Things to do in Belize

Swim alongside friendly nurse sharks and southern stingrays in the crystal-clear waters of this famous marine reserve off Ambergris Caye, surrounded by vibrant coral and tropical fish.

Descend into the massive circular sinkhole, a world-class dive site encircled by coral, with stunning stalactite formations and clear views down to 130 meters.

Trek through the jungle and wade into a living Maya underworld cave to see ancient ceramics and the famed calcified skeleton of the 'Crystal Maiden'.

Stand atop the massive Caana pyramid, Belize’s tallest man-made structure, within a sprawling archaeological site deep in the Chiquibul Forest.

Cross the Mopan River by hand-cranked ferry and ascend El Castillo for panoramic views of Belize and Guatemala from this impressive Maya ceremonial center.

Cruise the New River Lagoon, spotting crocodiles and birds, to reach the partly jungle-draped Lamanai temples including the striking Mask Temple.

Explore two plazas and the Temple of the Masonry Altars, whose jade head of Kinich Ahau was found here, at this easily accessible Maya site near Belize City.

Explore a remote atoll’s shallow lagoon and patch reefs teeming with colorful fish, sea turtles, and elkhorn coral, part of the Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System.

Walk through the village cooperative and spot troops of black howler monkeys in the treetops while learning about community-led conservation along the Belize River.

Float through underground river tunnels past stalactites and Mayan artifacts, then soar above the rainforest canopy on a zip-line course.

Follow a trail down to a powerful 150-foot waterfall plunging into a deep swimming hole surrounded by granite boulders and pine forest.

Relax in a series of natural granite pools and smooth rock slides carved by the Rio On River, with scenic views of the surrounding pine ridge.

Encounter native species up close in this 29-acre sanctuary where rescued animals, from ocelots to scarlet macaws, live in lush naturalistic enclosures.

Browse the lively stalls of fresh produce, spices, and local crafts, then sample salbutes, garnaches, and fresh-cut fruit in the town hub.

Bite into golden, puffed pieces of fried dough stuffed with eggs, beans, and cheese at this beloved family-run breakfast spot on Ambergris Caye.

Kick back with the national brew on the sandy bar at the narrow channel that split the island, watching sunbathers and the turquoise sea.

Learn about the Garifuna people through exhibits and live performances of traditional drumming, dance, and songs in the heart of Dangriga.

Paddle a dugout canoe into a vast limestone cave where you’ll see ancient Maya pottery, skull-shaped formations, and high cathedral-like ceilings.

Walk the narrow concrete path lined with colorful shops, cafes, and beach bars, then feel the sand between your toes on Belize’s most famous peninsula.

Wade the shallow, shimmering flats, sight casting for silver bonefish, permit, or tarpon with experienced guides in a world-class fishery.

Sink your toes into the powdery sand at this calm, idyllic spot on the west side of the island, where the sky erupts in fiery colors over the lagoon.

Glide silently through a maze of red mangroves, spotting seahorses, juvenile fish, and birds in this protected nursery near the Split.

Enjoy freshly diced conch marinated in lime juice, mixed with habanero and cilantro, while overlooking the Garifuna village’s laid-back Caribbean shore.

Discover Maya artifacts, colonial treasures, and a former colonial prison building that now houses exhibits on natural history, slavery, and numismatics.

Step inside the 1847 brick edifice built from ballast bricks of ships, with a historic pipe organ and memorial plaques telling Belize’s colonial story.