2023-12-07 07:00:00
Belize is probably one of the best kept secrets in Central America and the Caribbean. Perhaps because it is the only English-speaking country in that region or because it is surrounded by exceptional tourist destinations in Mexico and Guatemala, it has been a little out of the spotlight of South American tourism, but instead, within those of North Americans and Europeans who see a territory with multiple contrasts and attractions.
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Belize is undoubtedly an excellent and if you want a new destination that has the advantage of offering less massive and very natural tourism in which almost everything is to be discovered.
And for an area that does not reach 23 thousand square kilometers, Belize combines countless attractions ranging from white sand beaches and crystal clear waters to important archaeological sites from the time of the Mayans; passing through the kingdom of jaguars in the middle of dense jungles crisscrossed by mountains, rivers and caves, or the barrier reef area that is part of the great Mesoamerican reef – the second largest in the world behind the Australian barrier -, and which is home to some of the most spectacular spots in the world for diving or snorkeling.
An exceptional mix of worlds, sensations and adventures that is mixed with the warmth and naturalness of its inhabitants, of Mayan, European and African origin, and their mestizo mixtures, of course. Just over 400 thousand inhabitants who in different phases of their history have gone through the Mayan culture, the Spanish conquest, the British colonization and independence (1981), which makes Belize a melting pot of cultures, feelings and flavors.
Belize is undoubtedly an excellent and if you want new destination that has the advantage of offering a less massive and very natural tourism in which almost everything is to be discovered. Here are some of the must-sees of this beautiful and unknown country, which undoubtedly has its advantages.
The Great Blue Hole
Flying over the famous ‘Blue hole’ is one of the experiences that leaves you breathless. It is an atoll of around 318 meters in diameter and 124 meters deep that is reached from the airport on the island of San Pedro, which has become famous because the legend says it inspired Madonna’s famous song The Beautiful Island.
The small plane makes several circular overflights that allow you to appreciate one of the most impressive places in the Caribbean. It is one of the favorite places for expert and amateur divers to do deep dives. It is an unforgettable sight.
Hol Chan Marine Reserve
A few minutes by boat from San Pedro is this area of coral reefs and seagrass beds where you can swim among nurse sharks, manta rays and colorful fish and then enjoy a beautiful sunset.
The Xunantunich archaeological site is one of the easiest to access in Belize
Xunantunich, Mayan archaeological site
Less than a kilometer from the border with Guatemala, on one of the banks of the Mopán River, this spectacular archaeological site stands as the ceremonial center of the Mayan culture. It is reached by crossing the river on a small ferry and then walking a few minutes in the mountains. The most emblematic construction is El Castillo, which reaches 40 meters. Without congestion of tourists and transport, you can enjoy without worries.
In the Sant Herman park you can visit caves and tour them by tubbing.
Photo:
Eduard Soto / EL TIEMPO
Parque Natural Sant Herman
It is the ideal place to visit caves through tubbing, that is, floats through which you enter the depths of the mountain that reveal a large stone dome with stalactites and stalagmites, harmless fruit bats and a water source. In some corners of the cave, Mayan vessels and arrows have been found.
In the fishing village of Hopkins you can also enjoy exclusive resort hotels.
Photo:
Eduard Soto / EL TIEMPO
Hopkins
The fishing village with crystal clear and calm waters, with wooden houses and palm trees can be enjoyed from some resorts that offer all the comforts of contemporary tourism, perfect for families. Some of the best dishes of Belizean Caribbean cuisine and international food can be tasted in this spa.
The culture and its people
The Mayan culture is very present in Belize, like this one, the community of women from San Antonio, who fights to preserve their traditions, customs and language.
Photo:
Eduard Soto / EL TIEMPO
The Mayan past is evident. The group of Women of San Antonio fight to rescue their traditions from gastronomy, ancient pottery methods and the teaching of their language. A visit to that community is to take a deep look at the origins of the country. Then, a visit to Ajaw to learn the secrets of Mayan chocolate completes the day.
And on the sides of Hopkins you will find the Garífuna, a culture descended from Afro-indigenous peoples who, with their dances, their drumming (rhythms of jogo jogo, parranda and punta) and their gastronomy, fight to maintain their tradition. One day with them is enough to help prepare ‘Che chac’, a traditional fish and coconut soup that makes their kitchen proud.
Key data
How to get. From Panama there is a flight every Friday by Copa. Soon a new itinerary will depart on Tuesdays.
Language: The official language is English, but large sectors of the population use Spanish.
Currency: The currency is the Belize dollar, but the US dollar is widely accepted. 1 American for two Belizeans.
Internal transportation: Because it is so small, the country can be easily explored by land, but visiting some destinations such as San Pedro Island or the Great Blue Hole is done by small plane or boat.
San Pedro is a town that, according to legend, inspired the iconic song ‘The Beautiful Island’, made famous by Madonna.
Photo:
Eduard Soto / EL TIEMPO
Agencies in Colombia that offer packages to Belize: Travel Depot, BDC Travel, CIC Colombia, Operando Viajes, Tropitours, Panamericana de Viajes, among others.
More information: www.travelbelize.org
Eduard Soto
Special envoy of EL TIEMPO
By invitation of Travel Belize and TM Americas
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