The Top 10 Belize Vacation Spots
Writer Harry Kettle couldn’t decide where to vacation, so he did what writers do: made a list of 20 tips and turned it into a post for TheTravel.com website.
His suggestions included budgeting, assessing one’s risk tolerance, deciding if big cities or small towns meet sensibility needs and, of course, timing can be everything.
For travelers who have noticed that Belize is making headlines as the best place to vacation in Central America, it can be daunting to look at a map and choose just one place to go, so we emulated Harry and came up with these 10 suggestions, one of which is sure to pique your interest.
Ambergris Caye: If you want to see and be seen, visit Ambergris Caye. Go clubbing on the largest of Belize’s 200 cayes, then awaken early for an excursion to Belize’s Barrier Reef and Shark Ray Alley. Hang in quaint San Pedro where bars, cafes and eateries abound, or cram as many adventures as possible into your stay.
Caye Caulker: Just 24 kilometers south of Ambergris, Caye Caulker is beloved by backpackers who cherish the palm trees, beaches and laid back vibe. Get around the caye via golf cart or bicycle. Stay at a charming guest house. Wander the beach or get your fill of diving, snorkeling, swimming and nature trails.
Placencia: Visitors come to Placencia Village for pristine beaches, lagoon kayaking, and cultural wonders provided by the Garifuna people whose legacy is colorful and rich. Highlights of your visit will range from Monkey River expeditions to freshly-caught seafood, but it’s the sea and sand that’s most likely to enchant you.
Hopkins: You’ll be able to see the roots of this sleepy fishing village the moment you arrive. Don’t like crowds? Hopkins doesn’t have many but this is ground zero for the nation’s Garifuna population. Frequent coastal dive sites, exotic landscapes and your choice of resorts that range from simple to simply luxurious.
San Ignacio: The valley between the Macal and Mopal Rivers was once an epicenter of Mayan life, which is why archaeologists vacation in this area. Venture deep into caves where secret ceremonies were staged. Visit nearby Mountain Pine Ridge Reserve before you leave. It’s one of San Ignacio’s most glorious natural sites.
Dangriga: Dangriga, the nation’s cultural capital, is home to Punta music and other Garifuna cultural arts. Settled before 1832, this area isn’t growing like crazy so you can relax. Come in November when Garifuna Settlement Day turns the town into a huge party and see Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary before you leave.
Punta Gorda: The administrative capital of the Toledo District is known as a gateway to Belize’s natural wonders. Tour archaeological landmarks, spot hundreds of species of birds, go on river/caving adventures and deep sea fish. The University of Belize makes its home here, as do thriving businesses and industries.
Offshore islands: Can’t sit still—even on vacation? You need an island-hopping holiday. How to do that without getting lost? Adventures in Belize (www.adventuresinbelize.com) has you covered. Belize’s island/atoll network is so extensive, you need knowledgeable guides so you don’t miss a thing.
Orange Walk: Home to the nation’s sugar industry, 40,000 residents call Orange Walk home and brag about the area’s growing reputation for cattle and rum production plus a commitment to eco-tourism. Modernity is one thing. Heritage is another. Mayan ruins along the New River offer visitors a taste of the past in addition to a peek at Belize’s future.
Corozal: Corozal has been attracting retirees for myriad reasons. Corozal gets less rain and it’s located close to Mexico. It feels “more Latin” so you can practice your Spanish. Recreational opportunities along the Bay of Chetumal abound, but there’s still lots of history since Corozal is built on the foundation of a Mayan ceremonial center.
Did you find irresistible places on this list? No worries about coordinating visits because Adventures in Belize has everything it takes to get you where you want to go safely and expeditiously. Our guides know Belize like the palms of their hands, so once you set your itinerary, put your party into the hands of the most capable guides in Belize.
