Belize holidays : introduction
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Famous for its barrier reef, steamy jungles and Mayan heritage, Belize is a compact country of extraordinary variety. Roughly the size of Wales, its highlights are easily explored in a two-week trip - but you could go back many times and discover something new. English is the official language (spoken alongside Spanish, Creole and several Mayan languages), and the people are delightfully relaxed.
Gorgeous beaches, small islands and atolls dotted along the Caribbean coast are perfect for romantic getaways, diving and snorkelling. The longest coral reef in the western hemisphere is exceptionally rich in marine life and the Blue Hole, a circular sinkhole formed in the last Ice Age, is considered one of the world’s top ten scuba diving sites.
Inland you’ll find some of the best-preserved jungle and rainforest in Central America. You can explore on foot or by canoe, and in the more mountainous areas there are spectacular caves and rapids. Wildlife includes the elusive jaguar, ocelots, river otters, tapirs, scarlet macaws, hummingbirds and a huge variety of exotic butterflies.
Also hidden in the jungle are the ancient sites of the Maya people, a thriving civilisation that reached its height between 250 and 900AD. The remains of great cities, temples, pyramids and sacred cave complexes are set deep within forest reserves, many dating back thousands of years.
Climate and when to go
High season is January to May, when prices are higher and hotels busier. May to December is the rainy season but the only months to avoid are September/October, when it can rain for several days in a row. Belize does suffer from hurricanes every decade or so, so the risk is small but present from September to November inclusive.
“Our time in Belize was amazing, and never to be forgotten (well, at least until we return)! We'll definitely look to utilize your planning services in the future.” - EM
“A million thanks again for organising a really wonderful trip - you found us four really original and enchanting places, we’ll always remember them.” - Lady C
“Thank you for your part in making it all happen for us in the way we wanted - that is, to learn more about the four countries we visited, to experience their cultures, to marvel at their inheritance from ancient civilisations, to admire their landscapes, to wander the streets of some great cities and to reacquaint ourselves with some Central American wildlife. We have an overriding impression of friendly, welcoming people, helpful drivers and good guides.” - LG
“Just a word to tell you that we had a fab trip and all went according to plan. We loved every bit of it. Thank you again for all your help and for arranging the trip. It was an amazing experience all round.” - NPS
