chan Marine Reserve for an unforgettable snorkelling adventure. Encounter sharks, turtles, manta rays, and a kaleidoscope of colourful marine life as you explore the vibrant coral reefs. Here my top picks for the best snorkelling tours to make the most of your aquatic experience: the Hol Chan Marine Reserve Snorkel Tour on a Sailboat and the regular Hol Chan Marine Reserve and Shark Ray Snorkel Tour, both including lunch and snorkel gear.
3. Eat, Drink & Repeat
Indulge your taste buds with the culinary delights of San Pedro. Start your day at Estel’s Dine By the Sea, where you can enjoy delicious meals accompanied by live music and stunning ocean views. For another excellent breakfast option, head to Cool Beans Cafe. Craving South and Central American flavours? Maxie’s Restaurant & Lounge has you covered. End your day with drinks and waterfront dining at Palapa Bar and Grill, or head to The Truck Stop for Happy Hour, live music, and mouthwatering treats after a day at Secret Beach. Don’t miss out on these culinary hotspots for a true taste of San Pedro’s vibrant food scene.
4. Rent a Golf Cart to explore the island!
Golf carts are absolutely the best way to explore the island! Remember to take a driving licence with you and rent a golf cart to explore San Pedro at your own pace and convenience, venturing freely outside of the town, to the northern side of Ambergis Caye or to Secret Beach. You can find good 4-seaters rental options here.
San Ignacio
Tucked away in the lush jungles of the Cayo District, San Ignacio offers a captivating blend of adventure, history, and culture. Surrounded by towering mountains, cascading waterfalls, and winding rivers, San Ignacio serves as a gateway to Belize’s inland treasures.
History buffs will delight in exploring the ancient Mayan ruins of Xunantunich, Cahal Pech, and Caracol, where towering pyramids, intricately carved stelae, and sprawling plazas offer insight into the region’s rich archaeological heritage.
A special place in my heart is reserved for Caracol: nestled deep within the jungles of the Cayo District (3h away from San Ignacio, as half of the road is still not completely paved), this site was once one of the largest ancient Maya cities and is known for its impressive Caana, or “Sky Palace,” pyramid, which stands as one of the tallest man-made structures in Belize!
As you wander through the ancient ruins, you can imagine the bustling life of this ancient civilisation and marvel at the architectural feats and artistic achievements of the Maya people.
For outdoor enthusiasts, San Ignacio also offers a wealth of adventure activities, from cave tubing and spelunking in the Actun Tunichil Muknal Cave, aka ATM Cave, (50mins from San Ignacio) to hiking through lush rainforests and zip-lining above the canopy. Actun Tunichil Muknal Cave, also known as the “Cave of the Crystal Maiden,” is a sacred Maya archaeological site located deep within the jungles of Belize’s Cayo District. Adventure seekers can embark on a thrilling journey through the cave’s underground passages, where they’ll encounter ancient artefacts, ceremonial offerings, and the calcified remains of the Crystal Maiden, a young woman believed to have been a sacrificial victim.
In the heart of town, the vibrant San Ignacio Market and the pedestrian Burns Avenue bursts with colour and energy, offering a tantalising array of local produce, handicrafts, cultural delights and great dining options.
Whether you’re seeking adrenaline-pumping adventures or immersive cultural experiences, San Ignacio promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of Belize’s natural and historical wonders. It. also serves as a great gateway to neighbouring Guatemala, with the town of Flores and the ancient Maya site of Tikal just a short journey away, offering travellers the opportunity to explore even more of Central America’s rich cultural and historical heritage.
How long to stay: 3 nights
How to get to San Ignacio: transfers from the Belize City Int. Airport (~70$, with ad hoc pick up) and shared shuttles/buses (~20$, departing from the Belize Express Water Taxi and with the option of stopping at San Ignacio or continuing to Flores, Guatemala) are the best options to optimise your transfer time. From Belize City and the International Airport in Belize City, it takes 2h by car.
Where to stay: In San Ignacio, you can choose between the quaint charm of hotels within the town centre, like Rainforest Haven Inn, offering easy access to local markets and cultural attractions, or the serene ambiance of eco-lodges tucked away in the lush jungle, providing a peaceful retreat amidst nature’s embrace, like The Lodge at Chaa Creek or the Table Rock Jungle Lodge.
Top picks in San Ignacio:
1. Visit to Caracol Mayan Site (All-Day)
Immerse yourself in ancient Maya history with a visit to Caracol, one of the largest and most significant archaeological sites in Belize. Join a guided tour that combines Caracol with other natural wonders like Rio Frio Cave, Rio On Pools, and Big Rock Waterfalls, for a comprehensive exploration of the region’s cultural and natural heritage.
Check out my top picks with pick up and drop off in San Ignacio! This Caracol Maya Ruins & Waterfall Tour and this Caracol Tour incl. Rio On Pools and Rio Frio Cave.
2. Explore ATM Cave (Actun Tunichil Muknal Cave) (All-Day)
Embark on a thrilling full-day adventure to the ATM Cave (Actun Tunichil Muknal Cave), where you’ll hike through lush jungle, wade across rivers, and navigate underground passages to reach the cave’s ancient chambers. Discover hidden chambers filled with ancient artefacts and crystal-clear pools, including the eerie “Crystal Maiden,” a calcified skeleton left behind by the ancient Maya. Pack your water-shoes for this adventure and book the full-day tour from San Ignacio here!
3. Visit the Green Iguana Conservation Project (~1h)
Get up close and personal with Belize’s native reptiles at the Green Iguana Conservation Project. Learn about the conservation efforts to protect these fascinating creatures and even have the opportunity to feed and interact with iguanas of all sizes. It’s an educational and hands-on experience that’s perfect for nature enthusiasts of all ages straight in the middle of San Ignacio. You can check out the opening hours and tour options directly on their website here.
4. Learn everything there is to know about the art of chocolate (~1h)
Delight your taste buds with a chocolate-making experience that offers a delicious glimpse into Belize’s rich culinary heritage. Learn about the traditional methods of chocolate production from cacao bean to finished product at Ajaw Chocolate, a locally-owned chocolate laboratory.
5. Visit Xunantunich Mayan Site (~4 hours)
If you can’t make it to Caracol, don’t miss the opportunity to explore Xunantunich, another fascinating Maya archaeological site located just 40 minutes driving from San Ignacio. Climb to the top of El Castillo, the site’s main pyramid, for panoramic views of the surrounding jungle and nearby Guatemala. You can organise your own transportation and enter the site or you can just book a guided tour from San Ignacio here.
6. Make your way to Tikal (All-Day)
If your travel plans don’t include an extended stay in Guatemala, consider making Tikal a memorable day trip from San Ignacio! Just a 2-hours drive away (and 1 additional hour to cross the border), you can immerse yourself in the ancient wonders of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, marvelling at towering pyramids and exploring the lush jungle surroundings. With guided tours available from San Ignacio, you can make the most of your time at Tikal, experiencing the magic of Maya civilisation in a single day! Check out my top tour picks with pick up and drop off in San Ignacio: this Tikal Maya Site Day-Trip with Lunch and this 9-hours Tikal Day-Trip.
With its diverse array of attractions, from bustling urban centre to tranquil island paradises and lush jungle retreats, Belize offers travellers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the best of Central America. Whether you’re delving into the country’s rich history and culture, diving into its vibrant marine ecosystems, or simply soaking up the sun on its pristine beaches, Belize promises an unforgettable adventure at every turn. So pack your bags, embark on a journey of discovery, and uncover the magic of Belize for yourself!
Looking for more tropical travel inspiration?
Check out my post on the Top Sights in Thailand !
Instagram-Worthy Moments: Top Sights in Thailand
Embark on a mesmerizing journey through Thailand’s enchanting landscapes and cultural wonders. Explore the ancient temples of Chiang Mai, dive into the pristine waters of Surin Islands, and bask in the tropical paradise of Phi Phi Islands. Let our expertly curated itinerary guide you through the highlights of Thailand, creating unforgettable memories along the way.
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