Learn What Lies Beyond the Beaches of Belize

This article was published in partnership with Belize Tourism

The Caribbean Basin is dotted with hot spots. What makes Belize stand out?

We have the world’s second-largest barrier reef, an extensive underground cave system, and an abundance of flora and fauna. Belize is also the only English-speaking country in Central America, but we have a Caribbean flavor due to the rich cultural diversity of our people. Tourists also love San Pedro, Ambergris Caye. When I visit with family and friends, I often go to snorkel at the Hol Chan Marine Reserve and Shark Ray Alley.

Belize offers visitors a chance to “Grab Life.” How do you live that?

I enjoy being active and being surrounded by nature. On the weekends, I get a fishing guide and go on the Sibun River, one of Belize’s major rivers which takes you to various lagoons. I specifically fish for snook and cubera snapper. I also enjoy taking my bike and going for a ride while taking in the scenic beauty of Belize.

Have you braved snorkeling in the Great Big Hole?

Yes, it was a breathtaking experience, and you can also scuba dive the Great Blue Hole. It is actually a collapsed cave system located in the middle of the Caribbean Sea. Snorkelers and divers can observe plenty of sea life there, including hammerhead and tiger sharks. It is also impressive if you choose to do a flyover by helicopter or plane, as you are able to see this transition of blues and greens in the crystal-clear water.

Favorite off-the-beaten-path destination?

Definitely the Maya archaeological site known as Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM). It is an ancient cave that you enter via a short swim then continue by hiking. You hike through a river flowing through the cave and the water is sometimes waist- or chest-deep. It can be strenuous, but I often get a deeply spiritual feeling taking in the ancient wonders and mystery of the cave.

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Nature is the beating heart of Belize’s attractions. How do you keep tourism green?

Having a sustainable tourism master plan is at the core of what I do. I aim to balance development and innovation while preserving the natural and cultural resources. About 40 percent of our entire territory of Belize is under protected status.

Where do you see Belize’s tourism industry in five years?

As the Minister of Tourism, my focus has been improving air connectivity into Belize from the United States, Europe, and Latin America. Currently, we are talking with selected developers to build unique resorts throughout the country. We also believe in being well-prepared for our visitors, so tourism training for our stakeholders is high on our priority list.

Just how diverse is Belize’s climate?

Being a tropical destination, Belize is pleasant year-round. This means you can enjoy a swim or dive at the start of your day and then by the afternoon, you could be immersed at a jungle resort getting spa treatments and having a cocktail. Whether it is a rainy or sunny day, there are many options of things to do in Belize.

Final tips?

Belize is also a bird-watcher’s paradise. There are resorts throughout the country where you wake up, see the mist below, and you can hear howler monkeys that sound like lions roaring. You can also kayak or cave tube in several of our caves and rivers. In addition, there are magnificent ancient Maya temples and archaeological sites throughout the country. Belize has it all for every type of traveler.

For a breakdown of Belize’s top adventures, visit travelbelize.org