Is Belize Worth Visiting? Top Reasons to Plan Your Trip Now
If you’re wondering, “Is Belize Worth Visiting?” and if it’s worth adding to your travel bucket list, let me tell you—it absolutely is.
I’ve visited Belize four years in a row now, so that should tell you something when I say this place has something special. In this article, I’ll break down exactly why Belize deserves a spot on your must-visit list.
From the islands surrounded by the Belize Barrier Reef to ancient Mayan ruins hidden in lush jungles, Belize offers an unbeatable mix of adventure and relaxation.
By the end of this post, you’ll have a clear idea of why Belize is more than just a destination—it’s an experience. You’ll know exactly what makes this country stand out and why you should start planning your trip to Belize now.
Stick around, and let’s discover why Belize might just be your next favorite place.
Is Belize Worth Visiting?
The short and sweet answer is – Absolutely!
This wonderful country might be small, but it’s mighty. Offering some of the best experiences in Central America, making it a true hidden gem
Belize is home to the world’s second-largest barrier reef, which is a playground for anyone who loves the ocean. Whether you’re a scuba diver or just love snorkeling, you’ll find the coral reefs and vibrant marine life here are some of the best you’ll find anywhere. You can even dive into the famous Blue Hole, which is a bucket list dive for many scuba lovers.
But Belize isn’t just about the turquoise waters and islands. More than half of it is covered in lush rainforest, where you can explore ancient Mayan ruins and go on awesome jungle tours.
Even though people are starting to catch on to Belize’s charm, it’s still not overrun with tourists, so you can enjoy these spots without the crowds.
But don’t wait too long! Belize is getting more and more popular.
Reasons Why Belize Is Worth Visiting
If you’re dreaming of your next vacation, you’ll love Belize! There are lots of reasons why Belize is worth visiting, so let’s get into it.
Here’s what makes this destination a must-visit:
Belize Barrier Reef: The World’s Second Largest Barrier Reef
The Belize Barrier Reef is hands down one of the coolest natural wonders on the planet. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a hotspot for scuba diving, snorkeling, fishing, and sailing in the Caribbean. Sea turtles, rays, eels, dolphins, manatees, and nurse sharks will be your swimming buddies in this epic underwater world.
The Great Blue Hole is the star attraction that draws people to the Belize Barrier Reef. This giant sinkhole offers a diving experience like no other. It’s so huge you can even see it from space!
Getting to the reef is super easy, with tours leaving from popular spots like Caye Caulker and Ambergris Caye daily. So, if you haven’t already, be sure to add one of these Islands to your Belize Itinerary. You won’t regret it.
Some Of The Best Scuba Diving In The World
You better Belize it – this place is a divers paradise!
Whether you’re a newbie and just learning or you have hundreds of dives under your belt, you will love scuba diving in Belize. Although I will say that if you start out here, you will be ruined for scuba diving pretty much everywhere else you go.
The country is home to the famous Blue Hole, a giant marine sinkhole that draws divers from all over the world. Maybe you’ve heard of it. Exploring its deep abyss and unique limestone formations is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you won’t find anywhere else.
But the Blue Hole is just the beginning. Belize’s Barrier Reef is well-preserved and just teeming with vibrant coral and fauna, huge schools of fish, and diverse marine life. And on top of all that, the turquoise waters are crystal clear, and bathtub warm!
You’ll find everything from shallow coral gardens to thrilling wall dives, all set against the backdrop of the Caribbean Sea
Ancient Mayan Ruins and Caves
If ancient history is your thing, then you’ll love exploring the incredible Mayan ruins. Belize has some of the best ruins in Central America. It’s wild to imagine how people lived in these archaeological wonders so long ago.
The top Mayan ruins are:
- Caracol – the largest city.
- Lamanai – known for the High Temple and Jaguar Temple.
- Xunantunich – home to the massive pyramid, El Castillo.
- Cahal Pech – the oldest Mayan site with a royal acropolis.
The Cayo District of Belize, near the Guatemala border, makes an excellent home base for also exploring the towering ruins of Tikal National Park. Belize to Tikal day trips are really easy and popular.
The Belize jungle is also home to the Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM) cave. It’s ranked as the world’s number-one sacred cave and has a dark history. This cave was considered a gateway to the underworld, where intense religious ceremonies and sacrifices took place.
If you can handle the chills, this is one interesting experience you won’t want to miss.
Covered in Lush Jungle Rainforest
Belize is covered in lush jungle, with over 60% of the country blanketed by dense, tropical rainforests. These jungles are home to exotic wildlife like jaguars, howler monkeys, Coatis, and colorful birds.
One of the best ways to experience Belize’s jungle is to venture into the untouched and remote areas. Here you can find hidden waterfalls with crystal clear pools perfect for a refreshing swim or take a thrilling cave tubing adventure down a jungle river.
My favorite feature of Belize’s jungle is the jungle lodges and tree houses you can stay in. My husband and I stayed in a treehouse at the Vanilla Hills Resort, which had floor-to-ceiling windows. Waking up every morning to the sounds of the jungle was amazing!
Whether you’re hiking through the thick trees, spotting wildlife, or floating down a jungle river, your time in Beliez’s rainforest will be an adventure you won’t forget.
Gorgeous Waterfalls
Belize is home to some amazing waterfalls! Honestly, it’s one of the reasons I’m so obsessed with this place.
One of the most popular and my favorite is Big Rock Falls. It’s located in the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve and requires a short hike to get to it. Below this beautiful waterfall is a series of deep pools that are perfect for a swim to escape the jungle heat.
Here are some other gorgeous waterfalls in Belize worth seeing:
Butterfly Falls – you can only get to it if you’re staying at the Valley Inn.
Antelope Falls – Found in Mayflower Bocawina National Park, this one’s for the
hardcore adventurers. The hike up is tough, but the payoff is totally worth it.
Thousand-foot Falls – As the tallest waterfall in Central America, Thousand-foot Falls is a view you’ll never forget.
Rio on Pools – Also in Mountain Pine Ridge, Rio on Pools offers a series of natural
swimming holes linked by mini waterfalls. The slick rocks act like a natural waterslide.
Whale Sharks
One of the most unforgettable experiences you can have is swimming with whale sharks, and Belize can give you this opportunity.
These gentle giants are the largest fish in the ocean and make their appearance off the coast of Placencia from the end of March to June. During this time, they gather around the Gladden Spit area, when the snapper are spawning.
Timing is everything when it comes to spotting whale sharks in Belize. Your best chance of seeing them is around the full moon during these months when the conditions are just right. If swimming alongside these magnificent creatures is on your bucket list, plan your trip carefully to make sure you don’t miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
Belize is one of the few places in the world where you can have such an incredible encounter with whale sharks, making it one of the best reasons to visit.
The Friendly Locals
The people is what makes Belize such an amazing place.
The locals here are super friendly and genuinely interested in who you are, where you’re from, and how they can make your time in their country special.
Don’t be surprised if you find yourself invited over for dinner or out for beers with the locals. Here, a stranger will quickly become a friend. That’s just how things roll in Belize.
Speaking of great people, let me tell you about my now good friend Sonny from Blue Wave Divers. He was my diving instructor four years ago, and now we consider each other family.
Oh, and If you’re into scuba diving—or even just thinking about trying it—don’t dive with anyone else! Be sure to tell him Katie sent you! You’ll see exactly what I mean about the warmth and hospitality of the Belizean people.
The Belizean Food
One of my favorite things to do when I travel is to eat and try new foods, and Belize didn’t disappoint!
Belizean food is a mix of different cultures, Mayan, Creole, Garifuna, and Mestizo, which makes the flavors unique and delicious. Be sure to try traditional dishes like fry jacks or rice and beans with stew chicken which is delicious and filling.
And don’t even get me started on the seafood! We’re talking lobster, grouper, conch, shrimp, and snapper. All so fresh and absolutely delicious. My mouth is watering just thinking about it.
The freshness of the ingredients is what really sets Belizean food apart. Whether you’re trying street food barbecue or grabbing a quick bite from a local spot, you’ll notice everything is fresh.
Trying new foods in Belize was one of the highlights of my trip. If you love trying new foods as much as I do, Belize is a great foodie spot.
The Near Perfect Weather All Year Round
Belize is a tropical paradise with near-perfect weather year-round.
The temperatures range from a mild 50°F to a toasty 95°F, meaning pretty much any time you visit will be great.
But let’s be real. Belize does have a rainy season, and hurricanes do happen. The rainy season runs from June to November. But even during the rainy season, the showers are usually brief and usually happen in the early morning or late afternoon. You’ll still be able to make the most of your days exploring or soaking up the sun.
The dry season is from December to May, but it also means more tourists, so you might have to share this slice of paradise with a few more people.
But honestly, you can’t go wrong with visiting Belize any time of the year.
The Islands
Did you know that Belize has over 450 islands or Cayes (pronounced “keys”)? I didn’t
either at first!
While Caye Caulker and Ambergris Caye are the most popular and accessible, Belize’s turquoise coast is dotted with several other stunning islands.
Most of these smaller islands are private luxury resorts and are quite pricey, but they offer an exclusive slice of paradise if you can afford it. In fact, some islands are being artificially created specifically for private resorts.
Belize also has several popular uninhabited cayes that are perfect for day trips and island hopping tours, mostly organized from the Placencia area.
Here are some of the popular uninhabited islands in Belize:
- Silk Cayes: Known for their crystal-clear waters and great marine life, making it a top choice for snorkelers and divers.
- Laughing Bird Caye: This national park is part of the Belize Barrier Reef and offers spectacular snorkeling and diving spots.
- Goff’s Caye: A tiny island located right on the edge of the Belize Barrier Reef, popular for cruise ship passengers looking for a quick, idyllic beach stop.
- Sapodilla Cayes: Farther south, these cayes offer a remote and serene escape. They offer fabulous snorkeling and diving, especially at the renowned Coral Garden.
- Tobacco Caye: A small, idyllic spot known for its laid-back atmosphere and excellent opportunities for diving and snorkeling.
Reasons You Might Not Want To Visit Belize
While I might think Belize is pretty great, it’s not the ideal destination for everyone. So, before you pack your bags, consider these few factors that might make you think twice about visiting. Here are some reasons Belize might not be the right fit for you.
Belize Is Not Known For Beautiful Beaches
Belize isn’t known for the classic white-sand beaches you might be dreaming of.
The country is protected by the second-largest barrier reef in the world, which prevents the natural buildup of big, sandy beaches. Instead, much of the shoreline is lined with mangroves, which play a crucial role in protecting the islands from erosion.
That said, you can still find some sandy spots to enjoy a beach day, though most of them are man-made and located at private resorts.
To access these beaches, you’ll typically need to either stay at the resort or pay a fee for a day pass. So, while Belize might not be the go-to spot for beautiful beaches, there are still ways to enjoy some sand and sun.
Belize Is Not Known For All-Inclusive Resorts
Actually, Belize does have a few small all-inclusive resorts, but if you’re expecting the typical mega-resorts you find in other countries, think again.
Belize does have some amazing places to stay, but it’s all about that chill, low-key vibe. Most of the accommodations here are smaller, more intimate spots that really let you enjoy island life.
What Belize does have is several intimate small to midsize hotels and small resorts.
Here are the best all-inclusive resorts in Belize if that’s what you want:
Turneffe Island Resort – Located on a private island.
Sleeping Giant Rainforest Lodge – Nestled in the rainforest.
Ramon’s Village Resort – A beachfront resort.
Things To Know Before You Go To Belize
Before you head to Belize, there are a few key things you should know. These little nuggets of wisdom will help make sure your trip goes smoothly.
They Speak English In Belize
Belize is the only country in Central America that speaks English as its official language, which makes it super convenient for English-speaking travelers. While other languages are spoken here, English is the main one, thanks to Belize’s history as a British colony.
While Belize is surrounded by Spanish-speaking neighbors like Mexico and Guatemala, it stands out because you can easily communicate, read signs, and get around without any language barriers.
They Accept American Dollars
One very convenient thing about traveling to Belize is that U.S. dollars are accepted pretty much everywhere throughout the country. While US dollars may be accepted, US coins are not!
The exchange rate is simple to remember also. It’s 2 Belize dollars equals 1 US dollar.
Belize Is Safe for Tourists
Belize is generally safe for tourists, especially in popular areas like San Pedro, Caye Caulker, and Placencia. The country is quite welcoming to tourists, and most people find their travels go off without any issues.
But, like any destination, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings and take basic precautions, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and not flashing valuables.
Overall, with a little common sense, you can enjoy all that Belize has to offer with peace of mind.
Belize Is Not Overly Touristy – Yet
Yet is the keyword here.
In recent years, Belize has experienced explosive growth as a tourist destination. It’s becoming more popular by the day, but it still holds onto its natural charm and untouched beauty. So, if you’re looking to explore this paradise in all its authentic glory, now’s the time to do it!
Belize Is Relatively Affordable
Belize is a moderately priced destination. While it’s more budget-friendly than some Caribbean destinations, it’s still the second-most expensive country in Central America. So, while you won’t break the bank, it’s not a super cheap destination either.
Things To Avoid When Visiting Belize
When visiting Belize, there are a few things you’ll want to steer clear of to have the best experience possible. While Belize is a fantastic destination, knowing what to avoid can help you stay safe and enjoy your trip without any hiccups.
Here are some key things to keep in mind during your stay.
Avoid Belize City
Belize City is statistically the most dangerous place in Belize due to gang- related activity Fortunately though, tourists are rarely targeted. If you must stay in Belize City, always be cautious, don’t go out at night, and don’t go out alone. Definitely avoid George Street and Kraal Road.
Don’t Drink The Tap Water
I mean you can if you want, but I would not recommend it. While many places in Belize treat their tap water, you are better off buying bottled water. Or just have a coconut or a Belikin instead!
Don’t Touch or Harass the Wildlife
Belize’s wildlife is one of the highlights of visiting, but it’s important to admire it without getting too close.
Touching or bothering animals like sea turtles can actually get you a hefty fine.
To keep things safe for both you and the animals, only touch or feed wildlife if you’re with a guide in a controlled setting where it’s allowed. This way, you can enjoy Belize’s wildlife without causing any harm.
Don’t Only See The Islands
While the islands are a major part of what makes Belize worth visiting, there’s so much more to explore beyond the coast. Sure the Barrier Reef and Hol Chan Marine Reserve are fantastic, but be sure to spend some time on the mainland, too.
Don’t miss out on incredible jungle adventures, like zip-lining through the trees or exploring ancient Mayan ruins. There’s so much fun to be had in Belize’s lush rainforests and cultural sites, making your trip even more epic.
Best Places To Visit In Belize
Here are my suggestions for the best places to visit in Belize, and you don’t have to do it all the first time you vacation to Belize. You will have an excuse to come back again, just like me.
Caye Caulker
Caye Caulker is my favorite spot in Belize. It has a laid-back village vibe, and its motto is “Go Slow.” Life here moves to the rhythm of the waves, making it the ultimate island escape with reasonably affordable hotels and lots of island charm.
One of the best perks to choosing Caye Caulker for your visit is that the island has no cars and only dirt roads. You can walk anywhere on the island in about 10 minutes or rent a pedal bike or golf cart for convenience. Plus there are a ton of really fun things to do on this island that you’ll never be bored!
You can get to Caye Caulker in about 45 minutes from Belize City by ferry. Or you can take a quick 10-minute flight on a puddle jumper.
Ambergris Caye
Ambergris Caye is Belize’s largest island and most popular tourist destination. The main town on the island is San Pedro, and has lots of great restaurants, fun bars, and a busy nightlife.
While there are cars, most people use golf carts to get around. It feels like you’re playing bumper cars with them! My husband and I call it “Golf Cart Mania.” But once you leave San Pedro town, things calm down a lot.
If you want a classier beach vacation, Ambergris Caye is the place. There are several amazing beachfront resorts to choose from and a wider selection of vacation rentals.
You can get to San Pedro, Ambergris Caye in about about 1 hour and 45 minutes. Or you can choose the quicker option, a 15-minute flight on a small plane.
San Ignacio
San Ignacio is the adventure hub of the Cayo District in western Belize, near the Guatemalan border.
Here, you’ll find lots of incredible jungle excursions that allow you to explore ancient Mayan ruins, hidden waterfalls, and underground caves.
Getting from Belize City to San Ignacio takes around 1 hour and 45 minutes by car.
Placencia Peninsula
Placencia is a quiet fishing village found at the bottom of the Placencia Peninsula on mainland Belize. Even though it’s growing more touristy, people still think of it as out-of-the-way, keeping its old-world charm.
When it comes to the most beautiful beaches in Belize, everyone talks about the Placencia Peninsula. It’s known for its 16 miles of sandy shores, which people call ‘barefoot perfect.’
You can find some resorts there and it’s a great spot to visit the southern part of the nearby Belize Barrier Reef. Fishermen from all over the world come here for the fantastic fishing.
It takes about 4 hours to drive from Belize City, or you can hop on a quick 25-minute flight.
Best Things To Do In Belize
Oh, where do I even begin? Belize is packed with so many awesome things to do. Let me try to
narrow it down to my top favorites and see if I can tempt you into a little adventure!
Go Scuba Diving
If you can swim, you can dive—seriously. This is one adventure that will stick with you forever. With the Belize Barrier Reef at your fingertips, you’ll dive into one of the most vibrant underwater ecosystems in the world.
From the famous Great Blue Hole to the stunning coral gardens at Turneffe Atoll, Belize offers some of the best dive sites anywhere.
You’ll see corals and fauna of every shape, color, and size! And incredible marine life like sea turtles, rays, and even sharks. Whether you’re an experienced diver or just starting out, Belize’s scuba diving is a top reason to visit.
Go Snorkeling
Once you snorkel in Belize, you’ll be ruined for snorkeling anywhere else. With its shallow coral gardens and crystal clear water, you can see everything so perfectly. You’ll get up close with colorful corals, tropical fish, stingrays, nurse sharks, and maybe even giant spotted eagle rays.
Popular spots like Hol Chan Marine Reserve and Shark Ray Alley are a must-visit!
Whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or trying it for the first time, Belize’s waters are a snorkeling paradise you won’t want to miss.
Explore Ancient Mayan Ruins
Belize is bursting with history, and its ancient Mayan ruins offer a fascinating glimpse into a once-thriving civilization. It’s mind-blowing to think that over 2 million people lived in these ancient cities—it’s truly wild!
Visiting sites like Xunantunich, Caracol, and Lamanai is a must. You can wander through towering pyramids, temples, and plazas, and even climb to the top for incredible panoramic views of the jungle. These ruins are more than just old stones—they’re living history, waiting to be explored.
See The Great Blue Hole
Seeing the Great Blue Hole is definitely a bucket list item. This massive marine sinkhole, famous worldwide, is a natural wonder that’s truly breathtaking. It’s hard to imagine just how big it is until you see it in person. It’s so big that they can even spot it from outer space!
Whether you’re diving into it or taking a scenic flight over for an aerial view, the Great Blue Hole is a must-see. It’s a geological marvel that you won’t see anywhere else in the world.
Visiting Belize: FAQ’s
Here are some frequently asked questions inquiring minds want to know about when visiting Belize.
These helpful tips will help you get the most out of your Belize vacation.
What is so special about Belize?
Ummm, everything! Belize is packed with natural beauty, culture, history, wildlife, and
straight-up fun. From the famous Great Blue Hole and the world’s second-largest Barrier Reef to ancient Mayan ruins hidden in lush jungles. These are experiences you won’t easily find elsewhere.
How Many Days Is Enough In Belize?
That totally depends on what you’re looking to do. If you’re sticking to the popular spots,
seven days should do the trick. But if you’re itching to get off the beaten path and dive
deeper into what Belize has to offer, I’d say plan for 10-14 days.
When is the best time to visit Belize
It’s no contest that the dry season from late November to mid-April is the best time to visit Belize. The weather’s spot-on, the skies sunny, and you won’t have to worry about your adventures getting rained out.
When not to go to Belize?
I wouldn’t say there is a Bad time to go to Belize but just know that hurricane season is from late June to the end of October. So you don’t want to risk it, you might not want to plan your visit during this time, just in case.
Is Belize cheap or expensive?
Belize is a moderately priced destination. It’s neither super cheap nor over the top.
It’s pricier than Mexico or Guatemala, but it’s still totally doable. And you can always cut costs by planning ahead or visiting in the off-season. So, while it’s not the cheapest spot, it’s still affordable and worth every penny!
Is Belize safe to visit as a tourist?
Yes, Belize is a safe country to visit! Just be cautious if you’re in Belize City after dark.
Most of the petty and violent crime happens there, so always stay aware of your surroundings. Other than that, you’re good to go!
Resources To Help You Plan Your Trip To Belize
These are my go-to resources and the first place I check when planning my trips to Belize. They consistently provide the best deals, helping stretch your travel dollar further.
Accommodations 🏨
My favorite accommodation booking sites are Hotels.com and VRBO! You start racking up One Key Cash from the get-go, which you can use for future bookings.
Flights & Car Rentals 🛩️ 🚗
Just a heads up – you can score even more One Key Cash by booking your flights and car rental through Expedia. It all adds up, so you can travel MORE!
Activities and Tours 🏝️
Check out GetYourGuide and Viator for all the best tours and activities.
Travel Insurance 🛄
If you’re thinking about scuba diving, caving, or any other crazy adventure in Belize, seriously, grab some travel insurance. I always use Safety Wing.
Travel Credit Card 💳
Rack up those points to slash your travel costs and tick more adventures off your Belize bucket list! Here’s my favorite travel credit card that’ll help you earn free travel fast!
Packing Guide 🧳
Make sure you don’t forget anything with my complete, finely-tuned Belize Packing List!
That’s A Wrap: Is Belize Worth Visiting
So, is Belize worth visiting? Absolutely!
Belize is quickly becoming a top tropical getaway for travelers in 2024, and it’s easy to see why. With its untouched natural beauty, friendly locals, chill vibes, and still-affordable prices, it’s got everything you need for an epic trip.
It’s a true hidden gem, offering adventures that will stay with you long after your trip ends. Whether you’re an adventure-seeker, a history buff, or just looking to relax in paradise, Belize has it all.
So, what are you waiting for? Get your bags packed and enjoy.
Catch ya later!