Belize, with its rich culture, white sandy beaches, and amazing natural beauty offers no shortage of things to do or see. Whether your time in Belize is a once in a lifetime getaway, or you’re planning on spending more time in the tropical paradise, here are the ten things that you absolutely must do and see while there.
#1: Snorkeling in the Belize Barrier Reef
Snorkeling and scuba diving are some of the top vacation activities in Belize. Don’t miss the opportunity to dive into the Belize Barrier Reef and view over 70 hard coral and 36 soft coral species. Ambergris Cayemmunitye welcomes thousands of visitors seeking easy access to the barrier reef that to the east of the island. Most of the diving and snorkeling shops and instructors are found in San Pedro. They all offer a variety of daily excursions.
#2: Explore Mayan Ruins
Belize was once the epicenter of the ancient Maya civilization. There are many ruins of the early civilization that can be explored including Xunantunich, Lamanai and Altun Ha.
Lamanai is the longest-occupied known Mayan site in the world. Its dense compound features three Mayan pyramids, the remains of a 16th-centruy Spanish Church and several noteworthy plazas and temples established during Pre-Classic Mayan rule. You won’t want to skip climbing the High Temple, and you’ll also want to visit the Mask Temple, which includes ancient artifacts linked to Mayan, Aztec and Olmec rulers.
Altun Ha is worth the uphill hike to explore the Temple of the Green Tomb, where elite priest-kings were buried with luxurious items, such as jade, pottery and pearls.
#3: Belize Blue Hole
The Great Blue Hole remains one of the world’s most distinguished scuba sites. Created approximately 10,000 years ago after a cave roof crumbled in, this blue channel contains underwater tunnels, caverns and rock formations. Whether you love to snorkel or just appreciate the wonder of nature, this is a not to miss spot. The Great Blue Hole is located about 43 miles off the coast of Belize along the Lighthouse Reef Atoll.
#4: Hol Chan Marine Reserve
Hol Chan Marine Reserve is the oldest reserve in Belize. Its name translates to “Little Channel,” in reference to a coral-filled gap in Belize’s immense barrier reef. Encompassing 3 square miles, this densely populated aquatic zone is a sanctuary for stingrays, eels, and sharks, among other creatures. The abundant sea life make it a prime spot for snorkeling and diving. The reserve is located about 4 miles southeast of San Pedro in Ambergris Caye.
#5: Ziplining in Bocawina
For the person with the spirit of adventure in their heart, don’t miss the opportunity to sail along the tree tops of the tropics by spending a little time at the eco-resort, Bocawina. Ziplining not your thing? Try waterfall rappelling instead!
#6: Belize Zoo
Stroll through this 29-acre zoo and you might think you’ve trespassed into a jungle. Started as a rescue facility for animals that were used in documentary films, the Belize Zoo feels like more of a wildlife preserve than a commercial zoo.
#7: Annual Chocolate Festival
Is there anything that goes better with a luxurious Belize vacation than decadent chocolate? Every year in late May, the Toledo district hosts the annual Chocolate Festival of Belize. Toledo is recognized the world over for its superior cocoa. Don’t miss out.
#8: Ambergris Caye for Birdwatching
With over 260 bird species, the island of Ambergris Caye is the premier spot for birdwatching. Bring your binoculars and schedule a bird watching tour, or venture out on your own and see if you can discover a yet undocumented species
#9: St. John’s Cathedral
If you have a love for historical architecture, you will want to add a visit to St. John’s Cathedral to your list of destinations. Built in 1812, the cathedral is the oldest church in the city.
#10: Museum of Belize
No Belize vacation would be complete without a trip to the Museum of Belize. Here you will experience the rich culture and history of the nation. From the early settlement to Mayan artifacts, the Museum of Belize offers a look back into time of a fascinating nation.
We’re sure you’ll love Belize so much that you’ll want to spend even more time here. When you’re ready to invest in a Belize property we are here to help. Contact us today to schedule a viewing.