This Central American state sandwiched between Mexico, Guatemala and the Caribbean Sea, is small in size but brimming with opportunities for tourists to explore. As a former colony in the British Empire, English speaking tourists will find it easy to get by. This is a fairly unique attribute for a country in this region, which is predominantly Spanish or Portuguese speaking.
Here are the top things to see and do in Belize:
Xunantunich
Xunantunich (pronounced shoo-nahh-too-neech) is a Mayan archaeological site located on top of a hill near the Mopan River. Whilst you’ll get spectacular views on site, the journey to the site is a significant part of the experience, since you’ll be transported across the river on a cable ferry, moved manually using a hand crank. Once across you’ll be able to admire the Mayan construction that dates back to the 7th century AD.
If you’re interested in the history of the site, take a look at the visitor center located near the ticket office. Here you will find artifacts found at the site, including jewelry and pottery as well as information about a Mayan burial site.
Have a Flutter in the Princess Casino
Belize differs from some of its neighboring countries in that is has a very limited choice for those looking to head to a casino as part of their vacation. Of the small selection of casinos in the country, the biggest, and arguably the best option for tourists, is the Princess Hotel and Casino which is located in the capital, Belize City. The casino is modeled on the venues you’d find in casino destination cities like Las Vegas, with a grand faux marble interior. You won’t be spoilt for choice in terms of the games on offer, but there’s certainly enough variety to cater for most interests. The casino has three table games: Roulette, Blackjack and Caribbean Stud Poker, a game similar to other Stud games, with cards being dealt in rounds. Caribbean Stud Poker varies in that you complete against the house instead of other players.
Koko King
Located on the island of Caye Corker, Koko King is a white sandy beach location for a permanent beach party, with a restaurant serving great Caribbean food, and the opportunity to partake in beach games.To get there you’ll need to take a ferry or a kayak or paddleboard if you’re adventurous. The island is a great place to go swimming, take a walk along the beach and watch the sunset.
Museum of Belize
Located in the Fort George District of Belize City, the Museum of Belize provides an insight into the history of the country through several exhibits. The museum is housed inside Belize’s former main jail that was built back in 1857. In addition to the history of Belize and some Mayan artefacts, the museum also has a number of pieces of contemporary art in its gallery.
Dangriga and Hopkins
For those looking to experience what Belize is like beyond the tourist hotspots, Dangriga and Hopkins Villages are the places you’ll want to visit. Dangriga, an urban area in the Stann Creek district, is regarded as Belize’s capital of culture, and is brimming with musicians playing Punta Rock and other types of music indigenous to the region. Hopkins is a smaller, quieter village a couple of miles south of Dangriga.
Canoeing on the River
The Mopan River, Macal River, and Belize River form the main river system in Belize and all feed into the Caribbean Sea. Like in many places in the world, they were used as the main method of transport before roads were constructed.
There are a number of companies that will hire you a canoe or kayak for the Mopan and Macal Rivers, allowing you to explore Belize in a way that has been used for hundreds of years. Along the way, you’ll find plenty of nature to admire with many species of birds and large iguanas common sights along the rivers.
Belize is a unique and beautiful country, with a lot of cultures to absorb and experience. Its pristine beaches, picturesque nature and unique history make it a great place for tourists looking for something beyond the typical tourist destinations. Tourists from English speaking countries, particularly those in North America will find Belize easy to travel to, and easy to get by in. With a diverse set of attractions, activities, and destinations, there’s plenty to do in Belize.
