Best & Fun Things To Do + Places To Visit In Belize. #Top Attractions

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In the process of making overseas trip arrangements? A trip to Belize is something you should absolutely do. For the best travel experience in Belize, check out our curated list of things to do in Belize and the best places to visit in Belize below. Wondrous Drifter is a cutting-edge, Web 3.0 travel startup that aspires to change the world.

Altun Ha Archaeological Site

Find serenity even in a bustling place.

Altun Ha is one of Belize’s most significant archaeological sites. It is conveniently accessible from the capital city of Belize.

In Mayan, the name Altun Ha can be translated as either “Water of the Rock” or “Rockstone Pond.”

It was a significant commercial post and ceremonial place and agricultural center during the time of the ancient civilization.

You can visit 13 temples and two main plazas at the site, where you can see a lot.

Artifacts including pottery, pearls, jade pendants, and stingray spines used in Mayan bloodletting ceremonies were found in the mausoleum of a Mayan priest-king excavated from the Temple of the Green Tomb.

“Jade Head” is a notable find. As far as Mayan art goes, this carved jade mask of the Sun God is the largest in existence.

Vendors at the entrance to the ruins provide a wide variety of unique local goods and art for sale.

Don’t miss the great finds you will discover!

Address: QM73+R33, Rock Stone Pond, Belize

Ambergris Caye

A tropical paradise where swimsuits and flip-flops are your dress code.

Ambergris Caye, Belize’s largest island, is located in the Caribbean Sea northeast of the country’s mainland.

As one of the best places to visit in Belize, Ambergris Caye is a short flight or ferry ride away from Belize City.

San Pedro is the island’s main town with its colorful clapboard residences, stray dogs, and cooing chickens.

A ring of white-sand beaches and turquoise waters circles the island’s center, home to mangrove swamps, lagoons, and other wildlife.

Besides lazing on the beach and enjoying the sun, there are many other things to do in Belize.

Dine in some of the quaint cafés or take a tour of the Belize Chocolate Company.

Many people use bikes and golf carts to get around, but the sandy roads are increasingly congested with vehicles.

Enjoy the ultimate Caribbean vacation with classic beaches and world-class lodgings.

Address: Caribbean Sea

Belize Barrier Reef

Hold your breath and explore the stretch of coral reefs parallel to the Belizean coastline.

After Australia’s Great Barrier Reef, the Belize Barrier Reef is the world’s second-largest coral reef system.

One of the Western Hemisphere’s best-preserved coral reef ecosystems, the area was dubbed “the most magnificent reef in the West Indies” by Charles Darwin.

It separates itself from other reef systems by its unique variety of reef types inside a single self-contained area.

It is an important habitat for several endangered species such as marine turtles, manatees, and the American marine crocodile.

Part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System that extends from Cancun on the Yucatán Peninsula’s north-eastern tip to Honduras is 190 miles (300 kilometers) long.

It is the most popular tourist site in Belize, attracting about half its visitors yearly for scuba diving and snorkeling.

No better place like this will take your breath away under the sea!

Address: Coastal area of Belize

Belize City

Surprisingly not the capital, yet it is undoubtedly one of the best spots to visit in Belize.

A busy port that welcomes cruise ships and serves as the country’s main entry point has made Belize City the country’s largest city and commercial center today.

Moreover, the city’s location near the mouth of the Belize River on the Caribbean coast means that anglers have easy access to world-class fishing just a short drive from downtown.

Most visitors arrive here by plane and spend some time exploring the area before continuing to new destinations.

The narrow streets in town are full of Ramshackle Victorian buildings. 

Even though the city looks dirty, it has a rich history of Mayans, colonial times, hurricanes, and fires.

Before the devastation caused by Hurricane Hattie in 1970, Belize City was a little fishing community in the Belizean countryside.

If you’d like to discover more about Belize’s history, stop by the Museum of Belize, housed in a former prison.

Belize River

Belize isn’t just a beach destination; it’s also blessed with roughly 35 rivers.

The Hondo, Boots, and New Rivers are the only three main rivers in northern Belize.

For 180 miles (290 kilometers), it winds its way through Belize’s tropical rainforest until it reaches the Caribbean Sea, known as the Old River.

The Belize River begins at the confluence of the Mopan and Macal rivers east of San Ignacio, Cayo. 

It was discovered by British lumber harvesters in the mid-17th century and served as the capital of British Honduras for some time.

The river was the primary way people and goods moved between the interior and the coast until well into the twentieth century.

It has long been linked to logwood logging (for dye) and the small stands of mahogany that remain.

It is used for fishing, eco-tour boat trips, and other things now that the logging industries are gone.

See birds, iguanas, crocodiles, and other things on your trip here.

Address: Located in the Caribbean Sea

Belize Zoo

Interested in seeing some of Belize’s unique wildlife in a short time? Sign up for this tour!

People also like to go on day trips from Belize City to see this place.

This well-known tourist destination, which opened its doors in 1983 to provide a home for wild animals that had appeared in documentary films, focuses significantly on environmental preservation and educational programming.

It’s possible to see over 45 native species and 175 animals in their natural habitats, many of which have been saved from the wild.

There are five different kinds of wild cats in Belize, and all of them, including jaguars, can be seen, as well as the tapir, toucans, howlers, and spider monkeys. 

If you’re truly interested in getting up close and personal with these beautiful animals, you may join for the jaguar encounter.

An excellent place to begin your exploration of Belize and get up close and personal with the country’s fantastic fauna.

Address: Mile 29 Western Hwy, La Democracia, Belize

Butterfly Falls

A Mountain Pine Ridge hidden treasure.

Butterfly Falls is tucked away in a 7,200-acre private forest reserve that is only open to guests of the Hidden Valley Inn, making it a one-of-a-kind getaway.

The reserve’s semi-tropical woodlands (typically of the Mountain Pine Ridge Area) are accessible via an easy, well-marked walk that takes about 30 minutes to complete.

As the sound of the waterfall gets louder, the anticipation of what is ahead grows. 

A magnificent scene emerges when the trees open in front of you.

Its 80-foot drop into an emerald-green pool stands out against the surrounding jungle’s greenery.

Butterfly species such as the White and Blue Morpho butterflies that flutter around in your newly discovered paradise add to the atmosphere.

If you’ve ever dreamed of being in a movie where thundering water cascades into a crystal-clear pool surrounded by beautiful vegetation, Butterfly Falls is the place for you.

Address: Western Belize, Cayo District

Caracol Natural Monument Reservation

As far as Central American Mayan ruins go, Caracol is one of the most unique.

The Belize’s most remarkable prehistoric site, Caracol, is located on the Vaca Plateau, 152 meters above sea level.

Chiquibul National Park, on the Guatemalan side of the border, has the ruins of a Mayan city.

Interestingly, Caracol was twice the size of Belize City and sustained double the capital’s population.

It is no secret that Caracol’s warriors have a long history of military triumphs.

Their military successes included destroying the mighty towns of Naranjo and Tikal.

These victories are depicted on a carved altar stone that can be seen today by visitors.

Even though Caracol was left by its residents hundreds of years ago, the remains are teeming with animals.

Here, you’ll see a wide variety of animals in the surrounding forest, including cats, howler monkeys, and a wide variety of birds.

The most extraordinary limestone karst caves in the Western Hemisphere may be found beyond Caracol, and it is waiting for you to explore it!

Address: QV7J+6VM, Chiquibil Forest Reserve, Belize

Caye Caulker 

Backpackers, budget visitors, and anybody seeking a vacation with a carefree attitude are well-liked.

Beach roads are dominated by golf carts and bicycles, where drowsy dogs have priority and reggae music fills the air.

About 24 kilometers south of Ambergris Caye, you’ll find the smaller island of Caye Caulker, which offers more rustic but reasonable lodging options.

Much of the shoreline is encircled by turtle grass shallows, although there is generally a lovely white sand patch with mangroves and coconut trees for sunbathing.

The Iguana Reef Hotel in Caye Caulker is a perfect place to see seahorses while sipping a sundowner cocktail.

Ceviche and fresh fish, lobster when it’s in season, and the island’s famous fried jacks will keep you going back for breakfast every day on the island.

When the sun goes down, head to Split’s Lazy Lizard for some laid-back relaxation, or see a movie at the outdoor movie theater, which is open three nights per week.

Caye Caulker is perfect for those who want to take it easy and lounge in a hammock.

Address: Belize, Central America, Belize City.

Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary & Jaguar Preserve

Visit the place where nature lovers go to get away from it all.

It is possible to see various animals in the dense tropical forest that covers this area’s mountains.

Some of Belize’s 700 jaguars and other big cats like ocelots and pumas may dwell in the sanctuary, but chances of seeing one are incredibly slim.

This is a great place for birders, too. The park is home to 290 different species of birds, some of which are endangered, such as scarlet macaws and toucans.

The extensive network of trails provides the finest access to the sanctuary.

In addition to its cascade and swimming hole, the famed Waterfall Trail also features a challenging but rewarding hiking trail called Ben’s Bluff Hiking Trail.

Tiger Fern Trail takes hikers along the way to a stunning pair of falls. 

There are also guided tours offered. Wear protective clothing and bring lots of water if you’re going off-roading.

Address: Mile 12 Southern Hwy, Dangriga, Belize

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Glover’s Reef Marine Reserve

Admire the western Caribbean’s most diverse reef varieties.

Glover’s Reef Marine Reserve is an important spawning area for the critically endangered Nassau grouper that can be found near the atoll’s northernmost tip.

There are just two other places where lobsters, conchs, and finfish can nurture their young among the species.

It was proclaimed a marine reserve in 2002 and is now off-limits to fishing.

In terms of remoteness, it’s about a two-hour boat ride from the mainland.

Dolphins and manatees will accompany us on our adventure, and hope that the turquoise waters will be able to show off some of their splendor.

When you stay at Glover’s Atoll on one island, you’ll get the perfect desert island getaway thanks to the pristine water, calm breezes, and unending view from your stilted cottages above the turquoise lagoon.

It indeed appears to be a hidden paradise, perfect for a pirate refuge – the island is named after a buccaneer.

Whether you’re into water sports like snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, or simply taking in the view, this is your spot.

Address: Caribbean Sea, Belize

Great Blue Hole

Enter this deep blue hole, and you’ll be greeted with a spectacular collection of ancient stalactites and coral fringe.

The Great Blue Hole is still one of the world’s most renowned scuba diving destinations. 

Anglers from all over the world come here to enjoy world-class flats fishing and world-class deep-sea explorations.

It is located around 43 miles off the coast of Belize, near the Lighthouse Reef Atoll.

Along with six other places surrounding Belize’s barrier reef, it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996.

The attraction is well-organized, with a modest visitor center, bathrooms, and changing rooms available.

This blue hole was formed about 10,000 years ago when a cave roof caved in. It has underwater tunnels, caves, and rock formations.

Try snorkeling around the hole and the neighboring reefs, even if you aren’t a diver.

You’ll most likely see marine life lining the coral wall surrounding it at the hole’s surface.

Dive in now and discover something you’ve never seen before!

Address: Lighthouse Reef, Belize

Half Moon Caye

Fall in love with the romantic and beautiful archetypal Caribbean paradise island.

Tropical waters are abundant around Half Moon Caye, located precariously on the edge of the Belize Barrier Reef.

The Half Moon Caye Natural Monument, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to a 4,000-strong red-footed booby colony and numerous other bird species.

This beautiful setting is complete with powdery white beaches, drooping coconut palms, and the soothing sound of someone cooking lunch in the shade.

The Blue Hole and Turneffe Atoll are popular destinations for snorkeling and scuba diving on day trips from Belize City.

The boobie and frigate bird’s nests can be seen from the observation platforms along the nature trails.

You will also see some iguanas on the ground, but the best snorkeling and kayaking can be found on the reef.

If you’re into diving, you’ll appreciate Half Moon Caye’s spectacular wall dives, which feature abundant marine life, and relaxing on the island’s stunning beaches.

Address: Lighthouse Reef

Hol Chan Marine Reserve

Have you ever wanted to swim in a natural aquarium? Belize’s Hol Chan Marine Reserve should be on your list of must-see destinations.

Visitors may expect to witness a wide variety of marine life, including various corals and seagrass, as well as various sharks, rays, parrotfish, and eels.

Hol Chan translates to “Little Channel,” referring to a coral-filled opening in Belize’s enormous barrier reef. 

It is separated into four zones: the Reef, the Seagrass Beds, the Mangroves, and Shark-Ray Alley.

The latter is highly recommended as a first dive in Belizean waters for any diver new to the country.

Hol Chan Marine Reserve is located off the southern edge of Ambergris Caye and is Belize’s oldest marine reserve.

You may go snorkeling or diving in the beautiful Caribbean waters on a single-day trip from San Pedro.

San Pedro or Caye Caulker are the only places where you may get a boat and a guide. 

Regardless of how long you plan to stay in Belize, you should make time to see the Hol Chan Marine Reserve.

Address: 2 Barrier Reef Dr, San Pedro, Belize

Hopkins

How did a small fishing village on the coast become known as the best place in the country to see art and culture?

Hopkins’ reputation has been built on good fortune, a rich history, and closeness to some of the most extraordinary sights, sounds, and experiences Belize offer.

To this day, Hopkins has grown at a glacial pace to keep its unique character and flavor. Hopkins was founded in the 19th century.

Even though Hopkins has a population of just over 1,500, you won’t find more fascinating experiences or a more welcoming group of people.

Consider including at least one (and preferably all) of the following destinations on your travel itinerary: the Mayflower National Park, the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, and the Belize Barrier Reef.

Swimming with Whale Sharks in Gladden Split is a great option if you visit in the late spring or early summer.

Become familiar with all aspects of Garifuna culture—especially the music.

Get to know modern Garifuna music, which ranges from traditional to hip-hop and everything in between. You’ll learn why drumming is so important to this culture.

While you’re here, pick up some drumming skills. You know you want to give it a shot!

Address: Stann Creek District

Lamanai Archaeological Reserve

Add up some fun learning and adventure to your itinerary!

A one-hour boat ride up the New River is a great way to see a lot of wildlife, and the dense jungle makes these ruins look like they belong in the wild.

And you’ll want to take advantage of the stunning river scenery from the top of the palm trees.

One of Belize’s greatest ceremonial centers, Lamanai, is hidden away in a lush jungle along the banks of the New River.

Lamanai is known in the Mayan language as a “submerged crocodile.”

Crocodile images have been found on buildings, pottery, and figurines excavated from the Mayan site.

The well-preserved mask of a Maya monarch rising from a crocodile headdress is a significant attraction at Lamanai.

A few of the mounds that encircle the plaza have been partially excavated. In contrast, others have remained completely covered by vegetation. 

You will surely fall in love with this destination because of its rich history, natural flora, and breathtaking beauty.

Address: Q87X+M4J, Water Bank, Belize

Laughing Bird Caye 

What’s not to love about a beach with turquoise sea, swaying palm palms, and your toes in the sand? This island has all you need for a relaxing holiday by the sea.

Laughing Bird Caye National Park opened in 1991, and they named it after the Laughing Gulls that once lived there. 

They have relocated to other populated islands, where fewer people are around.

Declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site located 11 miles off the coast of Placencia, it is a popular destination for snorkelers and divers.

It’s a great area to go snorkeling, scuba diving, swimming, or simply relaxing and watching the birds.

Only a few park rangers and a handful of tourists visit this remote island to build coral and maintain a bird sanctuary.

Enthusiasm and respect are required, but you might be lucky enough to snap photos of sea turtles, stingrays, and even barracuda!

Address: Stann Creek District, Belize

Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve

In search of something else than beach, water, and reef to explore? Look no further.

Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve offers a refreshing contrast to tropical humidity along its coast.

A greater altitude means cooler daytime temperatures, and mosquitoes are less prevalent.

Hiking through the pine trees of Belize is a fantastic free activity in this beautiful country.

The pine beetle has recently decimated many of the trees, so you can still find flowing rivers, waterfalls, and pools.

As a Mayan cemetery, the Río Frio Cave & Nature Trail is also a popular attraction that you can view. In fact, a cave has a river running through the middle of it.

Five cascades in the Five Sister Falls flow into a magnificent pool.

Río On Ponds, a collection of pools formed out of granite boulders, is a great place to cool off. After a swim, the rock slabs are ideal for relaxing in the sun.

Hiking routes surround Thousand Foot Falls, which is also known as Hidden Falls. 

Check out their observation platform, which offers stunning views of the surrounding area!

Address: X24C+Q4G, Douglas Da Silva, Belize

Placencia Peninsula

Perceived as “barefoot perfection” by locals.

Placencia is a 16-mile-long narrow peninsula on the Caribbean side with beautiful beaches and mangrove-lined lagoons on the other side.

Just a few kilometers from Belize’s famous Barrier Reef lies Placencia, a popular tourist destination for watersports enthusiasts.

Garifuna settlements, Maya ruins, and one of the country’s major nature parks with indigenous jaguars are all within a short distance of the island.

The peninsula appears to have been planned by nature for the ultimate tropical vacation, whether you want to laze on the beach or explore the deeper seas with water sports like diving, kayaking, snorkeling, fishing, or sailing.

Placencia is a little town without a main street (just a long, narrow walkway) on the southernmost tip of the peninsula. Still, it does have a slew of charming bars, cafes, and restaurants.

Dive centers and charters for the Belize Barrier Reef are also available in the town.

What’s to say visitors can’t find everything they want in one location? Placencia is the ideal location from which to explore all that Belize has to offer.

Address: Stann Creek District

San Ignacio

“The west is best!” exclaim the Belizeans of western Belize, and they sure have a lot to be proud about.

San Ignacio, a laid-back village 35 kilometers (22 miles) from Belmopan, offers a lovely environment, delicious food, low-cost lodging, and frequent bus service.

In addition to Belmopan, Belize’s capital city, the Cayo District encompasses approximately 2,000 square miles of lush terrain. It is home to some of the country’s most beautiful sights.

This place is an essential stopover point for travelers as a gateway to or from Guatemala.

There are two of the country’s most important Mayan sites, a pine ridge forest and clear, meandering rivers, to be discovered and enjoyed.

Eco-tourists flock here because of the area’s abundance of animals.

The twin villages of Santa Elena and San Ignacio are 72 miles from Belize City. The Hawksworth Bridge, the country’s only suspension bridge, connects them, spanning the Macal River.

Some things you can’t find on an island, like golf and horseback riding, can be done in the neighborhood.

Get a small taste of everyday life in Belize when you visit San Ignacio.

Still unsure to make Belize your next destination? Check out reasons to visit Belize at least once in your lifetime here.

Address: West-central Belize

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