Category:
Belize Information
Summary
Wanna know a secret? Nope, no secrets allowed! Here are ten things that every traveler should know about Belize. Get your way around this remarkable country from the food to Mother Nature's gifts. Belize has a low population density, which means you won't find the huge crowds of tourists that other destinations have. We've also worked very hard to mitigate the spread of coronavirus and prepare for reopening on October 1st, 2020. Belize has implemented a country-wide Health and Safety program called the Gold Standard for all hotels, restaurant, and tour operators. Let's start Belizing!
Content
Belize is definitely an underrated country for what it has to offer. Filled with the friendliest people on earth, the most mouthwatering foods in Central America, magnificent flora and fauna, and such diverse ecosystems. Not to mention, the landscape is kept mostly untouched. You will get to see nature in a pristine state and experience first hand why Belize is nature’s best-kept secret.
The Belize is open for travel as of October 1st, 2020. New travel restrictions and procedures are in place. Download Episode 23 of The Belize Travelcast for more information about the new Belize Gold Standards for Health and Safety.
Belize has it all for every type of traveler. Belize has a low population density, which means you won't find the huge crowds of tourists that other destinations have. We've also worked very hard to mitigate the spread of coronavirus while our airport has been closed. We miss you, and we hope to see you soon. Here are 10 reasons why you should put Belize on your travel bucket list.
1. Rich in Culture.
Nestled between the countries of Mexico, Guatemala and the Caribbean Sea, Belize has an area of only 22,966 km². The population is hardly bigger than a small city in the United States of America; but, don’t get it mixed up! Although the population currently stands at 381,008 people, there are over ten different ethnic groups residing in the country. Truly, we are a melting pot. Cultures such as Mestizo, Maya, Garinagu, Creole, East Indian, Mennonite, Lebanese, Chinese and many others all reside under the shade of this tiny tropical paradise.
2. English Speaking.
Interesting, right? What’s also interesting is the fact that Belize is the only English-speaking country in Central America with the official language as English. Although English is the official language, other languages such as Spanish and Kriol are spoken by a large portion of the population. In addition to that, the languages of the various ethnic groups are also spoken.
Don’t know Kriol or Spanish? No worries, everyone in Belize speaks with a heart for knowledge and adventure. Get to know unique features of Belize that can’t be seen or experienced anywhere else in the world. From iconic landmarks such as The Great Blue Hole to the Maya temples, there is much to learn about the world’s wonders; and, Belize is the best place to do so.
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New
Belize is open for travel! On October 1st, 2020, the Belize International airport finally reopened for leisure travel. Tune in to learn more about the latest airport protocols and ... moretravel restrictions.
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3. Largest Living Barrier Reef.
Belize holds the record and recognition for the world’s second longest barrier reef system and the world's largest living barrier reef system in the world! Talk about fascinating! Our barrier reef is also the first largest in the western hemisphere. For everyone who would like to see the reef and all its glory, start Belizing today and book your tour to go snorkeling at Mexico Rocks, where there is a rainbow of coral formations and plenty juvenile fishes, or Hol Chan Marine Reserve, where there is less coral formations but has a variety of bigger fishes. Sounds amazing, right? Who wouldn’t want to be at Belize’s barrier reef?
4. Island Escape.
After your snorkeling trip, you can tour the islands of Belize, which are close by! You can pick, choose, and refuse where you would like to visit. There are about two hundred islands in Belize. No need to fight, there’s enough sand, sun, and sea for all of us! Even Leonardo DiCaprio wanted a piece of paradise – he owns an island here in Belize. This, together with our low population density means that you might enjoy a day on a small island without hardly seeing anyone else. It's the perfect social distancing destination. Kicking back on the beach with a beer in hand while Madonna’s La Isla Bonita plays in the background sounds like the perfect vacation to me! The main island towns in Belize are San Pedro (Ambergris Caye) and Caye Caulker.
6. Ancient Maya Temples.
Not a fan of the beach? Don’t sweat it, mainland has your back. Explore Belize’s tropical rainforests and feel the history as you climb up the temples of ancient Maya Civilizations! Belize has over nine hundred Maya Sites throughout the country! From the heights of Xunantunich to the conch shell remains of Marco Gonzalez, Maya history is an evident and vital aspect of today’s Belize.
POP QUIZ! What is the tallest building in Belize? Figured it out yet? The answer is not a corporate office but rather a Maya Ruin. Those ancient Maya structures stand tall and proud – just like every Belizean. The tallest building in Belize is the Caana temple at the Caracol archaeological site.
7. Birding Paradise.
On top of these temples, you will meet the most scenic views of our landscape. Be sure to keep your eyes open in case you catch one of our almost six hundred species of birds! Have your binoculars and cameras ready to snap a picture of the vibrant Keel-billed Toucan, Belize’s national bird. Be sure to check out the annual Belize Birding Festival to find out more about birding in Belize.
8. Rainforest and Caves.
Climbing down the temples, we meet the most exquisite caves and cave systems that exist on record. Belize has the longest and largest cave system in Central America, and hosts this cave system in the largest contiguous block of tropical rainforest north of the Amazon. Belize has the highest percentage of forest cover in Central America and there are 103 protected areas which constitute approximately 36 percent of the country’s land territory. Talk about tooting our own horns! One of the most famous caves in the country is the Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM) Cave. Be careful, though! Inside the cave still has the remains of human bones, pottery and artifacts.
9. Jaguar Reserve.
As much as we promote our jewels to the world, we also take pride in protecting and conserving what Mother Nature has blessed us with. In fact, Belize is the first and only country in the world to create a Jaguar nature preserve, known as The Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary and Jaguar Preserve.
Still sitting in front of your computer screen? Start Belizing and take a trip to The Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary and Jaguar Preserve! Yes, you can visit this reserve! Lace up your tennis shoes and take a hike on the nature trails to see spectacular waterfalls and picturesque mountain views.
10. Delicious Food.
After all the adventures, don’t forget to satisfy the tummy! Remember, a hungry man is an angry man – and no one likes an angry man. Local cuisines are mouthwatering and satisfying! If your body is not in shape for the adventure, let your taste buds do the adventure for you. Breakfast, lunch and dinner is on us! Any of our roadside food shacks or in-town restaurants will be glad to serve up a delicious plate of our signature dish, rice and beans with stewed chicken and salad. But don’t stop there! Try our salbutes, panades, tacos, cow foot soup, escabeche, chimole, bollos, sere, boil up and dukunu, just to name a few. Don’t know what I just listed? Let’s go Belizing and you’ll find out! There is much to discover, learn and experience in Belize.
Are you ready to go Belizing?
Q & A
| Does Belize have a Travel Ban? | The airport is currently close to all leisure travelers. The airport will reopen on October 1st. Everyone with a negative COVID-19 test will be able to visit. | | Where is Belize? | Belize is located in Central America, just below Mexico facing the Caribbean Sea. It is one flight away from the USA. | | What language is spoken in Belize? | The official Language is English. Spanish is also widely spoken. An english-based dialect known as Kriol (Creole) is spoken among locals. |
Author Name:
Angela Wu, Luis Manzanero
Places to Stay
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Includes Private Chef
Experience private luxury in paradise! Still Waters is a new construction 4 bedroom, 3 bath private BEACHFRONT home, ON THE CARIBBEAN SEA, that offers the amenities of a luxury boutique ... moreresort within the privacy of your own home!
Enjoy being literally right on the beach, with ocean views from almost every room and relax by the infinity pool on the expansive deck. With a private live in cook, you don't need to worry about cooking, nor do you need to worry about other guests on-site since you have the entire property to yourselves! At Still Waters, we hope to offer a space where you can truly be on vacation and enjoy the perfect combination of activities and relaxation.
Private home rental on Ambergris Caye, Belize. 4 bedroom, 3 bathroom vacation home on the north side of San Pedro, Belize. Your stay at Still Waters Belize includes two full-time staff, including a private cook. We aim to make your stay as smooth as possible and will assist with booking your transfers, transportation, and activities on the island after confirming your reservation with us.
Phone Number: +1512-922-9956
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Private Riverside Villas
Aliana's is a vacation rental property located near San Ignacio, Cayo. Aliana's sits on a 50-acre farm and includes three private riverfront villas. ... more
Gold Standard Transportation is provided via Belize Ground Shuttle.
Relax on the banks of the Mopan river just outside your doorstep and enjoy bird watching or take a refreshing swim to cool off at your pleasure. We have canoes and floating tubes available. A popular guest activity is to float down the Mopan river from the village of Bullet Tree Falls. The float takes about two hours. You can spot monkeys and a variety of bird species along the river. We also have an outdoor grill and brick oven available for use by all guests.
Each unit includes air-conditioned bedrooms for your comfort. The property is filled with many tropical fruit trees that you can enjoy when in season, such as mangoes, breadfruit, plums, star fruit, and others. The property may be booked for private events subject to availability.
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Recommended
On San Pedro’s north edge, experience a private paradise at Blue Tang Inn, one of the town’s most charming beachfront inns. Fourteen exquisite suites each offer full kitchens and air ... moreconditioning. Relax by the private pool or rejoice on the third-floor sundeck with inspiring panoramas of the ocean and reef. Set your own schedule for amazing daily activities such as sailing & snorkeling, kayaking, scuba diving, fishing, and numerous inland tours to visit ancient Mayan Ruins and waterfalls.
Each suite has a fully equipped kitchen for your convenience. There's a grocery store 1/2 block away that will deliver! Complimentary Continental breakfast is included daily.
Our staff is super friendly and will help you book your daily activities. Just ask!
Phone Number: +501 226 2326
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Find yourself in our award-winning Belize ecolodge. Situated on a 105-acre jungle reserve along the Macal River, settle into 10 intimate, rest in eco-friendly cabanas, nosh on farm-to-table ... morecuisine, sip tropical cocktails, cool off in our infinity pool, and graze with resident donkeys through our working, organic farm. Take the river by canoe or tube, hike jungle trails, and allow us to plan your excursions to the many natural wonders and Mayan sites in Belize.
Awards:
TripAdvisor Travelers' Choice Winner 2020
Corporate LiveWire Innovation & Excellence Award 2020
Travel & Hospitality Awards - Lodge of the Year 2018 & 2019
Global Luzury Hotel & Spa Awards - Boutique Lodge of the Year 2019
TravelMyth Top 20 Accommodations for Honeymoons 2019
Latin American Business Awards - Best Boutique Lodge 2019
Belize Tourism Board Small Hotel of the Year 2010 & 2015
Belize Green Business Award 2011
Phone Number: +501-672-4040
Tours/Activities
Departs From: San Pedro (Ambergris Caye)
Bring your family to this amazing reserve at the edge of the Barrier Reef. Very easy and fun-filled for all ages. Meet new friends like sea turtles, nurse sharks, eagle rays, and large ... moregroupers among the hundreds of other species.
Experience uniqueness in every aspect!
The experience starts from the moment we greet you. Our crew is a group of trained and experienced tour guides that will make sure you don’t miss any fun facts while diving & snorkeling at our local reef. Caribbean Breeze Tours can assure you of a time to remember forever.
A family and group-oriented adventure where everyone can enjoy the marvel of a Marine Reserve. This is a combined trip where we can take certified divers as well as snorkelers on the Belize Barrier Reef. The water is so clear that snorkeling at Hol Chan is so amazing. The deepest areas of Hol-Chan are about 30 feet, making it easy for divers & snorkelers to skin dive down to the white sandy bottoms.
Glide among sea fans, brain corals, and Mustard Hills as you dive in this channel along groupers, turtles, spotted eagle rays, nurse sharks and various tropical creatures live.
Departs From: San Pedro (Ambergris Caye)
Just a 20 minutes ride from our dive shop is this beautiful collection of giant brain corals, great star corals, elkhorn corals, staghorn corals, and vibrant inhabitants like butterflyfishes, ... morespiny lobster, yellowtails, and stingrays.
What will you experience?
The adventure experience starts from the moment we greet you to the moment we say goodbye. Our crew is a group of trained and experienced tour guides that will make sure you don’t miss any fun facts while snorkeling at Mexico Rocks & Dos Cosos.
Experience something else!
First, we stop at Mexico Rocks, a coral patch between the reef and the shores of Ambergris Caye, where you begin a snorkeling experience you won't forget. Snorkeling here is mainly boasted by the magnificent boulder formations of Brain Corals, Elk Horns, and Great Star Corals that provide shelter for tropical fishes and critters. Some of them include spiny lobsters, yellowtail snappers, and stingrays. A cave looking like a path is also found here where you will find hundreds of baby snappers staring at you while you glide over them.
Departs From: San Pedro (Ambergris Caye)
THE BEST SNORKELING IN THE WORLD!
This Half Day adventure starts at Hol Chan Marine Reserve, where our guides will show you around the spectacular snorkel area. Then head on to Shark ... moreRay Alley, where you will encounter sharks and rays in their natural habitat.
Off the southern tip of Ambergris Caye is Belize's oldest marine reserve, the Hol Chan Marine Reserve. Hol Chan is Mayan for 'little channel." The reserve was formed primarily as a community-based initiative due to concern over the high level of uncontrolled, often destructive fishing and diving activities in the area.
For several years, local fishermen often cleaned their catch in Shark Ray Alley, located just inside the reef, to the south of Ambergris Caye. When fishermen noticed that their activity had attracted Nurse Sharks and several Southern Sting Rays, they reported this information to the dive operations in San Pedro, who then dispatched some divers to investigate. What they found was a bonanza, and "Shark-Ray Alley" quickly became a very popular dive site.
As soon as your boat arrives in the area, the guide points out all of the dark shadows in the shallow (eight-foot deep) waters. These are the sharks and rays that hear the boat approach and come in search of a few scraps of fish.
Please note, Half Day Trips leave at 9:00 am and 1:00 pm.
Departs From: San Ignacio Town
Xunantunich was a classic period Maya ceremonial and residential center. This site is located along the western border of Belize with Guatemala on the Mopan River in the village of ... moreSuccotz. The core occupies a hilltop with six plazas that include temples and palaces. The most prominent rises 130 ft above the plaza called “El Castillo”. Vehicles use a hand crank ferry to access the site.
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