This article will cover the best things to do in Belize. We’ll go over the best attractions, sites, ruins and activities that should be on your Belize bucket list. You’ll read a little more about each of these bucket list experiences in Belize.
Belize is a beautiful country! Even if it’s the smallest one in Central America, don’t be fooled, because what it lacks in size, it makes up in adventures and bucket list things to do!
Belize is known for its stunning natural beauty – from the crystal clear waters of the Caribbean to the lush green rainforests, the Maya mountains and the remote atolls, there’s so much beauty packed into one tiny country! It also has a rich history and cultural heritage. It’s a melting pot of cultures that you can experience. There’s so much to do here that no matter how much time you spend planning your Belize itinerary, you’re going to have trouble picking what to do!
Whether you’re interested in exploring ancient Mayan ruins, snorkeling in marine reserves, scuba diving in remote atolls, waterfall rappelling, ziplining or chilling on some of the most beautiful beaches in Central America, this Belize bucket list will cover it all! We’ll be going over all the best things to do in Belize. We’ll dig into the best activities that should be on every traveler’s Belize activities list.
So get ready, because we have an epic list coming for you!
This article may contain affiliate/compensated links. For more information, please see our disclaimer here. We take all the efforts necessary to ensure the information included in this post is accurate, correct and current, sometimes, things just change! Travel information like opening hours, business operations and prices may change. If you find anything in this post that is incorrect or outdated, please let me know in the comments so I can update it for other readers. Cheers!
We love helping you plan amazing trips. If you need any of these services, consider booking them through our affiliate links. Without costing you anything extra, you will be helping support us so we can continue to write these blogs for you.
We thank you again for your continued support.
🏠 Find the perfect place to stay with Booking.com
✈️ Get the cheapest flights with Skyscanner
🚣 Book your favorite activities with Viator
💻 Make sure you have everything you need for your epic trip by checking our store on Amazon
Table of Contents
26 bucket list things to do in Belize
If you’re planning on going to Belize to live an incredible vacation and you’re wondering what the bucket list things to do are, you’re in the right place! We spent an unforgettable time there and got to live so many adventures that we had to share all the best things to do in Belize with you.
Even if we had an amazing 5 weeks in Belize, it wasn’t enough to cover all the bucket list items on a true Belize adventure. This is why we asked our favorite bloggers to help us complete this list of 26 bucket list things to do in Belize.
So without further ado, here are the 26 bucket list things to do in Belize. We’ll be breaking them out by category to make it easier for you to pick and choose what you want to include in your Belize itinerary.
Best adventure activities in Belize
If you’re looking to live unforgettable adventures in Belize, these are the best things you can add to your travel bucket list. They will keep your adrenaline pumping and your heart racing. Belize is a great adventure destination, so go nuts here.
Also, if you’re planning on visiting Belize during the high tourist season, from December to April, make sure you book these activities ahead of time. Some may get booked up early.
1. Snorkel with stingrays and nurse sharks, a bucket list activity in Belize
Contributed by Karen from ForeverKaren.com
For those seeking adventure in Belize, the Caye Caulker stingray excursion offers an unforgettable experience. You can snorkel with nurse sharks and rays, see them feeding, and continue onto Caye Caulker, the perfect place to go slow and chill out.
You can pick up an excursion from Belize City and expect to spend the whole day on this tour. It costs $85 USD for the entire day adventure, which stops in Caye Caulker. Use reef-safe sunscreen or cover up with a long shirt and hat, as the boat trip to the sandbar, takes up to an hour.
While Grand Cayman provides a similar tour, the Belize excursion includes a snorkel at the Belize Barrier Reef, a tarpon feeding, and a chance to have jerk chicken on Caye Caulker. As you approach the sandbar, stingrays will come to the sound of your boat motor. However, nurse sharks are often a bit timid.
Tour operators provide all your snorkel gear, but you may not want the fins since you’ll be standing in four feet of water. Snorkelers can touch the stingrays but are instructed not to touch their tails. You can also feed them squid, which they suction from your hands.
After your encounter with the sharks and rays, you’ll move to another area to snorkel in deep waters over the Belize Barrier Reef.
This Belize bucket list tour checks off a few items:
- Swimming with sharks and stingrays.
- Snorkeling at the Belize Barrier Reef.
- Seeing “The Split” at Caye Caulker.
There are many tour operators in Caye Caulker, Belize City and San Pedro that offer this tour. For animal welfare, we would recommend you find a provider that does not feed the wild animals. This is a better way to keep the animals wild and ensure the eco-system remains as undisturbed as possible.
2. Take a flight over the Great Blue Hole, a must-do in Belize
Contributed by Rosie from FlyingFluskey.com
If you have ever read a travel article about Belize, there is a 99% chance that the accompanying photo is of The Great Blue Hole. This underwater cenote (a collapsed sinkhole). lies within Lighthouse Reef. It is a near-perfect circle at the surface and plummets to 400ft. The depth difference gives this spot a gorgeous dark blue hue which contrasts beautifully with the turquoise shallows of the reef around it.
You can dive the Great Blue Hole – You can read about that experience next. If you’re not certified, undoubtedly, the best way to experience it is to take a flight out to The Great Blue Hole and see if from above.
Tropic Air provides trips out to Lighthouse Reef from Caye Caulker and Ambergris Caye on cute little prop planes. The planes have either 3 or 14 seats and the best part is, everybody gets a window. It takes about 15 minutes to reach the reef and then the pilot takes a few leisurely turns around The Great Blue Hole ensuring everyone gets a fantastic view!
As a bonus, they may show you a shipwreck stranded on the reef and take a nice pass over Caye Caulker before landing. It’s an absolute must-do if you are visiting the Cayes or you can connect with Tropic Air from the mainland. It is a real dream come true.
3. Scuba dive in the Great Blue hole, a scuba diver’s bucket list dive in Belize
Contributed by yours truly at WeDidItOurWay.com
If you’re an avid scuba diver like us, then chances are the Great Blue Hole is one of your bucket list dives, not only in Belize but also in the world. And we can’t blame you. Diving the Great Blue Hole is a very special experience.
We would highly recommend you stay on the Lighthouse Reef atoll, with Huracan Diving Lodge, as you will have an unforgettable scuba diving experience here. Not only will you be the very first boat to arrive at the Great Blue Hole, which in itself is really cool. You’ll also have access to some of the best dive sites on the Belize Barrier Reef all to yourself.
Most people come to dive the Great Blue Hole as their must-do site in Belize and leave disappointed. We won’t hype this activity too much, because we don’t want to set expectations too high. Here’s what you can realistically expect – You won’t see a ton of fish, maybe a few sharks. Instead, you’ll see some amazing stalactites that you can swim between.
The dive is a short one – after all, you’ll be going down to 140 feet. The dive won’t be longer than 30 minutes, but it’s ok because it’s a great experience.
Only the best guides know where these underwater rock formations are, which is why we recommend going with Huracan Diving Lodge. The Great Blue hole is located on the same atoll as this epic dive resort in Belize, and it’s also super close to so many other epic dive sites.
The cost of diving the Blue Hole will vary – if you’re leaving from Caye Caulker or San Pedro, it will set you back about $350 USD for a 3-tank dive. As for staying with Huracan, they have 3 different packages – the 4-night and 7-night packages are the only ones where you’ll be able to dive the Great Blue Hole. Pricing varies between $1,700 and $2500 USD.
4. Snorkeling Laughing bird Caye, a must-do activity in Belize
Contributed by Nikki from SheSavesSheTravels.com
If you’re looking for bucket list activities in Belize, then a trip to Laughing Bird Caye should definitely be on your list. This uninhabited island near the southern part of Placencia, Belize is a must-see.
Laughing Bird Caye National Park was established as a haven for wildlife in 1991. Its name is derived from the Laughing Gulls that used to live on the island. These days you’ll see large birds like Green Heron, Brown Pelicans and Melodious Blackbirds making a home on the island, as well as lots of other marine life and island creatures.
You can take a day trip to the park, about an hour’s boat ride from Placencia. Most tours include snorkeling and lunch. It’s a perfect spot to lay in a hammock by the water or read a book on a beach chair. With swaying, beautiful palm trees and warm water, this is the perfect excursion while on a vacation in Belize. After all, this is one of the nicest beaches in Central America!
Be sure to pack a beach bag of essentials like sunscreen, towel and snacks. There are no services on the island, including running water. This off-the-grid island and national park are a must-see in southern Belize!
5. Scuba dive at Half Moon Caye, a must in Belize for scuba divers
Contributed by yours truly at WeDidItOurWay.com
Another great place to scuba dive in Belize is Half Moon Caye. This is a protected Caye on Lighthouse Reef atoll, which means it has beautiful coral and healthy marine life.
Again, the best place to stay for diving at Half Moon Caye is with Huracan Diving Lodge. The Caye is located about 20 minutes away by boat to the dive lodge. And again, it means you’ll have all the dive sites here to yourself.
If you leave from Caye Caulker or from San Pedro, you’ll be able to dive at 1 or maybe 2 sites on this Caye. Plus, you’ll have to leave super early to get here and back. Whereas if you dive with Huracan, you’ll get a full day on the island, enjoying 3 dives here, as well as eating lunch and spending time exploring the island. A much better option!
The cost of diving at Half Moon Caye will vary – if you’re leaving from Caye Caulker or San Pedro. Departing from here will set you back about $350 USD for a 3-tank dive, with a stop at the Great Blue Hole. As for staying with Huracan, they have 3 different packages, 3-night, 4-night or 7-night packages, and all offer a full day of diving (3 dives) at Half Moon Caye.
6. Snorkel the Belize barrier reef, a bucket list adventure from Caye Caulker
Contributed by Chelsea from AdventuresOfChels.com
For one of the best things to do in Belize, go on a snorkeling day trip from Caye Caulker with Carlos Snorkeling Tours.
The Belize Barrier Reef is second in size next to the Great Barrier Reef in Australia. Like the Great Barrier Reef in Australia, the Belize Barrier Reef has incredible life under the sea that shouldn’t be missed out on! This includes colorful coral, schools of fish, sting rays, turtles, and even sharks!
Carlos Snorkeling Tours in Caye Caulker takes visitors out on a large catamaran for a day of snorkeling among the marine life. The boat makes several stops in various places including Hol Chan, Shark Ray Alley, and Coral Gardens. While there’s of course no guarantee on what sea life may be present at each stop, even just the experience of swimming in the beautiful open Belize ocean is worth the trip!
Book your tour in person at the Carlos Snorkeling Tours shop. You can find it at Playa Asuncion in Caye Caulker. All necessary gear is provided on the tour (which consists of a snorkel mask and fins). Lunch and beverages are also provided on the catamaran.
Pack your reef-safe sunscreen to reapply throughout the day and enjoy your trip with Carlos Snorkeling Tours!
7. Snorkel Hol Chan Marine Reserve, a must-do activity in Belize
Contributed by Stephanie from HistoryFangirl.com
Snorkeling in Hol Chan is a must-do in Belize. The Belize Barrier Reef is the country’s only UNESCO World Heritage Site as well as the second-largest barrier reef system in the world.
There is a great amount of diversity in the barrier reef system. Snorkelers can see sea turtles, rays, morae eels, over a hundred types of coral, and over three hundred species of fish. Bring a GoPro or underwater camera so you don’t miss capturing a few pics of these amazing creatures!
You can visit Hol Chan on a snorkeling tour. Most tours are marketed as tours of Hol Chan and Shark Ray Alley, which will give you the opportunity to snorkel in the reef as well as with nurse sharks. Both spots are spectacular in different ways and make for a great pair of snorkeling locations for a single afternoon.
The price to visit Hol Chan will depend on who you go with and your full itinerary. Reserve your tour ahead of time if you plan to be in Belize during the high season.
Tour groups leave from both San Pedro and Caye Caulker, so you can stay on either island and enjoy this Belize must-see.
8. Hike the trails of Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, a must on your Belize bucket list
Contributed by yours truly at WeDidItOurWay.com
The Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary (CBWS) is a protected area in the Maya Mountains, close to Hopkins and the Bocawina Rainforest Lodge. What sets this sanctuary apart is that it’s home to jaguars, pumas, and other wildlife.
The CBWS should be on your bucket list because by visiting the site, you’ll be promoting sustainable eco-tourism and providing much-needed funding to protect this area and the animals that live here. The entrance fees are of $10 BZD for non-residents, and the sanctuary is open from 8 am-4:30 pm.
While on the site, you can hike the many trails – the most popular being Tiger Fern Trail, which gives you an epic view at the summit. You can also go river tubing down the South Stann Creek River. You can also check out the waterfalls in the Sanctuary, the Tiger Fern’s Double waterfall and Ben’s Bluff waterfall, where you can swim.
The Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary is also a great place to go birding. You can spot plenty of beautiful birds while you’re here, so make sure you bring your binoculars so you don’t miss out on the action.
9. Slide down Belize’s longest zipline at Bocawina, a unique experience in Belize
Contributed by yours truly at WeDidItOurWay.com
If you’re looking to get your heart pumping and the adrenaline rushing, then add this activity to your musts in Belize!
Located in the Mayflower Bocawina Rainforest Park, and booked through the Bocawina Rainforest Lodge, you have the opportunity to fly along the longest zipline in Belize. It’s part of the 14 platforms and 9 zipline course. It will take you about 2 hours to complete the whole course.
Aptly named the ‘Fast and the Furious’, this 2,300-foot long ride reaches speeds of 70 miles per hour. On this course, you’ll pass over 2 miles of jungle. It’s such a fun and unique experience that you can only live in Belize.
We got to experience this bucket list activity while on a week-long adventure in Belize with Island Expeditions. However, if your travel plans don’t allow you to book that unique experience, you can book the ziplining directly with the Bocawina Rainforest Lodge. Packages start at $75 USD and vary depending on the activities you choose.
10. Cave tubing at Nohoch Che’en Caves Branch Archaeological Reserve
Contributed by Kylie from BetweenEnglandAndEverywhere.com
A great bucket list activity to do in Belize is cave tubing. Cave tubing tours take place at the Nohoch Che’en Caves Branch Archaeological Reserve, approximately 1 hour from both Belize City and San Ignacio. The caves were created over thousands of years by the Caves Branch River which cuts through the limestone rocks. Belize is said to have the largest cave system in Central America.
Cave tubing tours start with a 20-minute hike through the rainforest. The guides share their knowledge of various fruits, plants and animals that are native to the forest. Visitors need to be able to carry their own tube for the duration of the hike.
The cave float lasts approximately 90 minutes. The caves are dark but everyone must wear a helmet with a head torch. The guide points out stalactites as well as Mayan cave paintings. The area was used for important Mayan rituals and the paintings depict different myths and stories.
Visitors can drive themselves to the site, self-drive cave tubing tours are around $60 USD per person. But a popular way is to book a tour that offers pick-ups from all over Belize. It can also be combined with zip lining, ATV riding or a trip to Altun Ha Mayan ruins. These tours cost more as a guide drives visitors between locations.
11. Kayak at Glover’s Reef, a must-do activity in Belize
Contributed by yours truly at WeDidItOurWay.com
Glover’s Reef is one of the furthest atolls to reach in Belize. Located about 1.5 to 2 hours away from Dangriga, this island paradise is home to some beautiful reefs and also to some epic kayaking locations.
We visited Glover’s Reef while on a week-long adventure with Island Expeditions. It was such a unique experience sleeping in their canvas tents on the beach, and waking up to new adventures every day.
One of the best things to do on Glover’s Reef is to go kayaking or paddle boarding. We kayaked to some epic coral reefs, but also to an amazing sunset location. The possibilities are endless with Island Expeditions, and with kayaking around Glover’s reef.
The best way to do this activity in Belize is with Island Expeditions. They will ensure you get here safely and have a great time! Prices for their packages vary. Make sure you check out our link and use our promo code to get $100 USD off their popular package going to Glover’s Reef.
12. Rappel down a waterfall, a unique experience in Belize
Contributed by yours truly at WeDidItOurWay.com
If it wasn’t clear enough that Island Expeditions offer amazing adventure packages in Belize, we don’t know how to get this across any clearer. While we were staying at the Bocawina Rainforest Lodge, we were able to experience another great activity – Rappelling down a waterfall.
But as the expression says, ‘What goes down, must first go up’… or something like that. To start the day off, we hiked up to the top of Antelope Waterfall. We got to cool down in one of the natural pools and enjoy the view. Once that relaxing part of the experience was done, it was time to put our harnesses on and start going down the 100-foot waterfall. It was an unforgettable experience in Belize!
If you want to take this activity to the extreme, you can also book a full-day waterfall rappelling activity and go down a whopping 250 feet!
We would recommend you book a week of adventures with Island Expeditions if your Belize itinerary allows it. If not, you can book the day package independently, directly with Bocawina Rainforest Lodge. Either way, this is a unique bucket list adventure in Belize that is worth doing!
13. Explore the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve, a must-do in Belize
Contributed by yours truly at WeDidItOurWay.com
The Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve is an incredible place to visit in Belize. Located near San Ignacio, it’s a must on your Belize itinerary. It’s home to caves, waterfalls, hiking trails, natural pools and so much more. In fact, if you want to visit Caracol, you’ll need to go through the Mountain Pine Ridge Reserve. This is why so many people make a day trip out of this, visiting the ruins in the morning and the Forest Reserve in the afternoon.
Our favorite things to do in the Mountain Pine Ridge Reserve were to visit the Rio Frio Cave, hang out at the Rio On Pools and swim beneath the Big Rocks waterfall. Here’s everything you need to know about these three places to help make the best of your time at the Forest Reserve.
The Rio Frio Cave is this huge cave located deep within the Mountain Pine Ridge Reserve. The opening is enormous, and the cavity inside is just as impressive, with plenty of cool rock formations like stalactites and stalagmites. There is a river that runs through the cave, which is higher in the rainy season. The cave used to be home to Mayan ceremonies, but all the artifacts that were found here were moved out, so today, you only have this huge cave to admire.
The Rio On Pools are these huge rock pools that are fed by a waterfall. They are the perfect place to bring lunch, drinks and snacks. On weekends, the locals come here to enjoy the sun and the heat with some refreshing water nearby. People claim a rock pool and turn it into their own private watering hole. On weekdays, the Rio On Pools are quieter, and you can enjoy your time exploring different rock pools. The amenities here are limited, so you need to bring everything with you, as well as take them back home!
Finally, you have the big Rocks waterfall. This waterfall is probably the most famous one in Belize. It’s a thunderous 53-foot waterfall, with a few rock pools beneath it where you can swim and cool down. The waterfall is a bit of a trek to get to – you need to hike down steep steps that are a bit precarious. The whole hike will take about 10-15 minutes, but it’s totally worth it. Once you get to the waterfall, you can place your items on the rocks nearby and hang out. Again, there aren’t any amenities around the waterfall, so bring your water and snacks with you (and don’t forget to take your trash back home).
There are also a ton of hikes to do in the Mountain Pine Ridge Reserve, plus camping sites, and more natural wonders. It’s no surprise it’s on our list of epic things to do in Belize.
14. Swim in the Inland Blue Hole, a hidden gem in Belize
Contributed by Sally from SallySees.com
The Great Blue Hole might get all the attention in Belize, but tucked away in the lush interior of the country is the Inland Blue Hole, a hidden gem to include in your Belize itinerary. It’s a jungle swimming hole that is just as breathtaking as the famous Blue Hole!
Located inside St. Herman’s Blue Hole National Park, at the northern end of the Hummingbird Highway, just 30 minutes from Belmopan. This freshwater pool is fed by an underground river system, technically making it an open-air cenote. The pool has a distinct blue tone and is up to 8 meters (25 feet) deep in parts. The water is cool, but it’s the perfect place for a refreshing dip in the steamy Belizean jungle!
The national park is open 7 days a week from 8:00 am – 4:30 pm, and entry is $8 BZD for foreigners and $2 BZD for locals. Any bus traveling between Belmopan and Dangriga on the Hummingbird Highway will drop you at the entrance. But it is suggested to visit with your own rental car, so you can combine your visit with other attractions along the Hummingbird Highway.
St. Herman’s Cave, one of the only caves in the country you can explore without a guide, is also inside the national park and your entry ticket is valid for both sites. The Hummingbird Highway has a host of other attractions, including the Billy Barquedier National Park, with a beautiful waterfall. It’s worth spending a few days in the region, and there are some fantastic jungle-style accommodations and local food options along the highway too.
Best ruins in Belize
15. Visit the Mayan Ruins of Xunantunich, must-see ruins in Belize
Contributed by yours truly at WeDidItOurWay.com
The most famous ruins in Belize, Xunantunich, are also probably the most accessible from the adventure capital of the country – San Ignacio. Most people who visit include a stop in San Ignacio on their Belize Itinerary, for the simple reason that there are so many bucket list adventures to be had here.
One of the best things to do in San Ignacio (and Belize) is to visit the Xunantunich ruins. This ancient Mayan archeological site is located on a natural limestone ridge, which gives you a pretty epic look at the surrounding area, all the way to Guatemala. It used to be occupied by Mayans from the 7th century AD, until the arrival of the Spanish in the 16th century.
Xunantunich is famous for 2 things – first, the hand-cranked barge you have to take to cross the bridge. Although it’s a short ride, it’s quite memorable. The next is the 40-meter (130 feet) tall temple structure called El Castillo. Although Xunantunich’s temple isn’t as tall as Caracol, it’s the most impressive one you’ll see – as Caracol is quite a trek to get to. Although it is highly advisable you try to make it there.
The Xunantunich ruins are open daily from 8 am to 5 pm and the entrance fee is $10 BZD for foreigners. It’s easy to get to, so make sure you cross this amazing ruin off your Belize bucket list.
16. Visit Altun Ha, unmissable ruins in Belize
Contributed by Chantelle from FlannelsorFlipFlops.com
With its unique history and picturesque setting, Altun Ha is a must-see in Belize for anyone looking for an unforgettable vacation experience.
Altun Ha is an ancient Mayan city in northern Belize that dates back to 250 BC. This archaeological site was once home to up to 10,000 people living in several plazas surrounded by smaller homes and temples. The stone structures that have survived over the ages are truly spectacular and offer visitors a glimpse into the past.
Altun Ha is where the largest jade artifact in the world was found, and one of the most well-preserved Mayan ruin sites. The jade head is now tucked away in the vaults of Belize’s largest bank – because it’s so rare, it barely ever makes a public appearance.
At Altun Ha, you can explore the beautiful temples and plazas as well as take guided tours of the site from knowledgeable tour guides. It’s also possible to climb some of the pyramids with permission from your guide or purchase souvenirs from local vendors at the ruins’ entrance.
The easiest way to visit Altun Ha is via tour (either on your own or with a group). Tours typically depart from San Pedro or Belize City and will include transportation, entry fees, lunch, snacks, and a knowledgeable guide who can tell you all about the history of this ancient Mayan city.
Altun Ha can also be explored on your own, although having a guide is the best way to learn the history of the Mayan civilization. You can visit Altun Ha every day from 8 am to 5 pm, and the cost is $10 BZD, which is about $5 USD. Altun Ha is a must on your Belize itinerary.
17. Caracol Mayan Ruins, a bucket list place to see in Belize
Contributed by Brandon from ZimminAroundTheWorld.com
In the Cayo District of Belize, surrounded by dense jungle lie the ancient Mayan ruins of Caracol. Caracol is considered to be the largest Mayan site discovered in Belize and to this day, only a small percentage of the ruins have been uncovered. Caracol is home to “Caana” which is the largest structure in the park and is the tallest structure in all of Belize. During its prime, Caracol had a population of 150,000 people.
Caracol is a must when visiting Belize but it can be an adventure getting here. A guided tour is recommended and tours can be found online or through companies in the town of San Ignacio. The ruins are only 25 kilometers from San Ignacio but driving to Caracol can take upwards of two hours or more. The roads in the area are in poor condition, so having an offroad vehicle is a must.
Once at Caracol, it’s easy to spend an entire day at the ruins alone. Visitors can walk up the ancient steps of Caana, explore other ruins within the park, and view wildlife. Caracol is open daily from 8:00 am until 5:00 pm, for safety reasons visitors must leave the park on time.
A trip to visit the famous ruins at Caracol is an all-day adventure. Generally, the tours will include side trips along the way like the Rio On Pools and Rio Frio Cave.
18. Explore the Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM) Cave, one of the best things to do in Belize
Contributed by yours truly at WeDidItOurWay.com
No trip to Belize would be complete without visiting the ATM caves. The Actun Tunichil Muknal cave, known as the ATM cave, is located in the Tapir Mountain Nature Reserve, a roughly 45-minute drive from San Ignacio. The ATM Caves are a definite bucket list activity in Belize. But please note that a visit here is quite physically active and strenuous, so you must be in good physical shape to participate.
This is an all-day activity that you can only do on a guided tour. You start at 8 am and return around 4:30 pm, maybe earlier, depending on how able your group is. This includes the 1.5-hour drive and about 1 hour for lunch and other stops. Any tour you go on should include the transport in their pricing (as well as a guide and lunch). They will pick you up at your accommodations and take you to the cave and back. Please make sure this is the case with the tour you book. The cost of the tour is between $100-125 USD.
This tour will make you feel like Indiana Jones exploring these archaeological caves. You’ll be hiking through the forest, wading in water that is chest deep, climbing on rocks, scaling ladders, and going through very tight squeezes. You’ll see human remains (skeletons) that date back to Mayan times, as the cave was used as a ceremonial site. The guides will point out any cool things to see, and talk about the rituals that happened here and their significance in history.
A few extra notes about visiting the ATM caves:
- If you have water shoes, they will make the tour more enjoyable.
- You’ll also need to bring a pair of socks to wear when you’re walking in the upper chambers of the cave.
- You won’t be allowed to bring anything in the cave, so you’ll need to keep that in mind. All water bottles and snacks are left outside. Also, you’re not allowed to bring any cameras into the cave as a few people have dropped them and damaged the remains.
- Have a big breakfast or snack before entering the cave. The lunch your tour will include probably won’t happen until 1:30 – 2:30 pm (depending on how the group progresses), and you don’t want to get hangry – Carine learned this the hard way!
The whole trip is an amazing highlight if you spend any time in San Ignacio. It’s no wonder that the ATM cave is on our list of the best places to visit in Belize. It’s really a must on any Belize itinerary.
19. Kayak the Barton Creek Cave, a must-do activity in Belize
Contributed by yours truly at WeDidItOurWay.com
Another great archeological site to explore in Belize is the Barton Creek Cave. Located close to San Ignacio, it’s a more relaxed and quiet alternative to the ATM Cave, if your physical abilities don’t allow you to visit the latter.
The Barton Creek Cave is an 8-mile-long cave system that contains many Mayan artifacts, human remains and very beautiful rock formations. The only way to visit the cave is by kayak or canoe where only one person will be navigating. You must visit with an approved tour guide.
During the tour, you’ll learn about all the history of the cave and the things they found in it. Some of the artifacts are over 1,000 years old as the cave used to be a ceremonial and burial site for the Mayan elite. You’ll also be able to admire the beautiful stalactites, stalagmites and calcium formations.
The tour itself only takes about 1-1.5 hours, but it’s so worth it. If you can’t do the ATM Cave, this activity is a great replacement.
20. Check out Cahal Pech ruins, the oldest Mayan ruins in Belize
Contributed by yours truly at WeDidItOurWay.com
Cahal Pech is a great ruin to add to your Belize bucket list. These ruins are located in the heart of San Ignacio, making them very easy to get to. The reason this archeological site should be on your list is that it’s one of the oldest sites in Belize as well as being one of the longest continuously inhabited. It was inhabited from approximately 250-900 AD and for 1,000 years. It is believed to have been an important ceremonial center and elite residential area.
The whole site covers an area of 2 acres and contains about 34 structures – temples, palaces, residences, a ball court, a central plaza and a few terraces. You can still see some of the carvings and structures that were created way back when this site was thriving during Mayan times. It is estimated that the earliest structure dates back to 1,200 BC
The site is open from 8 am to 5 pm. The best time to visit is either at opening or close to closing as the sun is not so strong. The entrance cost is $10 BZD for non-residents and $5 for locals. It also grants you access to the small museum they have on site.
Best relaxing and cultural things to do in Belize
Although there is a lot of adventures to be had in Belize, there is also a more chill side to this country. There are plenty of places in Belize to visit where you can relax, enjoy the beaches and get more cultural insight into this melting pot of cultures, people and history.
Here are some of the best things to do in Belize where you can enjoy the surroundings, whether the beaches, the animals or the birds. It also includes some places where you can experience some of the other cultures that make up Belize’s rich history.
21. Chill out on Half Moon Caye Beach, one of the best beaches in Belize
Contributed by yours truly at WeDidItOurWay.com
Half Moon Caye is a remote island located on Lighthouse Reef. It has a beach with crystal-clear water. Although most people come to Half Moon Caye for scuba diving, there is so much to do here… or nothing at all, depending on how you want to spend your time.
Day trips are available to Half Moon Caye. The best way to book the trip is to see the scuba shops and charter boats that leave San Pedro or Caye Caulker. They are your best bet for getting to Half Moon Caye. Another option is to go with Huracan Dive Lodge, where they have 3, 4 or 7-day scuba diving trips available.
If you’re not into scuba diving, Half Moon Caye is also perfect for snorkeling. And if water sports are not your thing at all, you have a few beautiful beaches where you can hang out on the protected island. You can also explore the many trails, the main one leading to the observation tower where you can observe the red-footed boobies, an endangered bird that comes to nest on Half Moon Caye and raises their chicks here.
Day trips to Half Moon Caye will include transport, as well as lunch on the island. However, make sure you inquire with the shop you choose to make sure you know exactly what you’re getting.
22. Go slow on Caye Caulker, a gem to visit in Belize
Contributed by yours truly at WeDidItOurWay.com
Caye Caulker is a small island located just 45-60 minutes away from Belize City by ferry. This 8-mile-long island may not seem like much on maps, but it’s a great place to visit in Belize. With a motto like Go Slow, you can only imagine what the best things to do in Caye Caulker are!
Let’s set up Caye Caulker for you – it’s an island where there are no cars. The roads are all dirt patches. Most people here are backpackers. Plenty of people walk around barefoot. The best way to get around is by walking or by bike. The whole island is surrounded by blue waters. Not a bad scene, right?
This laid-back island has a few sandy beaches where you can go hammock surfing and enjoy a chilled drink. There are also plenty of beach bars where you can drink while hanging in the water, like the Lazy Lizard and the Sip N Dip. If you’re looking to get away from the crowds, head to the North Island, at Koko King Beach Club (or northside beach). It’s also the perfect place to see the sunset on one of the nicest beaches in Central America.
Because of its location, Caye Caulker is also the perfect place to learn or practice wind sports like windsurfing, kiteboarding and more. But don’t feel obliged to do any of these things. Take your time, walk around the island, try the local delicacies (lobster, freshly caught fish, shrimp and more) and just chill out.
23. Chill out at the overwater bungalows at Tobacco Caye Beach, one of the best things to do in Belize
Contributed by yours truly at WeDidItOurWay.com
Located off the beaten path in Belize, Tobacco Caye is a little paradise island. to get here, you need to take a boat from Dangriga. The 30-minute ride is not too bad (depending on the weather) but the paradise you get to is totally worth the ride!
You know when you see postcards from Belize, they always show these colorful overwater bungalows that are surrounded by blue waters. Well, that’s Tobacco Caye Paradise! Owned and operated by Island Expeditions, these little cabanas are the place to stay on Tobacco Caye.
There’s not much to do on the island. For those looking to relax, you can go hammock surfing, read a book, enjoy a cold drink, watch the sunrise and sunset. If you want to get more active, you can kayak around the island, paddleboard, go snorkeling or go scuba diving. It’s such a great place to take it easy!
The best way to get to Tobacco Caye is with Island Expeditions. They offer all inclusive getaways, and also include Tobacco Caye as part of their adventure packages. You can read about our one-week of adventures with Island Expeditions here, and get your discount code to book your trip with them.
24. Birdwatching, one of the best activities in Belize
Contributed by yours truly at WeDidItOurWay.com
For those who love to go birding, Belize is going to be a bird-watching paradise for you! Home to more than 570 species of birds, Belize is easily one of the best destinations in Central America for birdwatching enthusiasts.
From national parks to reserves, your opportunities to see all sorts of species of birds are plentiful. The best places to see the birds are in the lush rainforest environment more than on the islands and cayes. Head to the Mayflower Bocawina National Park, The Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, and even some of the ruins like Xunantunich and Caracol are not only great places in Belize but also premier spots for birdwatching.
Some of the birds you can see are the famous keel-billed toucan, blue-crowned motmot, great kiskadee, social flycatcher, red-legged honeycreeper, yellow-throated euphonia, montezuma oropendola or the scarlet macaw, just to name a few.
The best way to appreciate the birds and properly identify them is by going on a tour with a local guide. They know their birds really well and know where to spot them. If not, you can also download an app like Merlin which has modules for the different countries you visit. The app can even identify birds by their song. Also, don’t forget your binoculars, so you can get a great view of the birds!
For birdwatching and wildlife photography enthusiasts, the rainforests of Belize are one of the best places in Central America to enjoy wildlife!
25. Experience Garifuna culture, a must in Belize
Contributed by Daria from TheDiscoveryNut.com
Learning about the Garífuna culture is one of the best things to do in Belize, if you want to better understand the country’s identity. While Belize is a true melting pot of cultures with Mestizos, Maya and Mennonites calling the country home, one culture that particularly stands out is Garifuna.
The Garifuna people came to the southern coast of Belize in the 19th century after they were exiled from British colonies in St. Vincent in the Eastern Caribbean. The first Garifuna communities in Belize settled along the country’s southern Caribbean coast, and have stayed there ever since.
Today, you can find most Garifuna people in Belize in Hopkins, Placencia, and Punta Gorda, the largest town in southern Belize. Placencia is one of the most popular towns with the Garifuna population that boasts some of the best beaches in Belize.
Garifuna is an Afro-Caribbean language that is a mix of indigenous Caribbean languages and West African languages. The Garifuna people make up about 4% of the Belize population.
The best way to learn about it is by taking one of Garifuna’s drumming classes, shopping Garifuna art from local vendors, and trying traditional Garifuna dishes in the area’s restaurants. You can also take a tour of local Garifuna communities to learn about their culture.
26. Enjoy chocolate making in Hopkins
Contributed by yours truly at WeDidItOurWay.com
Chocolate, or more specifically, cacao, has been a major part of the culture in Belize, dating back to Mayan times. Hopkins is one of the best places in Belize to experience chocolate making, by visiting a cacao farm and taking a chocolate-making lesson.
Hopkins is a coastal town located between Dangriga and Placencia. It’s typically a quiet beach town with laid-back vibes. It’s one of the best places to visit in Belize if you’re looking for a beach getaway. It’s also home to a large Garifuna community where their culture and traditions still thrive! Part of that culture is chocolate-making – they still use traditional tools and techniques to make this delicious treat.
During our week-long trip with Island Expeditions, we got to experience chocolate making. The tour started with a visit to the organic cacao farm where we learned about the plant and how it is harvested. We also got to taste the cacao beans fresh – fun fact, they taste nothing like chocolate, but rather more like a mix of mango and lychee.
Then, we checked out the workshop where they make the chocolate. We didn’t get to see the full process as that involves fermenting the beans for several days, drying and roasting them. We did get to taste the beans at different stages – dried, roasted and then ground into a paste. This is what 100% cacao tastes like – good, but very bitter! We got to turn the cacao nibs into a paste, mix it in with cacao butter and sugar to turn it into a more flavorful and sweet chocolate.
The whole tour took about 1-1.5 hours. It ended in the shop with us buying plenty of delicious chocolate to take home!
If you’re a fan of chocolate and curious about the full process, this is a great way to spend an hour learning about this traditional artisan craft. Plus, you get to enjoy cacao in many forms, but mainly as the delicious chocolate we know and love today!
The 26 best things to do on your Belize bucket list
Here are the best things to do in Belize. These are the bucket list activities, amazing places to visit or unmissable attractions that should be on your Belize itinerary. A huge thanks to all the bloggers who participated in completing the list for us!
- Snorkel with stingrays and nurse sharks
- Fly over the Great Blue Hole
- Scuba dive in the Great Blue hole
- Snorkel at Laughing Bird Caye
- Snorkel the Belize barrier reef
- Scuba dive at Half Moon Caye
- Snorkel the Hol Chan Marine Reserve
- Hike the trails of Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary
- Fly down Belize’s longest zipline at Bocawina
- Cave tubing at Nohoch Che’en Caves Branch Archaeological Reserve
- Kayak at Glover’s Reef
- Rappel down a waterfall
- Explore the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve
- Swim in the Inland Blue Hole
- Visit the Mayan Ruins of Xunantunich
- Visit Altun Ha
- Explore the Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM) Cave
- Check out Caracol Mayan Ruins
- Kayak down the Barton Creek Cave
- Explore the Ruins of Cahal Pech
- Chill out on Half Moon Caye Beach
- Go slow on Caye Caulker
- Chill out at the overwater bungalows at Tobacco Caye
- Birdwatching in Belize’s rainforests
- Experience Garifuna culture
- Enjoy chocolate making in Hopkins
Let us know in the comments if we missed any bucket list things to do in Belize. What activities are you most excited to do here? Also, if you need any more info about them, let us know and we’ll update the blog!
Thank you so much for reading the article all the way through!
We put a lot of time and effort into the content we create. Please like, comment and share – every action on your part helps us out tremendously and is very appreciated.
You can also help us by pinning this article for others to find.
0 Comments