Xunantunich
Located about 70 miles west of Belize City, Xunantunich is one of Belize’s most accessible and impressive Maya archaeological sites. View original carved monuments depicting Maya rulers and warriors in their full regalia.

Lighthouse Reef & the Blue Hole
Enjoy some of the worlds best diving and snorkelling in Belize’s first marine protected area and home to the famous Blue Hole, an enormous sinkhole circular in shape which is the largest natural formation of its kind.

Placencia Peninsula
Relax on some of Belize’s best beaches bordered on one side by a mangrove lagoon and on the other by the Caribbean Sea.  Also an excellent place to enjoy local seafood.

Cocksomb Wildlife Sanctuary 
A haven for nature buffs and one of Belize’s largest protected areas as it is home to the only jaguar conservation project on the planet. The sanctuary includes stunning mountain views, jungle waterfalls and pristine rivers, ideal for tubing.

Lamanai
Explore the most famous and largest archaeological site in northern Belize. Lamanai includes more than 100 minor structures, a ball court and around 12 major buildings, the most well known being the Temple of the Mask.

The best time to visit Belize is in the dry season between January and May with the weather varying depending on the region. The rainy season is between June and Mid November.

For those that are seeking a blend of relaxation, adventure and cultural exploration, Belize has it all!

On a short stop there I stayed in San Pedro on Ambergris Caye – the largest and most popular island. This is where to base yourself to access Belize Barrier Reef – the second-largest coral reef in the world and a popular place for snorkelling and diving activities. Another option is taking a day trip to Hol Chan Marine Reserve and Shark Ray Alley located just a few minutes apart from each other but with vastly different experiences. Marine-life lovers can enjoy some great snorkelling/diving at Hol Chan then head to Shark Ray Alley where the more adventurous can swim with stingrays, turtles and nurse sharks.

The Great Blue Hole is an amazing natural formation formed by geological processes over thousands of years. Its different shades of blue, pristine water and coral formations are best viewed from a heli-flight, a unique way to skip the crowds. You won’t be disappointed!

If you do have more time, I’d recommend heading inland to stay in San Ignacio and visiting the Maya ruins where you can learn about ancient history and local culture. From here you can travel to Caracol or Xunantunich where you can climb to the top for stunning panoramic views. For the more active traveller, book a guided tour into the surrounding jungle and out to Actun Tunichil Muknal Cave (ATM Cave) and visit where over 1400 Mayan artifacts lay inside.

Ruby

Currency Belize dollar is the official currency in Belize (currency code BZD)

Language  English remains the official language, but the most diverse language in Belize is Kriol (Belizean Creole).

Social Customs and quirks Belizeans are generally used to tourists and are welcoming however they can also be quite conservative.  It is important to dress respectively when visiting churches.

Festivals & events Belize hosts numerous festivals and events throughout the year including its own carnival, sidewalk and arts festival, Lobesterfest and the Cacaofest.

Health* Currently no compulsory health requirements to visit Belize.

Notes *Please be aware that Health information is subject to change at any time and you should always double check these requirements at the time of booking and before travel.