4 Lesser-Known Outdoor Travel Experiences in Belize

Travelers that graduate from being a Belize newbie to a “repeat visitor” has probably done 90 percent of the “top things to do in Belize.” This ultimate Belize bucket list is a rite of passage for anyone traveling to the small but mighty country, but the needs of globetrotters have changed in the past few years. Now, many come seeking off-the-radar experiences that the average tourist may not know about. The traveler that isn’t easily satiated with cookie-cutter itineraries should keep these four lesser-known outdoor activities top of mind when in Belize.

BLACK HOLE DROP

This 200-foot-deep cavern in the jungles of Belize is often used as a spot for rappelling by many thrill-seekers. The Actun Loch Tunich sunken cave is located in Belize’s Cayo District, and only licensed tour operators can safely get you in – and out. Risk-takers are lowered into the dark cave that sits 300 feet above the jungle canopy below, with only a headlamp and some rope harnessed to their bodies. The cave seems inky black at first because of the height – hence its name – but the darkness fades away at the bottom.

NIGHT HIKE

Many eco-lodges in Belize that have the privilege of being tucked away in the verdant jungles offer various types of Night Hikes or walking tours a few steps away from their property. On these special night safari tours, you’re bound to come face-to-face with Belize’s exotic nocturnal wildlife. Often armed with a bright headlamp or flashlight, visitors may spot a mottled owl, a wide-eyed kinkajou, or the classic furry tarantula. Watch your step, as you would not want to disrupt the busy sanpopo ants carrying their portion of leaves from nest to nest.

WATERFALL RAPELLING

Deep within Mayflower Bocawina National Park lies a massive 1000-foot high waterfall. Antelope Falls is Bocawina’s most daunting feature, yet extremely captivating. Adrenaline junkies make the arduous trek up to the cascades to rappel down the mammoth. Many consider the activity a worthwhile endeavor, especially when the reward is a nice, refreshing swim at the base of the waterfall. The national park is located in Belize’s Stann Creek District, with other adventurous activities available such as zip-lining and good old-fashioned hiking.

BIOLUMINESCENCE TOUR

Imagine being under the blanket of stars in the middle of a lagoon, bobbing slowly to the waves, until you see the water beneath your boat glow bright iridescent. The phenomenon is unlike anything you’ve seen before, and certainly, one you didn’t know existed in Belize. This is the Bioluminescence Tour found at the Sittee River Marina near Hopkins. It is often advised that the best time to do this activity is during Belize’s dry season, ideally from January to May. The experience lasts from 6 pm to 9 pm, and you’ll get to witness first-hand the magical glow of living organisms lighting up the calming waters from below. The bright, blue hue is hard to capture with mere photographs, so you should witness this first-hand.

Tried and true itineraries are popular for a reason, but in Belize, there’s more beyond the beaches. With one foot in the Caribbean and another in Central America, the pocket-sized nation brings to the table an eclectic mix of experiences. Gone are the days of “Instagrammable spots” as conscious travelers seek a deeper connection with their vacation destination. Perhaps unsurprisingly, many such deep connections are often found in the great outdoors. And with 103 protected areas, over 60% forested area, rainforests hiding caves, waterfalls, and wildlife, Belize lacks absolutely nothing.