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Published: 31-03-2023
Nestled between Mexico and Guatemala, the tiny and eclectic country of Belize has become one of the most popular eco-tourism destinations in Central America for the intrepid traveler. Blessed with lush tropical rain forests, pristine beaches, ancient Maya cities, diverse flora and fauna, and the longest barrier reef in the Western Hemisphere, these are just a few of the many natural attractions that allure the adventure traveler to visit. Find out more about this 8-day Abundant Belize tour.
Caribbean Sea off The Belize Cayes
San Ignacio
San Ignacio is as easy to get to as it is full of adventure. It’s the largest town in the Cayo District, the area of Belize known for drawing adventurers and thrill seekers from all over the world. San Ignacio is connected to its twin town, Santa Elena, by the only suspension bridge in the country, Hawkesworth Bridge. The construction of this historic bridge made the connection from Belize City to the adventure-filled Western regions a lot easier. San Ignacio is a quaint town with plenty of accommodations catered to adventurer seekers. It makes a great base for exploring Maya ruins and cave systems in the Western part of the country. After a long day of caving, horseback riding, kayaking, or hiking, rest up in this hub full of friendly people and great food.
San Ignacio
Xunantunich
Riding through the jungle on horseback is an exciting way to discover the ancient Mayan city of Xunantunich. Journey to the ancient Mayan ruins of Xunantunich atop a trusty steed on a half-day horseback riding adventure from San Ignacio. Ride along the Mopan River and through a private organic farm for a unique way to reach the fascinating archaeological site, where you can explore the remains of royal palaces and one of Belize’s largest ceremonial temples.
Xunantunich
Despite being one of the oldest, continuously excavated ancient Maya sites in Belize, Xunantunich still has much to reveal. Only a small portion of the vast site has been fully explored and is now open to the public. The name of the site Xunantunich is pronounced in different ways, but the name means “Stone Woman” in the local Maya dialect. This strange and enigmatic ancient ruin was re-discovered more than a century ago during the colonial period of Belize. Many people have claimed to have seen a mysterious, ghostly figure of a woman that haunts the site. El Castillo is the most iconic building at the site, rising some 130 feet (39 meters) above the plaza below. This makes it the second-tallest man-made structure in Belize, even today.
Temple at Xuanantunich
Ambergris Caye
Ambergris is the largest of the 200-plus cayes located off the Belize coast. Locates just 1km from the Barrier Reef, the island is a top destination for scuba divers and snorkelers. The island offers a wide variety of water-oriented activities, such as swimming, fishing, sailing, windsurfing, and jet-skiing, as well as nature hiking, bird-watching, bicycling, and even a small Maya on the island. Life on Ambergris Caye entails lazing the days away on star-white beaches, spending afternoons snorkeling the world’s second-largest barrier reef, and enjoying nights at beachfront barbecues with newfound friends. Ambergris Caye’s biggest tourist draw is the Barrier Reef which runs parallel along the entire coast. The reef is a quarter mile from the beach making snorkeling and diving easily accessible. The island’s seaside is a charming collection of piers and dive shops that offer tours to the different dive sites, the outer islands, and of course to the Great Blue Hole.
Ambergris Caye
Hol Chan
Found on the southern edge of Ambergris Caye, Hol Chan Marine Reserve is the oldest reserve in Belize. Its name translates to "Little Channel," in reference to a coral-filled gap in Belize's immense barrier reef. Encompassing 5 square kilometers, this densely populated aquatic zone is a sanctuary for stingrays, eels, and sharks, among other sea creatures. The diversity of the reserve means Hol Chan has flourished as a hot spot for scuba divers and snorkelers. Hol Chan´s crystal-clear waters and abundant sea life make it a prime spot for snorkeling and diving. Belize is one of the best places on earth to snorkel. Belize is home to the second-largest barrier reef on the planet which is full of colorful corals and abundant marine life. The shallow, clear water in Belize allows for incredible snorkeling when the conditions are right.
Hol Chan
Ask us here for more information about this mind-blowing Va Expeditions 8-Day Abundant Belize tour
