Discover What Makes Belize So Unique

July 22, 2024
by Larry Waight +

Belize’s tourism industry is a pillar of its economy, but this small Central American country sometimes blurs together with the other Caribbean and Central American destinations when looking over the options. It shouldn’t. Belize has plenty of unique experiences to offer, and you might be surprised at what you’ll find when you dig a little deeper. Here are just a few of the more important things that make Belize unique.

The Belize Barrier Reef

The largest barrier reef ecosystem in the Northern Hemisphere is also one of the most diverse marine habitats in the entire world. Over 25% of marine life makes their home in coral reefs — and that makes Belize a prime destination for everyone from expert divers to exotic fishers to families looking to snorkel. Just as enticing are the over 400 islands that are sprinkled throughout the area of the reef. From the major tourist hub of Ambergris Caye to the secluded Laughing Bird Caye, there’s a paradise suited to anyone’s needs. Most occupied islands tend to be primarily dominated by beach resorts, but you’ll find a decent amount of condo or home rentals or even options that allow you to rent an entire island for your next special event.

The Cayo District

The Cayo District is sometimes referred to as “Belize’s Wild West”, and that’s thanks to the verdant soil and the generous rivers that feed them. As the largest district in Belize, it’s a sprawling expanse of gorgeous jungle and plentiful farmland — and the lodges offer some of the best ways to retreat from society and immerse yourself in a meditative respite among the natural world. The Cayo District is home to Belize’s capital city of Belmopan, but you’re more likely to find adventure and intrigue in the city of San Ignacio. As the gateway to the Cayo District, it’s a diverse and bustling city that still maintains the laidback vibes that are present throughout the country’s coastal towns. The sister city of Santa Elena sits just over the river from San Ignacio if you’re looking for something a bit more remote during your stay.

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The Memories of the Ancient Maya Empire

There’s plenty to do in the Cayo District of today, but the bounty and commercial routes facilitated by the river also once made it a central component in the Maya Empire. And Belize’s approach to ecologically sustainable development has helped ensure that the remains of the empire are refreshingly well preserved. Over 900 Maya sites can be found throughout Belize, and some of them rank among the most stunning in the world. From the imposing temple of Xunantunich to the sprawling city of Caracol — which was once even larger and more populated than Belize City is today — there’s a story shared among each. A particular standout is Actun Tunichil Muknal Cave, which was once used as a site for human sacrifice thanks to the belief that it plunged directly downward into the underworld. But sites exist outside the Cayo District as well, and one is almost certainly in reach no matter where you decide to stay in Belize.

The Blended Cultural Milieu

Belize is the only Central American country where English is the national language, but that conceals the fact that this is culturally and ethnically one of the most diverse countries in Central America despite being the smallest. Mestizos constitute a bulk of the modern population — but there are also the descendants of Indian and Chinese laborers that carved out their own business dynasties, the Mennonites who helped fuel the growth of Belize’s agricultural sector, and the uniquely Afro-Caribbean group known as the Garifuna who have settlements up and down the Caribbean coast. No matter where you go, there are fascinating cultural experiences to be had — as well as historical lessons worth experiencing. And even today, the cultural makeup of the country is changing. As the country continues to develop and show off its charm to international travelers, Belize is beginning to grow its own communities of expatriates — and infrastructure is following right behind them.

The Placencia Peninsula

Speaking about the coast, the Placencia Peninsula offers one of the most intriguing ways to experience it. In the same way that the Florida peninsula protrudes from the southeast corner of the United States, the Placencia Peninsula straddles the southeast coast of Belize. The difference is that Florida is over 350 miles wide, while the Placencia Peninsula is only a half-mile wide and 16 miles long. The result is a bit of geography that feels like an island while still offering all of the conveniences that come from being on solid land. Life moves slower out of necessity, but there’s plenty to explore on the Placencia Peninsula. In addition to being a great way to explore the Belize Barrier Reef, it’s home to a few settlements worth visiting. Placencia Village is the major hub, but the peninsula is also home to the Garifuna settlement of Seine Bight and the quieter and more remote settlement of Maya Beach Village.