| An introduction to Belize |
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Page 1 of 2 Presenting an adventurer's paradise, Belize: Mayan temples tower above rainforest canopies while an incredibly colorful array of marine wildlife find protection in Belize's Great Barrier Reef. Discover Belize! No more than two hours from three gateways in the United States, and just a short hop from Mexico, getting to Belize is painless. With the right planning and preparation your visits, tours and excursions around the country can be just as simple. For the outdoor enthusiast, Belize presents unlimited opportunities. You might say that Belize is the outdoors. You will find diving, snorkeling, fishing, hiking, and exploring nature at its best. Every destination in Belize has its share of archaeological and national parks, marine and nature reserves, wildlife sanctuaries. Each of these protected areas is packed with opportunities for adventure. While the country of Belize is divided into six districts, you'll find it easier to plan your visit by looking at the nine tourism destinations: Northern Belize Covering the two districts of Orange Walk and Corozal, the north is a Belizean bonanza of natural wealth and archaeological wonder. Spectacular ancient cities, highlighted by the temples at Lamanai, evidence the ancient Maya's affinity for the area. With jungles, rainforests, coastal lagoons, and rivers, the region is home to an amazing array of animal and plant life that includes the jaguar and the manatee. Culturally the north is primarily Mayan and Spanish with the Mennonite farmers adding their old world flavor to the mix. Belize District The district is dominated by Belize City and offers a host of attractions including several sanctuaries, the world class Belize Zoo, a new museum, historic government buildings, churches and the incredible Maya site at Altun Ha. The city is a great place to spend a day or two learning about Belize's history and its multi-cultural heritage while mingling with the amiable, laid back Belizeans who greet you with a smile. It's also the perfect place to plan and begin your discovery of Belize and offers all kinds of access to any destination in the country. Ambergris Caye The largest of all the cayes, Ambergris Caye is renowned for its beaches and proximity to the coral reef. From here, you can indulge any wet adventure you can dream up; Sport fishing, scuba diving, snorkeling and manatee watching are among the most popular. San Pedro, the caye's hub, offers any variety of accommodations, restaurants, bars and nightlife. For a change of pace and scenery, the bay side of the caye is a great place to get acquainted with Belizean bird life. Caye Caulker Just south of Ambergris is the relaxed and slow-paced Caye Caulker where you can indulge your island fantasies on a quiet beach and get to know the Mestizo and Creole culture, customs and traditions. Offering budget accommodations and excursions with a full range of services, Caulker is also well known for its friendly, easygoing people who make it difficult for you to leave this sunny, sleepy little island. Cayo Located in the western interior of Belize, Cayo is a 1500 square mile district that encompasses a good portion of the Maya Mountains and has more than its fair share of ancient Maya sites to visit and explore. To the east is the capital city of Belmopan and to the far west, visitor friendly San Ignacio, the main city of the district. Between the two lie a world of forests teeming with wildlife and immaculately beautiful tropical watersheds catered to by a variety of jungle and river lodges to suit any style, budget and adventure. Stann Creek The journey in by road on the Hummingbird Highway, with breathtaking vistas of the rainforests and the Maya Mountains, takes you all the way into culture rich Dangriga, historic home of the Garifuna people. Opportunity for marine adventure abounds with the nearby coral reef, cayes and coastal villages, while the Cockscomb Basin bears witness to Belize's lush broadleaf tropical forests that are home to countless species of plants and animals. Stann Creek is ideal for its accessibility to a huge variety of Belizean discovery destinations both inland and out in the sparkling blue waters of the Caribbean. Placencia White sand beaches, brilliant blue waters and a hundred ways to enjoy the coastal treasures of Belize await you at Placencia. Spend your days in the water diving, fishing, snorkeling or just relaxing on the beach, and your nights at the many interesting restaurants and watering holes that feature local food, culture and live music.
Southern Belize
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