Nestled between Mexico, Guatemala and the sparkling Caribbean Sea, Belize occupies a slice of paradise made all the more flavorful by a strong presence of traditional culture, wildlife and a wonderful array of archaeological sites. And to make this legacy even more interesting, it should be remembered that many of these ancient remains are found in the jungle. Today we will take you to discover the best things to see in Belize!
Dangers and pleasures
Once a quiet Mayan fishing village, Belize City served as the country’s capital until 1970, when a new city was built following the destruction of Hurricane Hattie. However, it is still the largest city and commercial center in the country, as well as a busy port that accepts cruise ships.
But don’t think about the metropolis: there are no more than sixty thousand inhabitants. There are few, but it is teeming with life: the city has a reputation for being quite dangerous and even if things have improved a bit, you have to pay close attention. Surely it is better not to go out in the evening – and stay in the hotel – and during the day to browse the crowded places and avoid flaunting wealth. However, a visit to the city certainly can and should take place.
The Mayan pyramids and tombs
Altun Ha is one of the most famous ruins in Belize also because it is easily accessible and close to the village of Rockstone Pond. It was once an important trading center and ceremonial venue, and today visitors can visit 13 temples and two main squares. The Temple of the Walled Altars, dating from the early 7th century, is the largest pyramid on the site and is certainly the most important structure.
Visitors can climb to its top and enjoy stunning 360-degree views from there. The exploration of the Temple of the Green Tomb made it possible to discover the tomb of the Mayan priest king in the crypt and recover many objects buried with it, including pottery, pearls and jade pendants.
Plunge into nature
We said this: when you wonder what to see in Belize, the idea immediately flies to nature. In this sense, Ambergris Caye, a short distance from the Yucatan Peninsula, is the largest of Belize’s 200 cays and one of the country’s main tourist destinations.
A short distance from the coast is the Hol Chan Marine Reserve, which remains one of the most visited diving and snorkeling spots in Belize. It is a “cut” in Belize’s coral reef, one of the largest in the world after Australia. It is an ideal place for divers who can swim among sharks and other large pelagic and reef fish, but also for those who choose to relax with a mask and fins.
Paradise for divers
Caye Caulker is located south of Ambergris Caye and is much smaller and is another place with white sand, palm trees, colorful houses and lots of relaxation. But another major attraction in the country is near Reef Atoll. Six cayes surround a turquoise lagoon with white sand beaches, coconut palms and fascinating coral formations.
The most famous landmark is the Great Blue Hole, a circular depression 300 meters in diameter and more than 120 meters deep. This “hole” has always attracted divers who can dive into the sapphire water, while various species swim by including hammerhead sharks, giant groupers and angelfish.
When to go
In Belize, the climate is hot and humid all year round with the best period from January to May; it is high season and there is no heavy rain. The months of December, January and February are less hot, while the rainy season runs from May to November 30/32 ° C. In October and November, hurricanes can be dangerous, especially in the southern half of the state.
