Greetings from
Belize
There’s no better way to see a country than through the eyes, experiences and tales of the local residents. Home to musicians, artists, entrepreneurs, academics and conservationists, Belize packs a cultural and ecological punch. Here we hear how to delve deeper into the country’s culture and nature, thanks to the insightful recommendations of some of the inspiring people who call this place home.
"This journey is never overwhelming when done with love."
Juan Cho
Juan Cho, Chocolate Ambassador
I'm Juan Cho, a licensed tour guide and operator of Ixcacao Tours. For me, Belize is best experienced with family. From the rainforest jungles to the cacao trees where chocolate begins, every moment shared is priceless. I am proud to be a farmer and tour operator, and I encourage fellow Belizeans to embrace and protect our jewel together with our families. This journey is never overwhelming when done with love.
Experience Belize with your family.
"Speak the rhyme of your soul; through the power of our youths."
Emmeth Young
Emmeth Young, Creole Drum Maker
Gales Point Manatee is one of Belize’s oldest Creole villages, home to the Maroon Creole Drumming School where nature and culture unite. The Creole people proudly share their rich traditions and delicious food with locals and visitors alike. Despite challenges, Belize remains their cherished home. They warmly welcome you to experience their vibrant culture.
"Take your time and enjoy the experience."
Dr. Melissa Badillo
Dr. Melissa Badillo, Institute of Archaeology
A visit to Belize is incomplete without Caracol, the largest archaeological site in the country. Plan to arrive early to enjoy the sights and sounds of the surrounding forest as you make your way to the site. Wear good walking shoes and sunscreen, and bring plenty of water. Be sure to hike to the summit of Caana for breathtaking views over the forest canopy and the majestic ancient Maya city below. Take your time and enjoy the experience.
"Belize isn’t meant to be rushed—it’s meant to be felt."
Jamal Galves
Jamal Galves, Manatee Man/Conservationist
Belize isn’t meant to be rushed—it’s meant to be felt. Sit by the ocean, listen to the birds, talk to locals, savour the cuisine, and immerse yourself in the culture. That’s where true beauty lives. Belize’s real luxury is nature in its purest form: sunrise over the reef, a hammock under stars, and food made with love. When you visit, don’t just see the wild—help protect it. Book eco-friendly tours and respect the creatures who call Belize home. A manatee’s silence speaks volumes if you listen.
"A sanctuary where each animal has a name and a story."
Celso Poot
Celso A. Poot, Ph.D, Wildlife Ecologist
For a one-of-a-kind Belizean adventure, visit the Belize Zoo. It’s not your typical zoo, it’s a second-chance home for Belize’s injured, orphaned, and rescued wildlife. It’s a sanctuary where each animal has a name and a story. It offers a meaningful wildlife experience where kids (and adults!) come face-to-face with Belize’s natural treasures and leave inspired to protect them. Go early, when the animals are most active, and see why Belize is truly wild by nature.
"This unique fusion of art and nature will leave you in awe."
Leisa Carr-Caceres
Leisa Carr-Caceres, Belize Banana Fibers
One of my favourite activities is horseback riding through the jungle, where you can appreciate Belize’s serene habitat filled with birds, orchids, butterflies, mammals, and lush nature. Belizean culture shines through immersive experiences, cuisine, and sustainable handcrafts. At Banana Bank, nestled among gardens, you’ll find an art gallery showcasing Belizean heritage and a banana fibre workshop where artisans transform waste from pseudo-stems into treasures. This unique fusion of art and nature will leave you in awe.
"Go birding with friends."
Roni Martinez
Roni Martinez – Bird Watcher
Go birding with friends! Hire a local birding guide and have your friends tag along. It’s ok if you know zero birds, don’t know how to use binoculars or even identify the species. Birders truly are birds of a feather and will share and teach readily. Understanding birds can teach us a ton about our environment, our past and our future and are intertwined with many customs and beliefs… all while being so colourful and fun!
"Dive sites that promise unforgettable adventures."
Nedia Chaplin
Nedia Chaplin, Dive Instructor
Seeing hammerhead sharks glide through the deep blue was unforgettable, a moment etched in my memory. Witnessing ray turtles and schools of fish in their natural habitat revealed the ocean’s raw beauty and my connection to it. South Water Caye offers stunning diving experiences with vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. Its crystal-clear waters provide exceptional visibility, allowing divers of all levels to fully appreciate the underwater world. These dive sites promise unforgettable adventures.
"An inspiring experience that connects you to nature."
Hubert Gillett
Hubert Gillett - Financial Sustainability Manager
Discover the Calabash Nature Trail at Turneffe Atoll Marine Reserve—a unique blend of marine conservation, ecosystem resilience, and education. As you explore, you'll learn about the rich diversity of plants and animals and see why a holistic approach to conservation matters. It’s an inspiring experience that connects you to nature and the efforts to protect it. When you visit Turneffe you become a part of the conservation movement.
"Turning music into memories."
Ian Yacab
Ian Yacab, Marimba Musician & Cultural Promoter
In the west, the marimba is more than an instrument—it’s the heartbeat of Belizean culture. At the House of Culture in Benque Viejo, young hands learn old rhythms, turning music into memories. This charming community hub preserves tradition through music, stories, and shared experiences. The marimba’s uplifting sound connects elders and youth, celebrating Belizean identity. Visitors join dances, workshops, and storytelling, becoming part of a close-knit community where past, present, and future unite with pride and joy.
"Truly lean into that wanderlust."
Khaila Gentle
Khaila Gentle – Belizean Writer
My advice for experiencing Belize in the best way possible? Go slow, go where the locals go, and go off the beaten path. Some of the most memorable gems are found in the places that you might not hear about as often in the magazines and the travel guides. Take a trip to one of the coastal lagoons. Go camping in Mountain Pine Ridge. Truly lean into that wanderlust.
“Where the vibrations of the drums echo from the seas to the mountains.”
Joshua Arana
Joshua Arana - Drummer
Dangriga is a picture of my heartland, that is beautifully preserved by nature and our ancestors. A people free and vibrant in their hearts and spirit. Where the vibrations of the drums can be heard and felt from the seas to
the mountains. Dangriga is my little diamond in the Belizean jewel. Dangriga welcomes all Belizeans and visitors alike with warmth, a legacy left for us by our ancestors to then nurture, a legacy that embraces all.
