How do you decide what to suggest when it comes to places to see in a country like Belize? It is very hard especially considering there is so much to do and see in this exotic country. Everyone has their own tastes and enjoys doing different things and Belize is one country that has something for everyone to explore, to enjoy, and to sample. We hope that the information that follows will help you decide what to see during your time in Belize and if nothing else, gives you options for places to see when you come back.

The cayes – or islands – that are located off of the coast of Belize are some of the best places to go scuba diving and snorkeling in the world. Ambergris Caye is the largest one in the country and it is known for all of its water activities. There are plenty of nature activities also available on the caye and it includes a Mayan ruin, Marco Gonzalez, which has been studied by archeologists since 1989. Ambergris Caye was a pirate haunt during the 17th century and there are many ship ruins on the reef that are fun to explore. With plenty of accommodations and restaurants dotted throughout the island, it is its own slice of paradise in the larger Belize community.

While Belize City is no longer the capital of the country – it was destroyed twice by hurricanes and the governmental seat moved – it has the largest population of any district in the country. The city is filled with old fashioned Caribbean charm that is combined with a modern day atmosphere. The Mayan ruin of Altun Ha is located here in addition to numerous wildlife sanctuaries and the Belize Zoo. It is the heart of the countries Creole culture and while there you can enjoy many festivals, celebrations, traditional storytelling and dancing. With street vendors selling a variety of goods and the Belize River wandering through the city offering boat rides, visitors to the city will find themselves with plenty to see and do.

Located in the western part of Belize, the Cayo District covers two thousand square miles of some of the country’s most beautiful landscape and wild attractions. It is the home to two Mayan ruins and plenty of places to hike and explore with flora and fauna that makes this area of Belize attractive to ecotourism. The towns and villages in the Cayo District are filled with an eclectic mix of stores that sell native crafts and art galleries featuring resident artists.

Close to the border of Mexico, the area of Corozal is another popular destination for tourists. It is the fourth largest district in Belize that is located between two rivers and it is filled with places to go snorkeling, fishing, and swimming. It is also the home of numerous Mayan ruins, beautiful street shops and vendors, and overall a quaint seaside town.

The Mayan ruins of Lamanai are some of the most beautiful in the country. Howler monkeys and blooming orchids line the banks of the river approach, which many tourists recommend in order to simply enjoy the beauty of the land. It is believed the ruins were built around 100 BC and the site is rich in artifacts that have given archeologists insight into the lives and times of the Ancient Mayan people. Tours to Lamanai are highly recommended as is a good camera. You will want to take pictures from the top of the ruins where you can see for miles around.