belize travel guide 2023

The Curious Belize Travel Guide for 2023

Curious about visiting belize this is the belize travel guide for you..

Are you ready for a tropical adventure filled with stunning landscapes, ancient ruins, and vibrant culture? Look no further because Belize is calling your name! Nestled on the eastern coast of Central America, this gem of a country is a paradise for curious travelers like you. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, history buff, or simply seeking relaxation on pristine beaches, Belize offers an unforgettable experience that will leave you in awe. In this comprehensive guide, we'll take you on a journey through the best of Belize, providing you with all the essential information to make your 2023 trip an extraordinary one.

Belize, a Vibrant Travel Destination

Welcome to a land where turquoise waters meet lush jungles, and ancient Mayan temples stand tall amidst the vibrant wildlife. Belize is a captivating destination that effortlessly blends adventure, culture, and relaxation. This tropical paradise boasts a plethora of experiences, from exploring the mesmerizing underwater world of the Belize Barrier Reef to hiking through dense rainforests teeming with exotic wildlife. Not only will you be enchanted by the natural beauty, but you'll also be captivated by the warmth and hospitality of the Belizean people.

So, get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey as we unveil the wonders of Belize in this ultimate travel guide for 2023. Get your bags packed, your curiosity ignited, and let's dive into the magic of Belize!

Things to See and Do in Belize 

1. visit altun ha .

Nestled in the heart of Belize, just a short distance of 19 miles (31 kilometers) from Belize City, lies Altun Ha, a former Mayan trading center that continues to captivate visitors with its remarkable ruins and its thriving ecosystem. This ancient site allures not only history enthusiasts but also wildlife lovers and nature enthusiasts, thanks to its lush jungle surroundings.

As you step onto the grounds of Altun Ha, prepare to be transported back in time to the 7th century, when the Temple of the Masonry Altars was erected, becoming the crowning jewel of the Grand Plaza. Standing tall at an impressive height of 54 feet (16 meters), this awe-inspiring temple beckons you to ascend its steps and reach its pinnacle. The rewarding climb unveils a mesmerizing panorama of majestic pyramids and the sprawling plaza below, showcasing the architectural genius of the Mayan civilization.

What sets Altun Ha apart from other Mayan ruins in the region is its intriguing absence of carved stelae. While the purpose behind this deviation remains a mystery, the site holds an extraordinary secret. Within these hallowed grounds, archeologists unearthed a national treasure—a magnificent jade-carved head weighing a staggering 10 pounds (4.5 kilograms), known as Kinich Ahau. This extraordinary artifact, etched with meticulous craftsmanship, now graces the currency of Belize, forever immortalizing the rich heritage of this ancient civilization.

To immerse yourself fully in the wonders of Altun Ha, embark on a half-day tour that promises an enriching experience. For around 100 BZD, this comprehensive excursion includes transportation, entrance fees, a knowledgeable guide to unravel the historical significance of the site, and refreshing drinks to keep you energized along the journey. With a modest admission fee of just 10 BZD, you can step foot into this archaeological gem, where the stories of the past come alive.

Altun Ha invites you to delve into a world of ancient mysteries, to walk in the footsteps of the Mayans, and to witness the marvels they left behind. As you explore this captivating site, allow yourself to be swept away by the majesty of the Temple of the Masonry Altars, the allure of the untamed wilderness, and the remarkable tales of the past that continue to echo through time. Altun Ha stands as a testament to the ingenuity of the Mayan civilization and promises an unforgettable journey of discovery and wonder.

2. Go Barefoot in Caye Caulker

Experience the ultimate sense of freedom and connection with nature as you embrace the barefoot lifestyle in Caye Caulker, Belize. This charming island paradise invites you to leave your shoes behind and feel the warm sand beneath your feet. As you stroll along the sandy streets, you'll join a community that embraces a relaxed and carefree way of life. The island's laid-back atmosphere and slow pace encourage you to let go of worries and immerse yourself in the simple pleasures of island living. Feel the cool, powdery sand between your toes as you explore the vibrant local shops, colorful beachfront bars, and enticing seafood eateries. Let the gentle waves lapping at the shoreline be your soundtrack as you unwind on pristine beaches, basking in the golden sun. 

Whether you're relaxing in a hammock swaying in the ocean breeze or dancing under the starry sky at a beachfront party, going barefoot in Caye Caulker is a symbol of liberation and an invitation to embrace the island's unhurried spirit. So kick off your shoes, let your feet guide you, and surrender to the blissful simplicity of this idyllic Caribbean getaway.

3. Experience La Isla Bonita at Ambergris Caye

Experience the ultimate luxury getaway at La Isla Bonita, nestled in the breathtaking beauty of Ambergris Caye, Belize. This tropical paradise caters to those who seek opulence, with a selection of high-end resorts that redefine lavishness. Immerse yourself in a world of elegance and comfort, where impeccable service and top-notch amenities are the norm. Indulge in the culinary delights of the island, where fine cuisine takes center stage. From delectable seafood dishes to gourmet creations infused with local flavors, the dining experiences on Ambergris Caye are a true delight for the senses. And when the sun sets, get ready for the best nightlife in Belize. Dance the night away at vibrant beach bars, sip on handcrafted cocktails at chic lounges, or mingle with fellow travelers at trendy nightclubs. Whether you're seeking relaxation or excitement, La Isla Bonita offers a perfect balance of luxury, culinary delights, and vibrant nightlife that will exceed your expectations. Get ready to create unforgettable memories in this paradise where luxury meets Caribbean charm.

4. Play the Garifuna Drums in Hopkins

Step into the vibrant coastal town of Hopkins and discover a seaside paradise that is rich in culture and rhythm. This charming village, located on the stunning shores of Belize, is not only known for its breathtaking beaches but also for being the cultural epicenter of the Garifuna people. Immerse yourself in the captivating beats of the Garifuna drummers, who keep their traditions alive through mesmerizing performances that echo through the streets. As you stroll along the sandy shores, you'll encounter colorful wooden houses, friendly locals, and a warm, laid-back atmosphere that invites relaxation. Indulge in fresh seafood delicacies at local eateries, where the flavors of the Caribbean tantalize your taste buds. For adventure seekers, Hopkins offers thrilling opportunities for snorkeling, diving, and exploring the nearby pristine coral reefs. Soak in the beauty of the surrounding nature as you hike through lush rainforests, spot exotic wildlife, and experience the wonders of this coastal haven. Whether you're seeking cultural immersion, beachside bliss, or exciting adventures, Hopkins is a must-visit destination that will leave you enchanted by its beauty and the rhythmic heartbeat of the Garifuna culture.

3. Meet the Jaguar at the Belize Zoo 

Embark on a wild and unforgettable adventure at the Belize Zoo, where you can get up close and personal with some of the most iconic and fascinating creatures of the region. Nestled within the lush jungles of Belize, this unique zoo provides a natural habitat for a diverse array of wildlife, including the majestic jaguar, the colorful toucan, the boisterous howler monkey, and many more captivating species. As you explore the zoo's winding paths and well-maintained exhibits, you'll have the opportunity to observe these magnificent animals in their natural surroundings, learning about their behaviors, habitats, and conservation efforts. The Belize Zoo takes pride in its commitment to animal welfare and environmental education, providing a safe haven for rescued and rehabilitated animals, as well as promoting awareness and appreciation for Belize's rich biodiversity. Whether you're a wildlife enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply seeking a memorable experience, the Belize Zoo offers an incredible opportunity to connect with the incredible creatures that call this land home. Come face-to-face with the beauty and power of the jaguar, witness the vibrant plumage of the toucan, and hear the haunting calls of the howler monkeys echoing through the trees. Prepare for an immersive wildlife encounter that will leave you with a deeper understanding and appreciation for the natural wonders of Belize.

4. Climb El Castillo at Xunantunich 

Prepare to be awe-inspired as you embark on a journey to witness the majestic wonder of El Castillo at Xunantunich. Nestled amidst the lush forests of Belize, this ancient Mayan archaeological site holds the key to unraveling the mysteries of a bygone civilization. As you approach El Castillo, a towering pyramid that dominates the landscape, you'll be greeted by its imposing presence and grandeur. Ascending the steps, you'll feel a sense of anticipation building within you, knowing that you are about to witness a breathtaking panoramic view of the surrounding jungle. From the top of El Castillo, you'll be rewarded with a mesmerizing vista, stretching as far as the eye can see, encompassing rolling hills, verdant canopies, and glimpses of other pyramids peeking through the dense foliage. Take a moment to soak in the profound energy and historical significance of this ancient site, imagining the lives and rituals that once took place within its walls. The intricate carvings and glyphs adorning El Castillo tell stories of a rich cultural heritage, inviting you to delve deeper into the captivating world of the Mayan civilization. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a lover of archaeology, or simply a curious traveler, a visit to El Castillo at Xunantunich promises an unforgettable experience that will transport you back in time and leave you in awe of the ingenuity and brilliance of the ancient Mayan people.

5. Snorkel the Hol Chan Marine Reserve

Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of the Hol Chan Marine Reserve on an unforgettable snorkeling tour. Located off the coast of Belize, this pristine marine reserve is a haven for aquatic life and a paradise for snorkelers. As you glide through the crystal-clear turquoise waters, a vibrant underwater world unfolds before your eyes. The diversity of marine species is astounding, with colorful coral formations teeming with tropical fish of all shapes and sizes. Encounter graceful sea turtles gliding gracefully through the water, schools of dazzlingly vibrant reef fish darting in and out of coral crevices, and gentle nurse sharks and stingrays gracefully gliding along the sandy seabed. The underwater ecosystem here is a sight to behold, offering an up-close and personal experience with nature's wonders. Your knowledgeable guide will provide fascinating insights into the marine life and delicate ecosystem that thrives within the reserve, ensuring you have a deeper appreciation for this unique environment. The Hol Chan Marine Reserve is a testament to the importance of conservation and sustainable practices, and by exploring its waters, you become part of the effort to protect and preserve this underwater paradise for future generations. Whether you're a seasoned snorkeler or a first-time explorer of the underwater realm, a snorkeling tour of the Hol Chan Marine Reserve promises an unforgettable adventure filled with beauty, wonder, and a deep connection to the natural world.

6. Immerse Yourself in Wildlife 

Belize is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, offering unparalleled opportunities to observe the country's rich biodiversity. Birdwatchers will find their paradise at Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary, renowned for its world-class spotting opportunities. If you're fascinated by big cats, make your way to the famous Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, where jaguars roam freely amidst a lush and beautiful landscape. Exploring these protected areas promises unforgettable encounters with Belize's incredible wildlife.

7. Embark on an Adventure at Bacab 

Adventure & Eco Park Just a short distance from Belize City lies Bacab Adventure & Eco Park, a sprawling 500-acre jungle paradise. This unique destination combines the excitement of a theme park with the tranquility of a nature reserve. Wander along hiking trails, traverse scenic waterways, and keep an eye out for fascinating wildlife such as howler monkeys. Enjoy a refreshing dip in the giant swimming pool complete with a cascading waterfall. Bacab Adventure & Eco Park offers a range of activities, including horseback safaris, kayak tours, jungle biking, nature walks, swimming, bird watching, and even a ruins tour. It's a fantastic getaway for families and adventure seekers alike.

8. Discover the Ancient Wonders of Caracol 

Located in the Cayo District's Chiquibul Forest Reserve, Caracol is an awe-inspiring Mayan site that once stood as one of the most powerful cities of its time. Unlike the more restored ruins of Altun Ha, Caracol's partially restored structures are nestled within a captivating jungle setting, evoking a true sense of ancient mystique. Explore reservoirs, walls, and tombs as you marvel at the impressive main temple, known as Canaã or Sky Place, rising 143 feet (44 meters) above the ground. From its heights, savor breathtaking views and experience the surprising acoustics that add to the allure of this remarkable archaeological site. Admission to Caracol is 15 BZD.

9. Visit the Sacred Actun Tunichil Muknal Cave 

For an exhilarating and eerie experience, delve into the depths of Actun Tunichil Muknal cave. This unique tour takes you through a labyrinthine cave system that served as a sacred place for Mayan ceremonies and sacrifices. As you trek through the jungle and navigate the cave's chambers, you'll come face to face with ancient skeletal remains, offering a fascinating glimpse into Mayan history. Discovered in 1989, Actun Tunichil Muknal has become a popular destination for adventure seekers. Keep in mind that organized tours are required to protect the delicate site, with prices typically ranging from 225-250 BZD.

10. Dive the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef 

Belize boasts the second-longest barrier reef in the world, spanning over 186 miles (300 kilometers) and forming part of a larger reef system that stretches to the Yucatan Peninsula. Delight in vibrant coral formations and captivating marine life in this UNESCO World Heritage Site, which stands as one of Belize's top tourist attractions. Divers and snorkelers can explore the reef's wonders by visiting the islands within the marine park or embarking on boat tours that venture further out into the azure waters. Prepare to be amazed by the underwater beauty that awaits.

11. Step into History at St. John's Cathedral 

Immerse yourself in history by visiting St. John's Cathedral, the oldest Anglican Church in South America. Constructed in the 1800s using red bricks brought aboard English sailing ships, this architectural gem showcases the heritage of Belize. Originally a church, it later became a cathedral in 1891.

12. Engage with Iggy at the Iguana Sanctuary

Located within the charming San Ignacio Hotel, the Iguana Sanctuary provides a unique opportunity to connect with these fascinating reptiles. Take a stroll through the sanctuary's lush surroundings and observe the various species of iguanas that call this place home. Learn about their conservation efforts and the important role these creatures play in Belize's ecosystem. The sanctuary offers an educational experience for visitors of all ages, allowing you to gain a deeper understanding of these magnificent creatures and the importance of their preservation.

13. Take a Boat Trip to Lamanai 

Prepare for an unforgettable adventure as you hop on a boat and cruise along the New River to reach the ancient Mayan city of Lamanai. This archaeological site, nestled deep within the rainforest, offers a glimpse into Belize's rich history and cultural heritage. Marvel at the well-preserved temples, plazas, and intricate carvings that have withstood the test of time. Keep an eye out for the abundant wildlife that inhabits the surrounding jungle, from howler monkeys swinging through the trees to colorful bird species soaring above. The boat trip itself is a scenic experience, allowing you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the river and its surroundings.

15. Relax in the Village of Placencia 

Immerse yourself in the laid-back Caribbean vibe of Placencia, a charming village located on Belize's southeastern coast. Stroll along the narrow main street lined with colorful buildings, vibrant cafes, and local shops. Indulge in the flavors of Belizean cuisine at the village's restaurants, where fresh seafood dishes and traditional delicacies await. Take a dip in the azure waters of the Caribbean Sea or simply relax on the pristine sandy beaches. Placencia serves as an ideal base for diving and snorkeling adventures, with access to nearby coral reefs teeming with marine life. Don't miss the opportunity to interact with the friendly locals and learn about their unique culture, making your visit to Placencia a truly authentic and enriching experience.

16. See Victoria Peak on a Helicopter Tour 

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Victoria Peak from a whole new perspective by taking a thrilling helicopter tour. Buckle up and prepare for an adrenaline-pumping adventure as you lift off and ascend into the skies above Belize. Marvel at the lush rainforests, cascading waterfalls, and winding rivers that surround this iconic peak. As you hover over the landscape, your knowledgeable pilot will provide insightful commentary, offering fascinating details about the region's flora, fauna, and geological features. Capture stunning aerial photographs and create memories that will last a lifetime as you witness the natural splendor of Victoria Peak from an extraordinary vantage point.

18. Fly Over the Great Blue Hole 

Embark on an unforgettable journey as you board a prop plane for a flyover of the world-famous Great Blue Hole. This natural wonder, located off the coast of Belize, is a massive sinkhole renowned for its vibrant turquoise waters and unique marine ecosystem. Buckle up and prepare to be amazed as the plane soars above the azure depths, revealing the remarkable geological formations below. From the air, you'll witness the sheer magnitude of this underwater marvel and appreciate its distinct circular shape. The aerial perspective offers unparalleled views of the surrounding coral reefs, showcasing the diverse marine life that inhabits this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a photographer, or simply seeking an awe-inspiring experience, a flyover of the Great Blue Hole is an absolute must-do when visiting Belize.

19. Feel the thrill of Cave Tubing and Ziplining 

Experience at Jaguar Paw Get ready for an adrenaline-fueled day of exploration and adventure at Jaguar Paw, where you can combine the excitement of cave tubing with the thrill of ziplining. Begin your journey by hiking through the lush jungles of Belize, immersing yourself in the natural beauty that surrounds you. Reach the entrance of the cave system and gear up for an exhilarating cave tubing experience. Hop onto your inflated tube and float along the crystal-clear waters, passing through mesmerizing underground caves adorned with stunning stalactites and stalagmites. Feel the thrill as you navigate gentle rapids and learn about the geological significance of these ancient formations from your knowledgeable guide.

After your cave tubing adventure, it's time to take to the skies for a thrilling ziplining experience. Strap into your harness, step onto the platforms perched high above the treetops, and prepare to zip from one platform to another, soaring through the canopy with panoramic views of the surrounding jungle. Feel the rush of adrenaline as you glide through the air, catching glimpses of wildlife and the vibrant flora below.

Jaguar Paw offers the perfect blend of natural beauty and exhilarating activities, making it an ideal destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike. Whether you're seeking an adrenaline rush or a unique way to explore Belize's diverse ecosystems, the combination of cave tubing and ziplining at Jaguar Paw is an experience you won't want to miss.

Typical Costs in Belize

Accommodation costs.

Accommodation costs in Belize can vary depending on the type of accommodation you choose. Budget travelers can find affordable options such as hostels and guesthouses starting at around $20 to $40 USD per night. Mid-range hotels and resorts usually range from $80 to $150 USD per night. For those seeking luxury accommodations, high-end resorts and private villas can range from $200 to $500 USD per night or more. Keep in mind that prices may vary depending on the location and time of year.

Food and Dining Expense

Food in Belize offers a range of options to suit different budgets. Local street food and small eateries can offer delicious meals for as low as $5 to $10 USD per person. In mid-range restaurants, expect to spend around $15 to $30 USD per person for a meal. Fine dining experiences or upscale restaurants in tourist areas can cost $40 USD or more per person. If you prefer self-catering, groceries and snacks can be purchased at local markets or supermarkets, with average costs similar to those in North America or Europe.

Transportation Costs

Getting around Belize can be affordable and convenient. Local buses are the most budget-friendly option, with fares typically ranging from $1 to $5 USD for shorter journeys. Taxis are available in towns and cities, and fares vary based on distance, starting at around $5 USD. Renting a car is a popular choice for exploring the country, and prices can range from $50 to $100 USD per day, depending on the vehicle type and rental company. Domestic flights are also an option for longer distances, with prices varying depending on the destination and airline.

Activity and Attraction Fees

Belize offers a wide range of activities and attractions, each with its own pricing structure. National parks and archaeological sites typically charge entrance fees ranging from $5 to $20 USD per person. Excursions and guided tours, such as snorkeling trips, cave exploration, or wildlife encounters, can range from $50 to $150 USD or more, depending on the activity and duration. Keep in mind that some tours may include transportation and equipment rental, while others may require additional fees.

Budgeting Tips for Travelers

• Plan and research in advance to get an idea of the costs involved in your desired activities and accommodations.
• Consider traveling during the off-peak season, as prices for accommodations and flights tend to be lower.
• Eat at local eateries or try street food to experience the local cuisine at more affordable prices.
• Opt for public transportation, shared shuttles, or carpooling to reduce transportation costs.
• Look for deals, discounts, or package offers on activities and attractions.
• Consider staying in accommodations with kitchen facilities to save on dining expenses by preparing some meals yourself.
• Be mindful of your spending and prioritize the activities and experiences that matter most to you.
• Exchange currency at authorized establishments to get fair rates and avoid unnecessary fees.

By considering these factors and implementing budgeting tips, you can make the most of your trip to Belize while managing your expenses effectively.

Budget Ranges for Various Types of Travelers

Budget travelers.

For budget-conscious travelers, a daily budget of $50 to $70 USD can provide basic accommodations in budget guesthouses or hostels, local street food or affordable restaurants, and transportation via local buses or shared shuttles. This budget allows for participation in some lower-cost activities and attractions.

Mid-Range Travelers

Mid-range travelers can expect to spend between $80 and $150 USD per day. This budget allows for comfortable accommodations in mid-range hotels or guesthouses, dining in local restaurants, and the flexibility to choose a mix of budget-friendly and moderately priced activities and attractions. Additionally, it may include occasional taxis or private transportation for convenience.

Luxury Travelers

Those seeking luxury experiences in Belize should budget upwards of $200 USD per day and more. This budget allows for high-end accommodations in luxury resorts or private villas, fine dining experiences in upscale restaurants, and access to exclusive activities and attractions. Private transportation or organized tours may also be included in this budget range.

Average Daily Expenses Breakdown

Accommodation.

Budget ($20-40 USD), Mid-range ($80-150 USD), Luxury ($200+ USD)

Budget ($10-20 USD), Mid-range ($15-30 USD), Luxury ($40+ USD)

Transportation

Budget ($1-5 USD for local buses, $5+ USD for occasional taxis), Mid-range ($10-30 USD for shared shuttles or car rentals), Luxury ($50+ USD for private transfers or domestic flights)

Activities and Attractions

Budget ($5-20 USD for entrance fees), Mid-range ($50-150 USD for tours and excursions), Luxury ($150+ USD for exclusive experiences)

Miscellaneous

Additional expenses can include shopping, nightlife, spa treatments, and souvenirs, which vary based on personal preferences and spending habits.

Please note that the above figures are general guidelines and can vary based on individual travel styles, preferences, and the specific locations visited within Belize. It's essential to plan and allocate your budget accordingly to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable trip while accounting for any additional expenses specific to your interests.

Money-Saving Tips for Traveling in Belize

Finding affordable accommodations:.

• Look for budget guesthouses, hostels, or guest rooms in local homes. These options often provide cheaper rates compared to hotels and resorts.
• Consider booking accommodations in advance or during off-peak seasons when prices tend to be lower.
• Look for accommodations outside of popular tourist areas, as prices are generally more affordable.

Eating at Local Restaurants and Street Food Vendors

• Explore local eateries and street food vendors for authentic Belizean cuisine at lower prices compared to tourist-oriented restaurants.
• Consider having a picnic or buying groceries from local markets and supermarkets to prepare your meals, especially for breakfast and lunch.

Utilizing Public Transportation

• Opt for public buses or shared shuttles instead of private taxis for transportation within and between cities. Public transportation is generally more affordable and gives you a chance to experience the local culture.
• Consider walking or renting bicycles to explore nearby attractions, towns, or beaches, saving money on transportation costs.

Taking Advantage of Free or Low-Cost Activities

• Explore Belize's natural wonders by hiking, swimming in rivers or waterfalls, and enjoying the country's beautiful beaches, which often come at no cost.
• Visit public parks, gardens, and plazas that offer free entry and a chance to relax and soak in the local ambiance.
• Look for discounted or free guided tours offered by local organizations or tourism offices, providing an opportunity to learn about the history, culture, and wildlife of Belize without breaking the bank.

Additional Money-Saving Tips

• Stay hydrated by carrying a refillable water bottle and refilling it from safe drinking water sources to avoid purchasing bottled water.
• Bargain or negotiate prices at local markets or souvenir shops, as it is a common practice in Belize.
• Consider purchasing a local SIM card for your phone to take advantage of affordable local data plans instead of relying on international roaming.
• Research and compare prices for tours, activities, and transportation services to find the best deals and discounts.

By implementing these money-saving tips, you can make your trip to Belize more budget-friendly while still enjoying the country's rich culture, natural beauty, and exciting attractions.

‍ Where to Stay in Belize

Overview of popular regions and cities.

• Ambergris Caye: This island paradise is known for its stunning beaches, water activities, and vibrant nightlife.
• Caye Caulker: A more laid-back island with a relaxed atmosphere, offering a range of accommodations and access to snorkeling and diving spots.
• Belize City: The country's largest city and transportation hub, with a mix of cultural sites and historical attractions.
• San Ignacio: Located in the Cayo District, this area is ideal for exploring Mayan ruins, rainforests, and adventure activities.
• Placencia: A charming coastal village with beautiful beaches, fishing opportunities, and a range of accommodations.
• Hopkins: A seaside village known for its Garifuna culture, offering a tranquil beach experience and proximity to natural attractions.

Recommended Accommodations in Each Area

• Ambergris Caye: Luxury - Victoria House Resort & Spa, Mid-Range - SunBreeze Hotel, Budget - Sandbar Beachfront Hostel & Restaurant.
• Caye Caulker: Luxury - Island Magic Beach Resort, Mid-Range - Sea Dreams Hotel, Budget - Tropical Paradise Hotel.
• Belize City: Luxury - Radisson Fort George Hotel and Marina, Mid-Range - Best Western Plus Belize Biltmore Plaza Hotel, Budget - Easy Inn.
• San Ignacio: Luxury - Ka'ana Resort, Mid-Range - Cahal Pech Village Resort, Budget - Bella's Backpackers Hostel.
• Placencia: Luxury - Turtle Inn, Mid-Range - Robert's Grove Beach Resort, Budget - Lydia's Guesthouse.
• Hopkins: Luxury - Hamanasi Adventure & Dive Resort, Mid-Range - Almond Beach Resort, Budget - Parrot Cove Lodge.

Budget, Mid-Range, and Luxury Options

• Budget: Look for guesthouses, hostels, or affordable hotels in each region. These options often provide basic amenities at lower prices, perfect for budget-conscious travelers.
• Mid-Range: Mid-range accommodations offer comfortable rooms, additional amenities, and sometimes access to on-site facilities such as pools or restaurants. They strike a balance between price and quality.
• Luxury: For those seeking a luxurious experience, Belize offers high-end resorts, boutique hotels, and eco-lodges. These accommodations provide top-notch amenities, personalized service, and exclusive experiences.

When choosing where to stay in Belize, consider your preferred region, budget, and the type of experience you desire. Whether you opt for a budget-friendly option or indulge in luxury, Belize has a range of accommodations to suit every traveler's needs.

How to Get Around in Belize

Transportation options within the country.

• Domestic Flights: Domestic flights are a convenient option for covering long distances quickly. Local airlines such as Maya Island Air and Tropic Air operate regular flights between major destinations, including Belize City, San Pedro, Caye Caulker, Placencia, and more.
• Buses: Buses are a cost-effective way to travel within Belize. The bus network covers various routes, including popular tourist destinations and major towns. The buses are often colorful and offer both express and regular services.
• Taxis: Taxis are readily available in urban areas and major tourist destinations. They can be hailed on the street or found at taxi stands. It's advisable to negotiate fares or ask the driver to use the meter to ensure a fair price.
• Rental Cars: Renting a car gives you the freedom to explore Belize at your own pace. Major car rental companies operate in Belize City and other tourist hubs. It's important to note that driving is on the right side of the road in Belize.
• Water Taxis: Water taxis are a popular mode of transportation for reaching the islands and coastal areas. They operate regular routes between Belize City and destinations like Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker. The journey offers scenic views of the Caribbean Sea.

Pros and Cons of Each Transportation Mode

• Domestic Flights: Pros: Saves time, especially for long distances. Offers breathtaking aerial views of Belize's landscapes. Cons: Relatively higher cost compared to other modes of transportation. Limited baggage allowance.
• Buses: Pros: Affordable option. Wide coverage of routes. Allows interaction with locals and fellow travelers. Cons: Can be crowded and have limited schedules. Longer travel times compared to domestic flights.
• Taxis: Pros: Convenient, especially for short distances or when carrying heavy luggage. Offers door-to-door service. Cons: Fares can be higher, especially for tourists. Some drivers may not use meters and require negotiation.
• Rental Cars: Pros: Flexibility to explore at your own pace. Ideal for off-the-beaten-path destinations. Cons: Additional costs for fuel, insurance, and parking. May be challenging to navigate in unfamiliar areas.
• Water Taxis: Pros: Scenic journeys with coastal views. Efficient for island hopping. Frequent departures to popular destinations. Cons: Limited routes and schedules. Weather conditions may affect operations.

When choosing a transportation mode in Belize, consider factors such as your budget, travel preferences, time constraints, and the specific destination you plan to visit. It's recommended to combine different modes of transportation to make the most of your Belizean adventure.

When to Go to Belize

Overview of belize's climate and seasons.

Belize has a tropical climate characterized by two primary seasons: the dry season and the rainy season. The dry season typically runs from November to April, while the rainy season spans from May to October. The country experiences warm temperatures year-round, with slightly cooler temperatures during the winter months.

Best Time to Visit for Specific Activities and Interests

• Beach and Water Activities: The dry season, particularly from December to April, is an ideal time for beach lovers and water activities like snorkeling, diving, and swimming. The sea is calm, and visibility is excellent during this period.
• Birdwatching and Wildlife Spotting: The rainy season, from May to October, brings lush greenery and is the best time for birdwatching enthusiasts. Many migratory bird species visit during this time, and the rainforest comes alive with vibrant flora and fauna.
• Mayan Ruins and Cultural Exploration: Anytime during the year is suitable for exploring the Mayan ruins in Belize. The dry season offers pleasant weather for archaeological site visits, while the rainy season can provide a more immersive experience with fewer crowds.
• Festivals and Cultural Events: Belize has various cultural festivals and events throughout the year. The Carnival in February, Lobster Festivals in June, and Garifuna Settlement Day in November are popular celebrations that offer a glimpse into Belizean culture.

Avoiding Peak Tourist Seasons

Peak tourist seasons in Belize typically coincide with the dry season, especially during the winter months when visitors from colder climates seek warmer weather. The influx of tourists can result in higher prices for accommodations and attractions. To avoid peak seasons and enjoy a more tranquil experience, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of May-June or September-October. During these periods, you can still enjoy favorable weather while encountering fewer crowds and potentially benefiting from discounted rates.

It's important to note that weather patterns can vary, and unexpected changes can occur. Checking weather forecasts and being prepared for occasional rain showers, especially during the rainy season, is advisable. Regardless of the season, Belize offers unique experiences and natural beauty, making it a year-round destination for travelers.

How to Stay Safe in Belize

General safety tips for travelers.

• Research and Plan: Before your trip, research the areas you plan to visit and familiarize yourself with local customs and laws. Stay informed about current safety conditions and any travel advisories issued by your government.
• Stay Aware of Your Surroundings: Be attentive to your surroundings, especially in crowded or unfamiliar areas. Keep an eye on your belongings and avoid displaying valuable items openly.
• Use Reliable Transportation: Opt for reputable taxi services or prearranged transportation from trusted sources. If using public transportation, keep an eye on your belongings and be cautious of pickpockets.
• Secure Your Accommodations: Choose accommodations in safe and well-reviewed areas. Use secure locks on doors and windows and store your valuables in a safe or secure storage.
• Stay Connected: Keep important emergency contact numbers and the contact information of your embassy or consulate with you at all times. Inform someone trustworthy about your travel plans and check in with them regularly.

Common Scams and Pitfalls to Avoid

• Money-related Scams: Be cautious of individuals offering deals that seem too good to be true or attempting to exchange currency at unfavorable rates. Use reputable currency exchange services and avoid exchanging money with strangers.
• Street Vendors and Touts: While many street vendors offer legitimate products, be wary of aggressive vendors or individuals who may attempt to distract you or engage in scams. Negotiate prices in a friendly but firm manner.
• Tourist-targeted Theft: Take precautions to safeguard your belongings, especially in crowded tourist areas. Keep your bags zipped and secured, and avoid carrying large amounts of cash or displaying expensive jewelry or gadgets.
• Transportation Scams: Be cautious of unlicensed taxis or drivers who may overcharge or take you on longer routes to increase fares. Use licensed taxis or arrange transportation through reputable sources.

Health and Medical Considerations

• Vaccinations: Consult with a healthcare professional before traveling to Belize to ensure you are up to date on routine vaccines and consider additional vaccinations recommended for the region.
• Mosquito-borne Illnesses: Protect yourself from mosquito bites by using insect repellent, wearing long sleeves and pants, and staying in accommodations with screens or air conditioning. Malaria and dengue fever are present in Belize, particularly in rural areas.
• Safe Food and Water: Drink bottled or purified water and avoid consuming food from street vendors or establishments with questionable hygiene practices. Wash your hands regularly or use hand sanitizers before meals.
• Travel Insurance: Purchase comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellation or interruption, and personal belongings. Familiarize yourself with the policy's coverage and emergency procedures.

It's important to note that personal safety can vary depending on the location and circumstances. Stay informed, trust your instincts, and take necessary precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip to Belize.

Best Places to Book Your Belize Trip

Online travel agencies.

• Expedia: Expedia offers a wide range of options for flights, accommodations, and vacation packages in Belize. You can compare prices, read reviews, and find deals on their website or mobile app.
• Booking.com: Known for its extensive selection of accommodations, Booking.com allows you to book hotels, guesthouses, and resorts in Belize. The platform provides detailed information, customer reviews, and flexible booking options.
• TripAdvisor: TripAdvisor is a popular platform for planning and booking travel. It offers a comprehensive selection of accommodations, flights, and activities in Belize. You can also read traveler reviews and recommendations to make informed decisions.

Local Tour Operators

• Belize Tourism Board: The official tourism website of Belize provides a list of licensed tour operators that offer a variety of activities and tours. It's a reliable source to find reputable operators who adhere to safety standards and provide quality experiences.
• Local Recommendations: When in Belize, ask locals or your accommodation staff for recommendations on reliable tour operators. They often have firsthand knowledge and can suggest trustworthy options based on your interests and budget.

Accommodation Booking Websites

• Airbnb: Airbnb offers a range of accommodations in Belize, including apartments, villas, and unique stays. It's a great option if you prefer a more personalized experience or want to immerse yourself in the local culture.
• Hotels.com: Hotels.com provides a wide selection of hotels and resorts in Belize. You can search by location, price range, and amenities, and take advantage of their reward program for additional savings.
• Agoda: Agoda offers a variety of accommodation options in Belize, from budget-friendly to luxury resorts. The platform provides detailed descriptions, reviews, and competitive prices to help you find the perfect place to stay.

Remember to compare prices, read reviews, and consider the location and amenities that best suit your travel preferences. It's also beneficial to book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons in Belize, to secure availability and potentially enjoy early bird discounts.

Related Blogs on Belize

Here’s a list of Recommended Blogs and Travel Resources for Further Information:

Belize Travel Blog | belizetravelblog.com

This blog offers detailed insights into various destinations, activities, and attractions in Belize. It covers topics such as adventure travel, wildlife, culture, and local experiences, providing valuable information for planning your trip.

My Beautiful Belize | mybeautifulbelize.com

This blog showcases the beauty and diversity of Belize, featuring articles on popular destinations, off-the-beaten-path locations, and local culture. It also provides practical travel tips, restaurant recommendations, and accommodation suggestions.

Belize Adventure | belizeadventure.ca

Run by a Lorenzo Gonzalez, this blog shares their personal experiences and adventures in the country. From snorkeling and diving to exploring Mayan ruins and wildlife sanctuaries, the blog offers a wealth of information and inspiring stories.

Chaa Creek Blog | belize-travel-blog.chaacreek.com

The Chaa Creek Travel Blog is a comprehensive resource that delves into all things Belize. From invaluable travel tips and suggested itineraries to detailed destination guides, this blog covers it all. Whether you're seeking practical advice on transportation, budgeting, or safety, you'll find the information you need to plan a seamless and unforgettable Belizean adventure.

San Pedro Scoop | sanpedroscoop.com

Focusing on the island of Ambergris Caye and its surrounding areas, this blog provides detailed insights into the local scene, restaurants, accommodations, and activities. It also features personal stories and recommendations from the author's experiences in Belize.

‍ Caribbean Culture & Lifestyle | caribbeanlifestyle.com

This blog celebrates the vibrant and diverse Caribbean culture, including Belize as one of its featured destinations. It covers a wide range of topics, including travel, food, music, art, and local events. With a focus on promoting Caribbean heritage and exploring authentic experiences, this blog provides insights into Belize's unique cultural aspects and highlights the country's rich history and traditions.

These blogs offer valuable information, tips, and firsthand experiences to help you plan your Belize trip. They provide insights into the country's diverse attractions, local customs, and practical considerations, allowing you to make the most of your adventure in Belize.

Ready for your Trip to Belize?

We hope you've enjoyed the Curious Belize Travel Guide 2023, and that you've gained some insights into the extraordinary magical destination that we call home.

With a wealth of information, curated articles, and firsthand accounts, our guide is designed to empower and inspire you as you explore the wonders of Belize.

From ancient ruins to lush rainforests, vibrant reefs to pristine beaches, this captivating country offers a multitude of experiences that will leave you awe-inspired.

So, the question remains: When are you going to visit Belize?

Let your curiosity guide you, and let Curious Belize be your trusted companion as you create memories that will last a lifetime. Start planning your Belizean adventure today and prepare for an unforgettable experience like no other.

©Cannon Photography LLC/Alamy Stock Photo

With one foot in the Central American jungles and the other in the Caribbean Sea, pint-sized Belize is packed with islands, adventure and culture.

Best Time to Visit

Best places to visit, attractions, must-see attractions.

Hol Chan Marine Reserve

Ambergris Caye

At the southern tip of Ambergris, the 6.5-sq-mile Hol Chan Marine Reserve is probably Belize's most oft-visited diving and snorkeling site. It offers…

Xunantunich

Cayo District

Set on a leveled hilltop, Xunantunich (shoo-nahn-too-neech) is one of Belize's most easily accessible and impressive Maya archaeological sites. Getting…

Belize District

If most zoos are maximum-security wildlife prisons, then the Belize Zoo is more like a halfway house for wild animals that can't make it on the outside. A…

Once one of the most powerful cities in the entire Maya world, Caracol now lies enshrouded by thick jungle near the Guatemalan border, a 52-mile, roughly…

Museum of Belize

Belize City

This modern museum in the Fort George District provides an excellent overview of the story of Belize, told through exhibits housed in the country's former…

Half Moon Caye Natural Monument

Half Moon Caye Natural Monument is known first and foremost as providing nesting grounds for the rare red-footed booby bird, but the island's enchantments…

Goff's Caye

Some of the most spectacular snorkeling in Belize happens just a short swim off the powder-white sands of Goff's Caye, a tiny, uninhabited island just a…

Green Iguana Conservation Project

San Ignacio

On the lush Macal Valley grounds of the San Ignacio Resort Hotel, this excellent program collects and hatches iguana eggs, raising the reptiles until they…

Top picks from our travel experts

23 of the best things to do in belize.

Lazy Lizard

Caye Caulker

The Lazy Lizard is described as a 'sunny place for shady people,' though most folks here tend to be attractive, young travelers, swimming about and…

Shark Ray Alley

Only snorkeling is allowed at this perennially popular spot, which is in a shallow part of the Hol Chan Marine Reserve. Shark Ray Alley was traditionally…

Chaa Creek Natural History Center & Butterfly Farm

Hike up the tree-covered hillside above the Macal River to reach the Chaa Creek Natural History Center & Butterfly Farm, a small nature center with…

Black Rock Lodge

High up the Macal in beautiful Black Rock Canyon, this is a stunning setting for a jungle adventure. Slate-and-wood cabins are fan-cooled and have lovely…

Ray Caye Resort

This spectacular private island resort, about 18 miles east of Placencia, should fulfill all of your tropical island fantasies without completely breaking…

Copal Tree Lodge

Southern Belize

Formerly Belcampo Belize, Copal Tree Lodge enjoys a superb hilltop setting overlooking miles of protected jungle stretching down to the Gulf of Honduras…

Marie Sharp's Factory

The super-hot bottled sauces that adorn tables all over Belize and beyond are made from habanero peppers here at Marie Sharp's Factory, 8 miles northwest…

A narrow channel that splits Caye Caulker into two, the Split has clean, deep waters free of seaweed, making it one of the island's best swimming areas…

Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary

The Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary is Belize’s most famous sanctuary and one of its biggest protected areas. This great swath of tropical forest…

The last word in ultra-chic luxury (with price tag to match), this Balinese-themed lodge is owned by the family of Francis Ford Coppola, where the…

Blancaneaux Lodge

Owned by movie director Francis Ford Coppola (who keeps a personal villa, 'the Francis Ford Coppola Villa,' complete with attendant and private pool;…

Turneffe Island Resort

At the southern tip of the atoll, the fanciest of the Turneffe resorts offers gorgeous cabañas with screened porches, wooden floorboards, and indoor and…

Errolyns House of Fry Jacks

Who said Belize had to be expensive? Locals and travelers alike descend on this neat takeout hut to chow down on the island's best-value breakfast –…

Ian Anderson's Caves Branch Jungle Lodge

Hummingbird Highway

Hidden away in dense jungle off the Hummingbird Hwy, Ian Anderson's is a 90-sq-mile private estate that acts as a base for a variety of exclusive jungle…

Pop's Restaurant

You may feel like you're in a Seinfeld episode at this friendly diner with booth seating. The best omelets in town, along with waffles and good coffee,…

Big Rock Falls

The small but powerful Big Rock Falls on Privassion Creek are, for many, more impressive than the Thousand Foot Falls – not least because you can get up…

Northern Belize

Perhaps the most fascinating Maya site in Northern Belize, Lamanai lies 24 miles south of Orange Walk Town up the New River (or 36 miles by unpaved road)…

Altun Ha, the Maya ruins that have inspired Belikin beer labels and Belizean banknotes, stands 31 miles north of Belize City, off the Old Northern Hwy…

High atop a hill about a mile south of San Ignacio, Cahal Pech is the oldest-known Maya site in the Belize River valley, having been first settled between…

The Maya ruins at Lubaantun, 1.3 miles northwest of San Pedro Columbia, are built on a natural hilltop and display a construction method unusual in the…

Planning Tools

Expert guidance to help you plan your trip.

Best Things to Do

With a glittering Caribbean coastline, wildlife-filled jungles and beautiful coral reefs, there are many amazing experiences to have in Belize.

Things to Know

Jungle or beach? What street foods should I try? Why is everything so slow? Here is everything you need to know before traveling to Belize.

Transportation

Getting around the country of Belize can be an adventure in itself. Here are our top tips for a successful journey.

Visa Requirements

Here's what you need to know about visa requirements ahead of travel to Belize.

Money and Costs

Though it's more costly than its Central American neighbors, Belize is not beyond the reach of budget travelers. Just use our 9 top tips to plan your trip.

Traveling with Kids

Planning a vacation with the little ones? Here are some of the best things to do in Belize with kids of all ages.

Best Road Trips

Explore the beautiful country of Belize by car on these top road trip routes.

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This Tropical Paradise Has Mayan Ruins, Remote Islands, and One of the World's Largest Reefs — How to Visit

Consider this your ultimate Belize guide, including when to go, where to stay, and what to do.

Evie Carrick is a writer and editor who’s lived in five countries and visited well over 50. She now splits her time between Colorado and Paris, ensuring she doesn't have to live without skiing or L'As du Fallafel.

Best Hotels and Resorts

• Best Things to Do
• Best Restaurants

Best Times to Visit

How to get there, islands to visit, how to get around.

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

From beaches and mangrove swamps to rainforests and mountains, Belize is known for its biodiversity. Ancient Mayan archeological sites , remote islands, waterfalls, and the world's second largest barrier reef attract visitors to the country's natural beauty.

“We offer visitors the best of both worlds, with the reef and the rainforest being in such close proximity, where you can spend your morning doing jungle adventures and by evening you are on the beach,” Jana Puga, the branding and hospitality specialist at the Belize Tourism Board , told Travel + Leisure . "We are a proud nation very committed to preserving our heritage and natural resources."

Belize is located on Central America's northeastern coast just south of Mexico. It borders the Caribbean Sea and consists of a diverse mainland area and about 450 islands called "cays" or "cayes" (pronounced "keys"). Belize is also home to the longest cave system in Central America.

English is the official language of Belize, and visitors will also hear the local Kriol language spoken. “The country has a unique history because it is the only country in Central America that was colonized by the British, making English the official language," Puga said.

The use of English makes travel easy for Americans, as does the country’s use of U.S. dollars, along with Belizean Dollars.

Alaia Belize

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

This luxury property is set right on the water on Ambergris Caye and features spacious guest rooms, suites, and three-bedroom beachfront villas. Amenities include a full-service spa, six restaurants, four bars, and three pools, including a suspended rooftop pool and lounge with views over the ocean. 

Cayo Espanto

Set on its own five-star, four-acre island off San Pedro on Ambergris Caye, Cayo Espanto offers luxury beachfront one- and two-bedroom villas as well as a spacious 1,100-square-foot overwater bungalow with a private dock. The cuisine is all-inclusive and comes paired with world-class wines. The quiet, private island is also outfitted with its own spa and operates daily trips and tours, including fishing, scuba diving, and birdwatching.

This eco-lodge is located along the Macal River in the foothills of the Maya Mountains about two hours southwest of Belize City. The hotel is set on a private 400-acre nature preserve, which boasts its own butterfly farm , and their motto, “Wildly civilized,” pretty much sums up the experience. Guests are encouraged to coexist with nature during their stay, with accommodations that include eco-pods, tree-top suites, and villas with private plunge pools. 

Turneffe Island Resort

One of the best all-inclusive resorts in Belize is set on a 14-acre private island just 30 miles southeast of Belize City. The luxurious Turneffe Island Resort is a favorite with travelers who love fishing, diving, and snorkeling. Guests arrive by boat or helicopter from the international airport where they're met by a resort representative. A variety of guest rooms and beachfront villas are available.

Blancaneaux Lodge

This luxury boutique hideaway hotel is set in western Belize in the 107,000-acre Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve among tropical trees, shrubs, waterfalls, and jungle. Twenty elegant accommodations include cabanas, villas, and the ultra-luxe Francis Ford Coppola's Villa , which has two bedrooms, a private plunge pool, and a spacious hardwood deck set in a lush tropical garden. Montagna Ristorante features Italian cuisine, and poolside and garden dining are also available.

Best Things to Do 

Great blue hole.

Known to divers around the world, the Great Blue Hole is part of the Belize Barrier Reef, which is a protected UNESCO World Heritage Site . The circular-shaped Blue Hole gets its rich color from its depth — at its deepest, it reaches more than 400 feet. Geological formations and a variety of coral, tropical fish, sharks, shrimp, and unique marine life make up the site’s main attractions. French explorer Jacques Cousteau called it one of the top 10 dive sites in the world. And since it is just 45 minutes from the mainland by boat, it’s a no-brainer for any diver who finds themselves in Belize.

Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary

Puga noted that “Belize has the world’s first jaguar preserve,” which is part of the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary in south-central Belize. The sanctuary protects 122,260 acres of subtropical forest in the Maya Mountains, which are home to the mighty jaguar. And while your chances of seeing a jaguar are extremely unlikely — although they may see you — you might catch glimpses of howler monkeys, jaguarundi (a small, wild cat), the pig-like peccary, and over 300 bird species.

loeskieboom/Getty Images

There are many Mayan archaeological sites in Belize, but Altun Ha is easily the most accessible. There are plenty of tours running from Belize City and San Pedro, and the site is under 1 hour by car from the heart of the capital. That said, Altun Ha’s accessibility is also its curse. It is noticeably busier than the other Mayan sites, so if you have the time, consider visiting Caracol, which is the largest site; Lamanai, which is in the jungle; and Xunantunich, which is known for its Mayan hieroglyphics. 

Secret Beach on Ambergris Caye

Belize has over 200 miles of Caribbean coastline, providing more than enough beach space for those looking to throw down a towel, open a book, and chill. But one of the most iconic beaches — and ironically, the most well-known — is Secret Beach on Ambergris Caye. This island-bound beach has all-day music, food, and drinks in addition to white sand and clear water. 

Best Restaurants 

Vino tinto restaurant & bar (belize city).

As Puga confirmed, this rooftop restaurant has an “amazing view of the city, coastline, and sunsets.” The restaurant and bar is perched on top of the Golden Bay Belize Hotel and serves a Caribbean-inspired menu alongside a wide variety of cocktails, beer, and wine. On Sundays, it’s a great place to get breakfast with a view.

El Fogon Restaurant (San Pedro)

This eatery on San Pedro is known for its unique style of cooking: each dish is cooked over an open fire. El Fogon is a favorite of Puga’s, who noted that the “authentic Belizean food is prepared on traditional fire hearth.” Fare includes Belikin fried chicken, beef soup, ceviche, and lobster.

Hobbs Brew Barge (Placencia)

Also known simply as “The Brew Barge,” this restaurant on Punta Placencia is unique in that its located on a barge, which Puga said “sits on the lagoon of the peninsula.” The unique dining experience is complemented by a creative cocktail list, beer flights, and ongoing live music.

Love On The Rocks (Hopkins)

This is oceanfront dining at its best. The views and breeze are impossible to top (or replicate) and the food is wildly unique. The Love On The Rocks menu relies on lava stones to cook the food, a method used by the ancient Mayans of Belize. Beyond the stone-cooked menu, this eatery has a cocktail list that was made for the beach.

The best time to visit Belize is between late November and May. The climate in this Central American country is comfortable year-round, but the weather varies greatly by region. Rain tends to be heaviest in southern Belize and the country’s jungle areas, and the lightest in northern Belize and on the many Belizean cays or islands. The driest months tend to be February through May and the rainiest months are August through October. Those willing to travel to Belize during the rainy season will be treated to lower prices, abundant wildlife, and flowers in bloom.

Most international flights arrive at Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport (BZE), which is just 15 miles northwest of Belize City, the country’s capital. From the international airport, visitors can hail a taxi into the city, head to the ferry, or hop on a connecting, local flight to their final destination.

Ambergris Caye

If you want to visit one of the islands off mainland Belize, chances are your journey will start in San Pedro Town in the southern part of Ambergris Caye. Whether it’s your final stop or a stopover, make sure to walk the sandy streets, visit one of the many beach bars, and explore the nearby Hol Chan Marine Reserve, which has diving among parrot fish, nurse sharks, and eels. "If you are someone looking for an island vacation and multiple options for nightlife and dining, San Pedro is a must-visit," said Puga.

Caye Caulker

Alessandra Amodio/Travel + Leisure

Between Belize City and San Pedro is Caye Caulker, a tiny coral island with lots of diving, and snorkeling, and a famous manatee population. “If you’re not already staying there, a day trip to Caye Caulker to experience activities at ‘The Split,’ the tarpon viewing, and other family-friendly activities,” said Puga.

Traveling around Belize is fairly easy, according to Puga. If you are staying on mainland Belize and want to travel at will, she recommended renting a car, noting that “it is very easy to move around, as we only have five major highways.”

Those who are headed to the islands will find that “golf carts and bicycles are the preferred means of transportation.” And if you plan to only visit a couple of places during your time in Belize, Puga said there is “public transportation, transfer companies, puddle jumpers, and ferries available.”

If you want to get to the islands, check the San Pedro Belize Express Water Taxi schedule. The ferry system runs regularly from Belize City to San Pedro and Caye Caulker.

Belize Itinerary: How to spend 5 to 10 days in Belize (2023)

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. At no cost to you, I might earn a small commission if you make a purchase through the links in this article. 

Planning an epic Belize itinerary? Whether you are planning 5 days in Belize, 7 or 10, I wrote this guide for you.

Belize is the second smallest country in Central America that’s famous for its scuba diving. While some think Belize has only beaches, it’s’ not true! Belize boasts lush jungles, diverse cultures, and some of the best Mayan ruins in Central America.

✅ Check out where to stay in Belize

5 DAYS IN BELIZE ITINERARY

5 days in Belize is not a lot of time, so stick to just one destination and making the most of it. Depending on what your plans and budget look like, you could also take a day trip to see more of the country.

✅ What language do they speak in Belize ?

My suggested places for 5 days in Belize are Ambergris Caye , Caye Caulker and Placencia – the most popular coastal towns where you can find some of the best beaches in Belize, enjoy snorkeling and scuba diving, and try the traditional Belizean food. 

Day 1: Arrive in Belize City 

Arrive at Philip Goldson International Airport (BZE), the only international airport in Belize. From here you will have a choice to go to several destinations in Belize like Ambergris Caye, Placencia, and San Ignacio.

If you are visiting Belize for the first time, start with Ambergris Caye, the largest island in Belize that’s popular for diving and water sports.

How to get from Belize City to Ambergris Caye

The fastest way to get from Belize City to Ambergris Caye is by taking a flight with Tropic Air to San Pedro, the capital of Ambergris Caye and the second largest city in Belize.

Another way to get from Belize City to Ambergris Caye is via boat. You need to take a taxi to the Belize Water Taxi Terminal and catch a boat to Ambergris Caye which takes about 50 minutes and costs $25 USD.

PRO TIP: Flying to San Pedro from Belize City will save at least 2 hours. A boat is only slightly cheaper than a flight, but taking a flight from Belize City to San Pedro will help you to save a lot of time.

Caye Caulker 

Alternatively, you can also choose Caye Caulker instead of Ambergris Caye. These two islands are located about 25 minutes apart by boat taxi but offer a different experience. Ambergris Caye has resorts and more upscale restaurants and is more popular with people who want to splurge on their vacation.

✅ Check my guide to the best things to do in Belize

Caye Caulker caters to budget travelers and backpackers and you can find a better variety of cheaper hostels and hostels in Caye Caulker. It’s also smaller than Ambergris Caye and offers a more relaxing experience for your itinerary.

Where to stay on Caye Caulker:   Sea Dreams Hotel

The island is divided into two parts by a narrow channel called the Split. The north part of the Split is filled with thick mangroves and is home to diverse wildlife. Part of the area is a protected area referred to as the Caye Caulker Marine Reserve.

Best Caye Caulker tours

The lower half of the island is where you’ll find the island’s only town – Caye Caulker Village. 

➡️ GET THIS ANTI-THEFT BAG TO KEEP YOUR BELONGINGS SAFE

Rent a kayak or paddleboard to get around the coast of the island. You can also book a tour that will allow you to snorkel manatees, but keep in mind that it’s never a guarantee. 

Day 2: Snorkel or scuba dive

Ambergris Caye is the largest island in Belize that sits at the doorstep of the Great Mesoamerican Barrier Reef , the second-largest barrier reef in the world.

Best scuba diving tours in Belize

So grab your gear and explore the incredible Caribbean waters! There are several companies on the island where you can book a tour like Belize Pro Dive Center, where you can book your diving session. 

✅ Check my guide to the best things to do on Ambergris Caye

Best snorkeling tours of Ambergris Caye

If you are not a diver, book a snorkeling tour of the Hol Chan Marine Reserve , the protected area where you can observe the incredible wildlife and swim with whale sharks.

This is one of the must-dos during your 5 days in Belize! 

✅ RENT A GOLF CART ON AMBERGRIS CAYE

Where to eat on Ambergris Caye

Ambergris Caye boasts a good selection of restaurants. Head to Iguana Juan’s for some healthy food or stop at Elvi’s Kitchen , one of the most popular restaurants on Ambergris Caye. 

To end your day, grab a bottle of Belikin , a Belizean beer, and head to the pier to watch the gorgeous Caribbean sunset. 

➡️ Read my guide to the best resorts in San Pedro , one of the most popular places to visit in Belize

Day 3: Fly over the Great Blue Hole 

For your third day, you have a few options.

You can catch a boat to Caye Caulker, Caye Caulker’s smaller cousin if you want a change of scenery. Take a flight over the Big Blue Hole or do a diving session there. 

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Blue Hole is in an offshore atoll called Lighthouse Reef.

✅ BOOK YOUR TOUR OF BELIZE BLUE HOLE HERE

What’s so special about the Blue Hole in Belize?

The Great Blue Hole is over 400 feet deep and is one of the best diving spots in the world. It was formed thousands of years ago when the rising sea level flooded a vast network of caves that have stalactites and stalagmites. 

You can take a scenic flyover of the Blue Hole from the San Pedro Airport with Tropic Air or Maya Island Air, which lasts about 1 hour. It’s a wonderful experience and is one of the best things to do in Belize, in my opinion! 

LET ME HELP YOU PLAN YOUR TRIP TO BELIZE!

Besides being a travel blogger, I also create itineraries for my readers 😃 If you want me to plan your trip to Belize, provide insider tips and do all the research for you, fill out the form below. 

My custom itineraries include information on popular landmarks, restaurants, and hidden corners that most tourists miss. As part of my services, I also offer suggestions on flights, hotels and activities.

Can’t wait to hear from you! 💛

Spend your afternoon enjoying San Pedro’s beaches

You can rent a golf cart, and go to Secret Beach or simply jump in the water from one of the docks along the main drag in San Pedro.

Palapa Bar in the heart of San Pedro has a great beach club where you can sip a drink and enjoy the bright Caribbean waters. 

In the evening, head to Truck Stop, about 1 mile north of downtown San Pedro. This venue is a bunch of shipping containers, converted into small restaurants that offer cuisines from many parts of the world.

It has frequent social events and games, so you will not get bored there!

Day 4: Take a day trip from Ambergris Caye

For your fourth day, take a day trip to mainland Belize. You can choose from many options including a tour of Mayan ruins, a fun tubing adventure in the Belizean jungle, or caving where you will swim and wade through the water. 

Best guided tours from Ambergris Caye

Day 5: take transportation from ambergris caye to belize city.

Take a flight to Belize City Airport to maximize your time. This way, you don’t have to spend a few hours on the boat ride. 

7 DAYS IN BELIZE ITINERARY

One week is enough to enjoy one of the main destinations in Belize along the coast and venture into the jungle. While it’s still very little time, you can make the most of it by maximizing your time. 

➡️ Read about the best Belize resorts for any taste and budget

Since I’ve already covered the San Pedro activities in my 5 days in Belize, I will focus on a different destination for my 7 days in Belize, so you could choose from several options. 

After arriving at Belize City International Airport, take a flight or private shuttle to Placencia, a beach town located along the coast of Belize. If you are on a budget, catch a bus from Novelo Bus Terminal in Belize for about 10 BZD. 

✅ How to get from Belize City to Placencia

Private shuttle from Belize City to Placencia

Where to stay in Placencia: Casa Del Hut

Placencia is a fishing village with colorful houses along the main street. It’s a perfect alternative to Ambergris Caye if you want to be closer to mainland Belize and some of the most beautiful islands in the Caribbean. 

✅ GET REEF SAFE SUNSCREEN FOR YOUR TRIP TO BELIZE

You will be hungry after you arrive in Placencia following a few hour journey! One of the best restaurants in town is Rumfish y Vino, which has plenty of options made with locally sourced ingredients. 

Day 2: Spend a day exploring Placencia 

Placencia is popular with ex-pats, digital nomads, and travelers who come to do snorkeling and diving. Whether you want to spend your day on the beach or grab your camera and walk around the main drag of Placencia lined with colorful houses, you will have a blast. 

➡️ Read my guide to where to stay in Placencia

Day 3: Take a snorkeling or diving lesson

Placencia offers perfect conditions for diving and snorkeling in Placencia with pristine coral reefs and spectacular wildlife. You can spend the rest of the day on the beach or walk around town to meet locals and enjoy the local flair.

➡️  GET A WATERPROOF BAG TO KEEP YOUR STUFF SAFE

Day 4: Explore the Laughing Bird Caye Park

The Laughing Bird Caye Park is a paradisiacal island in the middle of the Caribbean that’s an absolute must for anybody who comes to Placencia . A tour takes most of the day and can book your adventure online for a hassle-free experience. 

Day 5: Take a day trip to Hopkins

Hopkins is a village near Placencia that’s home to the Garifuna culture in Belize one of the most interesting cultures of the Caribbean. The best way to learn about this culture is by taking one of Garifuna’s drumming classes, shopping art from local vendors, and trying traditional Garifuna dishes in the area’s restaurants. 

Another option for your fifth day in Belize is to take a trip to the Cockscomb Wildlife Sanctuary that’s home to jaguars. While these felines are notoriously hard to spot during the day, you can still enjoy a hike or two in this place.

Day 6: Spend the last day enjoying Placencia

For your last day in Placencia, take a day trip to the famous Actun Tunichil Muknal Caves (ATM caves) .

Profiled by National Geographic, ATM caves offer the Indiana Jones kind of experience. Here you get to swim and wade through the water and learn about ancient Mayan rituals that took place thousands of years ago.

Best Placencia tours

Visiting ATM caves was one of my favorite experiences in Belize, and you definitely shouldn’t miss out on this experience during your 7 days in Belize. 

10 DAYS IN BELIZE ITINERARY

10 days in Belize is a good amount of time to explore some of the most popular islands in Belize like Caye Caulker and Ambergris Caye and venture into the mainland.

If you are visiting the country for the first time, I don’t recommend less than 10 days, simply because there’s so much to do here, despite many people coming to do a couple of dives or snorkel. 

Day 1: Arrive in Belize City

Arrive in Belize via Felipe Goldson International Airport. Take private transportation to Placencia, catch a flight to Ambergris Caye, or a boat ride to Caye Caulker.

Day 2-4: Relax on best Belize beaches

Just like with my itineraries for 5 and 7 days in Belize, you can spend the first few days in popular places like Ambergris Caye, Placencia, or Caye Caulker . Four to 5 days in Belize is enough time to do snorkeling, or diving and enjoy the slow pace of Belize’s islands and beach towns.

Day 5: Travel to mainland Belize

It’s time to venture to mainland Belize! You can begin your trip by booking a tour of the Lamanai ruins in the heart of the Belizean jungle near Orange Walk Town or head straight to San Ignacio, a backpacker hub in western Belize near the Guatemala border. 

Best guided tours of Lamanai ruins

How to get from belize city to san ignacio .

The easiest way to get from Belize City to San Ignacio is by taking private transportation which can be arranged online ahead of your trip. 

Another option is to take a chicken bus from the Novelo bus terminal in Belize City. This is a preferred mode of transportation among locals which will be significantly cheaper, but longer. Chicken buses in Belize are safe but they don’t have air conditioning and don’t have any room to store your luggage. 

If you are traveling with a lot of luggage, booking private transportation to San Ignacio is the best option.

Private shuttle from Belize City to San Ignacio

If you are a backpacker or budget traveler, catching a bus from Belize City to San Ignacio is a great alternative.

✅ Read my guide to where to stay in San Ignacio, Belize

Remember that you need to pay in cash and keep an eye on your belongings, as chicken buses in Belize can be crammed with people. You will need to buy your tickets at the bus terminal with cash. The ticket costs about 8 Belizean dollars ($4 USD).

Is Belize City safe?

Belize City has a bad reputation due to the high crime in crime-plagued parts of the city. As long as you keep a low profile and don’t stay out at night, you should be fine. If you are staying in Belize City, the best way to get around is by taxi. 

Day 5: San Ignacio 

San Ignacio is a gateway to adventure and is one of my favorite destinations in Belize. It’s a great budget destination with many activities in the area like kayaking, zip-lining, hiking, and visiting Mayan ruins.

Where to stay in San Ignacio:   Mariposa Jungle Lodge

After you arrive in San Ignacio, head to Xunantunich, an impressive Mayan ruin site near the Guatemala border. You can reach the entrance of Xunantunich by catching a taxi from downtown San Ignacio if you are on a budget, but you can also book a guided tour of Xunantunich online if you have more money to spend. 

Check the best tours of Xunantunich from San Ignacio

➡️ Check my guide to the best things to do in San Ignacio

After arriving back in town, grab some food in one of the local restaurants in downtown San Ignacio. I recommend Martha’s Kitchen. 

Day 6: Take a day trip from San Ignacio to ATM caves

ATM Caves are a must stop in Belize. You can book a tour of ATV caves from San Ignacio online.

Day 7: Visit Caracol Mayan ruins

Book a tour of Caracol, a remote Mayan ruin site that’s about 1,5 hours away from San Ignacio. Many tours of Caracol from San Ignacio include a stop in the refuge, where you can see the tallest waterfall in Central America camp and swim in the gorgeous Rio Frio Cave Pools. 

Day 8: Explore San Ignacio Belize

Your day 8 is a perfect opportunity to take a break and chill after a few days of adventure.

✅ Find out how to get from Belize City to San Ignacio

You can spend your day in town, book a kayaking tour of the Macal River that flows through the heart of San Ignacio or visit Cahal Pech, an archaeological site within walking distance from downtown San Ignacio. 

Day 9: Go cave tubing

Cave tubing is one of the most fun things to do in Belize and is an unmissable activity on your 10 days in Belize itinerary that basically involves floating on the river.

Book a cave tubing tour or go to the jungle to do some zip-lining. 

Day 10: Head back to the airport in Belize City

Stop in Belize Zoo on your way back to Belize City from San Ignacio. The name zoo is a bit misleading because this is a refuge for the orphaned or injured animals that are native to Belize but can’t survive on their own in the wild. 

The Belize Zoo operates as a non-profit, and your money goes a long way to help the animals that live here. You can spot tapirs, jaguars, macaws, and other animals native to this part of the world. 

It’s a great stop for your Belize itinerary, if you have a car rental but you can also get there by Chien bus from San Ignacio to Belize City, and ask your driver to stop at the entrance of the zoo, which is along the highway. 

Belize Backpacking itinerary 

If are traveling as a backpacker, you will need between 10 and 14 days in Belize. Many backpackers arrive in Belize by border crossing with Mexico or Guatemala, so depending on where you come from, plan accordingly.

If you arrive in Belize from Guatemala, stay in San Ignacio for 3-5 days before going to other places. If you are crossing the border between Mexico and Belize, you might want to check out Corozal and Orange Walk town, two hidden gems of Belize in the northern part of the country.

Spend 3-5 days on Belize beaches and take a couple of day trips depending on your budget. If you have slightly more time, get a PADI scuba diving certification in Belize, which is a one-of-a-kind experience.

Finally, don’t forget to put Punta Gorda on your backpacking itinerary in Belize. This small town is located in the southern part of the country and is perfect if you want to save money and get off the beaten track. 

Do I need to rent a car in Belize? 

Generally, you don’t need a car rental in Belize. It’s a small country with still developing infrastructure, and you can mostly get around by public transportation or private shuttles. But renting a car in Belize is an option if you want to skip guided tours and have more freedom to travel the country on your own.

✅ CLICK HERE TO CHECK PRICES ON CAR RENTALS IN BELIZE  

Where to rent a car in Belize?

The best place to rent a car in Belize is Belize City International Airport. You can find several car rental companies here. You can look for available vehicles on  DiscoverCars , one of the best online platforms for finding rental cars in Belize. 

Belize itinerary: FAQ

Do I need a passport to go to Belize? 

Yes, you need a passport to go to Belize. Depending on your country, you might need a visa and other documents. Always check travel requirements for Belize before making your travel plans. 

✅ Find out if you can use US dollars in Belize

How many days do you need for Belize?

If you want to see some of the most popular places in Belize like Ambergris Caye or Placencia and visit Mayan ruins or explore some of the caves in Belize, a week in Belize is enough. But if you want to get off the beaten track and see some hidden gems in Belize, plan between 10 to 14 days in Belize.

Is 5 days enough in Belize? 

5 days is not enough to see Belize. While it’s enough to see a few major destinations like Ambergris Caye, Placencia, or Caye Caulker, 5 days in Belize is a short amount of time, which will not allow you to see most of the country. 

Is a trip to Belize worth it?

A trip to Belize is well worth it. This Central American country is famous for its lush jungles, diverse wildlife, and the world-famous Great Blue Hole. If you enjoy water sports and like a combination of adventure and history, you will love Belize.

Is Belize safe for tourists?

While Belize has high crime statistics due to the high violence rate in certain parts of town, it’s mostly safe for tourists. As a visitor, you need to be vigilant, as you are more likely to be affected by scams and petty crime than anything else.

Exercise increased caution in busy places, and keep an eye on your belongings. Don’t accept gifts, food, or drinks from strangers, and don’t share your personal information or travel plans with people you don’t know. 

What is the best month to visit Belize? 

The best months to visit Belize are April and November. It’s a perfect time to save money before the high season kicks in and enjoy mild sunny weather and uncrowded Belize beaches in places like Ambergris Caye, Placencia, and Caye Caulker. 

Belize itinerary: the final word

Whether you spend 5, 7, or 10 days in Belize, you will love this hidden gem of Central America. Belize is less discovered compared to many of its neighbors and offers a great alternative to popular places if you want to try something new. 

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Belize Adventure

Easy-to-use travel guide for Belize

Know Before You Go

Do you need help planning your trip to Belize?

Well, you’ve come to the right place. I’ve worked in tourism for more than 15 years and have shared expert travel advice here for over 10 years. I use my local knowledge to make this website: Belize Adventure , a resource-rich Belize blog filled with the best travel tips .

There are so many things you need to know before you travel to Belize, from entry guidelines to health and safety concerns, to what to bring/ pack or buy on vacation. The information listed below serves as a 10-step travel guide for Belize that offers information on when to visit , where to stay , the best places to go , and top-rated tourist attractions .

1. Best time to visit Belize and top places to go

Belize is small but it has a lot to offer. Here are the top beach & jungle destinations in Belize  www.belizeadventure.ca/destinations

Should you visit Belize during the dry season or wet season?  www.belizeadventure.ca/when-is-the-best-time-to-visit-belize

Belize festivals and events by month  www.belizeadventure.ca/festivals

2. Things to do in Belize: Top tourist attractions & activities

The 10 best things to do in Belize  www.belizeadventure.ca/things-to-do-in-belize

TOP 35 Belize Experiences  www.belizeadventure.ca/activities

Belize itinerary for one-week  www.belizeadventure.ca/one-week-in-belize or two weeks  www.belizeadventure.ca/two-weeks-in-belize

3. Establish your travel budget: low, mid-range, or luxury

Do you want to visit cool spots but want to travel around Belize as cheaply as possible?  www.belizeadventure.ca/belize-on-the-cheap

Or are you splurging and want to experience the best of Belize? Below you can find my curated lists of top Belize hotels and resorts:

• Top Luxury Hotels in Belize
• The Best Jungle Resorts & Eco Lodges in Belize
• Top 5 All-inclusive Resorts in Belize
• 10 Best Beach Resorts in Belize
• Top 5 Adult-Only Belize Resorts
• Best Dive R e sorts in Belize
• The Best Family Resorts in Belize
• Top 5 Over-Water Bungalows & Villas in Belize
• The Best Cheap Hotels in Belize
• Top Treehouse Hotels in Belize
• Belize Gold Standard Hotels and Resorts

If you found this information useful , keep this blog going through support via Paypal.com/donate-to-belize-adventure . Or find the “Buy me a beer” button on the sidebar to donate $10 or more. Thanks!

4. Book hotels by top destinations in Belize

I’ve spent the past 10 years meticulously curating lists on top places to stay in Belize: www.belizeadventure.ca/hotels/

• Click on the links to see where to stay in  Ambergris Caye ,  Caye Caulker ,  San Ignacio, Cayo ,  Placencia , and  Hopkins .

1. The Lodge at Chaa Creek

Chaa Creek is the oldest jungle resort in Belize and has won many international awards for its eco-friendly status. They are eco-tourism pioneers and were “green” before it was trendy. This eco lodge is perfect for  nature lovers  since it’s located in a 400-acre private nature reserve 1/2 hour away from  San Ignacio, Cayo , which is the hub for eco-adventures in Western Belize.

www.chaacreek.com

2. Hamanasi Adventure & Dive Resort

Located in  Hopkins, Stann Creek , the award-winning Hamanasi Resort is the perfect base for eco-friendly travelers seeking an adventure outpost with rustic-chic elegance. This resort specializes in scuba diving (they have a PADI 5-star dive facility) and its prime location in Belize’s southeastern coast makes jungle day trips to Maya temples and caves easy. However, the main highlight of Hopkins is the unique  Garifuna culture  of Belize.

www.hamanasi.com

3. Pelican Reef Villas Resort

Pelican Reef has several modern and well-equipped beachfront condos in southern  Ambergris Caye . It is located 15 minutes away from Downtown San Pedro and offers the perfect setting for families and groups of friends. Guests enjoy having the option of cooking their own meals or eating at the onsite restaurant & bar. After a day of fun activities in San Pedro, you can lounge by their pool or soak up the sun on the beach. They also have a dock that can be used for snorkeling or fishing.

www.pelicanreefvillas.com

4. Island Expeditions

Island Expeditions has been offering Belize adventure packages for small groups since 1987. It all started when three Canadian friends explored remote Cayes in Belize and had such an incredible experience that they decided to share it with others. Their signature experience allows visitors to stay on Glover’s Reef Atoll , which is 36 miles off the coast of Dangriga at the edge of the southern Belize Barrier Reef.

www.islandexpeditions.com

5. What to eat and tipping guide

Things you MUST eat in Belize www.belizeadventure.ca/belizean-food-to-try

A simple guide to Belize’s tipping culture  www.belizeadventure.ca/travel-tips/tipping

6. Basic facts about Belize and how to get there & around

Get to know basic facts about Belize www.belizeadventure.ca/belize

People can get to Belize by air, land, and sea  www.belizeadventure.ca/travel-tips/getting-to

Here’s a guide to getting around in Belize  www.belizeadventure.ca/travel-tips/getting-around

If you found this information useful , keep this blog going through support via Paypal.com/donate-to-belize-adventure . Or find the “Buy me a beer” button on the sidebar to donate $10 or more. Thanks!

7. Travel documents and requirements for entry to Belize

Most people don’t need visas to enter Belize. All that is needed is a passport that is valid for at least  30 days.  www.belizeadventure.ca/travel-tips/entry-requirements

There is no entry fee for Belize, however, there is an exit fee a.k.a. departure tax.  www.belizeadventure.ca/travel-tips/departure-tax

8. Health and safety concerns in Belize

Here are travel safety warnings and information  www.belizeadventure.ca/is-belize-safe

Use this guide to Belize’s healthcare system  www.belizeadventure.ca/healthcare

As of July 2022, Belize lifted all of its COVID-19 public health measures for entry www.belizeadventure.ca/travel-tips/covid-19-coronavirus

9. Belize Packing list

Tips on what to pack for Belize, including what not to bring  www.belizeadventure.ca/travel-tips/packing-list

10. How to save money on your trip to Belize

A few ways how you can save money on a Belize vacation  www.belizeadventure.ca/save-money-on-a-belize-vacation

The top 10 places to visit in Belize are  Ambergris Caye ,  Caye Caulker ,  San Ignacio ,  Placencia ,  Hopkins , Belize City , Cayo , Offshore Atolls , Tobacco Caye , and Corozal .

1. Explore Belize’s Barrier Reef by diving the  Great Blue Hole  and  Half Moon Caye Wall or snorkeling at the  Hol Chan Marine Reserve  and South Water Caye Marine Reserve 2. Learn about Belize’s ancient Maya by visiting top Maya sites  such as Xunantunich, Caracol or Lamanai, and  top Maya caves  such as Actun Tunichil Muknal and  Caves Branch  for cave tubing. 3. Visit Belize’s many islands (known as Cayes). Popular Cayes include Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker and less-visited Cayes include  Tobacco Caye  and  Glover’s Reef . 4. Visit National Parks and Protected Areas such as  Mountain Pine Ridge  in Cayo and the  Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary  in Crooked Tree. 5. Go wildlife spotting by visiting the  Belize Zoo  or the  Baboon Sanctuary . Alternatively, go hiking at the  Cockscomb Basin  or  Monkey River .

Tap water in Belize is not safe to drink. However, most hotels, resorts and some vacation rentals provide “purified” water to guests so bring a reusable water bottle. If drinking water isn’t included in your stay, it can be bought at supermarkets in 500 ml, 1 litre, 1.5 litres, 1 gallon, & 5 gallons bottles.

Belize was closed to international travel from March 24 to October 1, 2020, due to COVID. Since then, Belize has reopened with minimum tourism protocols .

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Home » Central America » Backpacking Guide

EPIC Backpacking Belize Travel Guide • 2024 Edition

Backpacking Belize felt like a dream. Let me paint you a picture…

Sunshine, laid-back reggae tunes, splendid sea life and smiles greeting you from every corner. Sounds dreamy, right?

Located on the Central American East Coast (Caribbean), Belize is a place full of super friendly people, stunning islands, dense jungle, and impressive Mayan ruins. It’s one of the best places I’ve ever been for snorkeling, scuba diving, and just taking time to drink rum on the beach. You can swim with sharks, scuba dive in The Great Blue Hole or just do sweet F*ck all on the Cayes (little islands).

However, backpacking Belize sometimes has the reputation of being an expensive endeavor. Whilst that can be true at times, it is possible to visit this small nation on a budget.

I made the mistakes so that you don’t have to. Belize can be done on the cheap, you just need to know how…

To help you plan your next adventure, I’ve created this backpacking Belize travel guide, filled with insider tips, itineraries, epic things to do, my personal favorites and so much more.

Let’s get right to it!

Why go Backpacking in Belize?

Compared to other Central American states, Belize is rather small. That doesn’t mean that there are no adventures waiting for you. Knowing where to stay in Belize is the first step of planning your trip. You don’t want to end up miles away from the hotspots you wanted to explore, simply cuz you haven’t done your research properly.

For such a small country, Belize is defined by its diversity. The waters off of its Caribbean Coast make up part of the second-largest barrier reef in the world. The Cayes islands and the Great Blue Hole are home to world-class scuba diving and snorkeling. As far as Caribbean islands go, the islands in Belize are generally far cheaper than say a trip to the Bahamas would be.

The interior of the country is green, lush, and dotted with nature reserves. Wildlife is everywhere. From jaguars and butterflies to monkeys and toucans, you never know what you are going to see on a trek through the jungle. Caracol is home to one of the largest Mayan archaeological complexes in all of Central America. Step back in time and soak in the wonder as you learn about the fascinating Mayan civilization.

Then there are the people. Belize is an English speaking country primarily, though, Belizean Creole is often heard on the coast. Spanish is spoken as you get closer to the Guatemala border. Most people I encountered were super easy going. They were never in a hurry. Backpacking Belize gives you the chance to slow down and soak in the positive vibes.

Best Travel Itineraries for Backpacking Belize

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Below I have listed several travel itineraries for backpacking Belize. If you have a few weeks or more to visit Belize, it’s easy to combine a couple of these itineraries and put together a larger backpacking route.

Having a Belize itinerary will guarantee a great trip. Not planning ahead might turn unto a stressful “I don’t know where to go” vacation. Use your time properly and find out what you want to see before you start your travels.

2 Weeks: Belize Highlights

This 14-day Belize itinerary offers up Belize backpacking at its finest. Start your trip soaking in some sun and going diving on Caye Caulker.

Caye Caulker is the unofficial backpacker hub of all of the Cayes. It has a very mellow vibe and attracts a certain type of crowd, i.e backpackers. There are plenty of good hostels in Caye Caulker and overall, just a wonderful, thriving backpacker scene.

Some of the other Cayes are built up around resorts and have the associated patrons. My advice is to stick to Caye Caulker, though Ambergris Caye is meant to be super beautiful in places as well.

Once you are back on the mainland, you can head south. There are a number of fine beaches, reserves, and cool hiking spots all along the coast. Dive operators in Placencia can sort you out if you are wanting to do a scuba trip to the Great Blue Hole.

Next, go explore the numerous reserves and national parks located in the interior. If you are heading to Guatemala after backpacking Belize, San Ignacio is an obvious departure point as it is very close to the border. From San Ignacio, you can explore the surrounding area including the Mayan ruins at Caracol.

10 Days: Islands and Coast

Many people come to the islands of Belize with primarily one thing in mind: to get in the water! The Ho Chan reserve around Caye Caulker is a fabulous place to snorkel or dive: sharks, manta rays, sea turtles abound. The water is so clear that on calm days one has excellent visibility for spotting wildlife.

It is certainly possible to get a PADI open water diving certificate on the islands; however, it will not be as cheap as the courses offered on the Bay Islands in Honduras. To get a cert on Caye Caulker, you are looking at $400 USD for the four-day course.

If you are a diving fanatic like me, then diving the Great Blue Hole is a dream that needs to be realized. There might be a lot of hype surrounding it, but hey, hype exists for a reason and the Great Blue Hole is just as spectacular as you have heard about.

Now that we’ve covered some of the best travel itineraries for backpacking Belize, let’s jump in and explore some of the top places to visit in Belize on your adventure…

Backpacking Belize City

Belize City is more of a transportation point than it is a destination. The Belizean capital has all of the comforts of a large Central American city, and also the associated annoyances. There are certain neighborhoods in Belize City that I would consider sketchy. You shouldn’t find yourself aimlessly exploring the far reaches of the city.

Most likely, you will pass through en route to the islands or another spot in Belize. The central bus station is the place to go for all of your travel needs. The bus station is still commonly known as Novelo’s, (the name of a former bus company) located on West Collet Canal.

If you are in need of something interesting to do, check out the Belize National Museum. The museum is packed with interesting artefacts and antiquities that help you get a better grasp of Belize’s unique history.

For all the backpackers on a budget, there are numerous great hostels in Belize City that offer affordable nightly rates, great amenities and a safe place to rest your head.

Backpacking Caye Caulker

Caye Caulker attracts backpackers from around the world like a magnet. Cheap accommodation (by Caribbean standards), excellent food, and prime dive/snorkle sites make Caye Caulker a true paradise.

You can score a double room for about $30 USD, so if you traveling as a couple it makes sense to go with a private.

A day-trip to the Ho Chan Marine reserve is not to be missed. Hiring a boat is probably the best way to go. You get your snorkel gear, transportation, and a decent lunch. The boat essentially takes out into the reserve and in you go. A whole underwater world awaits.

I had never been around so many sharks in my life. A boat trip to the reserve, including the entrance fee will run you back about $80 USD for the day.

I had one of the best meals of my life in Caye Caulker: BBQ Lobster with coconut rice, salad, and an ice-cold beer for about $10 USD. The lobster was massive as well. Anywhere else in the world, that meal would cost at least $30. Bon appetite amigos…

Backpacking Ambergris Caye

Amergis is larger, more developed, and more expensive than Caye Caulker. In general, the island feels a bit like a posh resort full of middle-aged folks wearing polos and fishing hats.

I’d say the only reason for you to come here is to access more dive sites. There are many diving operators who can help you with just that. Expect to pay top dollar for sure. I have heard that a full day of diving (at least 3 dives) will cost you over $200 USD. Ouch. Though that includes all of your gear, oxygen, lunch, boat hire, and the guide.

Keep in mind that if you plan on spending a few days diving, operators will often be flexible with their initial price once they learn you are interested in multiple dives. Chat to the owner of the dive shop and try to bargain for a good deal.

Diving The Great Blue Hole

The Great Blue Hole is famous throughout the world for the breathtaking marine phenomenon that it is. This site was made famous by Jacques Cousteau, who declared it one of the top five scuba diving sites in the world. In 1971 he brought his ship, the  Calypso , to the hole to chart its depths.

Because of its uniqueness and ecological makeup, diving in the Great Blue Hole offers up a once in a lifetime experience. You will never see so much amazing oceanic wildlife species coming together in one place.

A dive to the Great Blue Hole can be organized from just about anywhere in Belize. I advice shopping around at different dive centers in Placencia and Caye Caulker to compare the prices. If you are going to spend money on anything in Belize, it should definitely be on diving in this truly special place.

That said – snorkeling here is not as magical and is very expensive compared to other snorkel sites in Belize. The reason being is that most of the interesting marine deep is too deep for snorkelers to see. If you dive – great – if not – better to wait until you do before heading to the Blue Hole.

Backpacking Dangriga

Dangriga is a laid-back beach town where Garifuna culture and abundant outdoor activities make up the draw. If you are headed south down the coast, a stopover in Dangriga is worth it.

Explore the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, which is a jaguar preserve. There is a good system of hiking trails in which to explore the park. Don’t expect to see a jaguar though. Jaguars are notoriously elusive, like all large jungle cats. Just know that in all likelihood, within the reserve you are probably not too far away from one.

On any night of the week, there is liable to be a Garifuna drum and dance party somewhere on the beach. Bring along some rum and soak in the rhythms that help make up the identity for this part of Belize. The neighboring town of Hopkins also make for a good base in which to explore the area.

Backpacking Placencia

Ok, so Placencia has a pretty developed tourism industry. It is a popular destination for many a foreign tourist. That said, there is still some fun stuff to get into. The diving just off of the coast is very impressive, as is the snorkeling if you are not a diver.

Within the town itself, you will probably be annoyed by how touristy it is. The real attraction, however, is under the water. Make sure you spend as much time doing water related activities as you can in Placencia. After a day or two though, you’ll probably be ready to move on.

Oh, and there are plenty of good places to eat in Placencia, so don’t neglect your belly.

Backpacking Punta Gorda

Further south of Placencia lies Punta Gorda. Punta Gorda is a large fishing village town and the main port between Belize and Honduras. As with most places on Belize’s coast, there is some truly remarkable diving and snorkeling to be had here.

If you want to learn more about the music of the Garifuna people, I suggest a visit to the Warasa Garifuna Drum School. You can take a class, beat on some drums, and even buy a hand-made one if you’re keen.

A visit to Toledo Cave for a swim and a hike is another highlight. If you have been spending a lot of time in the sea, the fresh, cool water of the cave will feel amazing.

Backpacking San Ignacio

Most people pass through San Ignacio on their way to Guatemala and the ruins at Tikal. To skip over San Ignacio completely would be a mistake. Some of the best Mayan ruins in Central America can be accessed from San Ignacio.

Hire a jeep (with some mates to cut cost) and spend the morning exploring the magnificent ruins at Caracol . My visit to the ruins was without a doubt a highlight of my trip backpacking Belize.

A full day to Caracol including lunch and a guide will run you back about $75. In my experience, it is totally worth it. It is not like you are spending big money every day on seeing epic ruins. So if you can swing it, go for it!

Fancy a 7-mile river float through mystical caves and turquoise rivers? You can organize a tubing adventure from San Ignacio as well. If you can get your hands on a tube, you probably don’t need to book a tour and to be honest you will save a ton of cash. Cave tubing tours start at about $90 USD.

Getting Off the Beaten Path in Belize

I found that getting off of the beaten path was relatively easy in Belize. Most travelers stick to the islands or the beach, so in the interior, I found far fewer backpackers. Hiking in the numerous reserves Belize has to offer is a great way to explore a beautiful patch of rainforest with limited human interruption. Even the ruins at Caracol were remote enough that many folks opt to simply not go.

Having a good backpacking tent greatly expands your adventure potential and increases your independence. Some coastal hostels offer very cheap rates to backpackers who want to pitch their tent on the back lawn and use the facilities.

Because the distances are short, you can base yourself in one of the backpacker hubs and make day trips to places in the area. You will find that few people make use of the numerous foot paths and hiking trails in the reserves. You should be exploring to the sound of howler monkeys, not humans, especially if you hike in more than a mile or two.

We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.

Want more deetz on why these packs are so  damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!

Belize is bursting at the seams with awesome things to do. No matter what your time frame is there are many exciting adventures to be had to suit every backpackers’ individual taste.

I have listed the  top 10 best things to do in Belize  below to get your ideas flowing for your next trip backpacking Belize!

1. Go Scuba Diving in the Great Blue Hole

An experience diving in this ecological wonder is bound to be both a major life highlight as well as a gold star on your backpacking Belize journey.

2. Visit the Mayan Ruins at Caracol

A day spent here exploring these magical ruins is well worth the effort it takes to get here.

3. Snorkle the Hol Chan Marine Reserve

Caye Caulker is a special place because of the Hol Chan Marine Reserve. Go swim with sharks, sting rays, and other sea going marvels.

4. Eat BBQ Lobster

You have never had lobster this good or this fresh, or at this price. Don’t be surprised if you end up ordering the same thing night after night.

5. Find a Garifuna Drum Circle

Garifuna culture has deep roots in drum music. It shouldn’t be too hard to stumble upon a full-blown drum dance party on a beach near Hopkins.

6. Go River Tubing

There is an epic 7-miles river float to be had in Belize. You pass through impressive caves and pristine river systems all from the comfort of your rubber tube.

7. Bird Watching in the Jungle

With countless nature preserves and epic walking paths, if you possess a keen eye you can spot exotic birds, like parrots and toucans. Some hostels offer binoculars for rent.

8. Camp on the beach

The beaches south of Hopkins are prime camping territory. In many places you can camp for free. Make sure to pack all of your rubbish out with you and leave your camp site looking beautiful.

9. Visit the Mayan Ruins at Xunantunich

These ruins are not as well known as Caracol, but are still very impressive. Spend the afternoon walking in the shadow of Mayan history.

10. Beach, Book, and Rum

Some days you just want to chill out. Do yourself a favor pack a hammock, pick some palm trees and your favorite book and take time for yourself to soak in the vibes.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

All of the key backpacker hotspots within Belize have some form of budget accommodation. The average price for a dorm bed is about $15 USD. Most hostels in Belize offer great facilities, a clean and safe environment and the most helpful and friendly staff you could ever imagine.

If dorms are not the right thing for you, alternatively, you can score a nice basic double room for about $30-35, even on Caye Caulker. I recommend booking in advance for island accommodation during the high season (December- February).

That said, in the low season, prices drop and you have some room to haggle a bit for the price per night, especially if you stay more than one night. You can also find vacation rentals in Belize that are super budget-friendly.

If you are keen to camp, many hostels offer camping as an option. There are many places where you can camp on the beach for free. For a combination of camping and four walls, there are numerous eco-resorts in Belize to choose from.

Otherwise, Couch Surfing is the cheapest (free) way to go, and a great way to meet other locals; however, some of the places will not have much of a couch surfing scene.

Whilst I was backpacking Belize, I was spending between $30-40 USD a day, plus extra sometimes for an activity like snorkeling. Be sure to budget enough to go diving or snorkeling at least once! A few times I spent around $60/day including certain adventure activities.

It helped that I was traveling with a friend, so we were able to split up the cost of accommodation as well as get better deals on activities.

Having visited all of the Central American countries now – I can say that in general Belize is one of the more expensive countries in the region – tied with or possibly second to Costa Rica.

That said, one can always do things on the cheap – just don’t go expecting dirt-cheap food and accommodation everywhere.

A Daily Budget in Belize

Money in belize.

The national currency of Belize is the Belizean dollar. There are lots of international ATMs but they can be tough to find once you are outside of the cities and are in more remote areas. On the main islands – there are an abundance of ATM machines.

It’s advisable to avoid small ATM transactions and get out a bunch of cash at once – just make sure you hide it well. If you need to transfer money internationally,  use Transferwise , it’s the fastest and cheapest way to move money around when traveling.

Travel Tips – Belize on a Budget

To keep your spending to an absolute minimum whilst traveling in Belize, I recommend sticking to these basic rules of budget adventuring….

• Camp : With plenty of gorgeous natural places to camp, Belize is an excellent place to take a tent.
• Cook your own food : I took a small  gas cooker  with me to Belize and cooked a lot of my own meals whilst hitching and camping, I saved a fortune.
• Stay in Hostel Dorms : Especially if you are traveling solo, staying in the ol’ dorm will always be cheaper than a private room.
• Hitchhike : In Belize, it is so so easy to thumb a ride and it is an ace way to keep your transport costs down and instead spend it on smashing experiences. So hitchhike as much as you can when backpacking Belize.

Why You Should Travel to Belize with a Water Bottle

Plastic washes up on even the most pristine beaches… so do your part and keep the Big Blue beautiful

You aren’t going to save the world overnight, but you might as well be part of the solution and not the problem. When you travel to some of the world’s most remote places, you come to realise the full extent of the plastic problem. And I hope you become more inspired to continue being a responsible traveller .

Plus, now you won’t be buying overpriced bottles of water from the supermarkets either! Travel with a filtered water bottle instead and never waste a cent nor a turtle’s life again.

Drink water from ANYWHERE. The Grayl Geopress is the worlds leading filtered water bottle protecting you from all manner of waterborne nasties.

Single-use plastic bottles are a MASSIVE threat to marine life. Be a part of the solution and travel with a filter water bottle. Save money and the environment!

We’ve tested the Geopress  rigorously  from the icy heights of Pakistan to the tropical jungles of Bali, and can confirm: it’s the best water bottle you’ll ever buy!

If you can, try to avoid the rainy season and visit the country from November to April. The really popular guest-houses fill up fast so this is a country where it can definitely be worth making reservations.

Hurricane season runs from September to October in the Caribbean. I would not try to go diving during this time as the visibility has the potential to be very low due to the nature of rough seas.

Festivals in Belize

There is always a good reason to get down in Belize. Here is a list of a few interesting festivals happening throughout the country every year. Something to note is that there is always some form of live music to be heard most weekends, especially on the coast.

• Easter–Lent, Carnival, and Semana Santa:  Belize is no different from other Latin American countries, and Easter is a huge deal. Easter weekend is an extremely festive and colorful celebration. Benque Viejo del Carmen is a particularly devout city, and holds a weeklong party from Palm Sunday to Good Friday.
• Mango Festival in Hopkins: Love mango? Me too. If you’re in the Hopkins area in June, then you will be feasting and celebrating with Mango until your heart’s content.
• Belize City Carnival: Wild floats crowd the streets during Belize City’s Carnival. This festival is the largest demonstration of the Caribbean spirit in Belize. This festival takes place in September.
• International Costa Maya Festival:  Originally a celebration of Maya heritage from around the region, the International Costa Maya Festival is now one of the biggest festivals of the year. Held in San Pedro on the island of Ambergris Caye in August, the International Costa Maya Festival has top musical acts, plenty of delicious food and drinks, and a beauty pageant.

What to Pack for Belize

Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.

Hanging Laundry Bag

Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.

Sea To Summit Micro Towel

Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.

Monopoly Deal

Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.

Grayl Geopress Water Bottle

Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!

Belize is a paradise but it is not immune to trouble. I personally had a very positive experience backpacking Belize with regard to safety. I never felt like I was in danger at any point during my trip. Overall, Belize is one of the safest countries in Central America.

Being out late, drunk, and alone is a recipe for trouble anywhere in the world. There have been reports of backpackers getting held up on remote sections of beach and in the rough neighborhoods of Belize City late at night, though this is highly uncommon.

Odds are you should be just fine. If ever you run into a hold-up situation, give them what they want and don’t resist. Your iPhone and wallet are never worth dying over, ever!

Be aware that Belize is home to many species of poisonous spiders, snakes, and other dangerous creatures. Always watch your step when trekking through the jungle. Never stick your hand somewhere you haven’t first seen with your eyes.

Learn More:   Backpacker Safety 101

Sex, Drugs, and, Rock ‘N’ Roll in Belize

Belize has long been renowned as one of the party capitals for travelers backpacking Central America. Cocaine is cheap and pretty easy to find if that’s your bag. Booze is cheap and Belezian locals enjoy sinking a few beers in the evening.

The people are friendly, Tinder works a treat to meet up with locals and other backpackers and there are plenty of beach parties, clubs and raves… if you know where to look! Avoid traveling with drugs in Belize, the police sometimes strip search backpackers and never cross an international border carrying drugs. especially to Mexico or Guatemala! That would be stupid!

If you do choose to indulge in heavier partying whilst in Belize, take it easy – cocaine in Belize is strong, cheap and addictive.

Travel Insurance for Belize

Traveling without insurance would be risky so do consider getting good backpacker insurance sorted before you head off on an adventure.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Before I got to Belize, I was backpacking in Mexico . I found the cheapest flights to Central America are usually into Cancun or Mexico City. Once I was in the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico, I took a short boat ride and I was in Belize.  Alternatively, if you are backpacking all of Central America, you can fly into Panama City or San Jose and travel north to Belize.

It is possible, though not cheap to find a boat leaving Guatemala’s Rio Dulce bound for Belize. There are a handful of liveaboard operators running diving trips departing from Rio Dulce if you’re in the area.

There is an international airport in Belize City, however, it is generally much more expensive to fly into compared to Cancun. Your best bet is to come in from Mexico after enjoying Tulum and the cenotes in the Yucatan.

Entry Requirements for Belize

Citizens of most western countries do not require a visa to enter Belize. For a full list of countries NOT requiring a visa to enter Belize, check out this article .

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Booking.com is quickly becoming our go-to for accommodation. From cheap hostels to stylish homestays and nice hotels, they’ve got it all!

Bus is the main method of transportation in Belize. The buses are comfortable, and I never saw them jam-packed the way I did in Guatemala. Plus they play heady reggae music on the Belizean buses for good measure.

Typically the buses are a bit more expensive in Belize than elsewhere in Central America, though the distances are fairly short and convenient.

If you want to go diving or to get to any of islands, then you are gonna need to take a boat.

Ferries run to the islands daily. Departure times and prices do vary so do a bit of research for the latest information before showing up at the dock.

Renting a car is always an option too. If you have a few travel mates to go in on it with you, then renting a car means you will see places in Belize beyond the reach of public transportation.

Taxis are good for short distances if you are in a hurry or need to get to a hotel just out of town.

Always determine the price before setting off in case there is no meter.

Hitchhiking in Belize

Hitchhiking  is generally easy whilst backpacking Belize. Like in most of Central America, there are lots of mini buses and it’s not so easy to spot taxis on the road, be sure you know if you’re paying or hitching free when you climb in any type of vehicle.

Onwards Travel from Belize

From Belize you can travel overland into Chetumal, Mexico, or across towards Flores, Guatemala. Both border crossings are easy and hassle-free more or less. You can also travel by boat to Mexico or Rio Dulce, Guatemala, but these options are more expensive.

Whatever you do – make sure you don’t accidentally(or intentionally bring drugs across the border – especially when it comes to Mexico – the police there are actively searching boat departures and arrivals.

If you are able to work remotely, Belize could be a great option for you to make as your home base.

There is no “digital nomad visa” per se offered by the Belizean authorities, but I’d say you can pretty much work online here for a foreign company or as a blogger without any concerns.

Paid options for foreigner backpackers are limited in the country unless you have a specific skill set (scuba dive instructor, yoga teacher, etc). And even for those jobs, you are likely to be paid under the table informally.

If you do not have a remote online job, you do have some options…

If you do start seriously pondering the idea of becoming an online English teacher – then – as mentioned – you will need to earn some qualifications.

TEFL courses  open up a huge range of opportunities and you can find teaching work all over the world. To find out more about TEFL courses and how you can teach English around the world, read my in-depth report on  teaching English abroad .

Broke Backpacker readers get a 50% discount on TEFL courses with  MyTEFL  (simply enter the code PACK50).

A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!

An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.

Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and  ditch the plastic .

Volunteer in Belize

Volunteering abroad is an amazing way to experience a culture whilst helping your host community. There are plenty of different volunteer projects in Belize including teaching, construction, agriculture and pretty much anything.

High levels of poverty and inequality in Belize mean the country benefits greatly from volunteer support. English teaching is in high demand, as is help in hospitality. More unique opportunities include wildlife conservation and agriculture. You’ll need a tourist visa to enter Belize, and a letter from your volunteer organization to get approval from Immigration once you’ve arrived. 

Our go-to platform for finding volunteering gigs is Worldpackers who connect travellers with host projects. Have a look at the Worldpackers site and see if they have any exciting opportunities in Belize before signing up.

Alternatively, Workaway is another excellent common platform used by travellers searching for volunteering opportunities. You can read our review of Workaway for more info on using this terrific platform.

Volunteer programs run through reputable work exchange programs like Worldpackers and platforms like Workaway are usually very well-managed and reputable. However, whenever you are volunteering do stay vigilant, especially when working with animals or children.

In addition to being super friendly, the people of Belize like to eat well, and their food culture reflects that. Locals eat a lot of variations of rice, beans, tortillas, and seafood with coconut mixed into everything.

Seafood is an obvious specialty on the coast. The type of cuisine greatly depends on the ethnic demographic of the region you are visiting. Each ethnic group has its own delicious specialties.

I think my favorite food came from the Garifuna areas.

• Tamales : TaSTY corn pockets usually with chicken or fish inside. Served with pickled onions on the side.
• Coconut Everything : Yeah, they put it every where.
• BBQ Lobster : I’ll say it again. Eat some lobster!
• Cassava Bread : To make it requires an ancient and time-consuming process involving a long, snake-like woven basket ( ruguma ) which strains the cassava of its juice. Delicious.
• Johnny Cakes and Fry Jacks :  Both the jacks and Johnny cakes are made from flour, but while the jacks are flattened and fried, the Johnny cakes are round fluffy savory biscuits, often topped by butter or a slice of cheese. I think I ate at least one Johnny Cake every day I was in Belize.

Like in any country, the people you encounter are what really make or break the destination.

Belize is no different. I found the people in Belize to be smiling, friendly, generally chilled-out and laid back.

Most Belizeans are of multiracial descent. About 34% of the population is of mixed Maya and European descent (Mestizo), 35% are Kriols, about 10.6% are Maya, and about 6.1% are Afro-Amerindian (Garifuna).

Expect to be met with a warm welcome and big smiles. Also, on the beach, expect to be asked if you want to buy weed and sometimes cocaine.

Useful Travel Phrases for Belize

Lucky for us English speakers, English is the official language of Belize. Garifuna people speak a Spanish/English/Creole. To the ignorant ear Creole sounds like the background chatter from a hit Kingston reggae record.

Keep in mind that more people will speak Spanish as you get closer to the Guatemalan border. Certainly, you can get by with English just fine, but knowing a bit of Spanish will definitely come in handy.

For the Spanish speaking parts of Belize, here are a few helpful travel phrases with English translations for your backpacking Belize adventure:

• Hello –  Hola
• How are you? –  Como estas?
• Good Morning –  Buenos dias
• I don’t understand –  No entiendo
• How Much –  Cuánto cuesta?
• Stop here –  Te detienes aquí
• Where Is The Toilet? –  Donde esta el bano?
• What Is This? –  Que es esto?
• No plastic bag –  Sin bolsa de plastico
• No straw please –  No paja por favor
• Sorry –  Lo siento
• Help! –  Ayudame!
• Cheers! –   Salud!
• Dick head! –  Cabron!
• Beer –  Cerveza
• Fish –  Pescado

Books to Read About Belize

These are some of my favorite travel reads and books set in Belize which you should consider picking up before you begin your backpacking adventure…

• In Times Like These — Benjamin Travers has been electrocuted. What’s worse, he and his friends have woken up in the past. As the friends search for a way home, they realize they’re not alone. There are other time travelers, and some of them are turning up dead.
• Time Among the Maya — Traveling through Central America’s jungles and mountains, Ronald Wright explores the ancient roots of the Maya, their recent troubles, and prospects for survival. Embracing history, anthropology, politics, and literature.
• Warlords and Maize Men —  A handy guide to the various Belizean Mayan sites.
• Lonely Planet Belize — It’s always worth having a Lonely Planet packed away, plenty of useful info on bus routes and where to go.

A Brief History of Belize

Belize was a commonwealth country of the United Kingdom for many years. Independence came to Belize on 21 September 1981 after the Belize Act of 1981, without reaching an agreement with Guatemala regarding land border disputes.

Over the course of the last 60 years, there have been numerous disagreements between Belize and Guatemala over land borders. A last attempt was made to reach an agreement with Guatemala prior to the independence of Belize. The Belizean representatives to the talks made no concessions, and a proposal, called the Heads of Agreement, was initialed on 11 March 1981.

However, when ultraright political forces in Guatemala labeled the proponents as sellouts, the Guatemalan government refused to ratify the agreement and withdrew from the negotiations. Meanwhile, the opposition in Belize engaged in violent demonstrations against the Heads of Agreement.

A state of emergency was declared. However, the opposition could offer no real alternatives. With the prospect of independence celebrations in the offing, the opposition’s morale fell.

Belize/Guatemala Territorial Agreement

In December 2008, Belize and Guatemala signed an agreement to submit the territorial differences to the International Court of Justice, after referendums in both countries (which have not taken place as of December 2013).

Notably, both Guatemala and Belize are participating in the confidence-building measures approved by the OAS, including the Guatemala-Belize Language Exchange Project. Since independence, a British garrison has been retained in Belize at the request of the Belizean government.

Today, Belize is a peaceful Caribbean nation with a multi-cultural society. Though parts of Belize are affected by poverty and unemployment, I am optimistic that Belize will continue to progress towards a better quality of life for its citizens.

Things go wrong on the road ALL THE TIME. Be prepared for what life throws at you.

Buy an AMK Travel Medical Kit before you head out on your next adventure – don’t be daft!

Trekking in Belize

Do you enjoy stunning jungles filled with abundant colorful wildlife? Birds of paradise and fern forests? As a nation bursting with natural beauty, you must absolutely make time to tackle a few epic treks! Belize has amazing national parks and reserves filled with hiking trails. Here I have listed a few of my personal favorites. I did not personally do any multi-day treks in Belize, but, if you have the right gear, anything is possible.

• Cockscomb Basin Forest Reserve:  This large forest reserve has an excellent network of well-maintained trails. The Cockscomb Basin Forest Reserve – in addition to being the only dedicated reserve designed to protect the endangered jaguar – is also home to a beautiful array of tropical flora and fauna.
• Guanacaste National Park : This park might be small but it really packs in a lot. The gentle trails and easy accessibility here make this an excellent choice for an introduction to tropical forests.
• Tiger Fern Trail : This perfect few-hour day hike brings you through some pristine jungle, ending at some waterfalls.

Scuba Diving in Belize

For some of the best scuba diving in the Caribbean, Belize has got you covered. There really are so many dive sites to choose from, I recommend starting with the Great Blue Hole.

If you still have some more cash in your budget, you will have no problem finding more mind-blowing sites to go for a dive! Usually, dive shops will offer you a discount if they know you are planning to do multiple dives with them.

Scuba Dive Belize on a Liveaboard Trip

If you love scuba diving, why not take your love for exploring the underwater world to the next level with a Liveaboard trip in Belize ? On a Liveaboard trip, you actually stay on the boat for a week or more.

You basically only stop diving to eat, sleep, and snap photos of ridiculous sunsets. A Liveaboard trip is also a great way to pack in many dives at a bunch of different locations. Because of the longer timeframe, you get to experience dive sites the average dive shops don’t get to in addition to eating great food and socializing with fellow dive hounds.

A Liveaboard trip in Belize is a sure fire way to get your fix of scuba diving and then some!

So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags (don’t forget your snorkeling gear) and book the tickets! By now, you should know all about Belize and what you can explore in this beautiful Central American state.

I hope you have enjoyed this Backpacking Belize Travel Guide . You are now ready to get your boots on the ground and experience this magical country for yourself, amigos! Backpacking in Belize is truly a special journey that I hope you greatly enjoy.

Backpacking Belize or any country for that matter often illuminates some of the great socio-economic inequalities of the world. Never take it for granted that you are healthy and financially able to go traveling. Show the world around you some gratitude and help to make a positive impact on it.

Your time there will be one for the ages, I am sure. If you’ve travelled to Belize before, let us know about your experience in the comments below – we’d love to hear from you!

• Backpacking Costa Rica
• How to Find Cheap Flights
• Best Hostels in Mexico
• Is Guatemala Safe?

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Amanda Draper

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A great article and very well done. I first went to Belize in March of 1962. After going back and forth a few times I moved to Belize in 1974. I returned to the United States in 2001. Will be returning to Belize next month. It is truly a great place.

january cant come fast enough. this article was amazing. so looking forward for this adventure. by the way, saw you’re a fellow climber, worth bringing my climbing shoes with me? thank you again for your great article

Thank you for sharing the experiences. I really enjoy your perspective on bacpacking and I couldn’t be more excited to backpack belize after reading this. In particular, the interior. Much appreciated. I’ll be reading your articles in the future!

Glad you enjoyed the article Ben! Belize is a fantastic country filled plenty of awesome stuff to get into. You’re going to have the time of your life. Have fun mate.

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Backpacking Belize: A Complete Guide (2023)

Some links in this post contain affiliate links. I receive a small commission if you use the links at no extra cost to you! Happy reading 😀

Looking to backpack Belize?  So many backpackers skip Belize entirely but that is  such  a big mistake! It’s one of the most  beautiful countries we have ever travelled to,  and I cannot recommend it enough.

There’s also a running rumour in the backpacking world that Belize is ‘expensive’. Well, some parts are, but if you’re on a budget, it can still be done! In fact, we found some parts of Belize to be even cheaper than Mexico !

In this post, I outline everything you need to know about backpacking Belize. From safety, to where to eat, how to get there, how to make friends and where to travel to after.

So,  let’s get planning and start backpacking Belize!

Other backpacking Belize posts:

• Backpacking San Ignacio: COMPLETE Guide!
• Backpacking Caye Caulker: Everything You Need To Know
• Snorkeling in Caye Caulker: COMPLETE Guide!
• How To Get From San Ignacio To Flores: Backpacker Guide

Want to see epic photos and videos from these experiences?

Follow me on Instagram! As we travel, I post everything live on Instagram, so check out my recent highlights and posts. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, drop me a DM!

Backpacking to different locations around the world? You need to be using eSIMs! Simply download and connect to local data within minutes. Hunting down free Wifi is a thing of the past! You can check out eSIM prices and compatibility options here.

Backpacking Belize: A Summary

In general, Belize is a safe place to travel (including solo female travellers). The transport system is good, and it’s easy to get around. There are plenty of hostels to choose from, and there’s a buzzing nightlife on the islands. Plus, the country is tiny, so you can see quite a lot of it in a short time!

English is the national language of Belize (which makes communication a lot easier if your Spanish is anything like mine). It’s also home to the second-largest barrier reef in the world, as well as a ton of Mayan history and ancient ruins to explore.

When backpacking Central America, travelling through Belize is a great way to enter Guatemala. San Ignacio , one of Belize’s most popular backpacking towns, is just 20 minutes from the Guatemalan border.

Belize is also only a short boat ride from Mexico, so it’s worth stopping off between countries.

If you’re on the fence about whether or not to include Belize in your backpacking trip, don’t be. It was one of our favourite countries in Central America for so many reasons.

With its abundance of wildlife, epic diving, friendly locals, beautiful national parks, once-in-a-lifetime bucket list experiences and incredible landscapes, it’s a country not to be missed!

Booking hostels?

Choosing the right hostel as a backpacker is crucial to how successful your trip will be. Always use Hostelworld.com for the cheapest rates, widest availability and most importantly – honest reviews from other travellers! Click here to view the best hostels for your trip.

Backpacking Belize: Route

If you’re looking at where most backpackers travel to in Belize,  this is a common route and Belize itinerary (which can also be followed the other way around).

• Chetumal (Mexico)  > Caye Caulker
• Caye Caulker > San Ignacio
• San Ignacio > Flores (Guatemala)

Other locations some backpackers stay in whilst visiting Belize include:

• Hopkins:  a beachside, sleepy town
• Placencia:  a resort, holiday-like town
• Belize City:  although it’s not a popular choice with most backpackers, and isn’t known to be the safest of places
• San Pedro:  another Caribbean island near Caye Caulker with a big party scene
• Tobacco Caye:  another island but on a much smaller scale
• The Hummingbird Highway:  an epic jungle road from Dangriga to San Ignacio. You can stop off along the drive to hike through the jungle and visit the caves and watering holes and do this as a day trip from San Ignacio.
• Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve:  a large national park that can be accessed as a day trip from San Ignacio.

How do I pronounce ‘Caye Caulker?’

Surprisingly, it’s not pronounced ‘Caye’ (c-ay) Caulker at all. It’s pronounced ‘key’ (k-ee) Caulker. We didn’t learn this until after arriving in Belize!

How many days should you spend in Belize?

If you are backpacking Belize for the first time, 2-3 weeks is enough to see the highlights . If I was to visit Belize again, I would do the following.

• 7 nights in Caye Caulker
• 3 nights in Hopkins
• 4 nights in San Ignacio

Of course, there are other areas in Belize you can visit, such as Placencia and San Pedro.

How to travel around Belize

There are a few different ways to travel around Belize. They are:

• By shuttle bus (most popular backpacker option)
• By public bus (cheapest option)
• Ferry (to travel between the islands)
• Hiring a car
• Hitchhiking

We opted for both the shuttle and hiring a car, and of course, the ferries when travelling to and from Caye Caulker.

Renting a car in Central America?

If you’re hiring a car in Central America, I recommend using this company. We’ve used them all over the world as they’re reliable, cheap and easy to use.

Shuttles in Belize

Shuttles around Belize are safe, easy and reliable . They pick you up from your hostel and take you directly to your next destination (for example, San Ignacio to Flores or Caye Caulker to San Ignacio ).

Of course, they’re not as cheap as a public bus, but if you want an easy option, I’d highly recommend them. Whilst in Belize, we never paid more than £20 ($23 USD) for a one-way shuttle.

If you need a reputable company to use and you’re already IN Guatemala, I highly recommend Mayan Adventures. We used them all over Belize and into Guatemala , and they were reliable and reputable.

🦉 TOP TIP: I only recommend using Mayan Adventures if you are IN Belize/Guatemala whilst reading this blog post. If you would like to pre-book online beforehand, I recommend one of the following shuttle companies:

• Company A ➡ BOOK NOW
• Company B ➡ BOOK NOW

They’re often the same shuttle buses anyway, and using a third-party website gives you a little more insurance than emailing a random person and confirming a shuttle online!

Don’t forget insurance!

Whilst you’re backpacking, you will always need insurance. We use SafetyWing, for the most flexible, reliable and budget-friendly options. They have the best cover for worldwide, long-term trips, and at the most affordable backpacker prices! You can check out their cover here.

Public buses in Belize

There are a lot of public buses in Belize that you can use to travel around the country. In other Central American countries, they are often referred to as ‘chicken buses’, but in Belize, they’re just known as the public bus. Public buses in Belize run all over the country.

Most buses have a sign at the front of the bus stating where they are going. As the national language of Belize is English, it’s easy enough to tell the driver or ask where they are going if you are unsure.

Prices for public buses in Belize cost under a pound/dollar a journey. It’s definitely an experience, and if you want to immerse yourself in to the Belizean way of life, it’s one not to be missed!

TOP TIP: Keep a few BZ dollars spare for the locals who sell fresh fruit on the buses (expect them to poke their head through the window!)

Ferries in Belize

If you are travelling between the islands (like San Pedro and Caye Caulker ) or travelling from Mexico to Belize from Chetumal , you will need to board a ferry.

Again, these ferries are safe, easy and reliable. They’re a little small, especially the boats between Mexico, Caye Caulker and San Pedro, but that’s all part of the fun!

If you need to know more about the ferry journey from Mexico to Belize, check out my post: How To Get From Chetumal To Caye Caulker (Belize) .

Hiring a car in Belize

Hiring a car in Belize was our favourite way to travel around. By hiring a car, we were able to stop off in locations that were off the beaten track. For example, we hired a car to explore the Hummingbird Highway and Mountain Pine Ridge. If we didn’t have a car, we wouldn’t have been able to explore in the way that we did.

Driving in Belize is straightforward and safe. We were stopped at two police checkpoints, where they simply checked the insurance sticker on the windscreen and then waved you on. The roads are well-maintained and easy to drive on, with little difference to driving in the UK or US.

Just bear in mind cars in Belize drive on the right-hand side of the road (which is the opposite of the UK).

Worried about driving in Belize? I’ve written a complete guide on driving in Belize to help!

Hitchhiking in Belize

We didn’t hitchhike in Belize, but we met many other backpackers who did! Hitchhiking is a popular option in Belize because there are so few roads (there are only 4 main highways!) and so few directions to take between towns.

We saw many locals and backpackers at the side of the road with their thumbs out, waiting to be picked up!

If you’re confident and have your wits about you, hitchhiking is a great budget-friendly way to travel around Belize!

How to get to Belize

Flying into Belize is easy, and you’re most likely to arrive in Belize City. From there, you can travel by shuttle, ferry or bus to your destination (I don’t recommend staying in Belize City, as it’s not the best place for backpackers for a few reasons).

If you’re backpacking south through Central America, you’re likely to enter Belize from Mexico. This can again be done easily, and if you need more information, you can check out my post How To Get From Chetumal To Caye Caulker (Belize) . This post explains where to travel to in Mexico to cross the border into Belize.

Alternatively, if you are travelling north through Central America, you may enter from Guatemala. This is usually done via a land crossing from Flores to San Ignacio and can easily be done via shuttle, and you can find out more information about the journey here!

Booking flights?

There are a few different websites I use to book flights, but I mainly use this one. This is because it compares the cheapest flights on the Internet, and always gives you the best deals! Check it out by clicking here.

Best hostels in Belize

Each area in Belize has its own hostels that we loved. For more information on hostels in specific places, take a look at the following posts:

• BEST Hostels In San Ignacio, Belize: Backpacker Guide
• Best Hostels In Caye Caulker For Backpackers

Visas and requirements for entering Belize

If you are a UK or US resident,  you will automatically get a 30-day visa when entering Belize.  This means you do not need to apply for any other visa.

Belize daily costs

Everyone talks about how expensive Belize is, but after arriving in Mexico, we didn’t find this to be the case! In most instances, things were cheaper than what we had paid in places like  Isla Holbox  and  Tulum .

Prices will vary and depend on the time of year that you are visiting.  My biggest tip when backpacking Central America is to   book hostels in advance . We found the nicest and most popular hostels in Belize book up quickly, and if you don’t book with enough time, you could end up missing out!

TOP TIP:  Most places in Belize  only take cash.  But, this is changing, and some now take card (just expect a 5-10% fee on top).

If you do need to withdraw cash, there are ATMs to use in all major towns like San Ignacio and islands like Caye Caulker. You can check out my post explaining the  ATM situation on Caye Caulker here.

Bucket list experiences in Belize

Backpacking Belize means having the opportunity to do some of these incredible bucket list activities. Our personal favourite was snorkelling with nurse sharks , stingrays and manatees, but even if you’re not a water person, there is still so much to see and do!

• Snorkelling with manatees , nurse sharks and stingrays (££)
• Taking a scenic flight over the Blue Hole (£££)
• Feeding the stingrays at the Iguana Reef Hotel (free)
• Scuba diving with manatees, sharks and stingrays (£££)
• Taking a sunset cruise in Caye Caulker (£)
• Kayaking on the Caribbean Sea (£ or free with your hostel)
• Tubing in the Caribbean Sea (£)
• Visiting the only Iguana Sanctuary in Central America (£)
• Hiring a 4×4 and driving the Hummingbird Highway or visiting Mountain Pine Ridge Reserve (££)
• Delving into Mayan history at the Cahal Pech Ruins and the Xunantunich ruins (£)
• Experiencing the ATM cave with a guide and tubing along the cave waters (£££)

Looking to plan your Belize trip? Check out my posts full of all the best things to do in San Ignacio and amazing things to do in Caye Caulker here!

Free and cheap things to do in Belize

If you’re on a tighter backpacker budget, there are still plenty of things to do in Belize. They include:

• Swimming at the Split and diving off the 20ft platform in Caye Caulker
• Kayaking around the islands (most  hostels  allow you to use their kayaks for free, for example,  Go Slow Hostel  does!)
• Seeing the  stingrays at sunset  at the Iguana Reef Inn in Caye Caulker
• Having a traditional Caribbean BBQ
• Partying at the Sports Bar in Caye Caulker (5 BZ rum punch!), taking part in the pub quiz or karaoke
• Hiring a bike to cycle and explore
• Watching the sunset from the Split in Caye Caulker
• Grabbing a beer from the shop and sitting by the Caribbean Sea
• Volunteering at the animal shelter in Caye Caulker (opposite Ice and Beans)
• Getting a morning coffee and watching the world go by
• Going for a walk and exploring the island at your own ‘go slow’ pace
• Visiting the Iguana Sanctuary (roughly £9/$10 per person)
• Walking around the San Ignacio market (free)
• Exploring San Ignacio town (free)
• Drinking a beer at Tandoor, overlooking San Ignacio square (£2/$3 per beer)
• Visiting the Cahal Pech ruins in San Ignacio (£3/$4 per person) which is walkable from the main hostels
• Exploring the Xunantunich ruins, although you will need to hire a car or grab a taxi to reach them. They’re around a 10-minute drive from San Ignacio’s main town.
• Hiking through the Mountain Pine Ridge Reserve – but again, you will need either car or a tour to reach the reserve.  Cars start at $65 USD per day.

Check out my posts full of all the best things to do in San Ignacio and amazing things to do in Caye Caulker here!

Local foods and drinks in Belize

The national dish of Belize is rice and beans.  This is served with most meals, especially if you get a BBQ meal in a restaurant or Belizean stew chicken in a restaurant. Other common foods in San Ignacio include Belizean stews, coconut rice, fry jacks, classic American dishes like hamburgers and fries, and even Mexican burritos!

Belize’s national drink is rum punch,  but we weren’t able to buy this in most places in San Ignacio. Whilst there were cocktails, we found it was easier to just by a Belikin beer, which is Belize’s national beer (which is super cheap).

Wildlife in Belize

We saw so much wildlife whilst backpacking Belize! There is an abundance of wildlife,  and it’s pretty much everywhere you look (especially in the water!)

When backpacking Belize,  you can expect to see:

• Gibnuts  – especially around the Mayan ruin sites
• Howler monkeys  – we spotted lots of monkeys in the trees at the Xunantunich ruins
• Tapirs  – we saw tapirs in both Mountain Pine Ridge and the Xunantunich ruins!
• Hummingbirds
• Iguanas  (and lots of them)
• Nurse sharks   (with a chance of swimming with them!)
• Stingrays   (every night at the Iguana Reef Hotel in Caye Caulker )
• Manatees (whilst  snorkeling )
• Dolphins (whilst  snorkeling )
• Sea turtles (whilst  snorkeling )
• Seahorses (at the Iguana Reef Hotel viewing area in Caye Caulker )
• Eels (at the Iguana Reef Hotel viewing area in Caye Caulker )
• Hermit crabs
• Crocodiles (although I don’t recommend finding these! They live on the north island)

Making friends in Belize as a backpacker

As a backpacker, you’re going to want to make friends to make the most of your experience in Belize.  If you’re a solo traveller with a lot of confidence and an extroverted personality, this is going to be easy. But for some of us, it just isn’t!

We actually found it easy to make friends in Belize. There were many other backpackers and tourists, as well as locals who were exceptionally friendly and welcoming. We made friends pretty much everywhere we went, even when we stayed in private rooms!

Here are my best tips for making friends whilst backpacking Belize,  regardless of if you’re travelling in a couple, solo, with friends or you’re a bit of an introvert (like me!)

• Use shuttle buses to get around. This may sound odd, but it’s one of the ways we made most of our friends in Belize! The shuttles are full of other backpackers so it’s impossible to not get chatting on your journey.
• Book tours! In Caye Caulker, our snorkelling tour was full of other backpackers who we inevitably became friends with. You can find out the company and more about this tour here.
• Stay in a hostel  (even if it’s a private room).  Our hostel in Caye Caulker –  Go Slow  – had outside decking, right in front of our room, which we shared with other backpackers. We made a lot of friends here without having to do anything!

What to pack for a trip to Belize

When packing for your Belize 7 day itinerary, make sure you have the following items:

• All the obvious holiday wear (swimwear, sunglasses, sandals, beach clothes)
• Trainers to walk/hike in , especially for the Hummingbird Highway (I wear these trail running shoes for all hikes whilst backpacking)
• Sun cream (my favourite reef friendly one can be bought here )
• Day backpack for hikes and day trips
• Reusable filter water bottle ( you cannot drink tap water in Belize! )
• Shower gel, shampoo and conditioner (these are really hard to buy in Central America!)
• Skin cream (skin dehydrates quickly in the sun; this is my favourite skin cream which I wear every day whilst backpacking!)
• GoPro waterproof camera to film all of your underwater footage – especially whilst snorkelling !

Is Belize worth seeing?

Yes! Belize is so worth visiting. If you are backpacking Central America or want a budget-friendly holiday from the UK, Belize is an amazing choice. From the abundance of wildlife to paradise beaches, crystal clear waters, epic adventure activities, jungle scenery and plenty of things to do, Belize is so worth visiting.

Where to go after Belize

Where do you head to after you’ve finished backpacking Belize? The most popular options are either Bacalar, Mexico or Flores, Guatemala, depending on which way you are travelling.

San Ignacio , Belize is the gateway to Guatemala,  so most backpackers spend a couple of nights here before heading into their next country.  It’s an easy land crossing from San Ignacio to Flores (Guatemala) .

Need help getting from San Ignacio to Flores?  Check out my post:  How To Get From San Ignacio To Flores .

If you visit Belize after Guatemala and BEFORE Mexico,  I recommend travelling to Bacalar (Mexico) next.

Bacalar is easy to reach from Caye Caulker .  You’ll board the water taxi, then it’s only a 30-minute bus away from  Chetumal  (the location where your water taxi drops you off in Mexico).

It’s a popular destination in Mexico due to it’s brightly coloured blue lakes and party atmosphere.  All information about the boat between Belize and Mexico can be found here:  How To Get From Chetumal To Caye Caulker (Belize) .

Is Belize safe for solo female travellers?

Yes, Belize is a safe place for solo female travellers to visit. Throughout the entire time I spent in Belize, I felt safe.  This includes on my own during the day and at night.

The locals were kind, welcoming and friendly. Yes, you do get a bit of heckling and asking whether you’d like a rum or other suspicious items, but it’s nothing harmful.

In fact, backpacking Belize was where I felt safest throughout our Central American travels.

But everyone’s experiences of Belize are different. What might feel safe to me, might not feel safe for you. But in general,  I found there to be no issues or problems in Belize, no immediate threat of danger and most importantly, the people were kind!

As always, make sure you have  travel insurance  to have extra peace of mind.  As a previous solo female traveller myself, I always use  SafetyWing  for insurance. They have the best cover for backpackers, and signing up is easy! You can check out their cover  here .

Other Central American backpacking locations

If you’re backpacking Central America , go you! It’s such an incredible part of the world to travel, and I’m so glad you’re here, reading this and considering it.

Not sure what route to take? You’re in the right place! This blog is full of Central America backpacking advice.

If you’re not sure what other countries to visit in Central America, this is the most common route backpackers take:

• El Salvador
• Panama (ending with the San Blas Island trip to Colombia)

How long you stay in each location is down to you,  but if you need more information about any of these locations,   sign up to my newsletter  and keep an eye on the blog for when they’re published!

Best backpacker travel insurance for Central America

If you’re visiting Central America as a backpacker, or even for a short vacation, it is  so  important to have  travel insurance .   And  if you ended up on a post that’s called ‘epic party tips’, you know (just as well as I do) that you  definitely  need travel insurance.

Personally, I recommend  SafetyWing .  As a digital nomad and world traveller myself, I can confirm it is the best travel insurance out there. And one of the cheapest – they have deals that start at  just $42 USD per month.

I know, I know, you’re thinking  ‘but I can’t afford that!’ . I was the same! It’s tough to fork out $42 a month on something ‘you might not need’. But what if something DOES happen? That extra Mezcal shot results in you falling down the stairs, or you eat something dodgy from a street food van.

If you need medical help at  any point  whilst in Central America,  you need  travel insurance.

With  SafetyWing , you’re covered on travel emergencies, basic medical costs and medical expenses throughout your trip, so you can travel without worry (at a backpacker’s price!)

Don’t even think twice about getting travel insurance for Central America . Trust me, I have heard enough horror stories about backpackers who haven’t had insurance and have ended up in a  lot  of debt. Don’t be that person!

If you’ve been putting the job off because it takes a lot of time and effort to research the  best travel insurance companies , I understand. That’s why I’ve done the hard work for you. Sign up for  SafetyWing , and the job is done!

Backpacking Belize: In a Nutshell

So, there you have it! Nearly 5000 words later, and you should know  everything  about  backpacking Belize!  Phew, if you’ve got this far, I’m impressed!

When you’re planning a trip to Belize,  make sure you let me know over on  Instagram  or in the comments below. I’d love to know about your experience in Belize and if you found it as special as I did!

If you haven’t come across my blog before,  I write informative and honest posts directly aimed at backpackers.  Researching and planning your trip whilst backpacking can be so overwhelming, so I’m here to make it as easy as possible!

I’m currently backpacking Central America with my boyfriend (read more  here !), whilst creating guides and itineraries for you to follow our footsteps!

Keep an eye out for more Belize content,  all written from a personal and realistic point of view. You can sign up for my newsletter and juicy travel updates  here!

As always, thanks for reading and supporting the blog!

Happy travelling 🙂

Other Belize posts:

• Backpacking San Ignacio: COMPLETE Guide
• Snorkeling in Caye Caulker: BEST Company

MEET THE AUTHOR!

Hi! I'm Jennie! As a part-time travel blogger based in London, I'm using my 10+ years of travel expertise to encourage & inspire you to step out of your comfort zone through sustainable, mindful and purposeful travel.

If I'm not writing, I'm either reading, drinking coffee or taking a wild swim (all at the same time if I'm feeling impressive).

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Table of Contents

The placencia belize peninsula travel guide (2023 update), the placencia beach, barefoot beach bar, tipsy tuna bar & restaurant, brewed awakenings, tutti frutti gelateria (a must), mojo lounge and bartique, rumfish y vino restaurant, fusion beach, maya beach bistro.

• Omar's Creole Grub

Above Grounds

La dolce vita, whaleshark diving, placencia lobster-fest, placencia sidewalk art and music festival, get a massage, yacht sailing.

Placencia Belize is one of the most relaxing and ambient villages in southern Belize. Quaint is hardly the word we’d like to use to describe it, however. it must suffice for now. As with almost every other community in Belize, Placencia is ripe with culture and personality. There are so many activities that a simple google search will overwhelm you with options and you may shy away for the promise of an easier task.

To make things easier for you, we’ve rounded up the best and most interesting things to do, see, eat, and experience while in Placencia Belize .

Where to go in Placencia Belize:

Seems like a no brainer right? We’re going to a sea-side community, but we aren’t going to the beach – words said by absolutely no one; ever. However, being nominated for the World Travel Awards in the “Best beaches destination” category, we really want to reinforce: Where to go in Placencia? The Beach.

Miles of tranquil, reef-protected white sand beaches crown the perimeter of the village and much of the eastern side of the peninsula. Admire sunrise and sets from here.

While “No shoes, no problem” is generally an accepted practice in Belize, Barefoot beach bar takes it up a notch. Situated right on the beach (Perhaps this order was deliberate) Barefoot is perfect to grab a refreshing drink after a stroll on the beach. Being barefoot is not a rule, and it’s unclear whether it really speeds up how quick you’re served or not but we certainly like to think it does! Barefoot bar is the first stop watering hole for both locals and travelers and is a must stop if you’re already relaxing by the beach in town.

Tipsy tuna is your logical next step after barefoot bar, the veritable “start” to the nightlife in Placencia and also the perfect place to catch the game, or well, whatever you enjoy watching! Tipsy Tuna Sports bar is everything it proclaims itself to be; the colorful lounge chairs, Big plasma TVs, pool tables, rooftop lounge and two-hour happy hour will liven up any day no matter how dull it has been for you.

The food is standard bar fare, tacos, burgers, wings, etc. which is enough to curb any tipsy munchies you might develop in your escapades.

Quite the opposite for ma rude awakening, this wonderful little cafe roasts their coffee beans fresh and makes a variety of coffee-themed drinks to satisfy every caffeine fix need. For an added kick, many of the offerings at Brewed awakeninigs in Placencia include the addition of local seaweed, yes, the grass that grows in the sea, as a base or to add substance. Seaweed is locally believed to possess a variety of healthy properties including minerals and rare vitamins. It’s unclear whether the health benefits are well founded or not, but it sure does taste good in a smoothie!

This dockside bar in Placencia is as lively as one would expect of a bar by the sea. They host recurring Wednesday karaoke for those who’ve had an especially terrible hump day and need a bit of entertainment via bar-goers comically strained attempts at singing. If on Thursdays you’re not as thirsty as much as you’re eager to get your sports on, the owners at J-Byrds host frequent dart competitions for you to show your skills off and possibly win cool prizes! J-Byrds is definitely one of the watering holes of choice in Placencia and worth a stop if you’re spending the night in town.

Tutti Frutti is a local favorite, Belizeans sometimes literally travel to Placencia for the day simply to experience the unique authentic gelato available only here. They have a wide assortment of ever changing flavors ensuring that if you’re a first-time visitor you’ll want to try them all and if you’re a 100th-time visitor there’s always something new for you. Put simply; if you don’t like the ice cream served here then chances are you don’t like ice cream at all!

Where to eat in Placencia Belize:

Mojo lounge and Bartique on the peninsula is a trendy, upscale experience in an otherwise unassuming seaside village. Situated on the second level of a building in the heart of what could be considered “downtown” makes this place easy to find and an absolute dining delight. Their happy hour specials are definitely something to look out for and if you’re an avid social media user check out their page for their frequent “code words” for even more specials (but don’t say we told you about it).

This quaint establishment is one of the first, if not the only “gastro-bar” to be found in Mother Natures best-kept secret, and on that merit, we cannot allow Rumfish to stay a secret. They specialize in small-plate dining  and are experts in all things pertinent to wine. Look out for the colonial style building with the Rumfish sign hanging above, it’s guaranteed to be one of your favorite places thereafter.

Fusion Beach is a hotel restaurant, that is situated in front of, you guessed it: the beach! The restaurant has a seafront deck which makes dining an exceptionally relaxing experience, they’re also equipped with an infinity pool in view from the restaurant for those of you looking to date a dip before/after/while you eat. Fusion Beach, as the name suggests, are experts in exquisite combinations of flavors and foods in unique ways, they’ll take your taste buds on a ride they’ll undoubtedly enjoy. An added bonus to their creative concoctions is their Sushi, while not exactly traditional Japanese styled their offerings are beautiful and delicious earning Fusion beach a definite spot on this guide!

If Placencia itself isn’t “island” enough for you then Tranquilo has exactly what you need. Situated a short boat ride away on Placencia Island, Tranquilo is a wonderfully situated, secluded romantic restaurant that offers up the very best in Belizean and Caribbean food. In addition to the secluded location, call ahead and receive a free boat transfer to the restaurant!

The Maya Beach Bistro, the restaurant at the Maya Beach Hotel is a real treat! Their offerings of international cuisine with a local twist have earned them restaurant awards in the past and numerous nominations too!

Omar’s Creole Grub

Omar’s is as Belizean as it gets. Far from the new kid on the block Omar’s has been serving the same style of fresh caught Creole style Belizean goodness for decades in Placencia and time has not dulled their edge! Comfort food is the name of the game here where you can get fresh catch of the day fish, crab, lobster, and shrimp any way you like but we really recommend the traditional Creole sauce!

De-Thatch at the Seaspray hotel is another “no shoes, no tie, no problem” establishment in Placencia. In their description, go ahead and DETACH yourself from your worries at their seaside restaurant with their calm ambiance and great food. They seem to really like puns, we don’t blame them; puns are pretty clever.

The puns keep coming with Above Grounds, situated on the second level of a building just off the main driving road in the village they specialize in; you guessed it – Coffee! Above ground work directly with small organic coffee producers from Antigua in Guatemala and their artisan-style coffee is superb! The accompany your coffee you may indulge in their sweet baked treats like cookies and brownies. If you’re looking for a rich drink that isn’t coffee they also offer cold and hot organic chocolate drinks as well!

Life is sweet at this little peninsular Italian restaurant. La Dolce Vita is owned and operated by Chef Simone de Angelis, an Italian chef who imports his own ingredients direct from the source to ensure the highest quality and the most authentic culinary experience. Every dish here is thoughtfully, artfully and traditionally prepared the Italian way with subtly complimentary flavors and an intense love for food. If you love Italian food and want an authentic hit of it in the Caribbean; La Dolce Vita is exactly where you should be.

What to Do in Placencia Belize:

There’s a small army of hotels and dive shops that will gladly take you snorkeling in Placencia . Being on the southern coast provides easy access to some of Belize’s most beautiful atolls and reefs, with some of the most undisturbed marine habitats. Snorkeling is a must do!

Summer, Spring, Winter, Autumn, it all boils down to one thing here, perpetual summer! Belize’s warm Caribbean waters are perfect for scuba diving year-round, the average temperature here removes the need for full or even partial wetsuits, you can scuba in your swimming trunks or bikini. If you don’t yet know how to dive, many dive shops are equipped to make you a certified PADI underwater diver. Our favorite dive shop and tour operator in Placencia is SPLASH Dive Center & Tours, ms Patricia and her team are a delight to be around and very professional.

Whalesharks? You’re thinking we must be kidding… Nope. In May and June Whale sharks make their way to our warm seas to spawn, usually deep sea fish, they come close to the surface near the Gladden Split off the southern coast. These gentle giants swim along allowing you to scuba or snorkel beside them. Daunting as it may be, there haven’t been reports of whale shark attacks as they eat small fish, definitely nothing human sized.

Looking for a Whale Shark diving experience? Check out this recommended Whale Shark Diving Package

If you read our blog telling you about our favorite Belizean Festivals then this name will ring a bell. Lobster fest weekend in June on the peninsula is one of the must do’s, the locals fish, cook and serve the freshest lobster in the most authentic ways for days on end. Tell me… what could be better than that?

The Placencia Sidewalk art festival is held annually in the beginning of February. The art festival is held on the 4000-foot long sidewalk that is the villages “main street”. Along your walk, you’ll be witness to beautiful paintings, creative crafts, music, poetry readings, and art of every kind, if you’re looking for a creatively romantic thing to do this might be exactly what you want.

Bowling is generally not a thing in Belize… You’ll be surprised at how much of a thing it isn’t, no one bowls here, or watches bowling on the television. That might change soon with Jaguar Lanes, however, one of the first, probably literally the second bowling alley in Belize situated on the peninsula gives you the opportunity to bowl a few strikes, or not, depending on your luck or skill while enjoying cold Belizean beers and excellent finger food.

Who doesn’t want a massage on a vacation away from home? fatigued and cramped muscles from stress and work back home literally melt away with beach-side massages in Placencia, Most of the resorts offer massages and if the one you’re at doesn’t then feel free to venture into town to one of the massage parlours to kick your relaxation into high gear, if that paradox is even possible.

This activity you can do right at the beach (away from swimmers of course) or off a dock. The real fun, however, is going out to sea for fish. Your choices are many with this activity, deep sea, shallow, sport, or for food. Whatever your aim for fishing is in Placencia the local boat captains can take you to the best spots, sometimes their own secret spots for awesome fishing opportunities in clear Caribbean waters.

You too can live a slice of the rich and famous life from Placencia. Companies offer yacht and catamaran charters from the Placencia peninsula for up to 9 nights stay out at sea sailing Belize’s many coastal destinations. Crewed charters are available with experienced Belizean captains to take you to the best spots for sightseeing and swimming. For the experienced captains, uncrewed expeditions are available to make you the captain of your very own Caribbean sailing expedition!

Is there anything else you would like to see included in this guide to Placencia Belize? Let us know by commenting below! 🙂

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2 thoughts on “Placencia Belize: Your Travel Guide To The Peninsula (2023 Update)”

Great article except you have used my image (gelato) without my permission or photo credit.

Hey Hannah! thank you for bringing this to our attention. We did not source this directly from your website, it was actually found on flickr.com – we have added photo credit to the image, thanks! 🙂

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Belize Tours & Vacations

This drop-dead beautiful Central American nation with a distinct Caribbean flavor has something for everyone

Stunning reefs for divers, colorful wildlife for bird watchers, rare archaeological finds for history buffs, and vibrant markets for culture vultures. Beautiful Belize’s natural delights and historic highlights will capture your imagination, and steal your heart. 

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Land of Belize

The top 7 destinations for travel in January 2024

3 great countries in Central America for solo travel

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What a trip to Belize is really like, in 23 beautiful photos

Why Belize’s Caye Caulker is the definition of paradise

Step aside Chichen Itza: 6 other Maya ruins we love

Central American gem: 6 reasons you’ve got to get to Belize

Life’s a beach: why are we so drawn to the ocean?

Belize at a glance

Capital city.

Belmopan (population 13,351)

(GMT-06:00) Central America

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type A (North American/Japanese 2-pin) Type B (American 3-pin) Type G (Irish/British 3-pin)

Learn more about Belize

Best time to visit belize.

Belize’s subtropical climate sees high temperatures and humidity most of the year, but the fresh sea breezes generally make life more comfortable. The dry season is from December to May, and this is the best time to visit Belize if you’re looking for sunshine and warm temperatures.

The wet season is from June to November when rain is more frequent. Belize can get quite busy during the main holidays of Christmas and Easter so be prepared to share the beaches with other travelers during this time.

Culture and customs

Drawing on Caribbean, Central American, British, and Rastafarian traditions, Belize has a unique culture of its own. In general, Belizean society is quite laidback, casual, and friendly. The prevalence of beaches means that the dress code is relaxed, there is little pressure to get things done in a hurry, and leisure time is valued – hallmarks of coastal living.

With a large percentage of the population being Christian, Easter, and Christmas are important times for Belizeans. Drawing on many different cultural influences, Christmas is celebrated with a range of multi-racial rituals including old European traditions like decorating a Christmas tree and baking fruitcakes, as well as other traditions like Creole cooking and Garifuna dancing. Due to a high level of racial harmony and tolerance, the people of Belize are free to celebrate various religious and ethnic holidays in relative peace.

Eating and drinking

Intrepid believes that one of the best ways to experience a country is by eating! Whether you're sampling street food, savoring cheap eats, or indulging in a banquet, there are endless options to choose from wherever you are in the world.

Things to try in Belize

Belize’s seafood is undisputedly among the best in the world. A steady supply of lobster, crab, mussels, and Creole-style fish stew should keep seafood aficionados happy.

2. Hot sauces

Marie Sharp's famous habanero sauces, jams, and condiments are served almost everywhere - and with everything - in Belize. You can also visit this local success story’s factory in Dangriga if you’re nearby.

3. Fry Jacks & Johnny cakes

Served at breakfast instead of toast, these doughy delights often accompany bacon and eggs. While not good for the diet, they are delicious and you’ll soon get used to a side of fry jacks instead of bread.

4. Fruit shakes

Street carts and cafes make use of the wide variety of tropical fruits that grow in Belize. Ingredients range from the usual suspects (papaya, lime, bananas), to sweet additions (cinnamon), to the darn right weird (seaweed shake anyone?). Either way, choose what you want in your shake for a quick and healthy refreshment.

Geography and environment

Belize is a land of incredible biological diversity, with natural environments rich in plant and animal life. With such impressive jungles, preserves, and national parks, it’s no wonder more than 500 bird species choose to call this place home. 

Boasting one of the most impressive reef systems in the world, Belize also has an abundance of marine life - including nimble reef sharks, colorful clownfish, gentle manatees, and giant whale sharks. 

It's estimated that more than 60% of Belize is covered in forest, and with a recent increase in conservation consciousness, hopefully, Belize will retain much of this precious vegetation that is full of rare and protected flora and fauna. 

Bordered by   Mexico   and   Guatemala   (and the Caribbean Sea), this small nation has the lowest population density in   Central America , and therefore people live with freedom and space. The major cities are quite slow-paced, low-density housing is common and much of the colonial heritage has been preserved in the buildings, churches, and streets.

History and government

Recent history.

Belize enjoyed relative economic prosperity up until the Great Depression of the 1930s, which caused wide-scale unemployment and hardship due to falling timber prices, and the subsequent collapse of the industry. Further to this, a damaging hurricane hit the colony in 1931 causing loss of life and infrastructure.

In 1964, Belize was granted the right to self-govern, with George Price becoming the country’s first Prime Minster. Nine years later, British Honduras was officially renamed Belize and in 1981, Belize was granted its independence. More recently, Belize elected its first black Prime Minister when Dean Barrow was sworn into office in 2008.

Early history

Once part of the great Mayan Empire, Belize was occupied for centuries before the Spanish arrived. The Spanish colonists were largely unsuccessful when first trying to colonize Belize as they were repelled by local inhabitants. 

However, the British arrived in the 17th century and Belize soon became a part of the British Empire under the name of British Honduras (after many battles with Spanish settlers). 

Prior to the abolition of the slave trade in 1838, many African slaves were sent to Belize to work in the timber industry, namely mahogany extraction. Conditions were tough and fraught with danger, but many slaves chose to stay in this line of work after their emancipation due to their inability to receive work elsewhere or own land. Belize’s current population reflects the rich African culture that the slaves brought to the area centuries ago.

Top 10 outdoor experiences in Belize

1. scuba diving.

Experienced divers will jump at the chance to explore Belize’s epic Great Blue Hole. Declared one of the top ten scuba diving spots in the world by scuba-legend Jacques Cousteau, this sinkhole has enough groupers, grey nurses, and reef sharks to astound diving veterans.

2. Sea Kayaking

Caye Caulker is one of the best places in the world to explore the sea in a kayak. Glide over the clear Caribbean waters and spot graceful marine life, stop and rest at sandy beaches, and experience the quiet and beauty of uninhabited islands.

3. Zip Lining

Make like Tarzan and speed through the Belizean jungle with the wind rushing through your hair on a zip line. This exhilarating ride gives you a different perspective of the jungle while you fly freely across the canopy way, from tree to tree, above the forest floor.

Whether you’re seeking fast mountain biking thrills or prefer slow cycling past sleepy villages, farmland, and cornfields, seeing this charismatic country by bike might just be one of the best ways to get to know the brilliance of Belize.

There’s no better way to travel the rivers of San Ignacio than in a tube. For a fun and relaxing ride, just hop in a tube and float through caves, past cascading waterfalls and over gentle rapids - taking in the surrounding jungle landscapes along the way.

6. Birdwatching

With more than 500 species of birds present in the tree-filled jungles of Belize, this is a paradise for ‘bird nerds’ and nature enthusiasts. Have fun spotting magnificent toucans, tiny hummingbirds, glorious eagles and curious woodpeckers.

7. Swimming

Floating in the warm waters of the Caribbean Sea is a surefire way to forget your troubles. Cheaper than therapy, daily ocean dips should be mandatory on all holidays. Luckily Belize has enough coastline to ensure that both locals and tourists can share the beaches without it getting too crowded. Phew!

Enjoy brief encounters with some of the world’s most elusive animals while hiking in Belize. Apart from world-famous birds, you can also find howler monkeys, jaguars, ocelots, and tree frogs lurking in Belize’s jungles, forests, and national reserves.

9. Snorkelling

Cool, clear water, golden sunshine, and reefs full of color and life combine to create the perfect conditions for some pretty sensational snorkeling.

Explore a mysterious, subterranean world while caving in some of Belize’s spectacular caves. Some feature underground rivers, sinkholes, and waterfalls, others have mystical Mayan artifacts held within – either way, Belize’s caves are not to be missed!

The nature-lovers playground of Belize is not well known for its shopping – the best action definitely happens on the beaches and in the jungles. Despite this, there are still enough markets and shops to keep most entertained – look hard and you’ll find some genuine finds among the standard (overpriced) touristy trinkets.

It's also a good idea to check with your local customs officials to ensure that you are able to bring certain items back into your home country. Australia and New Zealand generally have strict quarantine laws.

Things to buy in Belize

1. Traditional drums

Hand-made by the Garifuna, drums are an excellent musical memento. Made from natural materials without the use of machinery, this is a great item to buy if you want to support and celebrate local culture.

2. Hot sauces and condiments

Locally made hot sauces, jams, and seasonings are a great way to take a taste of Belize home with you. Marie Sharp’s Fine Food Store is a one-stop shop for hot condiment lovers.

Vibrant art by local artists can be found in city galleries, shops, and some markets. From traditional ethnic art to more modern pieces, there’s a wide range to choose from.

One of the most popular items bought by visitors to Belize. Before buying, check with customs officials to see how much rum you can legally bring home with you.

Festivals and events in Belize

Lobster festivals.

Lobster lovers will be in heaven during lobster season! Several ‘Lobsterfests’ are held at the start of lobster season with the biggest being in San Pedro, Placencia, and Caye Caulker. Featuring music, dance, block parties, rum, and lobster cooked in hundreds of different ways, this is a chance to savor lobster omelets, tacos, kebabs, and cocktails.

Belize National Day

Starting in the first week of September, Belize National Day kicks off a three-week period of raucous festivities featuring parades, parties, fireworks, and feasts in celebration of Belize’s independence. All-night beach parties and dancing all round!

Further reading

Belize travel faqs, do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travelers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

Do I need a visa to travel to Belize?

Australia: Not required Belgium: Not required Canada: Not required Germany: Not required Ireland: Not required Netherlands: Not required New Zealand: Not required South Africa: Not required Switzerland: Not required United Kingdom: Not required USA: Not required

Is tipping customary in Belize?

Tipping isn’t expected of you in Belize; however, if you feel the service is good, feel free to round up the bill. Service workers like maids, drivers and wait staff will appreciate the generosity. Some restaurants may include a 10% surcharge in bills, so tipping here isn’t necessary.

What is the internet access like in Belize?

Internet cafes and Wi-Fi hotspots are becoming more prevalent in Belize. Be aware that accessing the internet can be quite costly in Belize and probably slower than what you’re used to.

Can I use my cell phone while in Belize?

Belize has a reliable cell phone network so using your cell phone while traveling in most areas of Belize shouldn’t be problematic. Ensure you have global roaming enabled before leaving your home country.

What are the toilets like in Belize?

Most tourist sites and restaurants have modern flushable toilets. It’s a good idea to carry your own toilet paper and soap as these aren’t always provided.

What will it cost for a...?

Beer = 5 BZD Glass of rum at a bar = 6 BZD Simple meal at a local restaurant = 10 BZD Lobster meal at a high-end restaurant = 50 BZD

Can I drink the water in Belize?

Drinking tap water is not recommended in Belize. For environmental reasons, try to avoid buying bottled water. Fill a reusable water bottle or canteen with filtered water. Ask your leader where filtered water can be found. It's also advisable to avoid ice in drinks and peel fruit and vegetables before eating.

Are credit cards accepted widely in Belize?

Credit cards can be used at most top-end hotels, restaurants, shops and other tourist establishments. Expect to pay cash when dealing with smaller vendors, family-run restaurants and market stalls.

What is ATM access like in Belize?

Internationally compatible ATMs can be found in most of Belize’s major cities. ATMs are far less common in rural areas, islands, and small villages so have enough cash to cover purchases when traveling away from the larger cities.

What public holidays are celebrated in Belize ?

• 1 Jan New Year's Day
• 2 Jan New Year Holiday
• 6 Mar National Heroes and Benefactors Holiday
• 14 Apr Good Friday
• 15 Apr Holy Saturday
• 17 Apr Easter Monday
• 1 May Labour Day
• 22 May Sovereign's Day Holiday
• 10 Sep Saint George's Caye Day
• 11 Sep National Day Holiday
• 21 Sep Independence Day
• 9 Oct Pan American Day / Colombus Day
• 19 Nov Garifuna Settlement Day
• 20 Nov Garifuna Settlement Holiday
• 25 Dec Christmas Day
• 26 Dec Boxing Day

*Please note these dates may vary. For a current list of public holidays in Belize go to World Travel Guide's website.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?

Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

How do I stay safe and healthy while traveling?

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to:  Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to:  UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to:  Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to:  US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

Does my trip support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. Trips to this country directly support our global Intrepid Foundation partners, Eden Reforestation Projects and World Bicycle Relief. Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Eden Reforestation Projects

Eden Reforestation Projects are helping to mitigate climate change by restoring forests worldwide; they also hire locally and create job opportunities within vulnerable communities. Donations from our trips support restoration across planting sites in 10 countries around the globe. Find out more or make a donation World Bicycle Relief

World Bicycle Relief provides people in low-income communities with bicycles to mobilize school kids, health workers, and farmers in far-out areas – giving them access to vital education, healthcare, and income. Donations help provide Buffalo Bicycles – specifically designed to withstand the rugged terrain and harsh environment of rural regions – to those who need them most. Find out more or make a donation

Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

Caye Caulker Travel Guide

Last Updated: August 9, 2023

For years, Caye Caulker has been popular with backpackers looking to sample the laid-back atmosphere of Belize but reluctant to pay the high prices on nearby Caye Ambergris.

In Caye Caulker, life moves at a snail’s pace. No one is in a rush. There aren’t any real roads (you drive around in golf carts). You visit Caye Caulker to relax on the beach, get a tan, eat lobster, and spend the evenings dancing at one of the reggae bars.

Diving and snorkeling are also popular here due to the nearby Belize Barrier Reef and world-class dive sites like the Blue Hole Natural Monument.

But, overall, there isn’t a whole lot to do here other than slowing down and enjoying the natural surroundings of this tropical paradise.

This Caye Caulker travel guide will help you plan your trip, safe money, and make the most out of your time in this tropical paradise!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Caye Caulker

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Caye Caulker

1. Visit Caye Caulker Forest Reserve

This beautiful nature reserve on the island of Caye Caulker takes up 100 acres of the island and is home to a plethora of sea life, plant life, and over 170 species of birds. The reserve is home to the glossy black catbird, known for its curious ability to mimic cats, as well as the white-crowned pigeon and several species of herons. This delicate ecosystem has little lagoons and mangroves that are home to turtles, iguanas, boas, and other reptiles — including the American crocodile. Kayakers are welcome here, and kayaks are usually available to rent at your accommodation if you want to explore.

2. Feast at Lobsterfest

July marks Lobsterfest in Caye Caulker, the festival honoring all things crustacean. This nationwide culinary event and huge celebration also takes place in San Ignacio and Placencia but expect slightly cheaper prices in Caye Caulker. Tourists and locals alike can enjoy competitions, cocktails, beach parties, and music by top DJs and local bands. Visitors can check out restaurants and cafes for the chef’s best take on their lobster dishes, allowing you to feast on every conceivable lobster dish, from lobster ice cream to lobster ceviche. Just be sure to book your accommodation in advance as the island fills up.

3. Explore the Split

A visit to this Caye Caulker wouldn’t be complete without a visit to “the split,’ a stretch of water that divides the island in two. With its stunning crystal shades of blue water and natural tropical biodiversity, it’s one of the most popular spots on the island. Hurricanes ripped through the island in the 1960s and 90s forming “the split” and on one side are the mangroves of the Caye Caulker Marine Reserve and, on the other is the inhabited part of the island. The Split is great for lounging around, swimming, snorkeling, or having a drink. The best snorkeling spot is by the Lazy Lizard pier where you can see coral, live sponges, and colorful sea anemones as well as puffer fish, starfish, and even stingrays. You can rent a kayak or a canoe for about 15 BZD an hour as well. It’s the place to be on the island.

4. Go manatee watching

Manatees are huge, docile but highly endangered animals and are protected in Belize. There are only about 300-700 manatees throughout Belize so it’s a real treat to see these gentle creatures up close since they average around 3.5 meters in length (about 12 feet) and weigh up to 1,500 kilos (2,500 pounds)! You can see them on one of the many tours to Swallow Caye Wildlife Sanctuary, an ideal manatee spotting site. Entrance to Swallow Caye is 10 BZD, but it’s usually included in the price of a tour (the only way to get there). A full-day tour starts at around 190-240 BZD.

5. Snorkel Shark Ray Alley

Snorkelers flock to Shark Ray Alley at the Hol Chan Marine Reserve for the chance to get up close and personal with nurse sharks, sting rays, and sea turtles at feeding time. Don’t worry, the nurse sharks are only around 4-5 feet long (1.2-1.5 meters) and harmless. The water is warm and clear, so you can get in to swim, pose for pictures with them, and even pet them as they are used to human contact. Tours are around 4-5 hours and start around 180 BZD.

Other Things to See and Do in Caye Caulker

1. go snorkeling.

The Belize Barrier Reef is just a few minutes from the island and provides an ideal underwater world for snorkelers to explore. The largest reef in the Northern Hemisphere (and the second largest in the entire world), it spans almost 200 miles (300 kilometers). The reef is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to rays, sharks, sea turtles, whale sharks, dolphins, and much more. Half-day tours start at 80-130 BZD while full-day tours start at 180 BZD.

2. Go diving

Caye Caulker and its surrounding areas are a diver’s paradise. There is the barrier reef, as well as Blue Hole Natural Monument and Half Moon Caye. The Great Blue Hole is a 400-foot-deep (121-meter) hole with a cave and is one of the most popular dive sites in the world . A half-day tour with two dives starts from 260 BZD. The trips to the Blue Hole are full-day, 3-tank tours and start from 600 BZD.

3. Windsurf

Year-round winds and warm shallow waters make windsurfing a big draw here. If you’re experienced, a board rental for a half day costs about 150 BZD, but if you’re a newbie, you can take a one-hour beginner’s lesson for 150 BZD or a two-hour group lesson for around 175 BZD.

4. Go kayaking

Sea kayaks are available to rent all around the island and you can head to the northern island, past the Split, to explore the mangroves. Kayak rentals start from 15-20 BZD per hour or 50 BZD for a full day. Check out Ocean Academy to support the local high school, as you can make a donation in exchange for rentals.

5. See the South End

The southern end is an area rich in crocodiles, bird-nesting, and raw natural beauty. Swimming at this end of the island offers a wide array of anemones, sponges, gorgonians, fish, and more. Most people don’t come down here, so you’ll have the area all to yourself.

  If you’re heading to other parts of Belize, check out some of our other city guides:

• Orange Walk Travel Guide
• San Ignacio Travel Guide
• Placencia Travel Guide

Caye Caulker Travel Costs

Hostel prices – Hostel dorms with 8-16 beds cost around 26 BZD per night, while smaller dorms start from 32 BZD. A standard private room in a hostel costs 80-90 BZD per night. Free Wi-Fi is standard and most (but not all) have self-catering facilities.

Budget hotel prices – There aren’t a whole lot of budget hotels around Caye Caulker. Double rooms at hotels and resorts start from 120 BZD per night. Most other 2-3 star hotels are around 150 BZD per night, and they can reach up to 300 BZD during peak season. Standard amenities include private bathrooms, free Wi-Fi, and air-conditioning.

On Airbnb, private rooms start from 50-85 BZD. You can get a basic cabana (a tiny house studio) or apartment from 100 BZD, but often you’ll have to pay extra for Wi-Fi. Nicer apartments, including those with swimming pools, start from 200-300 BZD.

Food – Belizean cuisine leans heavily on beans, rice, cheese, and tortillas. Rice and beans is a common lunch choice, and you can always find tamales, panades (fried meat pies), onion soup, chicken stew, and garnaches (beans, cheese, and onion in a fried tortilla) pretty much everywhere you go. Expect a lot of seafood here, including lobster, shrimp, red snapper, sea bass, and halibut.

Most restaurants on the island cost between 14-22 BZD, with breakfast at a cafe starting from 6 BZD. You can get fast food (grilled meats, BBQ seafood, pastries) from 13 BZD.

If you plan to buy your own groceries and cook, a week’s worth of food costs between 80-120 BZD for basic staples like rice, vegetables, and some chicken or fish.

Make sure you eat at Wish Willy’s, the best restaurant on the island. You get a great chicken or fish meal there. It’s tasty and affordable!

Backpacking Caye Caulker Suggested Budgets

If you’re backpacking Caye Caulker, my suggested budget is 90 BZD per day. This budget covers staying in a hostel dorm, cooking most of your meals, walking everywhere, and enjoying lots of free activities like swimming and lounging on the beach. It’s a tight budget but doable if you cut your drinking. If you want to party or eat out more, add another 20 BZD per day.

On a mid-range budget of about 215 BZD, you can stay in a budget Airbnb room, eat out for most meals, enjoy a few drinks, rent a bicycle to get around, and do watersports like snorkeling or windsurfing.

On a “luxury” budget of 425 BZD or more, you can stay in a hotel or private Airbnb, eat out for all your meals, rent a golf cart or bicycle, and do more tours (such as diving trips). This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in BZD.

Caye Caulker Travel Guide: Money Saving Tips

Caye Caulker can be an expensive place to visit if you do a lot of tours and activities. But, if you’re just chilling on the beach and staying in a dorm, you won’t spend a ton of money. Here are ways to save money in Caye Caulker during your visit:

• Shop around – There are a lot of dive companies on Caye Caulker and competition is fierce so be sure to shop around. Most will give you a free dive in the hopes of getting you to sign up for their PADI certification course.
• Snorkel The Split – If you snorkel the Split, you’ll be able to see a wide variety of fish without paying money for an expensive tour of the reef. Same animals, cheaper price.
• Travel off-peak – The most expensive time to visit is between October and April. By traveling in the off-season, you can significantly reduce prices for accommodation and flights.
• Combine trips – Many tour operators offer trips that combine popular excursions. These are a good way to save on transfers to each tourist destination as well as possibly get dropped off at your next destination.
• Happy hour – Most bars have a happy hour in the late afternoon and offer discounts on drinks. Ask your accommodation staff for tips on where to go to save.
• Pack a water bottle – A water bottle with a purifier will come particularly in handy here. Save money and thousands of plastic bottles and get a bottle that can purify the tap water for you. My preferred bottle is LifeStraw as it has a built-in filter to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Caye Caulker

Caye Caulker only has a couple of options for budget travelers. Here are my suggested places to stay:

• Sophie’s Guest Rooms

How to Get Around Caye Caulker

Caye Caulker is a relatively small island and is easily walkable. If you’re staying outside the main village, there are a few other ways to get around:

Bicycle – Other than on foot, bicycle rentals are your cheapest option for getting around. You can find them for as little as 15 BZD per day, or 60 BZD per week. Ask your hostel if they have bikes to rent.

Golf cart – Golf carts are definitely not a budget option, with hourly rentals starting from 25 BZD. You can also rent them daily for 125-150 BZD, or weekly from 550-600 BZD. I don’t recommend this mode of transportation unless you have mobility issues or have a group of friends you want to share one with.

Water taxi – Water taxis can take you to the mainland for about 35-40 BZD for a round-trip. The two water taxis that service Caye Caulker are:

• Caye Caulker Water Taxi
• San Pedro Water Taxi

When to Go to Caye Caulker

The best time to visit Caye Caulker is from the end of November to mid-April. This is Belize’s dry season (and it’s also peak season). However, it never gets too crowded at Caye Caulker. The temperature here never varies much and very rarely dips below 77°F (25°C). January and February can be a little cooler, with occasional lows of 68°F (20°C)

November to April is also the best time for diving, as the waters are clearest during this time.

The rainy season lasts from September to October, so I would avoid traveling to Caye Caulker during those months.

How to Stay Safe in Caye Caulker

Caye Caulker is a very safe place to visit. Violent crime is rare, although theft can be a problem. There have been several reports of hotel keys being stolen and then used to ransack the room, so make sure you have your valuables stored safely.

Don’t leave your valuables unattended at the beach and if you go out to the bar, only bring the money you need.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here, however, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.).

Scams here are rare and not something I would worry about.

If you experience an emergency, dial 911 for assistance.

For more in-depth coverage of how to stay safe in Belize, check out this post we wrote that answers some frequently asked questions and concerns.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past.

Caye Caulker Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Caye Caulker Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Belize and continue planning your trip:

Is Belize Safe to Visit?

Is Central America Safe to Visit?

Get my best stuff sent straight to you, pin it on pinterest.

• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

Belize: The Top Destination To Travel in 2023

• October 16, 2022
• by Belize Hub +

If you are looking for an exciting 2023 vacation destination, why not consider Belize? Located in Central America, Belize offers something for everyone, whether it is scuba diving the second largest barrier reef in the world, or climbing an ancient Maya temple, there is so much to see and do in Belize in 2023. What To Do In Belize

Belize offers a wealth of natural beauty with Caribbean Sea shorelines on the eastern part and dense jungles on the western side. The Belize Barrier Reef is offshore, and it’s the second-largest of its kind in the world. Only the Great Barrier Reef in Australia is bigger. This reef and the low-lying islands around it play host to a rich variety of marine life, which makes it a scuba diving paradise. Another unique aspect to Belize waters is the Great Blue Hole. This famous sinkhole is amazing to fly over, but it’s also a fun experience for divers.

Exploring the heart of the ancient Maya civilization is another popular pastime for tourists in Belize. Ancient ruins abound throughout the country. Some of the ruins have only recently been unearthed from the jungle and contain massive pyramids and other buildings. Cave tubing through natural caves in the jungle will take you through the secret remains of Maya ceremonies. Many of these caves served as ceremonial sites for the Maya and include the ancient remnants of human sacrifice.

Visit Placencia In Belize

Another great destination within Belize is the Placencia Peninsula which is located in the Stann Creek District and it is well-known for its pristine, palm-lined beaches. This is where you’ll find the Belize Barrier Reef, which is a popular destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. The Placencia Lagoon is a point of interest between the mainland and the peninsula. It is home to saltwater crocodiles and manatees among other wildlife.

The Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary is also located not far from Placencia Village. This is the world’s first jaguar preserve, and there are tours available to see the mountains, nature trails, and waterfalls. Many travelers like to go river tubing through this area. Despite the designation of this area, you’re unlikely to see a jaguar as they mainly come out at night. Other activities to do in Placencia include fishing, swimming with whale sharks, exploring Maya ruins, and enjoying delicious local food.

Book your stay today at Mariposa Beach Resort in Placencia, Belize for your 2023 vacation. The resort is one of the most luxurious resorts in the region, and it offers you the opportunity to be spoiled and treated like absolute royalty.

Visit their website: https://www.mariposabelizebeach.com/ for more information.

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Belize Travel Guide 2023

Belize is a central american paradise.

Belize, bordering the Caribbean Sea, is a small country on Central America’s east coast between Mexico and Guatemala, covering approximately 22,900 km2. It primarily depends on tourism and shares the world’s second-largest barrier reef, 250 kilometres of coastline, with Honduras. To the east, it opens onto the Caribbean Sea, and to the west, it opens onto the dense jungle.

Belize is a UNESCO World Heritage

Many atolls, made up of thousands of mostly uninhabited islands, are listed as UNESCO World Heritage sites from north to south. Atolls are low-lying coral islands in tropical oceans surrounded by mangroves and have diverse marine life.

A Large Tropical Jungle

Belize is also a large tropical jungle with many Mayan sites, some of which are difficult to access, similar to the Petén in Guatemala. The city of Caracol is famous for its truncated pyramid, and the nearby archaeological sites of Lamanai and Altun Ha.

There are so many reasons to visit Belize!

First of all, it’s a truly unique destination. Unlike anywhere else in the world, Belize is a melting pot of cultures, with influences from Europe, Africa, and Latin America. This makes for an incredibly diverse and interesting country to explore. And speaking of exploring, there’s so much to see and do in Belize.

From hiking through the jungle to snorkelling along the Barrier Reef, there’s something for everyone. Plus, the people of Belize are some of the most friendly and welcoming you’ll ever meet. So if you’re looking for an amazing travel destination that offers something for everyone, be sure to add Belize to your list!

If you’re looking for a breath-taking vacation destination, look no further than Belize

This Central American country is home to beautiful rainforests, stunning beaches, and adventurous activities. Here are just a few of the top reasons to visit Belize.

Belize is a nature lover’s paradise

The country’s rainforests are teeming with wildlife, and there are plenty of opportunities to go birdwatching, hiking, and zip-lining. And don’t forget about the beaches! Belize’s coastline is dotted with gorgeous sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. It’s the perfect place to relax and soak up the incredible views. Plus Belize is a sustainable destination.

Belize is rich in culture and history

From ancient Maya ruins to colonial churches, there’s plenty to explore in Belize. And if you’re looking to immerse yourself in the local culture, you can visit one of the many traditional villages dotting the country. Here you’ll find friendly locals and delicious food.

Belize is an adventurer’s dream

Visit Belize if you are seeking adventures. Whether you’re looking to go cave tubing or scuba diving, there’s an activity for everyone in Belize. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip to Belize by reading this Belize travel guide.

Food in Belize is amazing

There are so many different types of food to try, and all of them are delicious. I especially love the seafood. The lobster is definitely my favourite, but there are also great options for fish, shrimp, and crab. And don’t even get me started on the conch! If you’re not a fan of seafood, there’s still plenty to choose from. The local food is really fresh and flavourful, and there’s something for everyone. I can’t wait to go back and try more of the amazing food in Belize.

Photo credit Smart Travel Belize

Belize brief history

Belize is a country with a rich and complex history. The first people to settle in Belize were the Maya, who established several large city-states in the region. For centuries, the Maya were the dominant culture in Belize, and their influence can still be seen in Belizean art, architecture, and cuisine.

However, Belize’s history took a dramatic turn in the 16th century when the Spanish arrived and began colonizing the country. The Spanish brought with them new technologies and ideas, but they also enslaved the Maya and forced them to convert to Christianity. In 1821, Belize gained its independence from Spain, but it remained a colony of Great Britain until 1981. Belize’s history is full of interesting episodes and characters, and it continues to shape Belizean society today.

British Honduras was a British colony that existed from 1862 to 1981, when it gained independence as the nation of Belize. The colony was originally established as a logging concession, but British authorities soon began to settle the area and develop it into a colony. It was relatively small and sparsely populated for most of its history, but it played an important role in British maritime trade routes.

The colony also served as a base for British military operations in the region, especially during the Second World War. In the late 1970s, British Honduras became embroiled in a territorial dispute with neighbouring Guatemala, which claimed sovereignty over the colony.

After years of negotiations, Britain agreed to grant independence in 1981. The new nation of Belize took its name from the former colony. It is now a popular tourist destination, known for its beaches, rainforests, and Maya ruins.

A Belize Vacation Highlights

Western belize with something for everyone.

Western Belize is a beautiful and unique destination that offers something for everyone. From pristine beaches to lush rainforests, Western Belize is a nature lover’s paradise. The region is also home to a fascinating array of wildlife, including howler monkeys, jaguars, and Scarlet Macaws.

And history buffs will find plenty to explore, from the Maya ruins of Xunantunich to the colonial town of Belize City. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, Western Belize is the perfect place to visit.

Southern Belize – The Heart of Central America

Southern Belize is a beautiful and unique region of the world that offers visitors a chance to experience a wide variety of activities and attractions. From the stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters of the coast to the lush rainforests and ancient Maya ruins inland, Southern Belize truly has something for everyone. And with a friendly and welcoming local population, it’s easy to see why this part of Belize is often referred to as the “Heart of Central America.” So whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an adventure-filled jungle safari, be sure to add Southern Belize to your travel list. You won’t be disappointed!

The Mayan Ruins Are A Fascinating Place To Explore

If you find yourself in Belize, be sure to check out the Mayan ruins. These ancient structures offer a glimpse into the history and culture of the Mayan people. The Mayan civilization was one of the most advanced of its time, and their buildings reflect this.

From grand temples to smaller dwellings, the Mayan ruins are a fascinating place to explore. And because Belize is located in Central America, it’s easy to get there from the US. So if you’re looking for an amazing cultural experience, be sure to add the Mayan ruins of Belize to your list!

Belize Things To Do & See

This country is a true paradise on Earth for nature enthusiasts. There are jungles, wild forests, beaches, and mountains as far as the eye can see, creating a world-class landscape. Let’s use this practical Belize travel guide to plan your trip.

1- Jaguar Paw Cave

Jaguar Paw Cave is among Belize’s top tourist attractions. Visitors can explore the cave’s vast network of tunnels and chambers, which are adorned with stalactites and stalagmites. The cave is also home to a variety of animals, including bats, snakes, and spiders.

Despite its name, the Jaguar Paw Cave is actually a relatively small cave system. However, it is still an impressive sight, and visitors often remark on its beauty. The cave is located in the jungle near Belize City, and tours are typically led by experienced guides. Tours typically last about an hour, and visitors are advised to wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water.

2 – Xunantunich

Xunantunich is an ancient Maya archaeological site in western Belize, located about 80 miles west of Belize City, in the Belize District. The site consists of a series of plazas surrounded by pyramids, temples, and palaces, and it is thought to have been inhabited from around 600 AD to 950 AD.

Today, Xunantunich is one of Belize’s most popular tourist attractions, with over 150,000 visitors per year. Visitors can climb to the top of the main pyramid, known as El Castillo, for a stunning view of the surrounding countryside.

Xunantunich is also home to several well-preserved Maya murals, which are some of the finest examples of Maya art in existence. With its many fascinating features, it’s no wonder that Xunantunich is one of Belize’s top tourist destinations.

3- The Maya Mountains

The world-famous Mount Maya mountain range is located on the border of Belize and Guatemala. It has two well-known peaks in Belize: Doyle’s Delight, at 1124 metres, and Victoria Peak, at 1120 metres.

We can admire the surrounding fauna and flora, take in a breath-taking view of the mountain range and valley, and visit several Mayan archaeological sites. There are also plenty of opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife spotting in the Maya Mountains, making it a truly unique destination for nature lovers.

Lamanai is among the largest archaeological sites in Belize. It is also among the most popular tourist destinations, due to its unique blend of Maya and colonial history. The site was first settled around 1500 BC and was occupied until the early 18th century. It contains several well-preserved ruins, including a temple, palace, and ball court.

Visitors can also take a river cruise to see the site’s iconic “mask Temple,” which is carved into a limestone cliff. In addition to its historical significance, Lamanai is also home to an abundance of wildlife, making it a popular destination for nature lovers. With so much to see and do, it’s no wonder that Lamanai is one of Belize’s most popular tourist destinations.

Hopkins is a small coastal village in the vicinity of the Cockscomb Basin. This village, cut off from the rest of the country and seemingly frozen in time, is primarily made up of fishermen and farmers. If you are in the area, you must go! Take a short break to immerse yourself in local life and meet the locals for a memorable experience.

6- Actun Tunichil Muknal

Actun Tunichil Muknal is one of Belize’s top touristic attractions. Located in the Tapir Mountain Nature Reserve, the site contains several Maya ruins, and a rich variety of flora and fauna. The main attraction of the site is the cave system, which includes several chambers decorated with Maya artefacts and fossils.

The caves are also home to several ancient Maya burial sites, making Actun Tunichil Muknal a unique window into the past. In addition to its archaeological importance, the site is also breathtakingly beautiful, with crystal-clear pools and stunning stalactites. As a result, it is no wonder that Actun Tunichil Muknal is among the most popular tourist destinations in Belize.

7- Belize Barrier Reef

Explore Belize’s Barrier Reef that is a designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996, is the world’s second-largest after the Australian Barrier Reef and is popular with tourists visiting Central America. It has a very diverse ecosystem and is over 300 kilometres long, despite the numerous coastal constructions nearby. Stretching over 186 miles, it contains an incredible variety of plant and animal life.

The reef provides a vital habitat for countless species of fish, coral, and other marine life. It is also an important stopover for migratory birds. The Belize Barrier Reef is among the most popular tourist destinations in the country.

Explore Belize’s Barrier Reef by snorkelling and scuba diving plus there are many opportunities to see amazing wildlife up close. The reef is also a popular destination for fishing, boating, and sailing.

8- Great Blue Hole

The Great Blue Hole in Belize is among the world’s most amazing natural wonders. A huge marine sinkhole, it is more than 300 meters wide and 120 meters deep. Its dramatic blue colour is caused by the high levels of limestone in the water. The Great Blue Hole is a popular destination for scuba divers, as contains an incredible variety of marine life.

Sightings of stingrays, nurse sharks, and even barrel sponges are not uncommon. With its stunning setting and abundance of marine life, it’s no wonder that the Great Blue Hole is one of Belize’s most popular tourist attractions.

9- Placencia

If you’re looking for a tropical paradise, look no further than Placencia, Belize. This small town is located on a peninsula in the country’s southeast corner, and it’s known for its natural beauty and laid-back atmosphere.

Visitors can enjoy activities like swimming, snorkelling, and hiking, or simply relax on one of the town’s many beaches. Placencia is also a great place to try traditional Belizean cuisine, which includes dishes like tamales, rice and beans, and stewed chicken.

And of course, no trip to Placencia would be complete without a visit to the world-famous Maya ruins at nearby Xunantunich. So whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, Placencia has something for everyone. Come see why this little town is one of Belize’s most popular tourist destinations.

10- Mountain Pine Ridge Forest

The Mountain Pine Ridge Forest is a beautiful nature reserve in Belize that is well-known for its scenic views and hiking trails. The reserve contains many different species of plants and animals, and it is a popular spot for birdwatching.

Visitors can also enjoy swimming in the crystal-clear waters of the Blue Hole, tubing down the river, or exploring the caves. Mountain Pine Ridge is a great place to spend a day or two away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

11- Rio Bravo

Rio Bravo Nature Reserve is a must-see for anyone visiting Belize in style! It is the country’s largest nature reserve, with over 390 bird species, 70 mammal species, and 230 tree varieties! It is among the most unique and unspoiled places on earth.

The reserve protected area contains an incredible diversity of plants and animals, and its importance as a conservation area cannot be overstated. Rio Bravo is also a place of great beauty, with its pristine forests, rivers, and caves. And while it may be off the beaten path, that only adds to its charm.

12- Cockscomb Basin

Cockscomb Basin is a gorgeous nature reserve in Belize that is teeming with life. The basin contains an impressive variety of plant and animal life, including jaguars, tapirs, Howler monkeys, and over 200 species of birds.

Visitors can explore the basin on foot or by canoe, and there are even lodges where you can stay overnight. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing nature escape or an adrenaline-filled adventure, Cockscomb Basin is sure to please.

13- Belize City

Belize City is the largest city in Belize, located on the coast of the country. The city is a popular tourist destination, offering a variety of attractions and activities for visitors. CNS News reported that “Tourism is one of the main pillars of the economy in Belize.”

Popular attractions in Belize City include the Museum of Belize, which houses a variety of artefacts and historical items; the Belize Zoo, which contains more than 150 different animals; and the Baboon Sanctuary, which offers visitors a chance to see these primates up close.

In addition, there are several tour operators in Belize City that offer a variety of excursions, such as jungle tours, cave tubing, and more. With so much to see and do, it’s no wonder that Belize City is a popular destination for travellers from all over the world.

14- South Water Caye

It’s not surprising that many marine reserves can be found in Belize, a country known for its natural environment. South Water Caye is unique in that it is a marine reserve with an area of just over 47 hectares, making it the largest in Stann Creek. It is known for its clear turquoise waters, coral reefs, and abundance of marine life. The reserve covers an area of nearly 2,000 acres and includes a variety of habitats, such as mangrove forests, seagrass beds, and coral reefs.

These diverse habitats support a wide range of plant and animal species, including many that are endangered or threatened. The reserve is also home to several research stations, which contribute to our understanding of the complex ecosystems found in the Caribbean Sea.

Visitors can snorkel or dive to explore the underwater world, or simply relax on the beach and enjoy the incredible views. South Water Caye is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and experience the beauty of nature.

15 – Ambergris Caye

Ambergris Caye is an idyllic Caribbean island, located just off the coast of Belize. Ambergris Caye is known for its clear turquoise waters, powdery white sand beaches, and lush tropical vegetation.

The island is a popular destination for scuba diving, snorkelling, and fishing, as well as for simply relaxing and enjoying the beautiful surroundings.

Ambergris Caye is also home to a number of resort hotels and vacation rentals, making it the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether you’re looking for an adventure-filled vacation or a relaxing getaway, Ambergris Caye is the perfect destination.

16 – Caye Caulker

Caye Caulker is a small island in Belize that is famous for its laid-back atmosphere and beautiful beaches. The island is only about five miles long and one mile wide, but it is packed with things to do. Visitors can enjoy snorkeling, scuba diving, fishing, and kayaking.

Caye Caulker is also home to a variety of restaurants and bars, as well as several small shops. Despite its many attractions, Caye Caulker remains a relatively quiet and relaxed place. This is due in part to the fact that there are no cars on the island; golf carts are the primary mode of transportation. Caye Caulker is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and relax in the Caribbean sun.

17 – The Caye Marine Reserve

The Caye Marine Reserve is one of the most beautiful places on earth. The sparkling water and white sand beaches are a paradise for both locals and tourists alike. The reserve is home to an incredible variety of marine life, making it a perfect spot for snorkelling and diving. In addition, the reserve is an important nesting ground for several endangered species of sea turtles.

The Caye Marine Reserve is a perfect example of how humans can coexist with nature. By protecting this area, we are not only safeguarding the environment, but also ensuring that future generations will be able to enjoy its beauty.

Population in Belize

As of 2018, the population of Belize was estimated to be around 387,000. The majority of the population is of African or Maya descent, and the official language is English. Belize is a relatively small country, with a land area of only 8,867 square miles. However, it is among the most densely populated countries in Central America.

The capital city, Belmopan, contains about 16,000 people. Other major cities include San Ignacio, Orange Walk Town, and Belize City. Despite its small size, Belize is a culturally diverse country.

Gastronomy in Belize

Belize is a foodie paradise. The gastronomy here is truly unique and something that should be experienced by everyone. From the moment you wake up, the smell of fresh coffee fills the air. Breakfast is usually a light meal, but it’s packed with flavour. The most popular dish is fry jacks, which are fried dough balls. They’re often served with eggs, beans, cheese, and plantains.

And of course, no meal is complete without a cup of Belizean chocolate. For lunch, there’s nothing better than homemade tortilla soup. The soup is made with fresh corn tortillas, chicken broth, vegetables, and spices. It’s simple, but it’s so flavorful and filling. Dinner is typically the largest meal of the day, and it often consists of rice and beans, as well as meat or seafood.

Among the most popular dishes is stewed chicken with rice and beans. The chicken is cooked until it’s falling-apart tender, and the rice and beans are soaked in all of the delicious juices. No matter what time of day it is, you can always find something delicious to eat in Belize.

Religion in Belize

Religion is an important part of Belizean culture. The majority of Belizeans are Christian, and the country has a strong tradition of religious tolerance. There are also significant populations of Muslims, Hindus, and Buddhists. Religion plays a role in many aspects of Belizean life, from education and politics to art and architecture.

For example, the country’s national anthem is based on a hymn by John Newton, and its flag features a cross representing the Christian influence on Belizean culture. Religion also plays a significant role in the country’s economy. Religious tourism is Among the fastest-growing sectors of the tourism industry, and religious organizations are some of the largest employers in Belize. Religion is an important part of Belizean identity, and it contributes to the country’s rich cultural diversity.

Politics in Belize

Belize is a country with a parliamentary democracy and a Commonwealth member. The current head of state is Queen Elizabeth II, who is represented in the country by a Governor General, who needs to be a citizen of the country.

The Council of Ministers is the primary executive body of government, led by the Prime Minister, who is also the Head of Government. Council ministers are members of parliament’s majority political party and typically hold elected seats in addition to their ministerial positions.

The National Assembly is Belize’s bicameral legislature, consisting of a House of Representatives and a Senate. In the House of Representatives, 29 members are usually elected for a maximum of five years.

The Senate has eight members, five of whom are appointed by the Prime Minister, two by the Opposition Leader, and one by the Governor General on the advice of the Belize Advisory Committee. The Senate is presided over by a President, who is an abstentionist appointed by the ruling party. Belize is an active participant in the Caribbean Community (Caricom).

Belize for Families

Belize is the perfect destination for families who want to enjoy some quality time together while also experiencing a new culture. The country is filled with beautiful beaches, rainforests, and Maya ruins, providing plenty of opportunities for exploring and adventure. Belize is also home to a number of fun-filled resorts that offer everything from kids’ clubs to watersports.

And with English being the official language, Belize is an ideal choice for families who want to avoid language barriers. So if you’re looking for a family-friendly destination that will create lifetime memories, Belize should be at the top of your list…..that is assuming you speak English!

Belize for Business

Believe it or not Belize is a jurisdiction that is a top favourite for setting up international companies. Of course, the whole topic of Belize offshore companies is a hot topic these days .

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