Belize is a small country on the eastern edge of Central America, where the Caribbean Sea meets a dense band of tropical forest. Its coastline is the main draw for many visitors, and it fronts a coral reef that runs along much of the shore. The country is also known as British Honduras, a name it carried in the past and which you may still see on older maps and records.
What a visit offers
Belize suits travellers who want to combine time in the water with time among living landscapes. The reef and the Caribbean coast give a base for snorkelling and diving, while inland the country's diverse ecosystems offer a different kind of exploration. The contrast between sea and forest is one of the things that makes a trip here distinctive.
Planning your trip
- Coast: the Caribbean shoreline and the reef are the natural starting point for most visits.
- Interior: the diverse ecosystems away from the sea reward those who want to see more of the country's natural variety.
- Pace: because Belize is small, it is possible to move between coast and interior without long journeys, though you should allow time for travel on local roads.
Belize is a good choice for a visit built around nature, with the reef and coastline at its centre. Check current entry requirements and local conditions before you go, as these can change.
