Belize is among the most adventurous travel destinations in the Western Hemisphere. Small. Wildlife-filled. Unique experiences abound. Located between Mexico and Guatemala, Belize is a little English-speaking Central American country located directly on the Caribbean Sea.

Home to many ancient Maya ruins; surrounded by dense tropical rainforests; and boasting a second-to-none barrier reef system after Australia’s own Great Barrier Reef. Whether you enjoy diving, hiking, exploring history, or observing wildlife – Belize is your ultimate destination!

Below is your complete travel guide to the best things to do in Belize.

Snorkeling/Diving the Great Blue Hole

Of course, no Belize travel itinerary would be complete without visiting the Great Blue Hole. Located approximately seventy kilometers off the coast of belize close to Lighthouse Reef Atoll, the Great Blue Hole is so massive and so incredibly deep that it is viewable from outer space.

Scuba divers have made the Great Blue Hole a long-time bucket-list destination. As you descend down the enormous limestone walls of this incredible natural wonder, you will see stalactites suspended in mid-water far beneath you.

Snorkelers are treated to breathtaking coral gardens and a wide array of marine life.

Here’s what you should know before going:

• Advanced open water certification is highly recommended for diving the blue hole
• Full-day boat Tours leave from Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker
• Travel time to the site is approximately two to Three hours by boat
• Tours generally include a stop at Half Moon Caye – a stunning natural island
• If you prefer not to get wet, flyover Tours are available via small plane or helicopter

Hol Chan Marine Reserve

Not feeling up to making the long journey to the Great Blue Hole?

Then your answer is the Hol Chan Marine Reserve. Situated just offshore of Ambergris Caye, this protected area is one of the best places in all of the caribbean to go snorkeling.

Named little channel in Maya, this break in the reef allows a wide variety of marine life to move freely through.

In addition to being able to swim with:

• Nurse sharks and southern sting rays at Shark Ray Alley
• Gliding sea turtles swimming through crystal clear water
• Colourful tropical fish darting between coral gardens
• Moray eels, lobsters and eagle rays

Please use reef-safe sunscreen when visiting. The Hol Chan Marine Reserve has a delicate coral reef ecosystem, and protecting it now will allow future generations to enjoy its beauty.

Atm cave

The Actun Tunichil Muknal cave, known simply as the ATM Cave is perhaps one of the most unique experiences throughout all of central america. This ancient Maya ceremonial cave lies deep within the rain forests of belize approximately ten miles north of San Ignacio in the Cayo District.

You must hike into the rain forest before wading across rivers and then swimming into the entrance of the cave. Once inside, you’ll find:

• thousands years old stalactite and stalagmite formations
• pottery and carvings used in ancient Maya rituals
• skeletal remains of victims sacrificed centuries ago still intact
• over 1400 catalogued archaeological artifacts

While not for everyone, this experience will be unforgettable. Only licensed guides can accompany visitors.

Ancient Maya ruins

There are many ancient Maya sites scattered throughout Belize. While there are dozens of sites worth exploring, three stand out as must-see destinations.

Xunantunich

Located near San Ignacio, xunantunich boasts El Castillo — a towering pyramid with sweeping views of the jungle stretching beyond into Guatemala. From the top of the pyramid, you have panoramic views of both belize and Guatemala.

Lamanai

Deep within the jungle, lamanai can only be reached by riverboat, adding an entirely new dimension to the experience. The surrounding jungle teems with exotic birds and Howler monkeys as you make your way to each site.

Altun Ha

Found closest to Belize City and most popular among cruise ship passengers who visit for a day trip, Altun Ha offers easy access to explore the site and take advantage of the many facilities nearby.

Island relaxation: Ambergris Caye & Caye Caulker

Following all the adventure, you’ll want to relax on one of belize’s island getaways. Two islands are the most popular destinations in the country.

• Ambergris Caye is belize’s largest island with a vibrant dining scene, active nightlife and numerous world class Dive shops in San Pedro.
• caye caulker is smaller than Ambergris Caye and more relaxed. It’s a favorite spot for backpackers who admire the local motto “go slow” – they live it too.

Both islands offer golf cart rentals so you can explore on your own terms. Fresh seafood straight from the boat is commonplace. Watching the sunset over the caribbean every evening adds to the relaxation factor.

Experience cave Tubing in the Maya underworld

One of belize’s most popular activities is cave Tubing.

By using an inflated rubber ring to float through ancient cave systems while equipped with a headlight for guidance, you will feel like you’re moving through a tunnel of light.

At Caves Branch (the most well-known location), you will see:

• fascinating crystals formations created millions of years ago; ancient fire pits where the Maya made their offerings;
• hidden away for centuries: ancient Maya ceremonial pottery left behind by past generations;
• carved glyphs; wall art hidden deeper than you ever imagined possible;

Family-friendly, exciting, completely unlike anything you will experience back home – cave Tubing shouldn’t be missed.

When to visit Belize

Visiting belize year-round is acceptable. However, if diving/snorkeling is priority number one for you, then visiting during belize dry season (dec-may) offers excellent visibility underwater.

• June-november = wet season / green jungle / less crowds / lower prices
• Mid january-april = sweet spot for good weather/reasonable flight prices