Perhaps not the most well known of holiday destinations, Belize will be a source of varied delights for those who like to take their thrills with a hefty dose of natural beauty. Snuggled between Mexico and Guatemala on the Caribbean coast of Central America, Belize is home to the awe-inspiring sights of the longest barrier reef in the western hemisphere - so plenty of opportunities for fantastic scuba diving. There are hikes to ancient Mayan temples, some exposed and others hidden within the jungle, and rich rainforests filled with natural flora and fauna - perfect for long nature walks. More than 40 per cent of Belize is protected by marine reserves, national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, which helps preserve its outstanding natural beauty.
This paradise offers a plethora of delights for the adventurer. When waterside you can choose from snorkelling, wind or kite-surfing, para-sailing or a nippy cruise on a catamaran. Moving further inland, you could find yourself enjoying anything from cave-tubing and canoeing, to zipping down a line through the jungle. It is also well worth taking a hike up to one of Belize's many dramatic Mayan temples. Thankfully, because of the sheer natural beauty of their country, Belize residents are keenly environmentally aware. As such, you may find yourself staying at a solar-powered beach resort or a jungle lodge built from recycled hardwood, and always to a warm welcome - Belize locals being famed for their hospitality.
Climate-wise, the country has definite wet and dry seasons, the wet season running from around mid-May to November in the south and from approximately mid-June to November in the north. That said, temperatures don't vary wildly throughout the year - heat and humidity is the order of the day. A hike up to the Mountain Pine Ridge or Mayan Mountains is highly recommended and once completed could help you cool off a bit and, of course, take in the stunning views. Most tourists tend to flock to Belize in the dry season, December being a particularly popular month. But don't be put off travelling by the rainy months; accommodation is often significantly cheaper at this time, although southern Belize should be avoided as conditions become somewhat treacherous.
Travel-wise, one of the easiest ways to get to Belize is via Guatemala or Mexico travelling overland. Otherwise, there are flights into the country itself. Or, if you like your travel a little more gentle, you can take one of the many cruise ships that dock in from Honduras and Guatemala.
Belize is a must-go destination for any adventure traveller who craves a variety of activities, all in beautiful locations, around a very friendly country. Far-afield though it is, the exotic treasures that wait justify taking of such a lengthy flight. Any jet-lag suffered will soon be forgotten when you dive into Belize's crystal blue waters, take your first thrilling zip-wire through the verdant jungle or first hike to the Mayan temples. What are you waiting for?
Snorkelling and Diving
Although there are many beautiful spots to snorkel in Belize, if you get to go to just one, make it Hol Chan in the north near San Pedro town. A protected site, you will find yourself in an underwater wonderland filled with an amazing array of brightly-coloured fish. The Hol Chan Cut is favoured for diving, with plenty of ledges to hurl yourself from and caves to explore. Watch out too for sharks and stingrays in the aptly named Shark Ray Alley. Trips to Hol Chan go from San Pedro (factor in about half-a-day) and from Caye Caulker (factor in a day - these trips often take in San Pedro too).
Para-sailing
Fancy viewing the azure blue waters of the Caribbean from somewhere a little more elevated than your deckchair? Then take advantage of the many opportunities for parasailing, especially around Ambergris Caye. Several companies in this area offer different kinds of para-sailing experience, ranging from the leisurely air cruise to the faster rides, where you may even dip your toes in the water. Tandem flights are also on offer if your loved ones want to get in on the act. Para-sailing: a great way to take in the fabulous views of the barrier reef and San Pedro Town, from way on high.
Kite-surfing
The tranquil waters of Belize are perfect for the novice or intermediate kite-surfer, although there are plenty of larger waves on the outer reaches if you crave them. Placencia is a great kite-surfing spot; a sweet village on a sixteen mile peninsula, it also has the charming honour of apparently having the narrowest street in the world. Judge for yourself! Placencia is also near Blue Cross Cave, which features a stunning underground waterfall. Windy season is February-July where you will often get winds within the region of 12-20 knots and sometimes in excess of 20 knots.
Cave-Tubing
A very popular activity in Belize, owing to the fast-running waters that cut through much of the verdant rainforest. The Caves Branch River is a particularly good spot for tubing - you'll whisk through many of the astounding cave systems that the Mayans considered the gods' underworld and secret home. Many cave-tubing sessions begin with a hike through the rainforest to reach the underground caves, making this an intense sensory experience. When booking your tubing adventure, be aware that some companies cater only to cruise-ship passengers.
Hiking
The jungles of Belize have trails for the most intrepid explorer. Often, as mentioned above, hikes can be combined with another activity such as cave-tubing, or visiting one of the many Mayan temples. It's worth hiking with an experienced guide, one who will be able to point out the flora and fauna. On a related note, make sure you top up the insect repellent as you go - nothing takes the edge of a good hike like bites! The Jaguar Preserve, although somewhat difficult to reach, is well worth the effort, although remember: Jaguars are allusive beasts, there's no guarantee they will show! There's also the possibility of camping at the preserve if you want to take things at a more leisurely pace and stop over.
Classic Itineraries
Belize is a small country and easy to get around by car thanks to only having four main roads to choose from, although buses also run. It might be worth hiring a 4x4 for some of the jungle routes. Many travellers start by driving from Belize City Airport on the western highway to San Ignacio, a charming town with some great back-packer's hostels and an excellent base for taking day-trips. From here, you can take the trip up to mountain pine ridge for a spot of cave-tubing at the Rio Frio Cave. If you want to visit its reef (which you most certainly will) then you'll need to pop back to Belize City - you could take in the Belize Zoo on your way.
When in Belize City, make your way to the ferry port and choose from Caye Caulker or Ambergris Caye. Ambergris Caye is the livelier of the two. Either one will tempt you to spend at least a few days taking in the excellent scuba-diving, relaxing on the beaches and enjoying some watersports.
From there, you can take the boat back to Belize City and perhaps take an internal flight to Placencia, which has a bustling sidewalk and more beaches. Then, take a tour of Monkey River enjoying the amazing array of wildlife. You could also take a boat and explore Laughing Bird Caye, a charming island.
Other Activities
Belize is believed to have been the centre of the ancient Mayan civilisation, so don't miss out on seeing its temples. Many of these rise dramatically from the jungle and feature fabulous carvings in the stone. The Altun Ha site, about thirty miles north of Belize City, is well worth a visit, even if just to see the Temple of the Sun God. To learn more about the history of Belize and the Mayans, go to the Museum of Belize and Houses of Culture in Belize City.
If you want to steer clear of the metropolis and sample some simple pleasures then drive down to the most southerly town in Belize, Punta Gorda Town. At the foot of the imposing Mayan mountain-range is Punta Gorda (or 'P.G' as the locals call it), home to the smallest population in Belize. A sleepy seaside town, the shady streets are perfect for meandering - either by foot or on bike. Expect to be stopped and chatted to by friendly local residents. Try and time your visit for market day (Monday, Wednesday, Friday & Saturday mornings) when your senses will be tempted by local produce. Although accommodation opportunities in the town are limited, it's well worth a stay as it is also a great base if you want to explore the environmental treasures of the Toledo District.
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