Top 5 Things to Do in Belize
The combination of Caribbean coastline and Central American jungle can immerse you in endless wonder as you experience the top five things to do during your Belize trip.
Cayes and reefs create a powerful picture of the second-largest reef system in the world, while the lush jungle interior creates a kaleidoscope of wildlife and lush flora. From lazing in hammocks to kayaking in estuaries, trekking through national parks to exploring sprawling cave systems, Belize brims with exciting things to do.
No matter your preferences or goals, you can find the right experiences for you during your Belize trip with our top recommendations that highlight the country’s diversity.
1. Uncover the Grandeur of Marine Life
Hol Chan Marine Reserve, Belize
The wonders of an underwater world can come to life as you scuba dive or snorkel in Belize. The tropical setting makes the coastline an enticing destination to search for star coral, dive among the world’s second-largest reef, or enjoy sightings of the elusive whale shark. The necessity of taking a boat to nearly every snorkeling and diving site make each discovery feel serene and brand new, whether drifting over the shallow water in search of sea turtles or diving into the depths to survey the stunning stalactites of the iconic Great Blue Hole.
Best Places to Visit for Snorkeling or Scuba: Hol Chan Marine Reserve | Shark Ray Alley | Turneffe Reef Atoll | Half Moon Caye Wall | Great Blue Hole
2. Embrace the Fascinating Diversity of Wildlife
Community Baboon Sanctuary, Belize
The wonders of the wilderness speak volumes in Belize. With diverse ecosystems that support exciting wildlife, the scenery can immerse you in dense jungle canopies or surprising forested trails. With such a range of ecosystems, you can search for an array of wildlife in protected landscapes that may uncover signs of jaguar or the infamous calls of black howler monkeys. From manatees to crocodiles, ocelots to margay, the preserved beauty of the wilderness can give you a new perspective of nature as you explore the tropical ambiance.
Best Places to Visit for Wildlife Spotting: Río Bravo Conservation and Management Area | Community Baboon Sanctuary | Gales Point Wildlife Sanctuary | Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary | Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary
3. Discover the Variety and Wonders of Birdlife
Belize is a wonderland of birdlife, with more than 570 recorded species thriving across the country’s diverse ecosystems. Perfect for year-round bird-watching experiences, you can find signs of macaws and toucans, parrots and hummingbirds, raptors and storks as you travel from the lagoons to the jungle. Uncover herons. Look for jabiru storks. Witness the grace of predatory raptors. Whether amid waterfalls or riverbanks, mangroves or wetlands, you can find the dazzling diversity of birdlife for which Belize is known.
Best Places to Visit for Birding: Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary | Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary | Macal River | Caracol Ruins
4. Reveal the Depth and Presence of History
Caracol Natural Monument Reservation
Travel to historic caves, trek to the top of steep hills, and wander through the depths of the jungle to find the exceptional presence of Mayan ruins around Belize. The magnificently preserved archeological sites can take you back in time to witness the variety of ruins that feature ceremonial pyramids, ancient water reservoirs, and sacred temples. With examples of exceptional cities and detailed pottery, intricate figurines and ruined churches, you can find a timeline of the once-dominant empire of the greater Mesoamerica area, where it ruled for millennia.
Best Places to Visit for Mayan Ruins: Caracol | Lamanai | Altun Ha | Xunantunich | Cahal Pech
5. Enjoy Active Exploration at Your Pace
The stunning coastline can plunge you into the warm, clear waters and inland jungle terrain can let you discover remarkable Mayan ruins, but Belize is a fascinating destination for exciting excursions that can take you away from the coastline and beyond the historic ruins. Enjoy the adventure through vast subterranean river systems while exploring soaring caves or relax with a quiet kayaking tour through mangrove forest. Cycle beneath the surprising pine-tree canopy or trek through the jungle terrain in search of majestic waterfalls to find Belize’s timeless wonders and endlessly thrilling possibilities.
Best Places to Visit for Thrilling Excursions: Shark Ray Alley | Caves Branch Archeological Reserve | Bocawina National Park | Great Blue Hole | Blue Creek Cave | Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve
Ready to Experience Belize Your Way?
Blue Hole, Belize
The things to do in Belize can plunge you into the warmth of the Caribbean or allow you to uncover the tropical beauty of the jungle as wildlife awakens at dawn. When in Belize, you can find an elaborate perspective of natural history and heritage as you travel between islands and find new and exciting ways to explore the distinctive majesty. From diving to ruins, birdlife to kayaking, you can travel the way you prefer. Speak with a Belize travel specialist free by filling out a Trip Request or by calling our team at 1-888-265-9707.
