Top 10 Attractions in Belize

Craving one-of-a-kind land and sea adventures that pack a BIG punch? The country of Belize, located on the northeast coast of Central America at the base of the Yucatán Peninsula, offers travelers a wide variety of exciting activities. The second-largest coral reef system in the world, towering Maya ruins, mysterious cave systems, and peaceful rainforest reserves exploding with wildlife are just some of the things waiting to be explored!

Brad and I spent about a month in Belize with stays in San Pedro, Caye Caulker, Hopkins, and San Ignacio. Below I've ranked my favorite attractions in Belize to help you organize a spectacular itinerary.

#1 Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM) Cave

Take a guided tour with MayaWalk through the enchanting cave system of Actun Tunichil Muknal to see in situ Maya skeletons, ceramics, and sacrificial altars. Weave your way over and between partially submerged rock formations to reach the grand finale: The Crystal Maiden.

Journey down into the dark depths and breathe the musty air as magnificent stalactites come into view with the glow of your headlamp. Fortitude will be your best friend, especially if you are mildly claustrophobic or dislike bats/spiders. Actun Tunichil Muknal is an experience of a lifetime and must-do attraction worth the physical effort!

The tour costs $145 USD per person and includes equipment, lunch, and entrance fees. Hydrate the day before since you will be without drinking water for at least two hours in the cave. Bring athletic clothing, a swimsuit, and water shoes/sandals such as Tevas. Don't forget a pair of socks, which are required to access the artifacts towards the end of the route. GoPros, cameras, and cell phones are not allowed inside.

#2 Raggamuffin Sailing Trip

Set a course to navigate the various islands along the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef by booking a fun three-day/two-night voyage on a sailboat. Join the friendly crew of Raggamuffin to taste freshly caught seafood, snorkel alongside colorful marine life, and sip homemade rum punch in the sunshine.

The all-inclusive trip begins in Caye Caulker and ends in Dangriga. You'll experience camp-like conditions during the overnight stays on Rendezvous Caye and Tobacco Caye. Brad and I set up our tent on the beach and slowly drifted to sleep with the sound of waves crashing upon the shore. Winds can be a tad intense. One night, we had to surround our shelter with chairs, benches, and tables to prevent it from blowing out to sea!

This no-frills expedition offers an opportunity to reset and discover a part of Belize few get the chance to see. Exchange stories with fellow passengers, sway to Reggae beats, and connect with nature. The trip costs $550 USD (low season) or $600 USD (high season) per person and has a minimum requirement of eight passengers. Sailing also depends on the weather. Be prepared to go with the flow since there isn't a set schedule.

#3 Snorkeling

The bohemian island of Caye Caulker was my favorite place in Belize thanks in part to the full-day excursion by Caveman Snorkeling Tours. The cost is $90 USD per person and includes park fees, snorkeling equipment, and lunch. Soft drinks, water, and fresh fruit are provided. Bring sunglasses and plenty of sunscreen!

Our guides, David and Zack, took us and several others on a small boat to five different spots including Coral Gardens and Hol Chan Marine Reserve. The ocean diversity was out of this world! We saw tarpons, manatees, turtles, nurse sharks, sting rays, and a small eel. The final snorkeling stop was a huge sunken barge full of corals, purple sea fans, urchins, and crabs.

#4 Xunantunich

History buffs and birdwatchers will definitely enjoy a visit to the Maya ruins of Xunantunich aka "tuna sandwich." The nickname comes in handy if you have trouble pronouncing the site! Opening hours are every day, 8:00 AM-4:00 PM, and tickets cost $5 USD per person. Don't miss the last hand-cranked ferry which departs at 4:00 PM!

The area reached its peak between 600-670 AD and features four main sections. Climb the impressive 40 m (130 ft) El Castillo pyramid and gaze across the jungle canopy of the Mopan River Valley. Peek inside chambers with corbeled arches, marvel at carved stucco, and decipher eroded stelae. Walk around tombs, ball courts, and residential spaces while keeping a lookout for Keel-billed Toucans.

#5 Mayflower Bocawina National Park

Hike your way along the remote jungle trails of Mayflower Bocawina National Park to behold the wonder of Mother Earth. This 7,000-acre reserve is full of lush flora, exotic birds, and strange insects. Tickets cost $5 USD per person and opening hours are every day, 6:00 AM-9:00 PM. Brad and I began our adventure with a few hours of birdwatching nearby the main entrance. We observed a Black-headed Trogon, Crimson-collared Tanager, and several Great Kiskadees.

After a picnic lunch, we embarked on the route to Antelope Falls. The steep climb was full of slippery rocks, massive tree roots, and misty clouds. We were captivated by stunning views of the Caribbean Sea at the summit, a stick-like praying mantis, and the serene waterfall oasis which we had all to ourselves! Bring bug repellent and a waterproof bag for your gear since the climate is unpredictable.

#6 Belize Zoo

A visit to the Belize Zoo is a fantastic way to get to know the indigenous animal species of Belize. Get up close to tapirs, jaguars, Keel-billed Toucans, monkeys, snakes, and Harpy Eagles. The large natural habitats offer plenty of space for the animals to roam. I typically avoid zoos because of the prison-like environments, but decided to support this one after I understood its mission to protect these beautiful creatures.

Sharon Matola initiated the project to help save injured (by vehicles or fires), threatened (by farmers), and neglected (pets) animals. A zoo resident is never taken from the wild unless there is a serious problem. Creatures are rehabilitated for release as long as health concerns requiring continued care are absent. The zoo is open Monday-Saturday, 8:30 AM-5:00 PM, and Sunday, 8:30 AM-4:30 PM. Tickets cost $20 USD per person.

#7 Nohoch Che'en Caves Branch

Adventure meets relaxation at Nohoch Che'en Caves Branch. Brad and I opted to purchase a zip-lining and cave tubing combo pack with Caves Branch Outpost for $75 USD per person. Excursions are available every day, 8:00 AM-3:30 PM. Helmets, inner tubes, and lifejackets are provided. Don't feel pressured to hire one of the local guides who will undoubtedly bombard you at the parking lot.

Soaring high above the rainforest canopy was the ultimate adrenaline rush! Afterwards, we completed a short hike to the cave entrance with our gear. Cooling off in the crystal clear water beneath enormous rock formations was pretty neat. Our guide pointed out interesting stalactites and stalagmites as we floated towards the other side. A highlight was turning off our headlamps for a few minutes to appreciate the spooky darkness.

#8 Green Hills Butterfly Ranch

Perhaps one of the best places in Belize to see Mother Earth's color palette is at Green Hills Butterfly Ranch. The 250-acre property also has trails ideal for birdwatching. Tickets cost $20 USD per person and opening hours are every day, 9:00 AM-4:00 PM. Don't forget your camera!

Step inside the main enclosure to observe numerous species of butterflies with intricate wing patterns bursting with deep blues, vibrant purples, and bright oranges. Brad and I even noticed a tiny turtle! Thirsty hummingbirds put on a show at the nearby patio for those who patiently wait and sit still. Long-billed Hermit, Rufous-tailed, White-necked Jacobin, and Violet Sabrewing Hummingbirds flew around us like mini jets in a dogfight to access the feeders!

#9 Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary

The 128,000 acres of Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary make up a vital habitat for approximately 200 jaguars. Although a sighting is rare in the reserve, visitors are guaranteed to see tropical flora, stunning waterfalls, and exotic birds along the easy/moderate hiking trails. Tickets cost $5 USD per person and opening hours are every day, 8:00 AM-4:30 PM.

Brad and I completed the 6.7 km (4.1 mi) out-and-back Tiger Fern Trail. We munched on a picnic lunch with views of Victoria Peak in the distance after taking a dip in the scenic waterfall. We were lucky to have it all to ourselves! Wear supportive hiking shoes for the steep path and bring a waterproof bag to keep your belongings dry. Be careful around the slippery and sharp rocks while swimming. Unfortunately, I injured my big toe which prevented us from doing another trail. Ouch!

#10 Marie Sharp's Factory

How about a spicy rollercoaster for your tastebuds? Chances are you will find Marie Sharp's famous habanero hot sauce in every restaurant, souvenir shop, and grocery store. The condiment is a national treasure in Belize and lives up to the hype! Schedule a one-hour factory tour via phone or email to learn about production and sample every hot sauce, jam, and steak marinade. We had a great time comparing flavors and buying our favorites. Tickets cost $10 USD per person.

Final Thoughts

Belize is a destination that will keep you on the edge of your seat. The country is a tiny, yet mighty, playground with countless activities to revitalize your senses. Nature and culture effortlessly fuse together to create a tantalizing adventure. Every day is guaranteed to put a smile on your face!

Keep in mind most of the aforementioned places are difficult to reach without a vehicle. Public transportation is limited and group tours are expensive. Ultimately, Brad and I decided to rent a car in Hopkins (four days) and San Ignacio (one day) to make our trip easier. However you decide to explore the country, it will be unBelizeable!