Let me start by saying that Belize is one of my favorite countries on the entire planet. That being said, I’m totally biased towards all of the amazing things that it has to offer. I have visited the country six times and still can’t get enough of it. Belize is perfect for all kinds of travelers, adventure seekers, history buffs, beachgoers, fishermen, you name it, there’s something for everybody there! Here’s a quick guide to Belize.
Caye Caulker
A Guide to Belize’s History
Belize was first discovered by the British when a shipwrecked off the coast in 1638. Over the next 150 years, the British continued to colonize the region. The country did not get its independence until 1981. Because of this, Belize is a super easy country for people who are new to foreign travel to visit. The locals all speak English, which makes finding your way around a lot easier!
The country of Belize is bordered by Mexicoto the north, Guatemala to the west, and the Caribbean Sea to the south and east. Its landscape is made up of lush hillsides, vast jungles, and more than 450 islands that dot the 185 miles of vibrant blue coastline.
Tourist Village, Belize City
A Guide to Belize- For Cruisers
Belize City is a tender port. This means that the surrounding water is too shallow for the ship to dock at a pier. Instead, the ship drops anchor a few miles off the coast and you have to catch a tender, or water taxi, to go ashore. The boat ride takes about 30 minutes. If you are cruising with Carnival, Diamond, and Platinum cruisers, along with those with Faster to the Fun Passes will have priority tenders. Trust me, it’s totally worth it!
There are several cruise ports that you can get away with not booking an excursion, this is not one of them! There is very little to do in the port area. Do not make the mistake of not booking an excursion. Not sure how to select the right excursion? Check out these tips!
The first few times I visited Belize, I headed westward to the town of San Ignacio, near the Guatemalan border. San Ignacio is about a two hour bus ride from Belize City. It is a lovely drive and gives you a genuine look at what life is really like in Belize.
Xunantunich Ruins
What is there to do in Belize?
I did some pretty incredible things on my first few trips. We went cave tubing, explored the jungle, went zip lining and repelling, and visited the Maya Ruins of Xuanantunich and Cahal Pech. I fell more and more in love with Belize with each visit. But I have to admit, I was truly missing out by simply heading west with each visit. The coast is absolutely stunning. On my last trip, I headed north from Belize City to Caye Caulker where I got to swim with sharks and rays. It was an un-Belize-able experience, one that I truly recommend. The people of Belize are so wonderful! It’s the people of Belize that make it such a fantastic place to visit.
If you ever get the opportunity to visit this glorious country, do not hesitate. Go, go, go! You won’t regret it! I hope you enjoyed our quick guide to Belize, to dig a little deeper into Belize, check out our posts on this incredible country.
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I’ve been fortunate enough to travel to many of the Caribbean islands. Between all of my cruises, I’ve traveled to roughly 20 ports. Some of them have been absolutely incredible whereas others pale in comparison. I’m often asked what my favorite Caribbean cruise ports are and boy, is that a tough question!
About the Caribbean
The corners of the Caribbean are very different. In the Eastern Caribbean, you have stunning volcanic islands covered in white sandy beaches and lush green rainforests and canopies. In the Western Caribbean, you’ll find adventures around every corner! The Southern Caribbean is very chill and laid back with a heavy European influence.
My Favorite Caribbean Cruise Ports
It’s hard to narrow my favorite port down to just one… so I’m going to attempt to narrow it down to five, which believe me is also quite the challenge. Even as I jotted down this list, my mind changed at least three times.
Belize
Belize is without a doubt my favorite country in the world (so far!). I’ve been to over 20 countries and nothing compares to this incredible, or dare I say un-Belize-able place! Belize is most certainly a diamond in the rough.
Over the last 10 years, I have visited 6 times and the country has grown so much, thanks to tourism. I have had some pretty incredible adventures in Belize- ziplining, cave tubing, and swimming with sharks. I’ve traveled as far west as San Ignacio by the Guatemalan border where you can explore the ancient Mayan ruins of Xuanantunich and Cahal Pech and as far north as the absolutely stunning Caye Caulker. Each and every time I visit I am amazed by how fabulous this place is!
Bonaire
Bonaire is small-town friendly and that’s not just because it’s only just over 100 square miles. The island is mostly inhabited by super friendly Dutch and vibrant pink flamingos, and it is surrounded by an absolutely stunning it. I have snorkeled many reefs in my day but none of them compare to how beautiful the reef surrounding the island. The reefs are protected as a marine eco-park so they remain untouched and unspoiled.
There’s Roatan and then there’s Mahogany Bay. Let me preface this by saying that these are two very, very different places. Mahogany Bay is the area of Roatan that Carnival has developed into a gorgeous, picturesque beach conveniently located within walking distance from the ship. And then… there’s Roatan.
I’d pick Roatan over Mahogany Bay any day! Like Belize, Roatan, Hondurasis a little rough around the edges. But remember, beauty is in the eyes of the beholder. The island is surrounded by turquoise water and filled with picture-perfect beaches covered with giant palm trees. The West End of the island is perfect for snorkeling and relaxing on the beach. The island is also home toLittle French Key, one of my favorite places to vacation.
One of the best things about St. Thomas is the fact that we Americans can visit without having a passport. That is because St. Thomas is located in the US Virgin Islands. St. Thomas is a truly beautiful place. The lush green hillsides are dotted with extravagant homes for the rich and famous. The beaches (like Magens Bay) are like nothing you could even imagine. Be sure to head on up to Paradise Point to check out the views from the top of the mountain.
Another reason I love St. Thomas so much is its proximity to nearby St. John. St. John is protected under the US National Park system so it has remained in pristine condition.
Tortola
England is one of my favorite countries, so it’s no surprise that I fell in love with Tortola. I know what you’re thinking; how can these two destinations be anything alike? You see, Tortola is part of the British Virgin Islands (BVI). It’s a lot like St. Thomas (see above) only heavily influenced by its European settlers; the British. We’re talking All Hail the Queen, red phone booths, and British accents. One of my favorite thing about Tortola is how well preserved their historic sites are. It is truly like you’re stepping back in time.
“Do I Need to Book an Excursion in Belize?” This is a question that I get asked a lot. Quite frankly, there are some cruise ports where you absolutely must book an excursion, and then there are others where you really don’t have to.
What is an Excursion?
An excursion is an activity that you book in a cruise port. The excursions range from historic tours, snorkeling and beach tours, visits to popular attractions, activities that will get your adrenaline pumping, and cultural activities. They are booked through local tour companies and cost additional money. Excursions can go from anywhere from $39 to hundreds of dollars for scuba diving, golfing, and helicopter tours.
Do I Need to Book an Excursion in Belize?
Belize is one of those ports where you will definitely need to book an excursion. Outside of a handful of shops at the port, there’s really nothing to do and quite frankly, the city isn’t safe to explore on your own. In order to truly experience how magnificent Belize is, you’ll have to get out of the city.
Nearby Beaches
Most people probably assume there are beaches in Belize City…considering it is on the coast. Unfortunately, they would be assuming wrong. Most of the coastline is covered in mangroves and beaches are few and far between. In order to hit the beach in Belize, you’ll have to travel north towards Caye Caulker and Ambergris Caye or south to the Placencia Peninsula. If you plan to hit the beach while you’re in Belize, your best bet would be to book an excursion.
Recommended Excursions in Belize
Xunantunich Ruins, Belize
Xunantunich
These are ruins are, without a doubt, my ultimate favorite! Xunantunich is home to the tallest Maya ruins in Belize. Scale to the top of El Castillo (if you dare!) for remarkable views of the Belizean and Guatemalan countryside.
Sharks, Rays, & Barrier Reef
This tour begins with a scenic boat ride along Belize’s barrier islands to the beautiful island of Caye Caulker. You’ll have a chance to snorkel the reef before heading to Shark & Ray Alley where you’ll come up close and personal with nurse sharks and rays in their natural habitat. Afterward, you’ll have lunch at Lazy Lizard located at the world-famous “Split”.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RZEHMDsE6_I
Rainforest Zip Line & Cave Tubing
This excursion combines two of my favorite activities I’ve ever done in Belize- zip lining and cave tubing. You’ll start off by zip-lining through the canopy, which is such a cool experience. After taking a short hike through the rainforest of the No Hoch Chen Reserve, you’ll come to the cool waters of the Caves Branch River. From here, you’ll allow the current to whisk you into the caves. It is such an awesome experience! This has probably been my favorite excursion in Belize.
Altun Ha Ruins & River Wildlife Cruise
This tour begins with a 90 minute riverboat tour where you’ll have a chance to scope out the local wildlife. Be on the look out for howler monkeys and iguanas! Next, you’ll make your way to the Maya city for Altun Ha. If the weather is nce, you’ll be able to climb the temples.
Snorkel at Rendezvous Caye
If snorkeling is your thing, you’ll want to head to the Barrier Reef, which is the largest in this Hemisphere. Rendezvous Caye is a private island right in the heart of the reef. The reef has been designated as an International Heritage site by the United Nations. It is absolutely exquisite and one of the best snorkeling excursions available.
Airbnbs in Belize: Are you searching for the perfect Airbnb for your trip to Belize? We’ve gathered up a collection of our favorite vacation homes in Belize for any budget.
Belize is a beautiful country tucked in the middle of Central America near Honduras. I like to think of it as the Land of Adventure because there are countless adventures waiting to be had. While in Belize I have swum with sharks and rays, gone cave tubing, been ziplining and repelling through caves, and visited the Maya Ruins of Cahal Pech and Xunantunich. With each trip I fall more and more in love with this great country, I can see why the locals call it “un-Belize-able”.
There are so many amazing adventures waiting to be had. If you’re a terrestrial traveler, rather than a cruiser, you’re going to need a place to stay. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered!
5 Amazing Airbnbs in Belize
Romantic Beachfront Home with Dock, Hammock, Veranda & Outdoor Dining!
Location: Placencia, Belize Guests: 2 Studio 1 bed 1 bath
Are you looking for a romantic seaside getaway? This private home is located right on the beach! Imagine having a beach to yourself! This home comes with a gorgeous beach that you’ll only have to share with one other home!
The property is on the shores of Maya Beach, an area known for its beautiful beaches and restaurants. This part of Belize is very safe. If you’re looking to do a bit of snorkeling, diving, and hiking, this is the home for you!
Location: Placencia, Belize Guests: 2 Studio 1 bed 1 bath
Also located in Placencia is this gorgeous ocean view bungalow. The home is located in the Placencia Village and is less than a 5-minute walk to bars and restaurants.
More importantly, it’s located right on the beach! The house has a private deck, and a private rooftop. Oh, and did I mentioned that it sits just 100 feet away from the Caribbean Sea? Grab your towel, your lounge chairs are awaiting you!
Imagine vacationing in the middle of the jungle surrounded by monkeys, toucans, and iguanas. That, my friends, is what you’ll get when you rent out this 90-acre property. Tropical View is a newly built home that overlooks the jungle and Turtle Island. The property comes complete with hiking trails and a freshwater creek. The property is about 1 hour away from the Xunantunich Maya Ruins, and about 35 minutes away from the Cahal Pech Ruins.
Not far from the previous house is a super-hip and modern cabin. The cabin features wall to wall windows that look out on the jungle that surrounds the property. This place is a DREAM! If you’re lucky, you’ll even get to hang out with the family of 5 monkeys that frequently visit the property.
It doesn’t get any more convenient than the Villa Macaw! This brand new modern villa is located right on the edge of San Ignacio. The home features a refreshing pool and all of the modern necessities. It is conveniently located near grocery stores, the farmer’s market, and the ruins.
So you’re heading to Belize, eh? LUCKY YOU! I’d love to help you with your Belize packing list. Belize is my favorite country on the planet (so far). The great news is Belize has absolutely perfect weather so no matter what time of year you will be visiting you’re sure to have great weather. This also makes packing for a trip to Belize a little easier.
Xunantunich Ruins
Let’s Talk About the Weather
One of the best things about Belize is the weather. Although it is a tropical destination, the yearly average temperature is only 84° F (29°C). Belize’s coastal breezes and expansive jungle and rainforest provide relief on even the hottest of days. Temperatures in the summer average around 86°F (30°C) and dip down to 60°F (16°C) in the winter.
Belize has two seasons, the wet and the dry. Belize’s dry season is between February and May. June through December are the wet seasons- we’re talking 150 inches of rain.
Caye Caulker
The Nitty Gritty
Shopping in Belize isn’t ideal, you’re definitely going to want to make sure you pack everything that you need! To make sure nothing important gets left behind, I’ll be breaking down the ultimate Belize vacation packing list. I hope this packing list and these travel tips will help you have a great time on your vacation!
Belize Packing List Essentials
When you’re getting ready for Belize, there are some things that you absolutely must have with you. All of these items should be in your suitcase, purse, and/or carry-on.
Passport
You absolutely must have your passport to travel to Belize. If you are visiting as a tourist, you donot require a visa. Visitors planning to stay more than 30 days must have their passport re-stamped by a local immigration office and pay an additional fee for every additional month they wish to stay, up to six months.
Driver’s License
Visitors planning to drive in Belize will need to be 18 years or older and have a valid driver’s license or international driving permit in order to rent a car and/or drive around legally. If you have a US driver’s license do not worry, it is a valid driver’s license in Belize.
Portable and Plug-in Chargers
Obviously, you’re going to be taking a ton of pictures on your trip. You most definitely are going to want to pack a portable power bank for your phone. While you’re thinking about chargers you better grab all of the chargers for your electronics: phone charger, laptop charger, tablet charger, smartwatch charger, and maybe even an electric toothbrush charger!
Belize uses 110 volts, 60 cycle electricity, same as the US. Plugs are typically the 2 pronged flat types so US travelers will not typically need a converter or adapter. Outlets rarely have 3 holes so if your device has a third prong, bring an adapter.
Camera & SD Card
Sure, you could just bring your phone along for photos but you’ll probably want to bring a legit camera along as well. I suggest a Nikon D5600 for high-quality photos. While you’re grabbing your camera, don’t forget our SD card! I travel with a 64 GB memory SD card. If you’re feeling wild, you can go for a 128 GB SD memory card.
If you’re planning on spending time at The Blue Hole, Caye Caulker, Ambergris Caye, or anywhere else on the coast you’ll probably want to have an underwater camera, as well. Those of you who will be using a phone as a camera, make sure you get a waterproof phone case. I take one of these with me on all of my trips to Central America and the Caribbean.
Cash $$$
It’s always a good idea to have some cash on hand. Be careful about carrying around large amounts of money. I suggest only having $100 (broken into small bills) on your person.
You do not have to exchange your money for Belize dollars. Belize merchants will gladly accept US dollars.
Credit Cards
You most likely won’t be able to use your debit card in Belize however, most major credit cards are accepted. Larger hotels, restaurants, and shops will typically be able to accept Visa and MasterCard. You can also use a credit card to obtain cash advances at major banks. I use a travel wallet to keep my passport, cards, and money safe in one place.
Travel Umbrella
If you’re traveling to Belize during the wet season, you’ll definitely want to pack an umbrella. June through December are the wet seasons- we’re talking 150 inches of rain. I pack an EEZ-Y Windproof Travel Umbrella.
Sun Care
Trust me, there’s nothing worse than getting sunburned on a vacation. Plan on using a“> strong sunscreen to protect your skin. If you are hitting the Blue Hole or reefs, you’ll want to pack coral reef-safe sunscreen. While you’re at it toss some Chapstick with SPF into your bag. You may also want to consider a hat and a sun shirt, as well. I always pack a bit of aloe with me on vacation- just in case. Better safe than sorry, right?
Mosquito Repellent
Belize has a subtropical climate so there are mosquitoes, bugs and other insects buzz around mostly in the early mornings and late evening. However, in most areas, most time of the year they are that not annoying.
You should always pack your necessary prescription medications in your carry-on bag. Make sure they are in their original containers.
What to Wear on the Plane to Belize
Although you’ll be traveling to a tropical destination, you may want to dress a little more warmly on your flight. Since airplanes are typically cool, you’ll want to dress in layers. Consider wearing a tank top with a light sweater, a light hoodie or a long sleeve shirt. I also usually don’t wear shorts on a plane because my legs tend to get cold.
Make sure you wear shoes that are easy to slide on and off and consider leaving your belt in your suitcase. If you plan on packing a large floppy sun hat, you may want to bring it on the plane so that it doesn’t get squished in your suitcase.
FUN FACT:
These adorable little cocktail sets are perfect for a drink on the go. Believe it or not, they are TSA compliant! They are great for travel days but also would be handy on an impromptu picnic!
Cahal Pech Ruins
What to Wear During the Day
Keep in mind that the average temperature in Belize is 84 degrees. It’s also typically super humid. Consider packing clothing that will be comfortable in this climate.
You’ll also want to consider what activities you’ll be doing on your trip. If you’re spending most of your time on the coast you’ll want to focus on coverups, bathing suits, and sandals. If you’re heading to the jungle and rainforest to zip-line or going to the ruins of Xunantunich and Cahal Pech you’ll want to pack activewear. I usually wear breathable yoga pants, a t-shirt, comfortable tennis shoes, sunglasses, and a hat when I’m in western Belize.
The dress code in Belize is super laid back. It’s cool if you stick with casual outfits.
Misc. Electronics
Kindle
If you don’t want to lug a guide book around, you may want to invest in a Kindle. These are a great alternative to packing physical books. They take up way less space! The Kindle Paperwhite is waterproof making it a great option for travel.
AirPods
These headphones are MADE for travel. They are compact, lightweight, and recharge themselves when they are in the case. AirPods are great to have on the plane, train, or when relaxing by the pool or on the beach!
Other Items for Your Belize Packing List
Scanned Copies of Important Items
It is always smart to carry a scanned copy of the information page of your passport. That way, if you misplace it it’s easier for you to get a replacement. Make sure you pack it in a different place than you keep your physical passport. You can also take a photo of it and store it on your phone.
Packing Cubes
Guys! Packing cubes are LIFE! They are the perfect way to keep your suitcase neat and organized. They have been a total game changer for me!
First Aid Kit
Raise your hand if you’re a klutz like me! Anybody? If you’re anything like me then you totally need to pack a first aid kit. I take one with me when I travel.
Guide Books
If you are a terrestrial traveler, rather than a cruiser, you may want to pack along a guide book. I’m a Lonely Planet fan.
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Belize owns my heart. I fell in love with it on my first visit in 2007 and keep coming back for more. I have now been to Belize countless times and will most definitely be returning. There is a TON of things to do in Belize in fact, there’s something for everyone! Whether you’re into history, culture, or adventure, this place has something for you!
A Little About Belize…
Belize is a beautiful country tucked in the middle of Central America near Honduras. Now… it isn’t your traditional beauty. The country itself is poor and most definitely still developing. While LFK is the ultimate paradise, Belize isn’t much of a looker. Belize, however, is a diamond in the rough. It has some serious potential.
The people of Belize are incredible. They are some of the most kind-hearted, welcoming, and appreciative people I’ve ever met. They are a huge part of why I love the country so much.
Belize and the Cruise Industry
Thanks to the cruise industry, Belize has become much more accessible to the average traveler. In fact, cruise ships drop anchor off of the coast of Belize City more than 330 times a year! More than 80% of the country’s visitors arrive via cruise ship.
If you arrive to Belize via cruise ship, I strongly suggest that you book an excursion. While Belize City is still developing as a tourist destination, there isn’t a ton to offer visitors just yet.
If you do not book an excursion then you will totally miss out on all of the incredible things Belize has to offer. Belize is the perfect location for adventurous travel. Between SCUBA Diving, Cave Tubing, Zip Lining, Caving, and all of the other outdoor activities, you’ll never be bored!
Our Top 5 Things to do in Belize:
Wading Through the Caves Branch River
Cave Tubing
Have you ever heard of cave tubing? Cave tubing is where you float on an inner tube on a river that winds through a cave. It is so relaxing and such a cool experience! Most cruise lines offer this excursion to its cruisers however it is also open to terrestrial travelers as well.
Cave tubing is available at the Jaguar Paw Cave near the capital city of Belmopan. It is located between Belize City and San Ignacio (home to a couple of Mayan Ruins).
From the parking lot, it’s a short hike through the jungle and a couple of river traverses before you hit the cave system. The caves are pitch black inside. The only light comes from your small headlamp. Parts of the cave have shallow water, just remember “Butts Up” and you’ll be alright!
El Castillo at Xunantunich
Visit the Ruins
Xunantunich may actually be my favorite Mayan ruins that I’ve been to. Xunantunich is located near the city of San Ignacio close to the Guatemalan border, about 80 miles west of Belize City. Part of what makes these ruins are so cool is the fact that you can actually climb to the top of El Castillo, the massive structure you see pictured above. The climb to the top is a little nerve-wracking but absolutely worth it. If you can summon the courage, you’ll be greeted by incredible views at the top.
I will say that the ruins do not offer the safety standards that many of us are used to, but at the same time how silly would the ruins look if they were covered in hand rails and protective barriers? Use your common sense and you should be fine. Parts of the climb are very narrow. I had to inch my way across a very narrow portion of the ruins. If you get scared, push through it!
Cahal Pech
You can actually seeCahal Pechfrom the top of Xunantunich. The two ancient cities were relatively close to one another. Cahal Pech is much smaller however, you’re able to explore many of the buildings and climb the pyramids. These ruins are much easier to climb than Xunantunich. If you are afraid of heights (or traveling with littles) but want the opportunity to truly explore Mayan ruins, then Cahal Pech is probably the best choice for you.
Zip Lining
Belize was the very first place that I tried zip lining. We booked a tour through Caves Branch. Interestingly, this was the same place that I had been cave tubing just years before. If you are a terrestrial traveler (rather than a cruiser) you could easily pair the two adventures together. You may also be interested in St. Herman’s Blue Hole National Park and Five Blues Lake National Park.
The guides were extremely helpful. More importantly, they were patient with us scaredy cats! I felt that they did a fantastic job coaching everyone through their zip lining experience.
The Great Blue Hole
The Blue Hole may be one of Belize’s most famous sites. For ages, this was the main reason many people visited Belize. The Great Blue Hole is well-known for its diving and snorkeling. It is located about 43 miles north of Belize City.
In 2012, the Discovery Channel ranked it #1 on their list of “The 10 Most Amazing Places on Earth” and it is registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Be sure to research the pre-requisites for divers before you book your trip. Most cruise lines offer excursions to this popular dive spot.
Nurse Sharks Greeting us at Shark & Ray Alley
Swim with Sharks & Rays
Imagine leaping into the middle of the sea and being completely surrounded by nurse sharks and stingrays. Talk about a rush! If you’re an adrenaline junkie, we suggest visiting Shark and Ray Alley.
This tourist hot spot is located near the stunning town of Ambergris Caye. Cruise lines offer excursions here and there are a couple of different companies that offer boat tours for terrestrial travelers.
You’ll be absolutely amazed at how gentle these nurse sharks are. Nurse sharks are slow-moving bottom-dwellers. They can grow up to 14 feet long and have thousands of teeth. Don’t let those teeth fool you though, nurse sharks are harmless (unless, of course, you step on one…).
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Belize has been my favorite country since I first laid eyes on her. She’s a little rough around the edges but she is lovely! My last trip marked my 6th trip to Belize. On the previous trips, I took a 2.5-hour bus ride to San Ignacio near the Guatemalan border. Here I’ve visited two Mayan ruins- Xunantunich and Cahal Pech-, I’ve gone cave tubing and gone zip-lining through the jungle canopy. While all of these were truly memorable experiences, I have to admit I’ve been missing out by not exploring the coast. Shark and Ray Alley took my breath away.
During my most recent visit, I booked a trip to swim with sharks and stingrays near Caye Caulker (pronounced Key Corker by the locals). Caye Caulker got its name from the fact that many of the original explorers would get holes in their boats from the mangroves and reefs that surround the area. They would have to cork the holes to repair the vessel- hence the name Caye Caulker.
Heading to the Mesoamerican Reef
We took a scenic 45-minute boat ride from Belize City to Caye Caulker passing countless islands such as St. George Caye- where the British originally settled in 1650. Our boat took us to the Rainbow Bar & Grill where we were able to change. Afterward, we took a quick ten-minute boat ride to the Mesoamerican Reef- the second largest coral reef in the world. Although it is smaller than Australia’s Great Barrier Reef, it is considered the largest living reef in the world.
Although Belize likes to lay claim to the reef, it actually stretches for nearly 700 miles from the northern tip of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula down through the Bay Islands of Honduras. My friends in Honduras are quick to remind you that the reef belongs to them just as much as it does to the Mexicans and Guatemalans.
We spent some time snorkeling the reef. Our guide was very knowledgeable and pointed out many different coral formations, several different species of fish, and many other things such as stingrays and a green moray eel. We got to see a ton of angelfish, parrotfish, a pufferfish and we even saw an intimidating barracuda that was longer than my arm!
Shark and Ray Alley
Next, we hopped back on the boat for about five minutes and made a pit stop at Shark and Ray Alley just south of the Hol Chan Cut and Ambergris Caye. For years, fishermen would clean their catches in this location. Soon, they found the remnants from their catches were attracting Nurse Sharks and Southern Sting Rays. Over the years, the sharks and rays have become very accustomed to having people around. Now, whenever they hear the purr of an engine, they surround the boat to vie for some scraps.
I’ve beenswimming with stingrays before, in Grand Cayman, and I’ve swum with sharks before- but never quite like this! We were surrounded by more than a dozen Nurse Sharks and just as many stingrays! There was no time to get intimidated! Within minutes we were in the water. Believe it or not, without a snorkel mask on, you’d never know you were surrounded by the sharks and rays…at least not until they grazed up against you!
The sharks and rays were harmless and actually seemed to like the attention. It was such an awesome experience!
Back on Caye Caulker
Afterward, we returned to Caye Caulker for lunch at Barefoot Caribe’s. The island was full of vibrant colored buildings. It looked very much like your typical Central American or Caribbean beach town. The sand-covered roads were lined with palms, bungalows, shops, and bars. There were no cars on the island- just bicycles and golf carts. The overall experience was unlike anything I had ever seen in the rest of Belize. The remainder of the country is blanketed in vibrant green jungles, rolling hills, and homes that are in various stages of disrepair. It was almost like being in an entirely different country altogether!
After a day full of swimming, snorkeling, boating, and drinking rum punch and my favorite Belkin beer, it was time to head back to Belize City. Our captain took us through “The Split” and told us how in 1961 Hurricane Hattie cut Caye Caulker in two. Just past The Split, the captain surprised us with a side trip to a cove full of tarpon. The crew passed around sardines to everyone and showed us how to properly feed the massive fish (we’re talking over 100 pounds!). The fish leaped out of the water to catch their afternoon snack. It was a great way to end the day!
Caye Caulker and the coast made me fall even more in love with Belize. I am so glad that I switched things up and went north to Shark and Ray Alley. I will most definitely be back to check out more of what the coast has to offer. Ambergris Caye…I’m coming for you!
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I’ve been to many Maya ruins in the past, including some throughout the country of Belize but Xunantunich is my ultimate favorite. Located in western Belize, about 70 miles from Belize City (where you would pull into if you arrive by cruise ship). The journey from Belize City to San Ignacio, where the ruins are located, will take you about two hours by motorcoach. The bus ride will give you a truly accurate picture of life in Belize. Some may not think it’s the most scenic drive but beauty is in the eye of the beholder. I think it’s gorgeous!
Fun Fact: Belizeans don’t have to pay taxes on their homes if they are not 100% complete. Therefore, many of the homes are left unfinished to avoid having to pay taxes.
Xunantunich Pronounciation
Say it with me shoe-nan-too-nich. Shoe-nan-too-nich. Or… just call it Tuna Sandwich and the locals will totally know what you’re talking about…oddly enough.
Where is Xunantunich located?
This ancient Maya archaeological site is located in western Belize, about 70 miles from Belize City. The journey will take you about two hours by motorcoach.
Xunantunich Map
The physical address is: 40 Park Street, Belize
Once you arrive in San Ignacio you’ll come to the Mopan River where you’ll see the cutest ferry. It’s a hand-cranked ferry! The ferry platform is on a cable and is moved back and forth by a hand-crank. So awesome! After crossing the river, you’ll be in the gorgeous park area. It’s just a short walk to the ancient ruins.
All About Xunantunich
Xunantunich means “Sculpture of Lady” in the Mayan language. The first modern explorations began in the mid-1890s. Since then, archaeologists have excavated the site and uncovered many structures including El Castillo, the second tallest structure in Belize. The site was built during the Classic Period (250 to 900 AD) and is made up of six major plazas and features more than 25 temples and palaces- and counting!
El Castillo, is the main focal point of the site and has been partially restored and is famous for the frieze carvings that cover it. Want to know something even cooler? You can walk in the steps of ancient Belizean’s and climb to the top of this 130-foot tall structure.
This place ain’t Disney World!
Let me just tell you that this climb is not for the faint of heart! It will totally get your heart racing! There are zero safety features installed on the structure, to help preserve it in its original state, and there will be points where you literally have to press your back against the rock and shimmy your way across to make the climb to the top. It is freaky! In fact, many of the people who started the trek up had to turn around because they couldn’t take it.
It is totally scary but totally worth it! Ashley and I somehow summoned up enough courage to climb to the very top and were rewarded with some of the most incredible views! From that vantage point, you could see Belize, Guatemala, and even get a glimpse of Cahal Pech, another ancient ruin I have visited.
Belize-it-or-not this place is still under excavation! Archaeologists have discovered new chambers and structures as recently as 2016 when a burial chamber was discovered! This burial chamber was attached to a large building and held the corpse of a young male (between 20-30 years old), and relics such as knives, jade pearls, ceramic vessels, and animal bones. Totally cool right?
If you ever get a chance to check out Xunantunich, I strongly suggest that you take advantage of the opportunity. This place is definitely an incredible marvel and the perfect glimpse into the ancient past. It requires a lot of courage and exercise to get to the top but it is absolutely incredible. It is one of the best experiences I’ve ever had and worth the anxiety and long bus ride!
Belize is a stunning country situated in the middle of Central America. The country is surrounded by Mexico to the north, Guatemala to the west, and the Caribbean Sea to the east. I have had the opportunity to visit Belize six times now, and each time I fall deeper and deeper in love. Belize is filled with an abundance of adventures just waiting to be had! I have visited the impressive Maya ruins of Cahal Pech and Xunantunich, swum with sharks and rays in Caye Caulker, gone zip lining and repelling in the jungles, and gone cave tubing through an immense cave system.
A Brief History
The site was the home for a super-elite Maya family. Parts of the site date back all the way to 1200 BCE making it one of the oldest, known, Maya sites in Belize. This site is made up of a collection of 34 structures centered around a central acropolis. The largest temple stands about 82 feet high. At the height of the city’s existence, about 15,000 people lived here- a majority of them were farmers working the land surrounding the ruins.
Cahal Pech means “Place of the Ticks” in the Yucatec Maya language. If that doesn’t encourage you to visit, I don’t know what does!
Although archaeologists did some minor digging around, it wasn’t until 1988 that they really began excavating and restoring this remarkable site. The excavation was completed in 2000. Archaeologists have uncovered seven plazas, and over 30 structures including ball courts, temples, a sweat house, and a royal barrier chamber.
The site is made up of a collection of 34 structures centered around a central acropolis. The largest temple stands about 82 feet high. In closing, although Cahal Pech wasn’t nearly as large or impressive as the magnificent Xunantunich, it was still really cool to visit. These ruins are some of the few in which you are actually able to climb the structure, which is pretty stinking cool. It’s a great way to help you envision what life must have been like back then.
Where is Cahal Pech?
Cahal Pech is located in San Ignacio, near the Guatemalan border, about a 2-hour bus ride from Belize City.
My Experience
My adventure actually started by me booking an excursion to nearby Xunantunich. While we were en route, our tour guide “got a phone call” telling him that the ferry that we needed to take to get to Xunantunich was not operating due to flash floods. As an alternative, we would be going to visit Cahal Pech instead.
Secondly, I have to admit that I was pretty bummed that we would be missing out on Xunantunich. I had been wanting to visit there for a couple of years and I was really forward to finally being able to check it out. In fact, I didn’t believe the story about the ferry until I actually rode on it a couple of years later. The ferry across the river to Xunantunich is an old-fashioned hand-cranked ferry. It’s essentially a few planks of wood that are tethered together. Attached to the wood is a podium that has lines that hook up to cables that span the width of the river. An operator uses a hand crank to move the ferry across the river. When I finally saw this setup, I realized that maybe they weren’t bsing us after all.
Exploring the site is like wandering through a maze. There are tons of tunnels and passageways leading to dark rooms. I bet this would be a badass place to play laser tag!
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