Nestled between Mexico, Guatemala and Honduras, Belize’s lush jungles, sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters are the stuff of dreams.
This small Central American country borders the Caribbean Sea and includes about 450 islands (Cayes).
But there’s more to Belize than its natural beauty. It’s also a country of great cultural diversity, where ancestral Mayan traditions coexist with African, Caribbean and European influences.
The official language of the country is English, but Spanish, Creole and various Mayan languages are also spoken.
Belize is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, who can enjoy diving, kayaking, birdwatching and hiking. It is also known for its numerous Mayan archaeological sites, witnesses of the rich history of the region.
Moreover, this destination, often less known by travelers, will charm you with its music, its local cuisine and its warm people.
The main airport of Belize is the Philip S.W. Goldson (BZE). In Canada, the only direct flights to Belize are from Toronto and Calgary. They are seasonal only.
The options are very limited, but there can be some good Belize finds to be had with Aeroplan points sometimes. For example, if you book a round-trip flight in advance, you can get there for around 25,000 points Aeroplan.
Large hotel chains are almost absent from Belize. Still, there is the Alaia Belize, Autograph Collection in San Pedro, which is available for about 40,000 to 60,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.
Redeeming points for statement credit is a great way to reduce the cost of a trip to Belize. Even for airline tickets, accommodation or car rental!
Many rewards programs offer this option. Here are some examples of reward programs to use:
Once there, avoid the annoying conversion fees! Take a credit card that :
Like the following two credit cards:
There are many things to do and see during a trip to Belize, here are some of the most popular activities:
Belize is one of the best places in the world for snorkeling and scuba diving because of its coral reef, the second largest in the world. Belize’s crystal-clear waters teem with marine life, including sharks, rays, sea turtles, tropical fish and much more.
Among the best dive sites: Blue Hole, Half Moon Caye, Turneffe Atoll, Lighthouse Reef and Ambergris Caye.
The country’s dense jungle is home to a wealth of flora and fauna, including howler monkeys, jaguars, toucans and colorful butterflies. You can hike in the jungle, explore caves, go tubing on the river and much more.
Among the best hiking sites:
Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, located in the Maya Mountains and famous for its spectacular waterfalls and for housing the largest population of jaguars in the world;
Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM), for its sacred Mayan cave;
Five Blues Lake National Park, in the mountains of southern Belize;
Victoria Peak, the highest point in Belize;
and Bacab Eco Park, a park with suspension bridges and zip lines.
As the cradle of Mayan civilization, Belize has many archaeological sites to explore, including the ruins of Xunantunich, Lamanai and Caracol.
The destination is popular for its magnificent white-sand beaches, particularly on the islands of Caye Caulker and Ambergris Caye. Here you can snorkel, fish, kayak or simply relax in the sun.
Belize has a rich culture, a mixture of Mayan, African, Caribbean and European traditions. You can visit local villages such as San Pedro on Ambergris Caye and Hopkins, famous for its sandy beach and Garifuna culture.
In February or March, don’t miss the unmissable Carnival of San Pedro which includes street parades, music, dancing and colorful costumes.
You’ll also love sampling the popular dishes and ingredients of Belize’s local cuisine: rice and beans, fry jacks, gibnut, ceviche, salbutes, tamales, hudut, fried conch, rum punch and Marie Sharp’s Hot Sauce, a spicy sauce made from locally grown habanero peppers.
Belize offers a wide range of accommodation, from luxury hotels to youth hostels. Rates vary according to season and location.
Belize boasts a number of luxury hotels offering top-of-the-range services and spectacular views of the Caribbean Sea. Others offer All-inclusive packages.
Among the most popular hotels in the destination:
If you’d like to explore the jungles of Belize, there are a number of lodges located in the heart of the rainforest. You can stay in traditional wooden cabins equipped with all modern comforts, while surrounded by wilderness.
Popular jungle lodges include Blancaneaux Lodge and Chaa Creek Lodge.
There are many villa and vacation home options available in Belize City and on the islands of Caye Caulker and Ambergris Caye.
If you’re looking for more economical accommodation, youth hostels are a good option. You’ll find them in popular locations such as the islands of Caye Caulker and Ambergris Caye.
Belize has a relatively limited road network, but public transport is available. Cabs are also a popular way to get around.
Cab: They are available in most cities and are a convenient way to travel short distances. Prices are generally reasonable but it is important to agree on the fare before getting into the cab.
Bus: This is the most common means of transportation for travel. Local buses are generally cheap and regular, but they can be crowded and can take a long time to get from one town to another. Express buses are more expensive, but offer faster and more comfortable service.
Rental Car: If you want to explore Belize independently, renting a car may be a good option. The main roads are generally in good condition, but the secondary roads can be more difficult to navigate. It is important to note that driving in Belize is on the left.
Boats: If you’re traveling to the islands of Caye Caulker and Ambergris Caye, boats are a common means of transport for inter-island travel and sea excursions.
Biking: Belize is a popular destination for cycling and mountain biking. Renting a bike is an economical and ecological way to get around the cities and villages.
Language: The official language is English, but Spanish is also commonly spoken, as is Creole.
Currency: The official currency is the Belizean dollar. US dollars are also accepted in most tourist establishments.
Climate: Belize has a tropical climate with warm temperatures all year round. The rainy season is from June to November. The best time to visit the country is from October to June, during the dry season.
Health: Vaccinations are not compulsory for entry into Belize, but it is advisable to take precautions against mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue fever and malaria.
Belize has a lot to offer visitors looking for warmth and outdoor activities. With proper planning, a trip to this country in the heart of Central America is sure to be an unforgettable experience!
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