Belize

BELIZE

Belize Islands facts

Overview

Overview

BelizeAs one of the last unspoiled places on earth, Belize offers travelers an authentic Caribbean and Central American getaway. For generations, the English-speaking people of Belize have been committed to preserving the country’s unique charms, helping to earn its reputation as one of the finest destinations for eco-travel on the planet.  With 40-percent of the country under some form of protection, travelers can see nature at its best through a variety of unmatched adventures from north to south.

Best known for its serenity and mystique, northern Belize is a place for those dreaming of a “one-on-one” with Mother Nature. The region features some of Belize’s most desired attractions, including the archaeological marvel of Lamanai Maya site, and the splendor found in the lush jungles of the Rio Bravo Conservation Area.  The sparsely populated northern towns of Corozal and Orange Walk make northern Belize a great home base for travelers striving to avoid large crowds.

Some of the country’s best opportunities for eco-adventure can be found in Central Belize. The region’s most popular town – San Ignacio – is usually the first stop for travelers before spelunking the ATM Cave system, scaling the majestic Xunantunich Maya site, kayaking down the translucent Belize River or exploring a jungle trail through the Mountain Pine Ridge Reserve.  No matter what activity, visitors will find this region to be one of the country’s most versatile playgrounds for tourists.

The undiscovered landscape of southern Belize is ideal for those looking to venture off-the-beaten-path and explore Belize’s cultural diversity. Activities like Maya chocolate making, the Maya homestay program and Garifuna drumming ceremonies along the beaches of Placencia, allow travelers to experience Belize’s rich Maya and Garifuna cultures firsthand. The Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary is another popular attraction offering enough biodiversity to impress even the most discerned traveler.

Finally, those searching for postcard-perfect beaches, enticing warm waters and a laid-back Caribbean style will find the cayes lining Belize’s stunning Barrier Reef, the perfect haven. More than 200 small islands ranging in size and type dot the turquoise waters off Belize’s coast offering a wide variety of popular attractions and activities. From laid-back islands like Caye Caulker, to the lively buzz of Ambergris Caye, visitors are sure to find the vacation that perfectly suites them.

For more information, visit www.TravelBelize.org.

Top 10 Reasons to Go

Top 10 Reasons to Go

Chances are you won’t have to go through all 10 before a you’re sold on the destination, but here are the top reasons travelers should vacation in Belize.

1. Enjoy the longest barrier reef in this hemisphere, home to the Great Blue Hole, hundreds of islands, snorkel and dive locations.

2. Outside the barrier reef, you’ll find three of the four true coral atolls found in the Western Hemisphere-Turneffe, Lighthouse and Glover’s.

3. Explore hundreds of ancient Maya sites both excavated and jungle-covered.

4. Enjoy lush tropical rainforest with many species of birds, and exotic tropical flora and fauna.

5. Share delicious local dishes, colorful arts and crafts, foot-tapping music, and local traditions.

6. Have a guide take you on bird-watching treks, river kayaking trips and cave-tubing expeditions.

7. Climb the highest Maya temple of Belize or share the artifacts in the museums.

8. Pamper yourself at a spa or fine restaurant as you quietly relax.

9. Belize is rare among top dive destinations in that it offers as many topside attractions as it does great dives.

10. Spectacular natural attractions and the excitement of discovering Mother Nature’s Best Kept

Gallery

Gallery

Images are courtesy of the CTO – Demian Solano, Belize Tourist Board

Getting Here

Getting Here

Airport: Grantley Adams International Airport (BGI) is 30 minutes drive from Bridgetown, the capital. Gateways/Flying Times: Houston (via Miami) – 7 hours. London – 8 hours. Miami – 3.5 hours. Montreal – 5 hours. New York – 4.5 hours. San Francisco – 9.5 hours. Toronto – 5 hours. San Juan – 1 hour.


Lounge: Belize offers an extensive range of accommodation types including luxury resorts, family style hotels, vacation rentals and condominiums, guesthouses, campgrounds and liveaboards.

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Website: http://www.travelbelize.org