Have you ever dreamed of visiting a country that has it all? A country that offers stunning natural beauty, rich cultural diversity, ancient historical sites, and exciting adventure activities? If so, then you should consider Belize as your next destination. Belize is a small Central American country that lies on the Caribbean Sea coast. It is bordered by Mexico to the north, Guatemala to the west and south, and Honduras to the southeast. It is also home to the second-largest barrier reef in the world, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that hosts a variety of marine life and coral formations. Belize attractions are diverse and amazing, and they cater to every type of traveler.
Whether you are looking for history, culture, nature, or adventure, you will find it all in Belize. In this article, we will show you the best Belize attractions that you can’t afford to miss on your trip. By the end of this article, you will have a comprehensive overview of what Belize has to offer and why it is one of the most amazing countries in the world.
Belize Weather and the Best Time to Visit
Belize Weather by Month in a Table
| Month | Average Temperature | Average Rainfall | Season |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 75°F (24°C) | 4.5 inches (114 mm) | Dry |
| February | 76°F (24°C) | 2.7 inches (69 mm) | Dry |
| March | 79°F (26°C) | 1.8 inches (46 mm) | Dry |
| April | 81°F (27°C) | 2.3 inches (58 mm) | Dry |
| May | 82°F (28°C) | 4.6 inches (117 mm) | Wet |
| June | 84°F (29°C) | 8.9 inches (226 mm) | Wet |
| July | 82°F (28°C) | 8.7 inches (221 mm) | Wet |
| August | 83°F (28°C) | 7.6 inches (193 mm) | Wet |
| September | 81°F (27°C) | 9.8 inches (249 mm) | Wet |
| October | 79°F (26°C) | 10.6 inches (269 mm) | Wet |
| November | 76°F (24°C) | 8.9 inches (226 mm) | Wet |
| December | 74°F(23°C) | 6.3inches(160mm) | Wet |
Best Time to Visit Belize
The best time to visit Belize depends on your preferences and interests. There is no bad time to visit Belize, as each season and month has something unique and special to offer. However, some factors that you may want to consider are the weather, the prices, and the crowds.
Weather
If you prefer dry and sunny weather, you may want to visit Belize between December and April, which is the dry season. However, this is also the peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and more crowds.
If you don’t mind some rain and humidity, you may want to visit Belize between May and November, which is the wet season. However, this is also the hurricane season, so be aware of the weather forecast and have travel insurance.
Prices
If you are looking for budget-friendly travel, you may want to visit Belize between May and November, which is the low season. You can find some off-season discounts and deals on hotels, tours, and flights. However, some places may be closed or have limited availability during this time.
If you are looking for luxury travel, you may want to visit Belize between December and April, which is the high season. You can find some high-end resorts and services that cater to your needs. However, you will also pay premium prices and face more competition for bookings.
Crowds
If you are looking for solitude and tranquility, you may want to visit Belize between May and November, which is the low season. You can enjoy some of the attractions and activities without too much hassle or noise. However, you may also miss out on some of the cultural events and festivals that happen during this time.
If you are looking for socializing and fun, you may want to visit Belize between December and April, which is the high season. You can meet some fellow travelers and locals and join some of the celebrations and parties that happen during this time. However, you may also have to deal with some crowds and queues at some of the popular spots.
Belize Attractions: A Guide to the Central American Gem
Belize is a small country in Central America that offers a rich and diverse range of attractions for travelers. Whether you are interested in exploring the culture, biodiversity, tourism, events, or food of Belize, you will find something to suit your taste and budget. Let’s explore the main aspects of Belize attractions that you should not miss.
The Culture of Belize: A Melting Pot of Ethnicities, Languages, and Traditions
Ethnicities
One of the most fascinating aspects of Belize attractions is the culture of the country, which reflects its history and geography. Belize is home to a variety of ethnic groups, including Maya, Mestizo, Creole, Garifuna, Mennonite, East Indian, Chinese, and others. Each group has its own distinctive customs, beliefs, and practices that contribute to the richness and diversity of Belizean culture.
Language and Music
One of the ways to experience the culture of Belize is through its language and music. Belize is the only English-speaking country in Central America, but you will also hear Spanish, Creole, Garifuna, Maya, and other languages spoken by the locals. Music is an integral part of Belizean culture, and you can enjoy genres such as punta rock, brukdown, paranda, reggae, and calypso.
Cuisine and Festivals
Another way to immerse yourself in the culture of Belize is through its cuisine and festivals. Belizean food is influenced by the various ethnic groups and their use of local ingredients such as seafood, rice, beans, corn, plantains, and spices. Some of the dishes you should try are rice and beans with stew chicken, fry jacks with cheese and beans, conch soup, ceviche, and salbutes. Festivals are also a great way to celebrate the culture of Belize, and some of the most popular ones are Carnival in February or March, Lobsterfest in June or July, Independence Day in September, and Garifuna Settlement Day in November.
Notable Figures
Finally, you can learn more about the culture of Belize by visiting some of the famous Belizeans who have made their mark on the world. Some of the notable figures include George Price, the first prime minister of Belize; Philip Goldson, a journalist, and politician; Andy Palacio, a musician and cultural activist; Pen Cayetano, a painter, and musician; Zee Edgell, a novelist; Marion Jones, an Olympic athlete; Shyne Barrow, a rapper, and politician; and many more.
The Biodiversity of Belize: A Paradise for Nature Lovers and Wildlife Enthusiasts
Another aspect of Belize attractions that will amaze you is the biodiversity of the country, which boasts some of the most pristine and diverse ecosystems in the world. Belize has a variety of habitats, such as tropical rainforests, savannas, wetlands, mangroves, coral reefs, and islands. These habitats support a wealth of wildlife species that are endemic or endangered.
Ecosystems and Wildlife
Some of the ecosystems and wildlife that you can explore in Belize are:
- The Belize Barrier Reef: This is the second largest barrier reef in the world after Australia’s Great Barrier Reef. It stretches for over 300 kilometers along the coast of Belize and hosts more than 500 species of fish, 70 species of coral, and hundreds of species of invertebrates. You can snorkel or dive in this underwater wonderland and see colorful corals, sponges, sea turtles, sharks, rays, dolphins, whales, and more.
- The Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary: This is one of the first jaguar reserves in the world and covers an area of 400 square kilometers in southern Belize. It is home to about 200 jaguars, as well as other animals such as tapirs, peccaries, ocelots, pumas, howler monkeys, spider monkeys, toucans, parrots, and more. You can hike or bike through the trails in this sanctuary and enjoy the scenic views of waterfalls, rivers, and mountains.
- The Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary: This is a wetland area that covers 66 square kilometers in northern Belize. It is a haven for birds, especially during the dry season when thousands of migratory birds flock to this sanctuary. You can see more than 300 species of birds here, including jabiru storks, wood storks, roseate spoonbills, egrets, herons, pelicans, and more. You can also spot crocodiles, iguanas, turtles, and manatees in this sanctuary.
Endangered and Endemic Species
Belize is also home to some endangered and endemic species that are unique to this country or region. Some examples are:
- The Baird’s tapir: This is the national animal of Belize and the largest land mammal in Central America. It looks like a cross between a pig and an elephant and can weigh up to 300 kilograms. It lives in forests and wetlands and feeds on leaves, fruits, and aquatic plants.
- The scarlet macaw: This is one of the most colorful and charismatic birds in the world. It has bright red, yellow, and blue feathers and a long tail. It lives in tropical forests and feeds on seeds, nuts, and fruits. Unfortunately, it is endangered due to habitat loss and illegal trade.
- The black orchid: This is the national flower of Belize and one of the most beautiful orchids in the world. It has dark purple petals and a white lip with purple spots. It grows on trees in humid forests and blooms from March to May.
Efforts and Challenges to Protect Belize’s Biodiversity
Belize also has some conservation efforts and challenges that aim to protect its biodiversity from threats such as deforestation, poaching, climate change, and pollution. Some examples are:
- The Community Baboon Sanctuary: This is a grassroots initiative that involves 12 villages in central Belize that have agreed to conserve their land for the benefit of the black howler monkey (locally known as a baboon). The sanctuary covers an area of 50 square kilometers and has about 2 000 howler monkeys. The villagers also benefit from ecotourism activities such as guided tours, homestays, and cultural demonstrations.
- The Chiquibul National Park: This is the largest protected area in Belize and covers an area of 1 073 square kilometers in western Belize. It contains some of the most intact forests in Central America and hosts diverse wildlife such as jaguars, tapirs, scarlet macaws, harpy eagles, and more. The park also protects important water resources such as rivers, lakes, and caves. However, the park faces challenges from illegal logging, mining, farming, and poaching from neighboring Guatemala.
The Tourism of Belize: A Destination for Adventure Seekers and Culture Explorers
The last aspect of Belize attractions that we will cover is tourism which offers a wide range of activities for visitors who want to experience adventure or culture or both. Belize has something for everyone whether you want to dive into the blue waters explore ancient ruins or relax on sandy beaches.
Some examples are:
Diving and Snorkeling
As mentioned earlier, one of the main attractions for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts is the Belize Barrier Reef which offers spectacular sites such as Hol Chan Marine Reserve, Shark Ray Alley, Turneffe Atoll, Lighthouse Reef, Great Blue Hole, Half Moon Caye, Glover’s Reef and more. You can also dive or snorkel in freshwater caves such as the Great Blue Hole, Actun Tunichil Muknal, Barton Creek Cave, and more.
Hiking and Zip-lining
Belize is one of the most adventurous places on Earth for travelers. If you prefer to stay on land you can enjoy hiking or zip-lining through the lush forests mountains or waterfalls of Belize. To illustrate, some popular places for hiking are the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve, Guanacaste National Park, Rio Bravo Conservation Area, and more. Besides that, some popular places for zip-lining are the Calico Jack’s Village, Bocawina Rainforest Resort, Jaguar Paw Adventure Outpost, and more.
Caves and Waterfalls
Another way to experience adventure in Belize is to explore its caves or waterfalls which offer stunning views of natural formations history or wildlife. For example, they are the Actun Tunichil Muknal Cave which contains Maya artifacts skeletons or pottery, the Rio Frio Cave which has a huge entrance arch or stalactites, the Thousand Foot Falls which is the highest waterfall in Central America, and Big Rock Falls which has a natural pool for swimming.
Maya Sites and Museums
If you are interested in learning more about the history culture or art of Belize you can visit some of its Maya sites or museums which showcase its ancient civilization heritage or contemporary expressions. Some examples are the Caracol which is one of the largest Maya cities ever discovered, Xunantunich which has an impressive pyramid called El Castillo, Lamanai which has temples overlooking a lagoon, Altun Ha which has a jade head representing Kinich Ahau (the sun god), the Museum Of Belize which displays artifacts from colonial times or slavery, the Bliss Institute For Performing Arts which hosts cultural events such as concerts play or exhibitions.
Above are just some examples of what you can do see or learn when you visit this amazing country. There are many more things to discover enjoy or appreciate about this Central American gem.
The Events of Belize: The Moments of Joyful
If you are looking for cultural and historical experiences, you may want to visit Belize during some of the major events and festivals that happen throughout the year. Some of the most notable ones are:
Events in February or March
- Fiesta de Carnaval: This is a pre-Lenten celebration that takes place in various towns and villages across Belize. It involves music, dancing, costumes, parades, and street parties. Some of the best places to experience Fiesta de Carnaval are San Pedro, Corozal Town, Orange Walk Town, and Benque Viejo del Carmen.
- National Arts Festival: This is a showcase of Belizean arts and culture that takes place in various venues across Belize City. It features performances, exhibitions, workshops, and competitions in music, dance, theater, literature, visual arts, and more.
Events in March or April
- Easter: This is a religious and festive occasion that takes place in various locations across Belize. It involves church services, processions, reenactments, and vigils to commemorate the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Also, it involves fun activities such as egg hunts, kite flying, horse racing, and the Holy Saturday Cross Country Cycling Classic, a 140-mile bike race from Belize City to San Ignacio and back. Some of the best places to experience Easter are San Ignacio, Benque Viejo del Carmen, Dangriga, Placencia, and Caye Caulker.
Events in June or July
- Lobster Festivals: These are celebrations of the opening of the lobster season that takes place on various islands and coastal towns across Belize. They involve music, dancing, games, contests, and of course, lots of lobster dishes and drinks. Some of the best places to experience Lobster Festivals are San Pedro, Caye Caulker, Placencia, and Hopkins Village.
Events in August
- International Costa Maya Festival: This is a regional cultural festival that takes place on Ambergris Caye. It features performances, pageants, parades, and parties by artists and representatives from Belize and its neighboring countries: Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, and Panama.
Events in September
- Independence Day: This is a national holiday that takes place on September 21st to celebrate Belize’s independence from Britain in 1981. It involves patriotic ceremonies, speeches, awards, flag-raising, fireworks, and concerts. Additionally, it coincides with the September Celebrations, a month-long series of events and festivals that honor Belize’s history and culture. Some of the best places to experience Independence Day and the September Celebrations are Belize City, Belmopan, Orange Walk Town, San Ignacio, Dangriga, and Punta Gorda.
The Food of Belize: A Diverse Cuisine Influenced by Different Cultures
Food is definitely an attraction in Belize. Indeed, Belizean cuisine is a delicious mix of different cultural influences, such as Maya, Mestizo, Creole, Garifuna, Indian, Chinese, and British. You can find a variety of dishes that use fresh ingredients, local spices, and tropical fruits. Some of the most popular foods in Belize are:
- Fry Jacks: These are puffy bread tortillas that are fried until golden and served with cheese, beans, eggs, or jam for breakfast or lunch.
- Hudut: This is a dish of mashed plantains that is cooked with coconut milk and served with a fish stew or curry.
- Cassava: This is a starchy root vegetable that can be boiled, fried, or made into bread or chips.
- Garnaches: These are fried corn tortillas that are topped with refried beans, cheese, cabbage, tomatoes, and hot sauce.
- Ceviche: This is a dish of raw fish or seafood that is marinated in lime juice and mixed with onions, tomatoes, cilantro, and peppers.
- Stew Chicken: This is a dish of chicken that is marinated in spices and cooked in a savory broth. It is usually served with rice and beans or coconut rice.
- Conchita Pibil: This is a dish of slow-roasted pork that is seasoned with achiote paste and wrapped in plantain leaves. It is served with soft tortillas and salsa.
- Salbutes: These are fried corn tortillas that are topped with shredded chicken, cabbage, avocado, and hot sauce.
- Tamales: These are steamed cornmeal dumplings that are filled with meat or cheese and wrapped in plantain leaves.
Places to Eat in Belize
If you want to try some of these delicious foods in Belize, you can visit some of the restaurants or street vendors that serve them. Some of the popular places to eat in Belize are:
- Ko-Ox Han Nah Let’s Go Eat in San Ignacio: This restaurant serves authentic Belizean dishes such as stew chicken, rice and beans, fry jacks, salbutes, tamales, and more.
- Driftwood Beach Bar & Pizza Shack in Hopkins: This beachfront restaurant serves fresh seafood dishes such as ceviche, fish tacos, lobster pizza, and more. It also has live music and karaoke nights.
- Altun Ha in Belize City: This restaurant serves a variety of dishes from different cuisines such as Indian, Chinese, Mexican, and Belizean. It also has a bar and a gift shop.
Accommodation in Belize
Belize is a small country that offers a variety of accommodation options for travelers of all budgets and preferences. In this section, we will give you an overview of the different types of places to stay in Belize and some examples of each.
Hostels: The Best Option for Budget Travelers and Backpackers
Hostels are rare in Belize, but you can find some dormitory accommodation (usually US$10–15) in some cities and islands. Most budget travelers opt for budget hotels, which usually charge US$25–35 for a double.
Hostels are ideal for budget travelers and backpackers who want to meet other travelers, save money and enjoy a social atmosphere. Hostels usually offer shared bathrooms, lockers, free Wi-Fi, and breakfast. Some hostels also have bars, kitchens, and tours.
Some examples of hostels in Belize are:
- The Red Hut Inn in Belize City.
- Bella’s Backpackers in San Ignacio.
Hotels: The Best Option for Comfort, Convenience, and Service
Hotels are common in Belize, especially in the main cities and tourist destinations. They range from 2-star to 5-star and offer different levels of comfort, convenience, and service. Usually, hotels charge US$50–200 for a double, depending on the location and quality.
Hotels are ideal for travelers who want to enjoy a comfortable room with a private bathroom, air conditioning, and cable TV. Hotels also offer amenities such as pools, spas, restaurants, and bars. Some hotels also offer airport and boat transfers, tours, and activities.
Some examples of hotels in Belize are:
- Radisson Fort George Hotel & Marina in Belize City.
- SunBreeze Hotel in San Pedro.
- Tropical Paradise Hotel in Caye Caulker.
Resorts: The Best Option for Luxury, Relaxation, and Adventure
Resorts are popular in Belize, especially on the islands and the coast. They offer luxury, relaxation, and adventure for travelers who want to enjoy an all-inclusive vacation. Resorts usually charge US$200–500 for a double, depending on the location and quality.
Resorts are ideal for travelers who want to enjoy a spacious room or villa with sea views, a balcony, and a kitchenette. Furthermore, resorts offer amenities such as pools, spas, restaurants, and bars. Particularly, resorts offer all-inclusive packages that include meals, drinks, airport and boat transfers, water sports gear, snorkeling, diving, fishing, and more.
Some examples of resorts in Belize are:
Why You Should Visit Belize Attractions
As you can see, Belize attractions are diverse and amazing. Whether you are looking for history, culture, nature, or adventure, you will find it all in this beautiful country. Belize is a paradise for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and culture enthusiasts. It is also a safe and friendly country that welcomes visitors with open arms. You will never run out of things to see, do, and enjoy in Belize. We hope this article has inspired you to plan your next trip to Belize and discover its wonders for yourself. If you have any questions or comments about Belize attractions or if you want to share your own tips or stories with us, please feel free to leave them below or contact us on our website. Thank you for reading and happy travels!
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