Discover the hidden wonders of Belize, a unique Central American gem where English is the official language and ancient Mayan history meets a vibrant Caribbean coastline. From the world's second-largest barrier reef to mysterious folklore and lush rainforests, Belize offers an unparalleled adventure for every traveler.
Explore fascinating facts about this least-populated nation, including its rich cultural heritage, diverse marine ecosystems, and the iconic Great Blue Hole. Whether you are interested in archaeology, diving, or simply experiencing a country that thrives under its own unique motto, Belize is a destination that promises to surprise and inspire.
Geography and General Facts
Belize, officially the Republic OF Belize, is a country located on the eastern coast of Central America. It has an area of 22,966 square km. Belmopan is its capital and Belize City is its largest city. Its land borders are the countries Mexico and Guatemala.
Geography and Language
The islands in Belize are called Cayes (pronounced “keys”) and total around 450 including those on the outer atolls. Belize is the only Central American Country where English is the official language. Apart from English, there are many recognized regional languages: Kriol, Spanish, Garifuna, and Mayan.
History and Independence
September 10th in Belize is celebrated as The National Day or St George’s Caye Day. On this day in 1798, Spanish forces were repelled by the British in the Battle of St George’s Caye, with no reported casualties on either side. Belize obtained its independence from the United Kingdom on September 21, 1981. George Cadle Price was the first prime minister of Belize and he served from 12 September 1981 to 17 December 1984.
Maya Heritage and Archaeology
Belize has around 900 Maya temple sites.
Economy and Urban Life
Belize’s economy is largely dependent on agriculture, agro-based industry and merchandising. However, tourism, construction, and the recent discovery of an oil field have presented new prospects for the country. The estimated GDP of the country is 1.354 billion dollars and the major trading partners are the United States of America, Mexico, Central America and the European Union.
The largest city of Belize is located at the mouth of the river Belize River and is known as Belize City. It has an estimated population of 79,600 and is the main port and the industrial hub of the country. It was discovered in the mid-17th Century by British lumber harvesters and was the capital of British Honduras.
Marine Life and Diving
Belize is one of the least populated countries in the world and has some of the best dive sites in the Caribbean. Spanning the length of Belize is the 2nd largest barrier reef in the world. In many other parts of the Caribbean, the diving is around volcanic rock!
The Belizean barrier reef boasts an incredible array of marine life making it one of the premier Caribbean destinations for diving and snorkeling. The Great Blue Hole is the world’s largest sea sinkhole and a paradise for deep sea divers. It’s a huge 984 feet across and 407 feet deep depression in the middle of the sea. It is also a part of the larger Belize Barrier Reef System.
Culture, Folklore, and Nature
Belizean folklore tells of a 3-foot tall, evil dwarf called El Duende. The thumbless dwarf is said to hang out in the forest and punish any children who kill animals! The tallest building in Belize is a Mayan temple!
There is no Mcdonald's, Burger King, Starbucks, or KFC in the entire country of Belize. The country’s most prized culinary delicacy is a rodent called, Gibnut. Incidentally, it’s also called the “royal rat” because it was served to Queen Elizabeth. The canopy of the forests has inspired the national motto of Belize which is “Under the Shade, I flourish”.
The national flower of Belize is the black orchid. The national animal is the tapir, locally known as the Mountain Cow. Additionally, the Belize Rainforest is home to over 500 species of orchid, and it is considered bad luck to swim on Good Friday.
