Sizzling Summer, Sassy Belize!
Ah, summer! It’s the season of ice cream, endless sunshine, and adventurous escapades off the beaten path. If you’re itching to add a dash of exotic to your holiday plans, Belize is your go-to destination, offering activities for families, couples, and solo travellers.
With the country’s enchanting landscapes and vibrant culture, there are plenty of places to go. Check out our suggestions below.
Jungle Jive and Sea Dive: What to Do in Belize
1. Roar and Explore: Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary
Take a road trip and head South of Belize to the Cockscomb Basin. Home to jaguars and other majestic creatures, the Cockscomb Basin is not just a wildlife sanctuary; it’s a wild adventure! Imagine trekking through lush jungles, swimming in waterfalls, and playing hide-and-seek with the local fauna.
2. Chillin’ at Chilly Chambers: Mountain Pine Ridge
This spot located in inland Belize just an hour from the twin towns of San Ignacio and Santa Elena boasts the cool Rio On Pools, the Rio Frio Cave and the Big Rock Falls.
It’s the perfect retreat from the heat, where you can marvel at majestic rock formations and take a refreshing dip under a waterfall immersed in the area’s Pine Forest.
3. Cave of Wonders: St. Herman’s Cave and Inland Blue Hole
Belize is home to many caves including a network of caves that meanders below the surface of the Chiquibul National Park, a 254,000 acer reserve in the Maya Mountain Massif region. The nearly 540,000 square-foot Chiquibul Cave System is the largest in the country and the longest in Central America.
St. Herman’s Cave is located twelve miles southeast of Belmopan the country’s capital down the Hummingbird Highway. Get ready to spelunk your way into the heart of Belize as you explore St. Herman’s Cave. After emerging from the mysterious depths, a dip in the sapphire waters of the Inland Blue Hole is mandatory.
4. Bird Paradise: Half Moon Caye
Located at the southwest corner of Lighthouse Reef Atoll, this crescent shaped island and natural monument is home Red-footed Boobies, an estimated 4,000 booby birds live here.
Half Moon Caye offers pristine sandy beaches and a front-row seat to red-footed booby birds in their natural habitat. Remember your binoculars and sunscreen! Some activities to do in this island include overnight camping on the beach, snorkeling and diving the Great Blue Hole.
5. Nemo’s Cousins: Hol Chan Marine Reserve
Represents Belize’s efforts to emphasise the importance of protecting its natural resources. This Marine Reserve was established as a marine protected area on 1987 it includes the barrier reef, seagrass beds and two mangrove islands: Boca Chica and Cangrejo Shoals.
It is also dived into four zones which include no-take areas and zones that regulate promote sustainable fishing practices. The reserve also promotes recreational activities and tourism services that allow visitors to dive and snorkel in pristine waters. It’s like exploring a living aquarium, offering a spectacular glimpse into the vibrant marine life below the surface.
6. Meet the Locals at Shark Ray Alley
Shark Ray Alley is located just one mile of the Hol Chan Marine Reserve in an area known as Zone D. This hotspot started off as as place where fishermen would clean their catches, later it became a top snorkelling destination.
Yes, indeed! At Shark Ray Alley, nurse sharks and stingrays aren’t just passing through; they’re the star residents. Dive into crystal-clear waters and swim alongside these graceful creatures. It’s an exhilarating, up-close encounter that transforms any visitor into a storyteller with unforgettable tales to tell.
7. Adrenaline Pump: Nohoch Che’en Caves Branch
Similarly to St. Herman’s Cave the Nohoch Che’en Cave forms part of Belize’s extensive caves system. The Cave’s Branch River flows through nineteen Caves, creating the ideal conditions for tubing through on an inner tube.
Embrace your inner adventurer like Indiana Jones while tubing or kayaking through ancient caves at Nohoch Che’en Caves Branch. Glide through transparent waters and marvel at the stunning stalactites overhead, creating a thrilling exploration experience.
Sleeping in the Tropics or a Cozy Roof: Where to Stay
8. Placencia: The Beach Whisperer
Placencia is perfect for those who dream of waking up to the sound of waves and having the Caribbean Sea as their backyard.
This coastal community in southern Belize manifests the Caribbean’s go-slow lifestyle. Its sandy beaches adorned by swaying coconut trees welcome you along with beautiful artisanal items.
9. San Ignacio Town: The Heartbeat of the Jungle
Nestled in Western Belize, San Ignacio Town offers an immersive experience, especially for those looking to discover the local scene, complete with a Farmer’s Market and easily accessible commodities.
It’s the ideal base for those who wish to explore ancient Mayan ruins such as Xunantunich, Cahal Pech, and Caracol or the nearby nature reserves such as the Eligio Panti National Park and the Mountain Pine Ridge Reserve.
10. Caye Caulker: Calling all the Sea Creatures lovers!
Located off the Belizean coast, this fisherman community has blossomed into one of the country’s most serene locations.
Complete with thriving creatures that call the Caribbean Sea home, such as Sting Rays, Nurse Sharks, turtles, Manatees, and even Dolphins.
Spend the day enjoying the local scene, melodious music and delicious signature meals.
Un-Belize-able Summer!
Have you started packing your bags? Belize is an excellent choice for an unusual summer vacation because it provides an extraordinary fusion of adventure, leisure, and cultural immersion.
Belize is a paradise for thrill-seekers and hammock lovers alike. It has everything you could want during the summer. This summer in Belize, explore the green, dive into the blue, and live colorfully! Contact us at [email protected] to plan your Belize escape.