Belize is a paradise for the adventurous traveler, offering a perfect blend of Caribbean relaxation and high-octane outdoor exploration. From the world-renowned depths of the Great Blue Hole to the mysterious ancient Maya ruins hidden within lush jungles, this country provides endless opportunities to reconnect with nature.
Whether you are looking to dive into crystal-clear waters, navigate sacred caves, or soar through the rainforest canopy, our guide to outdoor Belize covers the essential experiences for your next tropical adventure.
Diving
With more than 400 islands to explore, Belize has a dive site for every ability. The country is also home to the largest barrier reef in the Northern Hemisphere and three of the four coral atolls in the Western Hemisphere, plus some of the most crystal-clear water in the world. Visibility routinely extends hundreds of feet, ensuring you’ll always get the best view of fascinating marine life like corals, sharks, turtles, and stingrays. Great sites include Hol Chan Marine Reserve and Ambergris Caye, both of which are considered among the top dive destinations in the world, and of course the Great Blue Hole.
Great Blue Hole
For the ultimate diving experience, take a day trip to the Great Blue Hole in the Belize Barrier Reef. One of the globe’s great geological wonders, the site sits just 43 miles off the mainland but is a full 406 feet deep, with rare fish and stalactites not found at other diving locations. The Great Blue Hole is a marine sinkhole spanning 318 meters across and 124 meters deep. It’s situated near the center of Lighthouse Reef and is absolutely out of this world. The Great Blue Hole is ranked number one on the Discovery Channels list of the “Ten Most Amazing Places on Earth”, and is a popular spot amongst divers. The best access is from Caye Caulker or San Pedro, as they are closest.
Snorkeling
There are more than 500 species of marine life to be found in Belize, including brightly colored schools of fish, turtles, and even the occasional barracuda. See them for yourself at one of the hundreds of snorkeling sites of varying depths along the Belize Barrier Reef. To get more out of your time in the water, you can even hire a knowledgeable local guide, who will help you safely explore the kaleidoscope of colors found in the hard and soft corals and sponges.
Sea Fishing
Belize’s abundance of game fish makes it a fantastic sport fishing destination all year long. The country is one of the few places in the world where you can fish a Grand Slam (catching a bonefish, permit, and tarpon all in the same day). Several rivers empty into the Caribbean Sea, so you’re practically guaranteed a daily catch, but for even more assurance, hire a local guide to show you their secret fishing spots.
Caving
There are thousands of caves in Belize, offering everything from easy walks to challenging hikes that can quickly turn into squeezes, crawls, climbs, rappels, and even swims. Head to Che Chem Ha to discover pottery that dates back some two thousand years ago, Actun Tunichi Muknal Cave to see ancient human remains, or Blue Creek and Caves Branch to witness natural formations like underground waterfalls. At the Nohoch Che’en Caves Branch Archeological Reserve, you can even explore the sacred caves of the ancient Maya civilization.
Visit Ancient Maya Sites
In Belize, you can learn all about the mysteries of the Maya without the crowds. All sites are managed by Belize’s Institute of Archeology and have interpretive centers and trained guides to show you around. Lamanai is one of Belize’s largest Maya sites, set in a tropical forest. Another mesmerizing site is Xunantunich, submerged in the jungle and reached via a hand-cranked ferry ride across the Mapan River. Situated atop a hill overlooking the Cayo District, the major ceremonial site consists of six major plazas and more than 25 temples and palaces.
Kayaking
While peaceful, kayaking down some of Belize’s well-known rivers can definitely have some adventure elements. For instance, hopping on a canoe at one of the eco-lodges on the outskirts of San Ignacio, you’ll witness many exotic birds flitting by, giant green iguanas splashing in the water, and even some small, cute bats in a cave if you’re lucky.
Ziplining
Heading to the jungle? Why not soar through it? Experience the Belize jungle canopy from treetop to treetop, and enjoy a bird’s eye view of the rainforest below. This is a huge adrenaline rush, and many zipline tours combine the experience with rappelling from the last treetop in order to reach the ground. For a truly unique experience be sure to choose a zipline tour which includes a waterfall rappel! Even if you’re not experienced you can enjoy this activity; rappelling at Mayflower Bocawina National Park for instance is designed especially for families.
