Belize is an adventure lover’s playground, giving you access to some incredible opportunities by both land and water. It’s also full of cultural experiences and gives you access to some of the area’s best Mayan ruins.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Belize is between late November and May. A visit during the rainy season of August through October will offer less crowds, cheaper prices, and blooming flowers.

Top regions to visit

Ambergris Caye

Known for its clear turquoise waters and marine life, this area is home to the charming and popular town of San Pedro and the Belize Barrier Reef—the world’s second largest barrier reef. Some of the best restaurants in Belize can also be found here, as well as great shopping, sunsets, and scuba diving.

San Ignacio

Dive into the rich culture of Belize in San Ignacio, where you’ll find ancient Maya ruins. This area is also home to Mountain Pine Ridge Reserve, which boasts stunning waterfalls, caves, and hiking trails. There are also plenty of outdoor adventures to be had here, from zip-lining to horseback riding, as well as great traditional food, music, and art.

Placencia

This laid back peninsula is home to picturesque beaches, mangrove forests, and excellent local cuisines.

Bri’s insider tip: Placencia is a great place to stay if you’re short on time, because this beach destination is also part of the mainland (unlike Ambergris Caye or Caye Caulker). You’ll still be able to experience most of the land adventures people come to Belize for without having to stay in two different destinations with just an easy day trip.

Top activities in Belize

Actun Tunichil Muknal Cave Tour

This tour in San Ignacio is a must-do for adventure lovers. Hike through the rainforest before swimming into a cave and climbing on rocks, all with the assistance of a speciality guide. At times you find yourself in varying degrees of complete darkness, but it’s well worth it. There are untouched and incredibly preserved Mayan artifacts and remains from 1400 years ago that you’re able to see up close right in their natural environment where they were discovered.

Belize Barrier Reef

The world’s second largest barrier reef is full of colorful coral reefs, marine creatures, and tropical fish. Explore by snorkeling, diving, or taking a boat tour.

Maya Ruins

Belize’s ancient Maya heritage and history is on display at archeological sites like Altun Ha, Lamanai, and Cahel Pech.

Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve

See the jungles of Belize at this reserve where you can hike to waterfalls, explore caves, and go river kayaking or zip-lining.

Best hotels in Belize

Copal Tree Lodge—This property is perfectly suited for those looking for a bit of adventure and who want to stay in a canopy suite in the middle of the jungle. The lodge is at the heart of an organic farm, which also means that your inclusive meals are true farm-to-table. Copolli Rum is made at an onsite distillery and yours to enjoy day and night from the comfort of the Copal Tree Rum Bar.
Bri’s favorite: The private bath overlooking the rainforest at the Copal Tree Lodge was probably the highlight of the trip for me.

Royal Belize—An entire island all to yourself! Your stay not only includes 5 beautiful master suites with incredible views from every room (and a room of bunk beds if kids are in tow), but all your food, drink, water activities, and an entire staff that is literally available for anything you could possibly need.

Naia Resort and Spa—If you’re looking for the best beach in all of Belize, this is probably it. Naia has about a mile of private beachfront, and due to the layout of their villas, it feels like you have the beach all to yourself for the most part. Each villa sits on a prime beachfront location with all the space and privacy you could hope for. You also have the country’s biggest spa and an incredible yoga studio.
Cayo Espanto—Cayo Espanto in Belize is a luxurious private island resort offering personalized service, stunning accommodations, and a tranquil escape with pristine beaches and activities like snorkeling and sailing.
Chaa Creek Lodge—A unique eco-luxury experience in Belize’s rainforest. The upscale accommodation is set amidst tropical surroundings, where guests can be immersed in nature through birdwatching, jungle hikes, and more.

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Belize Travel Guide