It can be an exciting yet frightening prospect when planning a first vacation to Belize, but once visitors realize how fast and easy it is to get around this small nation (it’s around the size of Vermont) you’ll realize that you can stuff your itinerary with adventures that won’t require you to waste a minute of time in transit. No matter how short your sojourn may be, you’re guaranteed experiences that will leave you wanting more. Belize has become a hot year-round destination for folks from around the globe. But how do you decide which sites, adventures, and experiences to prioritize? We recommend starting with these five Belize experiences.
5 Belize Experiences Perfect for First-Timers
1. Visiting At Least One Maya Site
The iconic carved frieze at Xunantunich in Cayo. Photo by the Belize Tourism Board
Are you fascinated by ancient Maya temples and cities? Altun Ha, Lamanai, Xunatunich, Caracol, and Cahal Pech are but five of the hundreds of sites that dot Belize’s landscape. Each is unique in its own right. Constructed during the glory days of Mesoamerican empire building, some sites are huge architectural wonders with fanciful stories to tell. Others are smaller but equally fascinating. Guided tours to these sites include transport and picnics, and every one of them will appeal to your imagination.
Similar: 7 Places in Belize to Add to Your Bucket List
2. Exploring Belize’s Underground World
Barton Creek cave. Photo © David Diaz
If you’re fascinated by history, taking a deep dive into the country’s underground cave systems is likely to be next on your list of can’t-miss experiences. Some of these caves are so hidden, visitors must climb, wade, and swim to reach them. If you only have time for two, prioritize the ATM Cave and Barton Creek before committing to exploring more during your next Belize visit.
3. Snorkeling and Diving the Belize Barrier Reef
Photo by Sunbreeze Belize
Does the idea of snorkeling or diving the Belize Barrier Reef intrigue you? Whether you’re curious about the endless rainbow-colored fish or the surreal coral landscape, every experience on the reef will amaze you. Challenge yourself to dive Belize sites that are frequented by famous divers.
4. Basking in the Sun on the Beach
Photo by Nathan Shurr on Unsplash
Would you rather leave the diving, fishing, snorkeling, and climbing to folks who consider non-stop action the only way to spend a Caribbean holiday? Sounds like you’re in need of as much beach time as your schedule allows.
Belize’s highly-rated beaches sprawl across the pages of travel magazines. The most talked about include Ambergris Caye, Hopkins, and Placencia. If you only have time to explore one, make it the Placencia Peninsula where two distinct shores await.
5. Birding Till Your Heart’s Content
Photo by Sweet Songs Jungle Lodge
Did you know that Belize is one of Central America’s most popular birding destinations? No birder worth their binoculars will want to take a pass on witnessing the majestic flight of the Scarlet Macaws at Red Bank. It takes place in the Stann Creek District where these gorgeous scarlet birds stop during their migration from their nesting areas between December and March.
Does this fanciful mix of adventures make your first trip to Belize sound even more thrilling? You’re not alone. In fact, you’d be the rare exception if you didn’t begin drafting a second list of things to do as soon as you get home, and if you crave more ideas, contact us and we’ll happily oblige.
Featured Photo courtesy of the Belize Tourism Board
