This one’s for my fellow adventure-seekers and nature lovers. If you’re planning to check out Belize in 2025, you’re in for a treat! As someone who’s happy to call this small but bio-rich and surprisingly diverse country home, I’ve been fortunate enough to have explored every corner of Belize. I can tell you there are some experiences here that will make your friends jealous and have you talking about your trip for years. From wild jungle thrills to underwater magic, we have it all! So, let’s get to it—here are five unique Belize activities that absolutely need to be on your bucket list.
Cave Tubing: A Lazy River Ride Through Belize’s Ancient Underworld
Image via Belize Tourism Board
If you’re looking for a thrilling yet relaxing way to experience the wild heart of Belize, cave tubing is the answer. Picture this: you’re floating down a cool, winding river that cuts through a massive cave system, surrounded by lush jungle. You’ll be in awe of the geological formations that have developed over millennia and continue to be shaped by the power of nature. It’s the perfect combination of adventure and serenity—one minute you’re navigating fast-moving water, and the next, you’re gliding peacefully in total darkness. It’s unlike anything else, and I promise, you won’t find this in many other countries.
Climb Ancient Maya Temples: Get Your Indiana Jones On
Xunantunich Archaeological Site. Photo by the Belize Tourism Board
Many countries have ancient ruins, but Belize is one of the few places that still lets you climb those ancient temples! If you’ve ever dreamed of scaling ancient pyramids like a real-life adventurer, Belize is the place to do it. The Maya temples here are open for exploration, so you can climb to the top of some truly awe-inspiring structures, with incredible views of the surrounding jungle. Unlike some countries where access to their archaeological sites is restricted, Belize lets you get up close and personal with its ancient Maya heritage. It’s the ultimate combination of history, adventure, and jaw-dropping views. You’ll feel like a true explorer—and trust me, the view from the top is worth every step.
Swim With Sharks: No Cages Required
Snorkeling with nurse sharks. Image by Josh Nunez
Ever wanted to swim with sharks, but the thought of great whites sends you into a panic? Belize has you covered with nurse sharks—peaceful, friendly creatures that are totally safe to swim with. Head to Shark Ray Alley or Hol Chan Marine Reserve and prepare for an unforgettable underwater experience. They’re curious but calm, so you’ll get to interact with them without feeling like you’re in a horror movie. It’s a bucket-list moment you’ll never forget.
View Scarlet Macaws in the Wild: The Annual Red Bank Migration
Photo Courtesy: Roni Martinez
Belize is home to an estimated 200 wild Scarlet Macaws. While classified as Endangered, robust conservation and anti-poaching protection measures have gone a long way in safeguarding the bird’s population and this is one of the best places in the world to spot the brilliant red, blue, and yellow Scarlet Macaws in their natural habitat.
Similar: Red Bank Village’s Scarlet Macaw Tour
Spending the majority of their lives in the raw and remote Chiquibul Forest Reserve away from prying eyes, each year dozens of these majestic animals flock to their southern feeding grounds in the forest surrounding the Mayan village of Red Bank. It is here, from December through March, that you can view these iconic parrots perched in trees along the riverbank or soaring in pairs above the jungle’s canopy. Whether you’re a photographer looking for that perfect shot or just an admirer of nature’s beauty, seeing these stunning creatures in action will make you feel like you’ve stepped into a National Geographic documentary.
Waterfall Rappelling: A Wet and Wild Workout
Tap into your eco-warrior in Belize with plenty of adrenaline-packed adventures. Photo © Duarte Dellarole
If you’re in Belize for the thrill of adventure, rappelling down a waterfall in the jungle is the ultimate heart-pounding experience. Belize’s lush rainforests are home to some seriously cool waterfalls, and many of them are hidden gems. Strap on your harness, take a deep breath, and rappel down a towering waterfall while surrounded by dense jungle. The cool rush of water, the sound of the falls, and the sense of accomplishment you’ll feel as you descend are like nothing else. It’s an adrenaline rush you won’t forget anytime soon!
Featured Photo by Sunset Caribe/Duarte Dellarole
