Location

Sitting on the eastern coast of the Central American coastline facing the Caribbean Sea, Belize is the Caribbean gateway to Central America. 

Offering the best of both worlds - the majesty of lush tropical rainforest and mystery of the Ancient Maya coupled with white sand islands and a spectacular 174 mile long barrier reef - the options for adventure are endless.

Located in the northern hemisphere above the equator, Belize is  bounded on the north by Mexico, the south and west by Guatemala, and to the east by the Caribbean Sea.

Belize is 176 miles long at its longest point, 88 miles at its widest point and covers 8,867 square miles, including 266 square miles of offshore islands.  It is approximately the same size as the state of Massachusetts in the USA, approximately one-tenth the size of the United Kingdom, and larger than all of the former British Caribbean countries combined.

Belize's geographic coordinates are between:

• 15° 52' 9" and 18° 29' 55" north latitude
• 87° 28" and 89° 13' 67" west longitude

Getting to Belize is easy - by air, by land, and by sea!

History

No other country in Central America or the Caribbean has a more fascinating and elusive past than Belize- with glorious Maya civilizations, English buccaneers and mahogany cutters, African slaves and Spanish conquistadors.

Belize's past is an intriguing array of epic tales seasoned with stolen treasure, stone pyramids, logwood-cutting and multi-ethnic cultures, all ending with a peaceful, friendly and independent nation.  Travel with us and be transported to a place where history remains within reach.

Unlike the rest of Central America which was colonized by Spain, Belize was once a British colony.  Spanish authorities failed to clearly designate the southern boundary of the Yucatan, allowing buccaneers (pirates) preying on the Spanish treasure fleets offshore to find refuge along the coast of what became known as British Honduras.  On September 10th, 1798 the British claimed victory over the Spaniards at the Battle of St. George's Caye thus establishing a British colony.

Today, Belize's official language is English and the government and legal system are modeled on the Westminster system. While independent since 1981, Belize remains a part of the British Commonwealth in which the Queen of England is the nominal head of state and is represented locally by the Governor General.  The head of government is the Prime Minister who with the Cabinet, form the executive branch of the government. The legislature is comprised of an elected House of Representatives and an appointed Senate. An independent judiciary includes the Supreme Court with a Chief Justice and magistrate courts.   In each village, city and town are respective village, city and town councils elected on a regular basis.

From vibrancy to the decline of an ancient Maya civilization, through the challenges of piracy, colonial reign and slavery, surfaced the rise of a nationalist movement, the struggle for independence, the trials of globalization and the tribulations of politics in a developing country.  Through this passage of history and development, Belize has resisted the violence and revolution of many of its neighbors and has emerged a peaceful and democratic nation.

Destinations

The geography as well as diverse cultures and history of this unique destination contribute to distinct ambiances in the people, food and music as you travel the country.

 Belize is divided into six districts connected by a paved, two-lane highway system and a well-organized network of local airline and boat services making it easy to plan your visit from one end of the country to the next.  For visitors there are actually 9 well-recognized destinations from which to mix and match your choice of reef, rainforest, Maya history and living cultures.

 

Northern Belize
Sugar cane fields line the highways and the New River once a major waterway for the ancient Maya is now a veritable paradise of wildlife and scenery in the northern area of Belize.  Remnants of Maya heritage in temples and ceremonial sites coexist with the living cultures of Mestizo and Yucatec Maya ancestry. The Spanish language is commonplace here.

Corozal

Orange Walk

 

Central Belize
The fertile Belize River Valley with howler monkey and bird sanctuaries and Altun Ha Maya temples are found in the Belize District, as is Belize City.   the largest population center in the country, Belize City is Belize's cultural center, a pulsating mix of old-world charm and modern comforts. With its colonial architecture and historical mementos from the 1700's the "Kriol" culture is predominant in the Belize district.

• Belize District

Western Belize
The Cayo district is home to the nation's capital Belmopan, the twin towns of Santa Elena and San Ignacio and the border town of Benque Viejo del Carmen combined with the forest, caves and waterfalls of the Mountain Pine Ridge and several grand Maya cities.  The Mestizo influence here is flavored with a large Mennonite population of German origin based in the community of Spanish Lookout

• Cayo District

Southern Belize
Southern Belize is yet another glorious world within Belize. Along with the popular tourism destinations of Hopkins and Placencia, golden sand beaches, the world's only jaguar reserve, living cultures of the Garifuna, Mopan and Kekchi Maya, visitors will also encounter acres of citrus and banana plantations, the sensuous rhythm of Garifuna drums, East Indian "rotti" and home-made Maya chocolate. Belize's finest example of rainforest and the country's largest marine reserve are to be found in southern Belize.

 

• Stann Creek
• Hopkins
• Placencia

• Toledo

 

Island and Atolls
The islands off the coast of Belize offer white sand beaches near to the barrier reef, turquoise waters and abundant fish life.  Live the island life in established communities such as Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker or opt for a private getaway at small resorts, retreats and campsites on the smaller islands that dot the reef line from north to south.

 

• Ambergris Caye
• Caye Caulker

Other Islands and Atolls

 

Because of the wide choice of attractions offered, most visitor itineraries combine at two of these regions on a vacation.   With so much to do and so little time, we invite to return time and again for yet another new Belize experience.  Regardless of the region you visit, Belize will thrill and satisfy your senses.

 

Attractions

From natural to man-made, marine to inland, historic to cultural, Belize's attractions take many forms.

Together the unsurpassed combination of natural environments -the land, the sea, the climate - and the colourful history of over ten diverse cultures, infuse Belizeans with a national pride and a willingness to share.

The longest Barrier reef in the hemisphere, the most extensive cave system, the greatest percent of land mass in the region under protected area status, all in one tiny country?  How fortunate can one destination be? In the protection of our marine and terrestrial resources coupled with active environmental awareness programs, Belize's vibrant tourism industry was unwittingly born.  

In the thick  of the jungle lay Maya temples with eye-catching shape.  Those excavated and restored are fascinating in their intricate stone carvings and ingenious architecture. 

Ancient civilizations blended with British influences, traditions of African origin, lifestyles of Mestizo society and the advent of more recent global immigrants offer up a salad of cultures

Be one with the beauty that is Belize and find yourself re-thinking the way life should be

Island & Marine

Belize's marine environment attracts enthusiasts from around the globe to snorkel in coral gardens, scuba dive the Blue Hole, the "drop off" and shallow reefs; to cast for bonefish or simply to enjoy the warmth of the sun, sand and sea of the Caribbean.

 

Offshore Belize lies the largest barrier reef in the western hemisphere with hundreds of coral sand and mangrove-covered islands and three of the only four coral atolls this hemisphere.  Belize's combination of islands and extensive underwater habitat make up the Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System and this combination of natural assets has resulted in Belize designating some 7 marine reserves - all of which have been declared as World Heritage Sites by the United Nation's Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).

 

Divers and snorkelers alike encounter a diverse and abundant selection of marine life as well as a kaleidoscope of color in a variety of locations spanning the length of this 185-mile Belize Barrier Reef. This includes subterranean coral gardens featuring over 70 types of hard corals, nearly 500 species of fish, the distinguished Blue Hole, playful dolphins, fascinating whale sharks, subdued sea turtles and graceful eagle rays. With visibility usually extending hundreds of feet, diverse dive sites and extensive marine life, Belize will not disappoint either the first-time or most experienced diver or snorkeler.

Whether you choice is to rest undisturbed in a hammock under a palm tree watching the waves break in the distance, snorkel for the first time in waist deep water amidst schools of colorful fish or, to participate in active marine activities like scuba-diving, wind and kite -surfing, kayaking, fly fishing or sport-fishing, our reef and islands can offer a location that is perfect for you.

Rainforest & Inland

Private waterfalls, jungle canopies teeming with birds and exotic flora, hiking trails following the footprints of the elusive jaguar, iguanas splashing into crisp clear rivers - these are only a few of the options visitors have to Be One with the beauty of Belize's rainforest.

 

Over 40% of Belize's land mass enjoys some form of legal protected areas area status and these diverse natural areas form the basis of Belize's tourism offerings.   This significant portion of the country under sustainable management is a testament to the diversity of plant and animal species and to the energy and enthusiasm of pioneers in Belize conservation.

The conservation movement in Belize can be traced back to the 1970's with the formation of the Belize Audubon Society (BAS) as a bird watching club and the primary lobby for the Wildlife Protection and National Parks Systems Acts in the early 1980's.  Beginning with the first protected area - The Half Moon Caye Natural Monument, Belize now has dozens of national, private and community based national parks, wildlife sanctuaries and nature reserves with sustainable use management plans and activities in place. Park entrance fees combined with the conservation fee from all visitors support the Protected Areas Conservation Trust (PACT) a local environmental funding agency and, international grants to help to maintain these areas.

Belize is a living laboratory were you can meet some of Belize's wildlife in the  "Best Little Zoo in the World," climb Victoria Peak, canoe on the Macal river, cave-tube down the Sibun River or listen to the roar of the black howler monkey in the forest canopy overhead.

 

Rivers

The many rivers and tributaries of Belize offer an enchanting mixture of jungle scenery and peaceful village life to experienced veterans, novice paddlers, or competitive racers.

Guided tours, adventure packages, day trips, overnight expeditions, and annual races take advantage of the ceaseless movement of the rivers and are easily accessible. Although not all rivers lend themselves to easy travel, certain waterways have established themselves as the premier routes for paddling travelers

Caves

Did you know that Belize is home to the largest cave system in all of Central America? It's hard to believe that such cavernous spaces could be carved out of rock with nothing more than water, but it's true. 

 

What started as just a few little drops slowly became a trickle, then, as if it were Mother Nature's paintbrush, the trickle turned into underground rivers, designing these artistic, mysterious places as many as two million years ago.

 

Today, much of the geological structure of Belize is what is known as "karst landforms," created when CO2-infused water passing through the soil becomes mildly acidic and slowly, over time, begins to dissolve the earth's natural limestone to create breaks in the rock. These breaks allow more water to begin flowing downward, resulting in ideal conditions for the formation of underground caves and rivers.  In fact, if you plot them on a map, the southern half of the country is completely dotted with them.

Scientists have been studying Belizean cave systems since the 1960s.  By 1984, researchers had documented 65 sites, most of which are not yet accessible to the general public.  In fact, the sport of cave exploration in Belize really began gaining popularity around 1981. 

While many of these caves have been well known for years, new ones are still waiting to be found. To many, the most exciting caves in Belize are those yet to be discovered. An exploratory dive sponsored by the National Geographic Society in 2006 located Central America's longest cave system along the Chiquibul River in the Maya Mountains.

Visitors never cease to be amazed by the awe-inspiring stalactites and stalagmites inside the caves,  though the ancient Maya took a very different view of these magnificent structures.  The Maya believed the caves, or ac-tuns as they were known, were a portal to Xibalba, the underworld and used them for religious ceremonies.  The Maya offered sacrifices to these "gods of death" in these very caves. As a result, nearly every cave in Belize has some evidence of Mayan occupation. Findings have ranged from gifts such as carved jade, storage vessels and decorative pottery to embedded footprints and even human skeletal remains. 

A headlamp's ray on a glistening crystal formation, an intact Maya pot and the whispering echoes of ancient ceremonies add to the awe and excitement in the cave explorer's experience.

Maya Temples & Archaeology

Belize shares a rich Maya heritage with its neighboring countries of Guatemala, Mexico, and Honduras, and is considered to have been the heart of Maya civilization during the classic period.

 

Although Belize's Maya occupation began as early as 1500 BC, it was during the Classic period of 250 AD to 900 AD that the population is thought to have exceeded one million people. Archaeological remains of the ancient Maya include pottery, skeletons, stelae, and tall palaces, temples, and ceremonial centers.

 

It is estimated that there are thousands of Maya Ruins in Belize. Only a few of these have been found and even fewer have been excavated by scientists. All of the following sites are available for public viewing.
Belize was once the center of one of the greatest civilizations of antiquity.

Evidence of the ancient Maya lie strewn about the country. Climb ancient temples for spectacular views of the surrounding jungle; view larger-than-life stelae and carvings of gods and rulers; marvel at the beauty and artistry of jade artifacts in museums and visitor centers; or indulge your dream of being an archaeologist through study programs or assisting with professional field research

Historical & Cultural Sites

The hardships and the celebrations, the challenges and the successes, the pain and the joy - these over time, greatly impact the atmosphere of the present.

Belize's history is well documented in the historical edifices at archaeological sites, small museums under national or private reign, elegant colonial architecture in the older towns and cities and, in the old traditions still evident in the yards and neighbourhoods wherever you travel.

See the heights that Belize's chicleros climbed to extract the sap for chewing gum; re-enact the landing of the Garinagu on Belize's southern shores early morning on November 19th; join the parade in celebration of Belize's independence or savor the taste of fresh ground corn tortillas on an age-old hearth.

Because of their location and nature many historical and cultural experiences do not require a tour guide allowing you to be spontaneous and on your own schedule. But, if you do there a licensed tour guides available at many sites and attractions and can be identified with their numbered license and picture ID from the Belize Tourism Board.

Activities

What is a vacation, if not a chance to do something new and exciting?

 

In Belize with scores of reef, beach and inland activities to choose from, this is your chance for adventures of your own making. With so much of our natural environment still healthy and intact, eco-tourism adventures are offered throughout the country.

 

If inland activities are what you seek, the country offers both soft and extreme play. Whether it's an adrenaline charged experience as you zip-line though jungle canopies, explore a mysterious cave, or lazily canoe down a peaceful jungle river observing nature, it can be done in Belize.

Marine adventures are suited for all ages and activity levels, whether: Scuba diving, snorkeling, wind or kite surfing, para-sailing or cruising on a catamaran. The breathtaking colors of Belize's waters are an invitation to immerse yourself in nature for a safe and enjoyable adventure.

Belize's history from ancient Maya to recent events are presented in museums, galleries, visitor centers and street-side stalls, offering insight into the friendly Belizeans you will meet.

And while you may not find the sophisticated nightlife in other vacation destinations, our varied cultures, love of music and many holidays and celebrations give ample opportunity to relax your inhibitions and be one with the people of Belize.