Your guide to Belize

Explore ancient Maya history at Xunantunich, an archaeological site accessed by hand-cranked ferry across the Mopan River. There are prehistoric wonders to discover in the Actun Tunichil Muknal cave, which is said to be an entrance to the Maya underworld. Back above ground, take to the skies for an aerial tour of the Great Blue Hole, made famous by oceanographer Jacques Cousteau.

While Belize is better known for its jungles than its beaches, you’ll find beautiful stretches of sand along the 28-kilometre-long Placencia Peninsula. Some of the country’s coral islands, or ‘cayes’, also boast great beaches. Despite its name, Secret Beach on Ambergris Caye is one of the most popular, known for its white sands, clear waters and beach bars.

One of Belize’s most famous natural wonders is the Great Blue Hole, an enormous underwater sinkhole treasured by experienced divers and snorkellers for its geological formations and marine life. Prefer spotting wildlife on land? Mayflower Bocawina National Park is one of the most scenic areas to hike in Belize, promising dense jungle, waterfalls and monkey sightings.

Many of the most important museums in Belize are in Belize City. Housed in a 19th-century jail, the Museum of Belize provides an overview of the country’s history. For a different taste of culture, learn about rum at the Traveller’s Liquors Museum & Heritage Center. In Dangriga, the Pen Cayetano Studio Gallery displays artefacts and crafts by Garifuna artists.

Mexican, Caribbean and Maya flavours make up much of Belize’s cuisine. Expect to find restaurants in Belize serving dishes like rice and beans, tacos and chicken stew. ‘Cochinita pibil’ (slow-roasted pork) and ‘Johnnycakes’ (coconut milk bread) are also popular menu items. Love seafood? Tuck into conch fritters made with local Belikin beer or a plate of citrusy ceviche.

Step back in time at Cahal Pech, one of the oldest known Maya sites in the Belize River Valley. The Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary is a great spot for birdwatching. Visit between November and May to see jabiru storks, the largest flying bird in the Americas. Travelling with older kids? Kayak down the Moho River, home to tropical birds and howler monkeys.

Buses: Nearly all towns on the mainland are connected by bus routes, with the most frequent services operating along the western and northern highways. Major towns are served by express buses, while smaller villages often rely on slower local services. Tickets are generally purchased from the conductor.

Boats: You’ll need to rely on boats to visit Belize’s ‘cayes’ (islands). The two major ferry operators are Caribbean Sprinter and San Pedro Belize Express, which offer regular services on popular routes like Belize City to San Pedro on Ambergris Caye.

Flying lets you move quickly between popular destinations like Corozal, San Pedro, Dangriga, Punta Gorda, Caye Caulker and Belize City. You’ll find frequent daily flights on the country’s two domestic airlines, Tropic Air and Maya Island Air.

Hiring a car will give you the most flexibility, especially if you plan on exploring the scenic Hummingbird Highway. But be prepared to navigate potholes and unpredictable road conditions. Cars are only allowed on Ambergris Caye with a special permit. The best way to get around the island is by hiring a golf cart.