(Updated Jan 2024)
Are you in search of a year round vacation destination that offers outdoor adventures, stunning natural beauty, and a rich cultural heritage? Look no further than Belize!
With its turquoise Caribbean water and lush jungles teeming with wildlife, there are numerous reasons to go to Belize. Whether you are eager to explore the depths of the Great Blue Hole or a history buff intrigued by ancient Mayan ruins, Belize is the perfect getaway to a tropical paradise.
I recently traveled to Belize with a large group and had the chance to experience the best things to do in Belize from the jungles of San Ignacio to the beaches of Ambergris Caye. This Belize travel blog shares the top ten reasons why Belize is worth visiting. Keep reading to learn why you should go to Belize for your next vacation.
Belize Location
Belize is a country in Central America that is nestled along the Caribbean Sea. It shares borders with Mexico and Guatemala, on the North American continent.
Top 10 Reasons to Go to Belize
1. Ambergris Caye Atoll
The beautiful atoll, Ambergris Caye, is one of the best reasons to visit Belize. Surrounded by the Caribbean Sea, this island is one of the main tourist attractions in Belize.
From world-class snorkeling and diving spots to luxurious resorts and charming beach bars, Ambergris Caye promises an unforgettable combination of natural beauty and warm hospitality. Whether you seek relaxation on sun-soaked shores or thrilling adventures beneath the waves, prepare to be enchanted by the enchanting allure of Ambergris Caye.
To get to the atoll from the airport in Belize City, take a twenty minute flight with breathtaking views, or an affordable 1.5 hour ferry ride. This Belize island may be small in size, but it is bursting with energy from lively oceanfront bars and restaurants.
Try visiting the Blue Bayou, which is a local spot where you can sip cocktails under palapas in the water. You can also grab a kayak, play volleyball, or enjoy a fresh-caught seafood lunch.
Another fun activity is watching “The Chicken Drop” at Wahoo’s Lounge. This is a hilarious game where the winner is determined by the space where the chicken poops. This is a lively and silly activity which is fun for all ages. Make sure to arrive early or you will miss out on the chance to play.
2. The Hol Chan Marine Reserve
Another main reason to visit Belize is to experience The Hol Chan Marine Reserve. This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located within the Belize Barrier Reef. The Belize Barrier Reef is part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, which is the second largest barrier reef in the world.
This is the place to find warm, crystal blue water teaming with sea life. Visit Shark Ray Alley, a popular snorkeling spot in the reserve where you can swim alongside harmless nurse sharks and stingrays. It is an exhilarating experience for adults and children alike. There you can also see turtles, colorful species of fish and MANATEES (if you are lucky)!
Remember to keep a safe distance from these protected mammals and consider using reef-safe sunscreen to protect the health of the sea life below.
Check Out This Post With a Full 10 Day Belize Itinerary!
3. The Great Blue Hole of Belize
This geological phenomenon, made famous by Jacques Cousteau, is a location on every Belize scuba diving bucket list. The Great Blue Hole is a sunken cave that measures approximately 400 feet deep. Visiting the Great Blue Hole was one of the main reasons why I wanted to visit Belize.
Getting out to the site for diving or snorkeling is a harrowing two hour boat trip through choppy waters, so it may not be for anyone prone to seasickness. Snorkelers may also enjoy this trip, but remember there is not a ton of marine life here. The Great Blue Hole Belize is sure to delight you with an underwater experience unlike anywhere on the planet.
4. Belize Island Hopping
Another reason to go to Belize is to island hop among the atolls. There are tours aplenty to visit neighboring atolls from Ambergris Caye. Number one on the list is Caye Caulker. This small island is scattered with colorful restaurants and a multitude of “Instagram worthy” photo spots.
It’s easy to let the hours slip by while snorkeling in Caye Caulker, shopping, or enjoying the huge ocean diving board. The Lazy Lizard is the place to grab a bite to eat and chill for the afternoon.
5. Visit Mayan Ruins
Although Belize is renowned for its glorious atolls, don’t forget to journey inland to visit the impressive ancient Mayan ruins. Lamanai, Altun Ha, Xunantunich, Caracol, and Cahal Pech are just a few of the ancient sites which are accessible to tourists. Just across the border to Guatemala, you can see the towering structures of Tikal on a day trip from San Ignacio. The abundance and impressive archaeological sites in Belize are one of the main reasons you need to visit Belize.
Check Out This Blog Post About Visiting Caracol Ruins!
6. ATM Cave of Belize
Actun Tunichil Muknal is difficult to pronounce, but it is a “must-see” experience when you visit Belize. The exhilarating journey through this massive cave filled with ancient artifacts, is akin to something out of an “Indiana Jones” movie. In all of my travels around the world, this is one of the most impressive and unforgettable excursions I have ever done!
This adventure tour begins with an easy 45 minute hike, followed by crossing two small streams to reach the cave entrance. Once inside the cave there are bats flying, sounds of dripping water, and a dampness in the air that contribute to the feeling of being on a National Geographic expedition.
Climbing through the tight crevasses and up the slippery rocks is a bit challenging. Once you reach the top, you enter The Grand Cathedral filled with scattered shards of pottery, stalagmites and stalactites. The stories of the human sacrifices and witnessing the final resting place of The Crystal Maiden, just might make your skin crawl a bit! Without question, exploring the ATM Cave is one of the top reasons to go to Belize.
7. Delicious & Unique Belizean Food
Next, you need to visit Belize for its amazing cuisine. Belize is surrounded by the sea which means the freshest and most flavorful seafood is easily accessible. The lobster is so sweet, it literally melts in your mouth. We couldn’t get enough fresh ceviche, tortilla-like pupusas with cabbage and meat, conch fritters, and garnaches (which are similar to a tostada). Wash those down with an ice-cold Belikin or Land Shark Belize beer and you are good to go. Delicious food is one of the main reasons why Belize is worth visiting!
Guava Limb Cafe in San Ignacio and Elvi’s Kitchen in Ambergris Caye were two of our favorite places to eat in Ambergris Caye. Trust me- this is a foodie paradise!
Seeking Stamps Tip: Marie Sharp’s habanero sauce is also a Belizean “must try”condiment (and it makes an excellent souvenir).
8. Warm, Friendly Belize Locals
Another reason to go to Belize is the local people. Unquestionably, the Belizean people are so welcoming, warm, kind and helpful. Passengers arriving in Belize City, are greeted with wide grins. Feeling welcomed in a foreign place always helps make a vacation enjoyable.
9. Thrilling Belize Jungle Activities
There are a multitude of exciting jungle activities to try in the inland cities of Belize. Exploring caves, inner tubing, canoes, zip lining and swimming in waterfalls are all thrilling options. Rio Frio Cave is a massive cave that you can explore. It’s a convenient rest stop on the return home from Caracol. Nearby, The Rio On Pools is a nice place to cool off in the flowing water.
If you have the chance, visit The Iguana Project, at the San Ignacio Resort. You can learn about Iguana conservation and feed these gentle creatures. Kids will have a great time holding the reptiles.
10. Why Go to Belize: It’s Easy to Travel There
One of the best reasons to travel to Belize is how convenient it is for American tourists. English is the predominant language and U.S. dollars are widely accepted.
Additionally, Belize is a surprisingly straightforward country to navigate. It’s easily accessible due to frequent flights from the U.S., including some that are direct. Once you arrive, travel on the islands is simple. Just grab a golf cart and it’s difficult to get lost.
There are amazing resorts in Belize. Whether you want affordable accommodations, eco-friendly lodges, or luxurious resorts, Belize has them all.
A vacation to Belize has something for everyone! It’s a great location for family vacations, couples, or solo female travelers.
Reasons to Go to Belize: Final Thoughts
As you can see, Belize is a destination that has it all. With thrilling jungle adventures, abundant wildlife, delicious food, and gorgeous seas, Belize is the perfect vacation. Hopefully this Belize travel guide gives you all the information you need to plan your Belize travel!
Let me know your favorite spots in Belize in the comments below!
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(Photos used with permission by BZM Tours)
