Where to go in Belize

Belize is a fairly compact country, which makes its main parks and attractions easy to combine for a complete exploration of its various regions, from coral reefs to dense tropical forests. Short distances between these areas mean that long journeys between them are rare and this, combined with the fact it is English speaking, makes Belize an attractive safari destination. Visitors to Belize will most probably want to incorporate the Cayes and Atolls, which hold huge interest for marine enthusiasts, divers, snorkelers and beach lovers. On mainland Belize, the areas of Orange Walk and Cayo District are both places with stunning natural beauty. Orange Walk comprises wetlands, lagoons and wildlife sanctuaries, whilst Cayo District has intriguing caves, waterfalls and forest reserves.

Cayes and Atolls

Down the coast of Belize, close to the magnificent Barrier Reef, hundreds of coral islands (atolls) and mangrove islands (cayes) pepper the turquoise and emerald waters of the Caribbean Sea. From small stretches of sand, to larger palm swathed stretches, this tranquil, picturesque setting is any marine or beach enthusiast’s dream. Surrounded by extensive colourful coral, the majority of the islands are uninhabited, or home only to the local fishermen. Ambergris Caye, at about 40 kilometres in length, is the most developed and is characterised by a ring of white sands around a mangrove swamp, the shores of which are dotted with swaying palms and the waters clear as crystal. Despite its paradise-like appearance, Ambergris was actually named after a dark grey/black substance produced in the digestive systems of whales, but don’t let this put you off, it is not what you’ll be thinking of as you sip rum to the gentle sounds of reggae drifting down the beach! The second largest is Caye Caulker, a sandbar on a limestone shelf where the main method of transport is walking, or you can rent a bike or golf cart. Many people prefer to base themselves here as it is a little quieter, and just as good a base for diving and snorkelling.

Heading further out, there is less human impact, meaning more protected coral and some unbelievable dive sites for enthusiasts. Glovers Reef Atoll is a Marine Resort, World Heritage Site and is the most remote of the atolls, about 70 miles southeast of Belize City. Lighthouse Reef atoll features striking coral formations and is one of few islands to have an airstrip. This is the closest atoll to the Blue Hole, a thrilling experience for experienced divers. The aerial view is striking enough, a dark circle of water about 300 metres in diameter and 160 metres depth. Here you can delve into the dark, clear depths alongside giant groupers and nurse sharks, as well as several types of reef shark.

Cayo District

A land of beautiful forests and exquisite cave systems, this is an exciting destination for natural world enthusiasts, as well as those who are interested in the historical and cultural side of Belize. Situated in western Belize, near the border with Guatemala, the Cayo District explores a range of habitats and landscapes, encompassing the pre-Columbian Maya ruins of Xunantunich, the national capital of Belmopan and the tourist town of San Ignacio, as well as the famous caves of Barton Creek. This is the largest district of Belize spanning over 2,000 square miles across diverse terrain, from lush river valleys and rugged mountains to rolling hills and sweeping farmland devoted to citrus orchards. Broadleaf jungle overlays limestone formations which, over time, have dissolved forming winding underwater rivers (thrilling for river tubing), sinkholes and spectacular caves.

Orange Walk District

In northwest Belize, with Mexico to the north and Guatemala to the west, Orange Walk District is a sprawling area covering 4,636 square kilometres. Previously dominated by loggers, this landlocked district is a spectacular eco-tourism destination, often coined an ornithologist’s paradise. The main town, Orange Walk Town, has a population of around 13,400, a majority of which are the descendents of Mexican refugees who fled from the 1840 Caste War. With healthy populations of tropical wildlife and the ideal location to explore Altun Han and Lamanai historical sites, it is an emerging tourist destination, with fewer accommodation options than other areas of Belize, making your choice all the more important.

Covering over 11,000 hectares, the Shipstern Nature Reserve encompasses vast terrains of lagoons, wetlands and tropical rainforest as well as dry forests. It plays home to all five cat species found in Belize as well as the endangered Baird’s Tapir and a huge variety of other flora and fauna. There is also the Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary, a land of savannahs, creeks and logwood thickets with a bird population of around 286 species, including jabiru storks, the largest flying bird in the Americas, as well as black-bellied whistling ducks and black-billed storks.

Placencia

For those seeking long sandy beaches, abundant marine life and a feeling of island adventure, Placencia is an ideal tranquil escape. Whilst Placencia may not technically be an island, the peninsula is home to sixteen miles of sandy beach, with the Caribbean Sea on one side and the Placencia Lagoon on the other. Here you have the tough choice of relaxing on the beach, heading out into the emerald waters or into the wildlife rich jungle reserves.

This beautiful beach setting is home to three communities: Maya Beach, Seine Bight and Placencia Village, which boasts one of the oldest continually inhabited villages in Belize. This charming place can be easily explored on a beach cruiser bike and the south is where you will find a majority of the coffee shops, bistros and guesthouses. In the north, the Garifuna Village of Seine Bight is less densely populated, with clear cooling waters and a little surf. The mangrove-frilled Placencia Lagoon is an important home for saltwater crocodiles, marine turtles and rare, endangered manatees. Whereas on the other side, the gentle waves of the Caribbean Sea are home to abundant marine life, with some excellent dive and snorkel trips that can be arranged. Laughing Bird Caye is a mini atoll with protected snorkelling and swimming, as well as a nice relaxing beach, complete with shady palms and hammocks. Between May and June Whale Sharks feast on the eggs of cubera and snapper at the elbow of Gladden Spit and you can embark on day trips to reefs such as Glovers. Marine life you might spot includes parrotfish, needlefish, rays, blue tangs and turtles.

Contact us for a bespoke quote.