Belize

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Stepan Borovec

Chief Private Consultant

"An exotic concoction of tropical waters and verdant jungle, compact Belize is perfect for a short break packed with experiences. The scuba diving is ridiculously good and there’s the white-sand island allure of the Caribbean. Unlike the rest of the Americas, Belize is ideal for anyone short on time. Howler monkeys hoot from the treetops. Islands are connected by intrepid kayaking. Mysterious Mayan history flows from intricate hieroglyphs to dazzling caves, where sacrifices were once made. On a single day you can be rappelling down waterfalls, canoeing underground rivers, learning chocolate making and zip lining past toucans. Regardless of the adventure, the country has a serene atmosphere, so it feels like the Caribbean, even in the heart of the jungle. Just don’t expect any bling. "

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Explore Belize

Belize City is the international gateway and a stepping stone to small islands, as well as the world’s second largest reef. But it’s an ugly and sometimes dangerous place. So get in and get out. Belize neighbours Mexico's Riviera Maya and Guatemala’s Tikal ruins, both of which have airports. On the coast you’ll travel by boat, travelling inland you’ll do trips by 4WD.

Climate & seasons

November to Easter has the driest weather and is peak season, especially for Americans escaping the cold. May and June are horribly humid while July to October are mostly warm and wet.

Where to go

Unless you’re into flea markets and smoking marijuana with rastas while listening to dub reggae, the country’s towns and city have little to offer. Belize is compact so most exploration is done as excursions from your lodge, either on the coast or inland. Cayo Espanto is a classic palm-studded, small private island resort, with only seven private beach houses. Francis Ford Coppola’s new Coral Caye is of similar five-star quality. In general the properties are smaller and not as opulent as elsewhere in the Caribbean. Note that jungle lodges are a little rustic - Costa Rica and Guatemala have better options.

What to do

The exquisite coastline always excites, whether it’s swimming with whale sharks and turtles, diving into the Blue Hole, or rocking in a hammock. Kayaking, snorkeling, sailing - this is the Caribbean and whether you stay on a private island or on the mainland, there’s all the usual activities. Jungle experiences include excellent caving, mountain biking and hiking. You may even spot jaguars out here. Belize has some interesting Mayan ruins but the most impressive are actually in Tikal, 30 minutes across the border in Guatemala.