Belize

This Central American country is bordered to one side by jungle and the other by the stunning Caribbean Sea. It may be small, but it has plenty of adventure, fun, and history to discover, along with plenty of opportunities to chill out and do nothing at all. 

Offshore over 200 pristine, unspoiled cays lie along the coastline as does the Belize Barrier Reef, the second-largest reef system in the world. The reef provides a paradise for scuba divers and snorkelers with its kaleidoscope of corals, fish, sponges, and other intriguing underwater organisms. Swimming with whale sharks is a highlight.

Investigating underwater caves and walls has become a bucket list item for keen divers. The Blue Hole, 100 kilometres off the coast, is believed to be the most massive underwater sinkhole on Earth and draws divers from around the world to its majestical deep-sea address.

Back on land, more adventures eagerly await. The people are friendly and welcoming, no matter what your interest may be. The mysterious ancient civilization, known as Maya, called this region home. Some of the best sites are in the Cayo District and Toledo's Deep South dating back to AD 250-1000. Enormous paths of steps lead to stone temples with astounding views, ancient hieroglyphs, and burial tombs. It's also an area dubbed as 'the cradle of chocolate' cultivated by the ancient Mayans.

There's no shortage of great restaurants, bars, beach-shacks, parties, and nightclubs. Accommodation ranges from 5-star to boutique and backpackers.

The list is endless of what to see and do. The jungle provides a haven for fantastic wildlife from insects like the exceptional cutter ants, to shy jaguars, and brilliant birdlife. Ziplining through the jungle canopy to rappelling down waterfalls and crawling through prehistoric cave systems are some for activities and an adrenaline fix. 

It is one of the most beautiful countries with such a diverse array of options. There's no way we can list all here, unfortunately. If you've only planned a week, we suggest you stay longer.

Best time to visit Belize

Late November to mid-April is the Dry season and is the most popular time with visitors, as are the US school holidays. The Dry season provides divers with almost guaranteed calm, clear waters. The remaining part of the year is the Wet season, and it does mean an increased chance of rain, high humidity, and higher temperatures. April and May are predominantly the hottest and most humid months in Belize. Shoulder seasons such as September and October can offer some good accommodation deals.