Breathtaking beaches and wonderfully wild rainforests: our Belize travel guide

Nestled on the northeastern coast of Central America, the Caribbean country of Belize has a rich and intriguing history. First settled over 3,000 years ago, this spectacular region still holds many clues to its past; ancient Mayan ruins tower above the trees, while hidden caves deep inside the wild Belizian rainforest offer a glimpse of prehistoric life.

A tropical haven for intrepid explorers and adventure seekers

Of course, you can’t visit Belize without spending some well-deserved downtime along its dazzling coastline. Fringed by powdery white sands and crystalline shores, the beaches here are some of the most stunning you’ll ever see in the world. And it’s not just the mainland you’ll want to explore, either. Just off the coast, the tiny islands of Caye Caulker and Caye Chapel hold even more delights that are just waiting to be discovered.

Sugary sands and azure shores await

A beach day - or ten - should definitely be on the cards during your stay in Belize. Whether you’re stopping close to Belize City or basking in the beauty of Ambergris Caye, you’ll be truly spoiled for choice when it comes to finding the perfect spot to roll out your beach towel. Just offshore is the thriving Belize Barrier Reef, scattered with tiny islands and home to well over 1,350 marine species.

Placencia

The laidback fishing village of Placencia is a world away from the luxury resorts along the rest of the Belizean coastline. Along its peaceful shores are over 15 miles of gloriously golden beaches, where you’re bound to find a quiet spot to while the day away. And, when you’ve worked up an appetite from all that sun lounging, you can head over to one of the traditional cafes or restaurants in the village for some delicious, home-cooked cuisine.

Experience the very best of Belize

With so many exciting things to do in Belize, planning the perfect itinerary can prove quite the challenge. Keen explorers will want to head straight for the national parks and nature reserves, while those who prefer to stay close to the shore will find endless opportunities to sail, snorkel, and dive among the brilliant blue waters of the Caribbean Sea.

Spend an afternoon at the Belize Zoo and Tropical Education Center

The Belize Zoo and Tropical Education Center is one of the top-rated attractions in Belize and for good reason. A non-profit organisation focusing on the conservation of endangered species, many of the animals in the zoo have been rescued or rehabilitated from other institutions. Of all the fun things to do in Belize with little travellers, this is one of the most exciting and educational.

Take a walk on the wilder side of Belize

We’re not suggesting that you’ll ever tire of Belize’s scintillating shores and buzzing coastal resorts. But if you do feel like exploring a little further inland and heading off the usual track into lush jungles and prehistoric caves, there’s much to be discovered.

Uncover the deep depths of Actun Tunichil Muknal with a private tour

A tour of Actun Tunichil Muknal - or the ATM Cave - is a truly extraordinary experience. Hidden within the verdant jungle of the Mountain Tapir Reserve, the only way to access the cave is to navigate through 12 feet of water, which means a private tour is absolutely necessary to safely explore its mesmerising depths. Among the stalagmites are ancient remains of a Mayan sacrificial site that was used between 300 and 600 AD.

Where to eat in Belize

A feisty fusion of Caribbean and Central American flavours, Belizean cuisine is full of bold flavour. Whether you’re tucking into a crisped-to-perfection panade (Belize’s answer to the empanada) or savouring the freshness of a locally-caught snapper, there’s something for everyone to sink their teeth into.

Palmilla Restaurant

From breakfast through to dinner, the Palmilla Restaurant offers an elegant dining experience. Cool off in the air-conditioned dining hall, or head outside for an evening under the stars on the restaurant’s scenic veranda. There’s a distinctly European influence on many of the restaurant’s dishes, but you can still expect to find plenty of regional favourites here too - grilled Caribbean lobster, fish empanadas, and snapper salsa verde to name just a few.

Chef Rob’s Gourmet Cafe

Sat beside the gently lapping shores of the Caribbean Sea, Chef Rob’s Gourmet Cafe is the perfect location for a romantic meal. Feast on fresh seafood and local ingredients as the sun descends in front of you - a captivating, fiery display that is only made better with great food and an excellent wine list. For an extra-special evening, there’s the option of The Chef’s Table where head chef, Rob Pronk, creates a special seven-course menu right in front of your eyes.