What is Belize Known For?

Belize, a hidden treasure in Central America, has so much to offer.  You’ll find everything from thick jungles and clean beaches to rich culture and exciting adventures.  This place has something for everyone.  Let’s dive into the top 10 cool things to do in Belize.  This guide will help you get the most out of your trip to this amazing country.

Seeing the Natural Belize Attractions

Belize boasts breathtaking natural scenery that delights all your senses.  Furthermore, Belize tourist attractions include the Belize Barrier Reef, which ranks as the world’s second-biggest barrier reef and has earned a spot on UNESCO’s World Heritage list.  When you dive or snorkel in the reef’s clear waters, you’ll have an experience you won’t forget.  You’ll get to see all kinds of sea creatures, from bright coral to big groups of tropical fish and maybe even graceful sea turtles.  If you want to snorkel, check out popular spots like the Hol Chan Marine Reserve close to San Pedro on Ambergris Caye, or head to Shark Ray Alley.

Past the reef, Belize sightseeing in thick rainforest attracts wildlife lovers.  Head into the packed jungles to catch sight of shy jaguars, howler monkeys and many kinds of birds.  The Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary in the Cayo District, the first jaguar preserve on Earth, is a key spot for people who want to see these grand cats in their natural forest home.

Top Outdoor Activities – Belize Excursions

Top Outdoor Activities - Belize Excursions

Belize’s varied landscape has an influence on the range of thrilling outdoor activities for thrill-seekers wanting to find unique things to do in Belize.  Check out the complex system of underground caves, like the well-known Actun Tunichil Muknal Cave (ATM) where you can be amazed by old Mayan artifacts and ritual sites.  Cave tubing is another well-liked Belize adventure where you drift down rivers that twist through cave systems.

For an exciting adventure, try zip-lining across the jungle canopy.  You’ll fly above the treetops and get a sweeping view of the breathtaking scenery.  This ranks among the most enjoyable activities in Belize.  If you prefer less intense outdoor pursuits in Belize, you can take a slow walk through the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary or the Mayflower Bocawina National Park.  These places offer chances to observe various plants and animals.

Best Things to Do in Belize – Belize Cultural Experiences


Belize blends many cultures, with deep roots in Maya traditions.  You can soak up the lively mix of cultures by checking out old Maya temples and cities. Head to Xunantunich Mayan ruins and Caracol in Cayo District, or visit Lamanai Mayan ruins up north.  These spots in Belize give you a peek into how this amazing group lived and what they believed.  Take a look at the detailed carvings, temples, and open spaces.  You’ll also learn about the Maya’s smart ways of studying the stars and growing crops.

To get a sense of Belize’s Garifuna culture, head to Hopkins village, a relaxed beach town on the Southern Coast.  This place gives you a chance to see the one-of-a-kind music, dance and food of the Garifuna people.  Go to a lively cultural event, like the yearly Garifuna Settlement Day party in November, to dive deep into this thriving community’s customs.

Sports Belize Adventures – Must Do in Belize

Belize gets your heart racing with lots of adventure sports.  You can ride wild rapids on the Macal or Mopan Rivers zipping through fast water and thick jungles.  Want to fly? Try skydiving and see the beautiful Caribbean coast and green forests from way up high.

Divers love Belize’s underwater world.  You can check out the famous Blue Hole, a huge underwater cave that UNESCO says is special.  Near Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker, Hol Chan Marine Reserve and Shark Ray Alley are great spots to swim with nurse sharks and stingrays.  You can snorkel or go scuba diving to see all the cool stuff under the Caribbean sea.

Relaxing on Belize’s Beautiful Beaches

Relaxing on Belize's Beautiful Beaches

After all the excitement and adventure, you should take some time to chill out on Belize’s gorgeous beaches.  The Caribbean coastline of the country has many pretty cayes, and each one has its own special charm and peace.  You can spend your days lying around on the soft white sand, drinking tasty tropical cocktails and watching the calm waves hit the shore.

To have a luxurious beach experience, visit the Placencia Peninsula in southern Belize.  You’ll see fancy resorts and small hotels along the beautiful coast.  Treat yourself to spa services, eat fresh seafood and enjoy the warm tropical sun.  Placencia also serves as a good starting point for snorkeling and diving trips to the nearby Belize Barrier Reef.

More on the beaches in Belize.

Family-Friendly Activities in Belize

Belize stands out as a great place for family trips, with lots to do for people of all ages.  You can take a wildlife cruise on the Monkey River or check out the Belize Zoo close to Belize City.  This special sanctuary is home to more than 200 local animals such as jaguars, howler monkeys and toucans.  Going on a guided tour gives you a chance to learn teaching you about how important it is to protect wildlife in Belize.

To get a real feel for the culture, check out a Mayan chocolate factory.  You’ll learn about the story behind this favorite sweet and how it’s made.  For a family adventure, head to the Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM) cave.  Here, you can uncover old Mayan items and gain insight into the customs and traditions of this intriguing society.

Exploring Belize’s Mayan Ruins


Visiting ancient Mayan temples and cities tops the list of things to do in Belize.  The country boasts an impressive set of well-kept ruins.  These sites give you a peek into the advanced society that once flourished in this area.

Caracol stands out as one of the most striking Mayan sites.  You’ll find it nestled in the Chiquibul Forest Reserve in western Belize. This huge city once held sway as a key political hub. Now, it’s famous for its soaring pyramids. Among these, Caana (“Sky Palace”) still ranks as the tallest structure built by humans in Belize.

Xunantunich is another Mayan site you shouldn’t miss. It’s close to San Ignacio town.  Climb El Castillo pyramid to the top, and you’ll see stunning views all around.  The surrounding jungle and Mopan River valley stretch out before you.  Lamanai, on the New River Lagoon’s shores in northern Belize, is also worth a visit.  This Mayan site catches the eye with its grand buildings and beautiful jungle setting.

Tasty Food and Places to Eat in Belize

Belize’s mix of cultures shows up in its lively and tasty food.  You can enjoy a special mix of Creole, Mestizo, Garifuna, and Mayan tastes in Belizean meals.  Begin your morning with a classic breakfast of fry jacks puffy fried bread you eat with refried beans, eggs and fresh fruits from the tropics.

When it’s time to eat, try some local favorites like stewed chicken with rice and beans.  This dish is filling and tasty, and it’s a big part of Belizean home cooking.  If you like seafood, you should eat the fresh fish they catch each day.  You might get grilled snapper, lobster or conch.  Make sure you taste Marie Sharp’s hot sauce, which has habanero peppers in it.  Or, if you want something cool, drink a Belikin beer, which is the beer they make in Belize.

Planning What to Do in Belize

There’s a ton of cool things to see and do in Belize so you need to plan your trip well to get the most out of your time there.  First, figure out when to go, since the weather in Belize changes throughout the year.  Most people visit during the dry season, from November to April when it’s not too hot and less humid.

Now, figure out your budget and look into different places to stay, like beachfront resorts, eco-lodges and small hotels.  Think about booking your Belize trips and tours ahead of time to get your spots when it’s busy.  Remember to include travel costs, as Belize has many ways to get around, from local flights to public buses and private rides.

Enjoy What to See in Belize

The top things to do in Belize has a lot to offer with its mix of nature, culture, and exciting things to do.  It’s a place that’s got something for everyone.  If you want a thrill, a chill time on the beach or to dive into the local way of life, this Central American country will stick in your mind.  Get started on your Belize trip plans now and see what makes it so special.

Next, read about Guatemala.