Traveling to Belize might be quite like opening a most unexpected treasure box. It is most advisable to consider it into your near-future destinations and here is a racconto of just a few reasons why.

Sitting in the heart of Central America, between Mexico, Guatemala and the Caribbean Sea, Belize is home to a vast collection of natural and archaeological monuments. Its concentrated dimensions allow for a breezy journey of rich discovery and many very varied experiences, all within the same trip.

The breathtaking transparent waters of the Caribbean bathe the soft white sand and, beyond it all, lush, rolling forests of unique flora and fauna. Mountain Pine Ridge is the largest protected forest in Belize, and serves as a breathing respite from the hotter tropical lowlands. Waterways and waterfalls meander their ways along a dense pine tree population, complete with caves and gullies that allow for peaceful, mysterious and exciting exploration.

The largest, most intact coral barrier in the Northern Hemisphere rests along Belize´s coastline, as a silent-yet-thriving guardian of wonders. In 1996, Belize’s Barrier Reef was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is esteemed that 90% of the reef still remains unsearched, and therefore only 10% of the inhabiting marine species have been discovered. Among such, there are over 500 species of colorful, breathtaking fish. Belize´s large blue hole is also a sight to marvel at, and for those experienced, an unmissable call for a diving experience.

In fact, diving, snorkeling and forest exploration are thoroughly-displayed opportunities when exploring Belize. Immutable to the concept of mass-tourism developments, Placencia sits between a mangrove-kissed lagoon and the Sea, on a petite land strip that serves as a gateway for both reef diving experiences and jungle exploration. Wildlife observation, hiking and horseback riding find wonderful playgrounds here. For those of a less adventurous spirit (and even for the daring, once the afternoon sets in) this quaint, pastel-colored, peaceful village itself calls for a breezy stroll along the pedestrian-only Main Street, where local delicacies like savory gelato and catch of the day abound.

The vast history of this tiny yet captivating country makes for an attraction on its own. The Maya civilization sprawled across the territory of present-day Belize around 1500 BC and flourished there until about AD 900. The recorded history of the middle and southern regions focused on Caracol, an urban political centre that may have supported over 140,000 people. In the late Classic Era of Maya civilization (600–1000 AD), an estimated 400,000 to 1,000,000 people inhabited the area of present-day Belize. The ancient archaeological sites of Caracol and Xunantunich are Belize’s greatest legacy from the ancient Mayan civilization and stand tall exhibiting its wonders to today´s visitors.

Even the existence of breathtaking Ambergris Caye owes its merit to the ancient Mayas, who in 200 B.C dug the canal which separated it from the Mexican Peninsula. It sits today as the largest island on the reef and -once a small fishing community- it offers a broad variety of activities and easy accessibility. The island´s town, San Pedro, is lively and has a great night scene.

Belize is a destination with an astounding amount of natural beauty and a variety of thrilling experiences that will surpass all expectations for a journey that is both adventurous and relaxing, locally-flavored and luxurious, mysterious and sun-splashed.

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