Belize Overview

The least inhabited country in Central America, tiny, English-speaking Belize is graced with nearly untouched natural beauty and stable politics, leading to one of the most developed tourist infrastructures in the region. With a diverse population of 300,000 and a predominantly Caribbean atmosphere, Belize is also the only country in Central America where reggae is more common than salsa. Though a bit pricier than its neighbors, Belize is extremely accessible; transportation is relatively easy, and few other places in the world offer such mind-boggling biological and geographic diversity in such a small space (23,000 sq. km). In fact, ecotourism has turned into the nation’s leading money-maker; luckily, commercial development still remains modest, particularly in the south and the interior. While Belize has its share of Mayan ruins, they are less outstanding than their Guatemalan counterparts--the nation’s most popular destinations are the dozens of coastal cayes and national parks, nearly twenty of which have been set aside for conservation.

In one day, an enthusiastic traveler could snorkel the second-largest barrier reef in the Northern and Western hemispheres, scale Mayan temples, and slide down waterfalls in a pine forest, stopping along the way at a jaguar or baboon reserve. After savoring inexpensive lobster and sipping smooth Belikin beers on one of the country’s many idyllic beaches, many find they never want to go anywhere else. Thousands of travelers come each year to explore the country’s wonders and affirm the tourist bureau’s slogan: “You better Belize it.”

• Planning Your Trip

Before You Go Passport . Required of all visitors. Visa. Not required for citizens of the US, UK, Australia, Canada, Costa Rica, Ireland, New Zealand, Mexico, and the European Union. Valid ...more

• Cultural Essentials

Mayan Times. The roots of Belize are with the Maya, whose ruins still lie beneath the forests of the country. The oldest dated settlement is the city of Cahal Pech, built in 1200 BC, but the Maya people ...more