Belize

Sandwiched between Mexico, Guatemala and the shimmering Caribbean Sea, Belize occupies a slice of paradise that is packed with culture, wildlife and a wondrous selection of historical sites. Much of the mainland remains swathed in jungle, where the vestiges of ancient cities punctuate verdant forest canopies. Caracol is the most famous. Its crumbling temples and stone pyramids stand as powerful reminders of the Maya civilisation.

The history is fascinating for sure, but most people visit Belize to see its natural wonders and admirable conservation work; the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary was the first jaguar sanctuary in the world; the island of Half Moon Caye has been entirely dedicated to the conservation of birds; and the protected Belize Barrier Reef harbours an incredible array of marine life. Visitors can swim with sharks and stingrays along colourful walls of coral, or explore the Blue Hole, renowned as one of the world’s best dive sites. Numbering fewer than 335,000, Belizeans have surprisingly diverse roots: the country is a melting pot of Creole, Garifuna, Mestizo, Spanish, Maya, English, Mennonite, Lebanese, Chinese and East Indian heritage. Racial harmony, religious tolerance and a relatively peaceful political culture, have allowed these different elements to blend successfully and have given Belize a reputation as a friendly, laidback destination.

Belize’s towns and cities are small and, on the whole, pleasantly unexciting. San Ignacio is a charming enough stop-off for those disappearing into the jungle and Punta Gorda offers insightful home stays with some of the country’s last remaining indigenous communities. The somewhat bland capital, Belmopan, however, is hardly worth going out your way for and bustling Belize City, though energetic and ruggedly charming, is used largely as a gateway to the islands. And what exquisite islands they are. Caye Caulker, Ambergris Caye, Cayo Espanto (to name a few) are everything you expect from the Caribbean and more; swaying palms, pellucid waters, sandy shores, ramshackle beach bars and charming restaurants. All that’s missing are the crowds. Go figure.

Things to see and do...

Caracol Ruins

The archaeological site of Caracol is one of Belize’s remarkably well-preserved Mayan sites. This one is noteworthy because of transport there: due to its proximity to the Guatemalan border, it is strongly advised to travel there in police convoy, flying over the bumpy terrain, for tourist safety.

Actun Tunichil Muknal Cave

A short drive from San Ignacio, visiting Actun Tunichil Muknal Cave is a full day of jungle hiking followed by wading, swimming and climbing through a vast ancient cave used by the Mayans for sacrifice to the gods. This trip is not for the claustrophobic or faint-hearted, but it is possibly the best thing to do in Belize.

Ancient ruins

Wander through the exquisitely carved Xunantunich ruins, considered some of the most beautiful and intricate in the Mayan world. The ruins date from AD200 to 900 and are found close to the Guatemalan border.

Blue Hole

Plummet into the depths of the Blue Hole: the startlingly vivid blue sinkhole measures 300m (1,000ft) across and over 120m (400ft) deep and is considered one of the best dive sites in the world. Take plenty of water and cover for your head – the boat trip out there is a long one.

Caye Caulker

The cayes off the coast are the reason most people visit Belize, and Caye Caulker is the quiet, laid-back one. Windsurfing or kite-surfing here is magic: the water is so clear beneath, it may be possible to spot fish, stingrays and even dolphins. The best wind conditions usually occur from February to June.

Explore the Cayes

Belize’s most popular spot, Ambergris is the place to go for diving and snorkelling. The reefs and diving spots here are world class. It also has the most nightlife in the country and excellent seafood. The main town here is San Pedro, made famous in Madonna’s ‘La Isla Bonita’.