Top Activities to Experience in Belize
When it comes to adventure, Belize’s glittering Caribbean coastline, wildlife-filled jungles, coral reefs, and mysterious underground cave systems provide endless opportunities to explore. Moreover, this country’s diverse cultural heritage means there is delicious cuisine and engaging activities to be discovered. Boutique hotels are primarily found here, and they are your gateway to the jewel in the crown of Central America, whether it’s a private island or an ecolodge vibe you seek.
From scuba diving to exploring ancient ruined cities, below are the must-do activities in Belize.
1. Explore Maya Ruins
Belize was once the center of the Maya empire, believed to host the mythical entrance to the underworld, Xibalba. While Maya culture still remains vibrant in Belize today, the ancient rocky ruins offer incredible opportunities to delve into Maya history.
Ruins can be found throughout the country, from accessible sites like Altun Ha and Lamanai to the more remote Caracol in Cayo, which remains the tallest human-made structure in Belize. Each site boasts unique stories about Maya history and culture, providing breathtaking views and excellent photo opportunities.
2. Scuba Dive the Blue Hole Natural Monument
Deep-water enthusiasts recognize Belize as a popular diving destination, but the famous Great Blue Hole emerges as the most thrilling dive site. Situated at the center of Lighthouse Atoll on the Belize Barrier Reef, this perfectly round underwater sinkhole unveils a dark chasm where divers can explore a unique ecosystem filled with coral, tropical fish, and mysterious stalactites.
Planning Tip: Prefer to stay on the surface? Snorkeling here is also an exciting adventure due to the wall of the hole being rich with underwater life.
3. Party on Caye Caulker
Caye Caulker offers a relaxed Caribbean vibe, making it a favorite spot for backpackers and younger travelers alike. Visitors often navigate the sandy paths on foot or by bicycle. The Split beach is a central attraction, praised for its clear waters free from seaweed.
Enjoy drinks, music, and a picturesque balcony at the Lazy Lizard, where crowds gather. Several bars keep the festivities going well into the night, while local restaurants ensure that everyone is well-fed.
4. Search for Jaguars in the Cockscomb Jungle
Belize is home to the highest concentration of jaguars in the world. While spotting these elusive cats is challenging, your best opportunity lies in exploring the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary in the jungles of southern Belize.
Planning Tip: DTOURZ offers daytime and nighttime tours that promise adventure alongside the jaguar search. Even if you don’t see big cats, you can encounter other wildlife, including over 290 bird species, howler monkeys, and snakes.
5. Go Birdwatching
Belize is a birdwatcher’s paradise, boasting more than 500 avian species, including keel-billed toucans and scarlet macaws. This makes it an ideal destination for anyone interested in birding.
Planning Tip: While many guides are knowledgeable about local birds, visiting Black Rock Lodge near San Ignacio provides insight from top birding specialists within the dense jungle surroundings.
6. Attend a Yoga Retreat
A yoga retreat on a private island in the Caribbean is the ultimate wellness getaway. Throughout the year, Placencia’s own Brice Dial hosts several multi-day yoga experiences, incorporating meditation and chakra balancing.
Planning Tip: Guests can indulge in water activities like snorkeling or diving, enjoy meals at the delicious Lionfish Grill, or experience rejuvenation through massages for a perfect weekend recharge.
7. Go Fly-Fishing at Turneffe Atoll
Belize offers an abundance of bonefish, tarpon, and permit – the trio of species that every angler dreams of catching in one day.
At establishments like Turneffe Island Resort, expert guides curate personalized fly-fishing excursions in the nearby saltwater flats, connecting anglers with the area’s natural beauty and bounty.
8. Experience Garifuna Culture
Visitors to Belize can immerse themselves in the rhythms of the Garifuna people at the Lebeha drumming center in Hopkins. Descended from an Afro-Indigenous population, the Garifuna culture embodies resilience and rich traditions.
Planning Tip: If you wish to witness the essence of Garifuna culture, consider visiting on November 19, Garifuna Settlement Day, a festive celebration of their arrival in Belize, rich in food, dance, and music.
9. Take a Bioluminescence Boat Tour
Hopkins is a charming coastal village known for its rich culture by day and mesmerizing bioluminescence by night. The captivating light produced by local marine life is truly enchanting and can be experienced on a nighttime tour.
Planning Tip: Between January and May, when the moon’s brightness is lower, you can embark on an evening pontoon safari to explore the glowing marine life amid the mangroves.
10. Release a Blue Morpho Butterfly
The blue morpho butterfly is emblematic of Belize’s wildlife. These striking blue creatures are commonly found in the jungles and at butterfly farms like Chaa Creek near San Ignacio.
11. Go Tubing Through Caves
Exploring Belize’s caves is a thrilling adventure, and tubing is among the most popular ways to do so. Rent a guide and gently float through intricate cave systems featuring crystal rock formations, learning about the rich Maya history along the way.
12. Horseback Ride in the Jungle
In the Cayo District, guests can embark on a horseback riding adventure through the rainforest, encountering stunning waterfalls and local wildlife.
Planning Tip: MET Outfitters serves as the premier equestrian outfitter, helping riders of all skill levels enjoy the jungle trails.
13. Tour the Actun Tunichil Muknal Cave
This physically demanding tour takes you through the Actun Tunichil Muknal cave, a site of significant Maya history believed to represent the underworld.
Planning Tip: Ensure to navigate tight spaces and water within the cave, and keep in mind that photography is prohibited to preserve the site’s integrity.
14. Savor Marie Sharp’s Hot Sauce
Tangy and spicy, Marie Sharp’s habanero-based hot sauce has gained international fame. This popular condiment is quintessentially Belizean and can be found at every dining table.
Planning Tip: The factory in Dangriga offers free tours, and sampling the sauce is a must for any visitor to Belize.
15. Try a Fry Jack
Fry jacks are a staple of Belizean cuisine, available across the country either filled with jam and honey or beans and cheese, often accompanied by Marie Sharp’s signature hot sauce.
16. Relax on Secret Beach
Ambergris Caye, the most popular destination in Belize, offers waterfront experiences, but finding a suitable beach can be challenging. Secret Beach on the island’s west side is quickly becoming a haven for beachgoers, with food and drinks available.
Planning Tip: The best way to reach Secret Beach is by renting a golf cart for a scenic 4.5-mile drive north of San Pedro.
17. Explore the Jungle on a Pontoon Boat
This unique journey takes place on the border of Belize and Guatemala. Enjoy a relaxing day on a pontoon boat, exploring Western Belize’s lush jungle ecosystem.
18. Take a Distillery Tour at Copalli Rum
As part of the Caribbean region, rum is an integral part of Belizean culture. To learn about the distillation process and sample some, visit the Copalli Rum distillery located at Copal Tree Lodge.
19. Cool Off at Big Rock Falls
Big Rock Falls represents one of the best ways to enjoy a hot day in Belize, where visitors can jump from cliffs and enjoy a refreshing swim beneath the cascading water.
20. Visit the Belize Zoo
The Belize Zoo showcases the rich wildlife, from jaguars to tapirs to scarlet macaws. It serves as a fantastic venue for locals and tourists to encounter Belize’s fauna while supporting wildlife protection initiatives.
21. Snorkel at Hol Chan Marine Reserve
Home to nurse sharks, sea turtles, and eagle rays, the Belize Barrier Reef is best experienced at Hol Chan Marine Reserve. A memorable day snorkeling here is highly recommended.
22. Stay in a Luxury Hotel
Francis Ford Coppola’s boutique luxury hotels, such as Turtle Inn in Placencia and Blancaneaux Lodge in Mountain Pine Ridge, offer guests a luxurious retreat with exceptional service.
23. Support Local Artisans
Belize inspires creativity, resulting in unique arts and crafts. To discover handmade jewelry, clothing, and artwork from local artisans, explore the Handmade Belize marketplace.
