Looking for tropical beaches, ancient ruins, and world-class diving? Head to Belize! This Central American gem offers a unique blend of Caribbean and Mesoamerican cultures, with vibrant reef systems, lush jungles, and historic Mayan sites. Whether you're snorkeling the Blue Hole or exploring jungle temples, Belize is an unforgettable adventure.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Belize is from late November through April during the dry season. Expect sunny skies, ideal snorkeling and hiking conditions, and vibrant cultural festivals. The green season (May–October) sees occasional rain but fewer crowds and lush scenery.
How to Get There
- By Air: Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport (BZE) in Belize City is the main international gateway with direct flights from major U.S. cities.
- By Land: Border crossings are available from Mexico (Chetumal) and Guatemala (near San Ignacio). Bus and shuttle options connect major destinations.
- By Sea: Water taxis connect Belize City with popular islands like Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker.
Where to Stay
- Victoria House Resort & Spa (Ambergris Caye) – Upscale beachfront resort with elegant rooms and excellent diving access.
- Gaïa Riverlodge (Mountain Pine Ridge) – Eco-luxury jungle retreat near waterfalls, Mayan ruins, and nature trails.
- Colinda Cabanas (Caye Caulker) – Colorful beachfront cabanas with bikes and hammocks in a relaxed island setting.
Top Attractions
1. Wander Ancient Temples at the Altun Ha Ruins
Rating: ★★★★★
The Mayan people were the earliest inhabitants of modern-day Belize. They first populated the area known as Altun Ha around 250 B.C. They left behind traces of a rich and luxurious culture, and a people who studied the heavens and mathematics. Today, the Altun Ha Ruins cover an area of approximately 25 square miles.
Visitors can explore the temples and tombs on-site such as the famous Temple of the Masonry Altars.
The ruins are difficult to reach, and most visitors come by cruise ship. It is recommended that travelers come with an experienced tour guide to help them reach the Altun Ha Ruins.
2. Stroll Through Native Flora at the Belize Botanic Gardens
Belize Botanic Gardens is a showplace for the native plants of Belize. The garden began as a 45-acre former cattle pasture that was purchased and landscaped in 1993. Today, the garden contains over 2,000 species of plants.
Visitors can take a self-guided tour through houses devoted to specific plant species such as the Native Orchid House full of beautiful orchids. The Mayan House contains plants that have been used for medicinal purposes for centuries. The garden is also great place for birdwatchers to catch a glimpse of the birds of the jungle. Phone: 501-834-4800
More ideas: Belize honeymoon
3. Swim and Hike in the Stunning Blue Hole National Park (Inland)
The Blue Hole in Blue Hole National Park is a natural depression that was created when the roof of an underground cave collapsed. Over time, the depression filled with water. Today, Blue Hole is a popular swimming spot in Belize.
With a snorkel or SCUBA gear, swimmers can take a look at the underground caverns below the water. St. Herman’s Cave is also located on the park property. The cave is full of beautiful limestone features. The park also contains a network of trails that are great for hiking and birdwatching, a visitor’s center, rest area, and picnic benches.
Activities and Attractions for Couples:
4. Explore Hilltop History at the Cahal Pech Mayan Ruins
Cahal Pech was once the palace home of the rulers of the Mayans who lived in this area from approximately 1000 B.C. to 800 B.C. The site covers two acres and contains over 30 structures, including temples, altars, residences, and a sweat-house.
A burial chamber containing many artifacts from the time period has also been found on the site. A museum and visitor center have been constructed nearby and contain information about the Mayan way of life. Tours leave daily from the nearby Cahal Pech Beach Resort. The resort also contains lodging, dining, and tour packages. View Map
5. Uncover Majestic Architecture at the Caracol Mayan Ruins
At 15 square miles, the Caracol Mayan Ruins site is the largest Mayan ruin site in Belize. It once held a population of over 100,000. Today, the ruins are part of the Chiquibul Forest Reserve, a large tract of tropical rain forest on the western edge of Belize.
The park covers an area of 30-square miles. The ruin site contains an observatory, a small on-site museum, a visitor center, and over 35,000 buildings built by the Mayans. The largest is the Caana, which means “sky palace,” a large pyramid that is the tallest building in Belize.
6. Relax, Dive, and Dine on the Island Paradise of Caye Ambergris
Caye Ambergris is the largest island off the Belize coast and is a top destination for travelers looking to enjoy the sun and surf. The island boasts beautiful white-sand beaches and clear blue Caribbean waters, which are great for snorkeling, scuba diving, fishing, or just relaxing by the water.
The island’s one city, San Pedro Town, has a variety of stores, restaurants, and lodging. Other things to do at Caye Ambergris include wind surfing, parasailing, bicycling, bird-watching, canoeing, kayaking, hiking in the jungle, or visiting Mayan ruins. Map
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