· BZ

Belize

Belize, Belize

Dive into the Heart of the Caribbean: Discover Belize! Belize, nestled on the sun-kissed coast of Central America, offers a vibrant blend of adventure, culture, and breathtaking natural beauty. This small but mighty coun…

#Central America#Caribbean Sea#Great Barrier Reef#Mayan ruins#Tropical climate

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Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Belize.

Top Hotels in Belize

Top Flights to Belize

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Belize.

Tours

Visit the Ancient Maya Ruins

Explore the fascinating history of the Maya civilization with a tour of Belize's ancient ruins.

Discover Belize City

Explore the cultural and historical sites in Belize's largest city.

Outdoor

Explore the Barrier Reef

Snorkel or dive along the second largest barrier reef in the world, teeming with vibrant marine life.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Belize.

Currency

$ | BZD | Belize Dollar Belize City, Belize District, Belize

Population

The approximate estimated total population of Belize is 0.4 million.

Languages

English, Spanish, Creole, Mayan

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Belize.

What people love

Belize is a beautiful and diverse destination with a variety of attractions and activities that make it a popular choice for travelers. Here are some pros of traveling to Belize:

Stunning Natural Beauty: Belize is home to breathtaking natural landscapes, including pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and the world's second-largest barrier reef. Travelers can enjoy activities such as snorkeling, diving, hiking, and bird-watching in these stunning environments.
Rich Cultural Heritage: Belize has a diverse cultural heritage, with influences from Mayan, Garifuna, Mestizo, and Creole communities. Travelers can explore ancient Mayan ruins, vibrant local markets, and traditional music and dance performances to learn more about the country's history and culture.
Adventure Activities: Belize offers a wide range of adventure activities for thrill-seekers, including zip-lining through the jungle, cave tubing, and exploring mysterious underground caves. Water sports enthusiasts can enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing in the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean Sea.
Eco-Tourism Opportunities: Belize is a leading destination for eco-tourism, with a strong commitment to conservation and sustainable tourism practices. Travelers can visit protected areas such as national parks and marine reserves to experience the country's rich biodiversity and support conservation efforts.
English-Speaking Destination: English is the official language of Belize, making it easy for English-speaking travelers to communicate with locals and navigate their way around the country without language barriers.

Overall, traveling to Belize offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural diversity, adventure activities, and eco-tourism opportunities that make it an attractive destination for travelers seeking an unforgettable experience.

What to know

Traveling to Belize, located in Central America, has numerous benefits such as beautiful beaches, vibrant culture, and diverse wildlife. However, there are also some cons to consider:

Crime: Belize has a higher crime rate compared to many other tourist destinations. Petty theft, including pickpocketing and theft from cars, can be common in tourist areas. Violent crime, such as robbery and assault, also occurs, especially in certain areas of Belize City and other urban areas.
Infrastructure: The infrastructure in Belize, especially outside major tourist areas, may be lacking. Roads can be in poor condition, public transportation may be unreliable, and access to essential services like healthcare and emergency services may be limited.
Health Concerns: While Belize has made progress in healthcare, certain areas may still lack adequate medical facilities and services. Travelers should take precautions to prevent mosquito-borne illnesses like Zika virus, dengue, and malaria.
Natural Disasters: Belize is prone to natural disasters such as hurricanes, especially during the rainy season from June to November. Travelers should be aware of the risks and have a plan in place in case of emergencies.
Environmental Issues: Belize's natural environment, including its coral reefs and rainforests, are under threat from issues like overfishing, deforestation, and pollution. Travelers should be mindful of their environmental impact and support sustainable tourism practices.

Overall, while Belize is a beautiful and diverse destination, travelers should be aware of these potential cons and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Belize, located on the eastern coast of Central America, has a rich history that reflects its diverse cultural influences and significant events. Here is a detailed account of its history:

Pre-Columbian Period

Maya Civilization: Belize was once part of the Maya civilization, which flourished from around 1500 BCE to 900 CE. Important Maya sites in Belize include Caracol, Lamanai, and Altun Ha. These sites were significant centers for trade, culture, and politics.

European Colonization

Spanish Exploration: The Spanish were the first Europeans to explore the region in the early 16th century, but they did not establish lasting settlements due to strong resistance from the Mayas and the lack of mineral wealth.
British Settlement: British pirates and woodcutters (known as Baymen) began settling in the region in the 17th century, primarily focusing on the lucrative logwood trade.
Battle of St. George's Caye: In 1798, the British settlers and their African slaves defeated the Spanish in the Battle of St. George’s Caye, solidifying British control over the area.

Colonial Period

British Honduras: In 1862, the British formally declared the settlement a colony, naming it British Honduras.
Slavery and Abolition: Slavery was abolished in the British Empire in 1833, impacting the social and economic structures of the colony.

Path to Independence

Self-Government: In the mid-20th century, Belize began its transition towards self-government. The first elections for a Legislative Assembly were held in 1954.
George Cadle Price: A significant figure in Belizean history, George Price led the movement for independence. He served as the country's first Prime Minister and is often referred to as the "Father of the Nation."
Independence: Belize achieved full independence from the United Kingdom on September 21, 1981.

Post-Independence Era

Territorial Dispute: Belize's independence was initially challenged by Guatemala, which claimed the territory. The dispute has been ongoing, though Belize is recognized as a sovereign nation by the United Nations.
Development and Challenges: Since independence, Belize has focused on developing its economy, particularly through tourism, agriculture, and marine resources. The country faces challenges such as managing environmental resources and addressing social issues.

Important Landmarks and Cultural Sites

Great Blue Hole: A massive underwater sinkhole and a UNESCO World Heritage site, attracting divers from around the world.
Barrier Reef: Part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System, it is the second-largest coral reef system in the world.
Xunantunich and Cahal Pech: Other significant Maya archaeological sites that attract tourists and researchers.
Belize City: Though not the capital (which is Belmopan), Belize City is the largest city and a historical economic hub.

Belize's history is a tapestry of indigenous heritage, colonial influences, and modern nation-building efforts, reflecting its unique position in Central America and the Caribbean.