Editor’s Note: If you have questions about traveling to Belize, leave a comment below and Scott will do his best to answer your travel questions.
The Blancaneaux Lodge, Belize
It’s Better in Belize. You Better Belize It. It’s Unbelizeable.
If I had a nickel for each time I saw a Belize-inspired T-shirt, I’d have at least 60 cents by now. Maybe a buck.
The problem is not a lack of T-shirts. Trust me, there are heaps on sale in Belize. The problem is that Belize is one of those places that refuses to become mainstream. Every few years something thrusts Belize into the global spotlight.
Yet beyond the occasional news item, most travelers know little if anything about Belize. Don’t belize me? OK smarty pants, let’s test your knowledge with my patented Belize Pop Quiz.
- True or false, there is a Guinness brewery in Belize.
- True or false, there are British army troops stationed in Belize.
- True or false, filmmaker George Lucas has a posh jungle lodge in Belize.
- True or false, the following countries all border Belize: Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras.
- True or false, the most popular radio station in Belize is called Love FM.
OK, let’s see how you scored. The answer to question #1 is true. Belize has its very own Guinness brewery, under license from the mothership back at St James’s Gate, Dublin. This is also where Belize’s homegrown beer, Belikin, is bottled.
Question 2? True. The British Army maintains troops in Belize, a remnant of the days when Belize was a UK possession known as “British Honduras” (Belize gained full independence in 1981).
Question 3? You can be forgiven for missing this, it was a trick question. The answer is false because it’s not George Lucas but Francis Ford Coppola who stumbled across a dilapidated jungle retreat in 1981 and, 12 years later, opened the utterly lovely Blancaneaux resort (more on that below).
Question 4? False. Only Mexico and Guatemala share a border with Belize, not Honduras.
And question 5? True. ‘Thank you for choosing love’ is the unofficial motto of Love FM. My favorite DJ used to sign off with “…here are super-fantastic kisses to you and you and you” (it sounds best in a Belizean accent).
If you scored 5/5 on the quiz, give yourself a gold star and go read a different blog post because there’s little I can teach you about Belize. If you scored 2 or more out of 5 then keep on reading, you may need a Belize refresher course. If you scored less than that, ohhhhh how I envy you. It means you don’t know much about Belize. More to the point, it means you can have the distinct pleasure of discovering Belize for the first time. Whenever I meet somebody who has not heard of Belize I feel like giving them an award: first place in the ‘about to have the experience of a lifetime’ category.
Without further ado, my suggested itineraries for making the most of your time in Belize.
Belize: Before You Go
Lighthouse Lager, Belize's 'other' beer
The first decision you need to make is this: ocean first, ruins and mountains second; or ruins and mountains first, ocean second. I typically opt for the latter course. I like to have my adventures up front, then relax and unwind after. While you can’t make a bad choice, you do need to make a choice because it will define the shape of your entire trip. I’m going to assume you prefer adventure up front, as well, and offer my suggestions accordingly.
The second decision you need to make is this: to Belize City or not to Belize City? I will not lie to you. Belize City is not the most beautiful city in Central America (though if you’re coming from Tegucigalpa, well, it feels like paradise here). Belize City is a fine transport hub. It even has a few decent restaurants. But if you’re short on time it is OK to skip Belize City. The reality is, you’ll pass through here at least twice on your way to/from the reef and the airport.
The last decision you need to make is this: to drive or not to drive? Belize is a small easy-to-navigate country. There are only 4 main roads and buses are decent (I didn’t say comfortable, I merely said decent). So there is no reason that you must have a 4×4. That said, Belize is a very easy place to drive (on the right, despite the British influences). It’s also REALLY REALLY FUN to take a 4×4 into the jungle. I can’t imagine visiting Belize without having a 4×4 (and yes, you do need a 4×4) at my beck and call. I usually rent through a company called Crystal Auto because they have an office at the airport and in Belize City, and will shuttle you for free between the two locations. All you need is a driver’s license from your home country plus the basic insurance that comes with the vehicle.
Belize Itineraries: Jungles, Mountains, Maya Ruins
Assuming you take my advice and start with mountains and jungles and decide to rent a 4×4, here’s what you do. Fly into Belize City, grab your bags, walk across the parking lot to the car-rental offices, get your 4×4, and head out on the Western Highway to San Ignacio.
Hands down, the best inland base for travelers is the town of San Ignacio. There’s something incredibly charming about the place; it feels like a mix between a forgotten colonial outpost and a modern backpacker’s paradise. There is a good range of hotels, lodges and restaurants here. And San Ignacio is an excellent hub for day trips.
River Cave Tubing in Belize
Things to Do: Even if you’re not staying at Blancaneaux (see below), make the journey up into the Mountain Pine Ridge to the Rio Frio Cave. This is a stunningly massive cave with a river running through it. I don’t know if it’s “safe” to swim here, but I have done it many times, always with bats dive-bombing my head. I also think the Rio On pools, just past Blancaneaux, are worth a swim (despite the leech-like animals that stuck to my skin). And it goes without saying, it’s worth the $10 for a drink and snack at the bar at Blancaneaux, since you’re in the neighborhood.
Another popular thing to do is cave tubing. It’s a blast, I highly recommend it. Also on my “recommended” list are the ruins at Xuanantunich, which is a smallish but interesting temple complex overlooking the Mopan River; and the ruins at Cahal Pech plus the nearby Panti Medicinal Trails. If you’re up for a serious adventure, spend the day driving (about 2 hours each way) to the recently discovered ruins at Caracol. The drive alone, through jungle and untouched parts of the border region, is worth the effort.
On the way to or from Belize City, the Belize Zoo is worth a visit. I don’t remember which animal it was (the tapir, maybe), but when you see a sign that says ‘warning, this animal may pee on you’, they are not kidding, trust me on this. (If you like animals, also check out the Belize Community Baboon Sanctuary.)
Places to Stay: I’ll just get it out of the way, since it’s obvious how much I really enjoy staying at Francis Ford Coppola’s Blancaneaux lodge. It is simply stunning. Be sure to ask for one of the three-walled bungalows facing the river. The fourth wall is actually just a screen, which lets in the melodious gurgle of the nearby river and a cool breeze. Heaven.
I can also recommend a few of the more traditional lodges in Belize. Most of these are fairly expensive, but the service, location and overall experience are wonderful. Try the Chaa Creek Lodge, duPlooy’s Jungle Lodge, or the Windy Hill Resort. Less expensive (but good all the same) is the Parrot Nest Lodge.
Day Trip to Guatemala: Before you head back to Belize City for a week on the reef, consider taking a day trip to Tikal in Guatemala. Tikal is one of the best-preserved Mayan ruins in Central America. I’ve done this trip a few times, by bus, by 4×4 and by plane. If you’re short on time, the plane is a great option.
Belize Itineraries: The Reef
Sunset on Caye Caulker
If you’re following my trip plan, head back to Belize City and drop off your 4×4 at the rental office. Politely ask for a lift to the Belize City ferry port and catch the first ferry out of town. Your destination? The reef.
Belize’s reef is one of the finest in Central America, despite recent hurricane damage. Unless you’re planning a live-aboard diving trip, you’ll probably end up in one of two places: Caye Caulker or Ambergris Caye (caye is pronounced like ‘key’). Choosing between them is easy. If you prefer a backpacker vibe and a mellow pace, Caye Caulker is for you. If you want more restaurant, hotel, shopping and nightlife options, Ambergris Caye (and its main town of San Pedro) is for you.
The main thing to do on either island is relax. Beach, beer, swimming, napping, the island life is blissful in Belize. After a few days you may be itching for an adventure. In which case there’s snorkeling and/or watching manatees, world-class diving, sailing, fishing and (if you’re on one of those mega-fancy resorts) golfing.
Belize: The other bits
The mainland town of Placencia in southern Belize is a coastal gem, with easy access to southern diving sites and plenty of things to do in the surrounding jungle. If you look at a map you’ll wonder what else is near Placencia, and if it’s worth the trek in its own right. That’s a tough call, since Placencia is so pleasant. I guess if push comes to shove, skip it if you only have a week or two in Belize, and save it for the next visit. If you do make it to Placencia, check out Coppola’s Turtle Cove Inn.
Another part of Belize that falls into this category is Orange Walk, way up in the north, and the nearby ruins of Lamanai, one of the finest in all Belize. This is a real trek from Belize City, and you’ll need to dedicate a few days (at least) if you’re heading out this way. If you can afford it, I highly recommend the Lamanai Outpost Lodge.
Planning a trip to Belize? Check out all of Viator’s tours and things to do in Belize or browse more of Scott’s photos of Belize.
March 28, 2007 at 7:07 AM
In Ambergris Caye, a great resort is Victoria House. I had clients who just returned from there, and they *loved* the property. Book through a Virtuoso travel agent for a complimentary continental breakfast in the restaurant and upgrade on arrival, upon availability.
December 18, 2008 at 7:13 AM
Hi,
Thanks for the great tips. I’m planning my trip to Belize for January and appreciate all the information. Have you been there during the end of Jan? How was the weather?
December 18, 2008 at 8:12 AM
Hi Katya.
Yes, I’ve been to Belize in January. While it’s a little hot (December / Jan) it’s also a little wet in January. Nothing terrible, averages something like 4 or 5 inches of rain for the month. Mostly it rains in spurts – you might get a downpour over lunch, and then have a sunny few hours before another storm rolls in. Either way, it shouldn’t stop you from traveling to Belize in Jan.
Have a great trip, let us know how it goes.
January 12, 2009 at 1:31 PM
I will be travelling to Belize the entire month of February with my husband, five year old daughter and 18 year old nephew. Any suggestions? And for those of us who cannot afford the Coppola’s accommodations, I would love some other sguggestions!
Thanks
January 12, 2009 at 2:54 PM
Hi Deanna.
As for accommodation, inland I really like Parrot’s Nest http://www.parrot-nest.com/ It’s not fancy, but it’s definitely comfortable and the owners are extremely gracious. It’s not as expensive as some of the other lodges.
April 19, 2009 at 6:15 AM
I want to take my family to Belize next winter break for 10-11 days, can you suggest an appropriate “family” ininerary? Kids are 16, 13, 1o.
April 20, 2009 at 1:24 PM
Hi Lee.
I think you can’t really go wrong in Belize with kids. It’s a very kid-friendly place, as long as you’re all prepared to be flexible and not expect huge amounts of comfort and ease (in other words, Belize is not Club Med). That aside, here’s a few thoughts:
– Take the kids to San Ignacio and the Pine Ridge area. I would follow the advice above, rent a 4×4 in Belize City, then find a lodge in the San Ignacio district. This is a great introduction to Belize. A day trip to Caracol is also recommended. You could easily spend 4 – 5 days in this part of the country without a hint of the kids getting bored.
– Not sure if there are age limits, but a cave tube is fun. And the Belize Zoo is great if you have kids. You can do both of these things on the way to / from the San Igancio district. I’d do them on the way out.
– Head to the reef. With kids that young, you’ll probably want to head for Ambergris Caye. Caye Caulker is more of a young backpacker destination, and the kids will have more to so on Ambergris. Plan on 1 – 2 days for snorkeling, a day of doing nothing, and maybe a day of renting bikes and touring the island.
So that, plus a day to arrive / leave, gets you to about 10 days.
Have fun!
September 16, 2009 at 11:56 AM
Hey Scott!
Your site is very helpful. I am planning on heading to Belize for a week by myself before meeting up with a friend in Guatemala for another week.
- do you think Belize is safe for a 30 year old woman to travel alone? (I traveled for a week alone in Vietnam with no problems.)
- I was thinking of doing a few days on either one of those Cayes, and then a few days elsewhere (maybe Placencia?) and heading towards Guatemala.
If you have any other recommendations on route/itinerary/places to stay traveling alone that are safe / less expensive – that would be great too!
Thanks,
Rachel
September 16, 2009 at 4:12 PM
Hi Rachel.
Thanks, glad you find the info helpful.
I can say enthusiastically that Belize is safe for a woman traveling alone. Belize City is a dump, and you should not go out there alone at night.
But that one caveat aside, Belize is very safe. The people are friendly, and it’s easy to get around. I’ve not heard of any safety issues (again, except in Belize City, which has gang and drug problems, mostly limited to the city).
I think your itinerary sounds fine. My only thought is – if you are going to Guatemala anyway, I might skip Placencia and head to the west – see my notes above about San Ignacio and around.
Happy travels!
October 27, 2009 at 5:57 PM
Hi there- Great post.
we have 8 full days in Belize. I am thinking of going to Lamanai for 1 day then drive to San Ignacio for 1-2 days, then hop over the cayes for the rest of the time.
Or do you think we should do San Ignacio 1-2 days, head over to the Cayes and then do a day trip to Lamanai? Do you know how long of a drive it is from belize city to Lamanai, how long of a drive is it from Lamanai to San Ignacio?
Sorry for all the questions, but you seem to definitely know…thanks much. Cheers!
December 25, 2009 at 8:56 AM
There is an offer at one of the resorts in Ambergris Caye for 3 nights free if you buy 4 nights. That’s 7 nights in Ambergris. My friend and I are going to be in Belize for 11 days, our first trip there. Are we missing out on other interesting places if we spend that much time in Ambergis Caye to take advantage of the special?
December 29, 2009 at 9:16 AM
Hi Sandra.
I think 7 nights is a lot on Ambergris, especially if it’s your first visit to Belize. Personally, I prefer Caye Caulker (it’s smaller and more mellow than Ambergris). And I think if you have 11 total days, with only 4 left over to visit the other islands plus the mainland, you’ll feel short-changed.
So I would skip the special offer.
The good news is – there are many many many cheap places to stay in Belize. So if you’re trying to stretch your travel dollars, you will easily find other good options throughout the country. So don’t let a few free nights at a resort alter your itinerary!
Hope this helps.
-Scott
January 6, 2010 at 10:34 PM
hi Scott – thanks for such an informative article. we have 7 nights in Belize (3 adult women) and are planning to do the jungle/San Ignacio as well as spend some time on the reef (either Caye Caulker or Ambergris). a couple of questions: would you do 2 nights jungle & 5 nights reef, or 3 nights jungle & 4 nights reef? (we will likely follow your lead and do jungle first, though we don’t arrive until late afternoon). roughly how long does it take to drive from the Int’l Airport in Belize City to Blancaneaux?
also, we will be staying at Blancaneaux for the jungle portion and then thinking about more budget/moderate options for the reef. any thoughts on the Conch Shell Hotel in Ambergris? seems to get great reviews as far as cleanliness, location, etc.
thanks in advance!
julie
January 7, 2010 at 12:22 PM
Hi Julie.
If you’re staying at Blancaneaux, then DEFINITELY give yourself 3 nights in the jungle. You’ll want to have some time to explore. It’s about 2-1/2 hours from the airport to Blancaneaux. Most of the drive is on a good, fast highway; at Georgeville you’ll take a road up into the Pine Ridge mountains, which is slower going.
You’ll want a full day to do nothing but relax at Blancaneaux, maybe go swim in the pool, explore the cave, etc. Then if you can, 1 day to drive out to the ruins at Caracol. You’ll probably not have time to explore San Ignacio, unless you drive out that way and stop for lunch (not a bad idea). But honestly, if you don’t give yourself 3 days in the jungle, you will regret it.
Because of that, I think you should consider Caye Caulker as opposed to Ambergris. Caulker is closer to Belize City, so you can easily make it from Blancaneaux to Caulker in a single (albeit long) day.
Caulker is fun, way more mellow than Ambergris. So if you’re looking for lots of shopping, a bit more luxury, more development, then Ambergris is a better choice. But if you’re just looking for a pleasant place to hang out, with decent access to snorkel and dive spots, Caulker is for you. Those 4 days will go quickly, especially if you do a sailing trip or dive trip on one of the days.
Hope this helps, enjoy!
January 30, 2010 at 2:23 PM
thanks so much! another quick question…our flight back to the US is at noon. will we be able to easily leave either Ambergris Caye or Caye Caulker and get back to Belize City Airport in time for an international flight…or should we plan to do the last night in Belize City?
January 31, 2010 at 8:16 PM
Hi Julie.
Yup, you guessed it – stay the night in Belize City. There’s no way you’ll make it from Caulker or Ambergris to catch a noon international flight.
So like it or not, you get at least one night in Belize City. A small price to pay for the rest of your trip, that’s the way I would rationalize it.
-Scott
February 21, 2010 at 10:51 AM
Hi Scott,
Your website has been really helpful as I’m trying to put together an itinerary for a 7 day April trip to Belize. I was reading what you said to Julie about the 12:00 flight out of Belize City. It looks like there are early morning flights out of Ambergris and Caulker that could get us back in Belize City in time for a 12:00 international flight. Do you still advise against trying this? We’re trying to avoid staying in Belize City and get another night on the Cayes.
Thanks!
Erica
February 21, 2010 at 11:51 AM
Hi Scott,
Sorry for one more question… we’re struggling to decide whether or not we should rent a car for our jungle/San Ignacio portion of Belize. Is it more cost effective to have our own car to transport to/from the airport, as well as get to our various tours and sights of interest? Or, do most tours have decently priced pick up options? We’ve seen William’s Shuttle advertised as a cheap way to get to/from the airport, so we’re contemplating not renting a car and going with a cheaper shuttle service. Any extra info on cons/pros to renting a car would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks,
Erica
February 23, 2010 at 3:59 PM
Hi Erica.
I’ve never done either flight myself, but as long as the airlines are reputable and the schedules seem solid, I don’t see you couldn’t fly from Caulker or Ambergris and make it back to the Belize City airport in time. It’s just a cost and risk thing. I’m sure it can be done without too much worry as long as you have a decent amount of time to make a connection (leave room for delayed flight) and the weather is not foul.
On the car question, if you’re only in Belize for 7 days, and you plan to spend time on the reef AND inland, then I think it makes sense to get a car (preferably a 4×4). There are a few agencies located right at the airport (I’ve used Crystal Auto in the past, happy to recommend them), and best of all, you can drive the car back to the Belize City office (instead of the airport) and they will give you a lift to the ferry terminal.
Though if you’re flying, then you could drop the car right back at the Belize City airport.
Either way, having a 4×4 is fun and makes it much easier to get out and see things. I guess you don’t really need a 4×4, unless you’re driving out to Caracol. But most places offer 4x4s, so it’s worth getting one just for peace of mind.
Hope that helps.
-Scott
March 2, 2010 at 3:25 PM
Hi Scott,
Thanks for the tips. I will be in Belize next week arriving on Sunday afternoon. We will be staying on Caye Caulker that night. Both of my sons are very interested in visiting the Belikin Brewery but the only tours I can find are expensive city tours that include the brewery. Can you just go to the brewery for a tour, or do you have to be on one of these city tours? If we can just go directly to the brewery for a tour, what is the best way to get there from the airport and will we have enough time for this before the last water taxi to Caye Caulker? Thanks for your help.
March 2, 2010 at 9:37 PM
Hi Marilyn.
As much as I hate to admit it, I’ve never been to the Guinness Brewery in Belize. My apologies I’m not sure the answer to your question.
Does anybody else have advice for Marilyn?
March 15, 2010 at 2:31 PM
Hi Scott, my family of 5 (kids ages 9, 11 and 14) are headed to Belize the firslt two weeks of August. That is when I could get flights with my miles. I was attracted to the far south (maya villages, jungle and rivers) but worry it may be too wet. I was then thinking of heading straight from Belize City to Caves Branch and doing tubing, caving, hiking, etc from there and then heading for my beach time somewhere like tabacco caye or placencia. Would you just reccomend Caye Caulker instead for ease of travel? Do you think it will be too rainy to enjoy various nature activities?. We really like swimming and hiking and animals. Thanks, Sharon
March 16, 2010 at 4:16 PM
Hi Sharon.
Yeah, August is the 2nd-wettest month of the year, especially in the south. So you will get wet!
I would probably avoid the far south – Punta Gorda and the like. Not sure about Placencia, it’s not quite that far south, but I’ve never been there in August. My guess is, it will be wet but not awful.
The other good news – rain in Belize tends to fall in buckets, then clear up, get sunny, then rain again. It’s not a constant gray rainfall.
So the rain won’t ruin your outdoor activities, not at all. You just need to bring rain gear and be prepared to get wet.
Caves Branch is great, but I’d also recommend heading inland (in addition to the cayes). San Ignacio and some of the lodges in the west of Belize are great for families.
Two weeks is a long time in a country the size of Belize, so I think you’d have plenty of time to tackle 3 areas without feeling too hectic: Caves Branch and around, an inland lodge / San Ignacio, then a caye or two. I love Caye Caulker, but just note there’s not much on the island for kids to do (except swim and hang out) and wander a few of the shops. Tobacco caye is even more isolated. Great for snorkeling and diving the reef, but not much happening (I don’t mean this as a negative – just in the context of traveling with kids). If you’re choosing between these two cayes, I’d go with Caulker just because there’s a bit more for the teens to do.
Hope this helps.
-Scott
June 7, 2010 at 3:13 PM
Hi my friend and I are planning a trip to Belize in early August and wanting to cross the border to Guatemala. I have read that early August is called the “little dry” because it becomes dry for awhile. Also I am wondering is it really safe for my friend and I to go (18 and 17) to Belize by our selves. I read that you said Belize is very safe for a single woman to travel, but I would just like to see if you think age makes a difference. Also I have read that Belize/Guatemala border can be very dangerous to cross and wonder if we should take the risk. By the way my friend and I are wanting to take lots of buses around, do you think this is a good idea for safety?
June 7, 2010 at 3:35 PM
Hi Tatiana.
So your first question about safety – I think all of Belize (with the exception of parts of Belize City itself) are very safe. I don’t think your age matters too much, as long as you’re reasonably responsible people and travelers. I was only 22 or 23 on my very first trip to Belize, I don’t think age comes into it much. But I would try hard to minimize time in Belize City. It’s the only part of the country that has serious crime. Not all parts of it, but still.
In terms of crossing the border into Guatemala, the process itself is safe. The guards on both sides are fine. And on the Belize side, I’ve actually seen them playing Reggae music and just being mellow people. Which is refreshing for a border guard.
Traveling inside Guatemala, that’s a different question. I haven’t been inside Guatemala for about 5 years, so I don’t know the latest safety situation. But the idea of traveling on buses in Guatemala, well, that’s more of a worry. I’d definitely do more research on that, from people who’ve been there more recently. I don’t want to scare you off, just want to encourage you to do more research.
Hope this helps!
-Scott
June 21, 2010 at 4:57 PM
My husband and I are going to Belize for 5 days. We are going to visit San Ignacio for a couple of days to see the Mayan ruins and visit “ATM”. Any chance we could get a beach visit in too, or would that be too hectic?
June 22, 2010 at 5:41 PM
Hi Shawn.
It could be a bit hectic, depends a little on how much travel you want to do, and if you’re driving or taking buses.
If you have a car, you *could* squeeze in a day or two on Caye Caulker (easy to reach by boat from Belize City). It just will cut into your time in Cayo District (San Ignacio and ATM).
An alternative, if you have a car, is to hit Dangriga on the way to / from San Ignacio. It’s not too far off the Western Highway, so you could do a day detour or an overnighter there. It’s a nice little spot. You can cut through on the Hummingbird Hwy., too, to shorten the drive time.
If you don’t have a car, well, sorry my friends – I don’t think a beach is in your future! But that’s OK, Cayo is lovely, so you won’t be disappointed.
-Scott
June 23, 2010 at 9:57 AM
Hi Scott,
I’m planning a trip to Belize in December. My husband and I love to snorkle (we’re fromer divers, but got tired of all the hassels that goes with diving). And, we’re very spoiled. We prefer to vacation in places where we can walk out of our hotel and into good snorkeling waters. Are there places like this, or do you have to take a snorkle tour to get to the good snorkeling areas?
June 30, 2010 at 10:28 PM
Hi, I am planning a 10 day trip to Belize in the middle of August with my husband and 9 year old daughter. My plan is to fly into Guatemala the first day and stay two nights at Tikal. Then head back in the morning to Belize. I have read that the Cayes near Dandriga are just as nice as Caye Caulker and less expensive to go out snorkeling. We plan to do a lot of swimming and lots of snorkeling and we would also like to do some kayaking. Do you recommend staying in Dandriga or do you recommend staying on different cayes? We would like the nice white beaches that have good swimming. Do you have to take a boat out to do some great snorkeling or is it great pretty much anywhere?
Also, do you recommend booking all hotel stays ahead of time or do you think we can play it by ear? We don’t have to have fancy places to stay, we just want a beautiful place to chill and for my daughter to be able to play in the water everyday.
Any advice would be helpful. Thank you.
June 30, 2010 at 10:34 PM
I have also noticed that rates for taking a boat out to snorkel vary tremendously. Do you recommend booking ahead of time or just finding someone when we are there? I have seen rates from 120.00 to 1,500.00. I prefer cheaper but is it really better to go with the more expensive or is it just a fancy boat?
July 6, 2010 at 4:02 PM
Hi Tropical Dreamer!
So there’s good news / bad news for you. The bad news is – the reef is not easily accessible from the mainland. So if you’re staying on the coast, it’s a 30 – 45 minute boat ride (sometimes more!) to the better dive spots.
The good news? If you stay on one of the islands (Caye Caulker and Ambergris Caye are the two best-known), you’ll cut down your boat time. In almost all cases you need to travel by boat. I can’t think of a single dive site in Belize that’s accessible from a beach. But at least you’re a lot closer.
There are also plenty of live-aboard options. I’ve never done this, but I know plenty of people who have. You book a 3, 5, or 7-day dive cruise, and live aboard the boat. (Sometimes you’ll dock on a small resort island at night, other times you’ll literally be on the boat the entire time). For serious divers, this is a great option. Of course, you don’t see much of Belize this way.
Hope this helps, let me know what you decide.
-Scott
July 6, 2010 at 4:12 PM
Hi Cecilia.
Caye Caulker is a very small island, and it doesn’t really have any beaches. Almost everything happens on boats. So if you want to sit on a beach, Caye Caulker is not a great choice.
Dangriga is nice, and it definitely has more beachfront. That said, the snorkeling is not as good, since you’re a long, long way from the reef.
No easy answer here.
My advice – in your way from Tikal, spend a day or two in Cayo district (there are some great lodges here, good for kids), and then drive / bus down to Dangriga. It’s not very far at all. If you like it, stay longer!
If you don’t then i’d hop on a bus back to Belize City and catch a boat to Caulker or San Pedro (Ambergris Caye). The latter is nice, more beaches and closer to some of the better snorkel spots, but it’s also more developed and farther away.
And I think you’re OK not booking ahead of time except maybe on Caulker. It’s not a huge island, and it can fill up.
-Scott
July 18, 2010 at 2:55 PM
Hi Scott-
I’m really learning a lot from you and this site. I am planning a trip to Belize with my two youngest kids (13 and 15) for 10 days in February. We are all scuba certified and would like to do a fair amount of diving along with seeing some wildlife, caves, river rafting and ruins – I know this is a lot! We had a spectacular trip river rafting in Costa Rica down the Pacuare and my youngest really would like to do that again which is why I thought if it’s worth doing in Belize, we’d try to fit it in. Given that we would like to do so much, can you recommend a location for these things that are in relative close proximity one to another? Have you heard of Hamanasi which does lodge and dive packages in Placentia? What do you think of doing packages verses planning our own things? While I would like to spare expenses where possible, I want us to be comfortable and have fun. Thank you for your information!
Barbara
July 23, 2010 at 11:37 AM
Hi Barbara.
Hmmm, you may struggle on the rafting front. Belize does not have any major rives (nothing like what you’ll find in Costa Rica). There’s plenty of canoeing and kayaking, and some limited tubing, but just to set your expectations, there are no ‘rapids’ in Belize that I am aware of (of course, somebody may prove me wrong!).
The good news is – Belize scores high on your other desires: wildlife, ruins, snorkeling/diving.
I have heard of Hamanasi, I’ve had a drink at their poolside bar. And I don’t mean them any disrespect at all, it’s a nice place. But for the trip you’re looking for, I think it would be better to consider these options instead:
– If you’re really serious about diving, consider a live-aboard for 3 to 5 days OR stay on Ambergris Caye and go diving from there OR find a dive-oriented resort out on the cayes. All of these are good options. I don’t think serious divers will enjoy basing themselves on the mainland. No matter what the local websites say, the reef is a long way out from the shore, and the best sections of reef are even further.
– For your jungle / ruins experience, I recommend 2 things. First, stay for a few days in the Cayo district or up in Pine Ridge. This is the traditional “lodge” region of Belize, lots of great lodges here (some very expensive, some not at all expensive). Most lodges organize hiking, horse riding, kayaking, etc. Second, rent a 4×4 and drive out to Caracol (see my description above). It truly is a remarkable site. And since it’s not as crowded as the other ruins in Belize, it’s that much more special. If you’re not interested in staying inland, you can still get some ruins in on a Viator tour (this is a good one): http://www.viator.com/tours/Belize/Lamanai-and-the-New-River-Safari-in-Belize/d746-4110DEB3
– For caving, there are lots of places to try. We sell a cave tour / ATV tour from Belize City (lots of fun, I’ve done it): http://www.viator.com/tours/Belize/Cave-Tubing-and-Belize-Rainforest-ATV/d746-4110PPK5 Otherwise just ask around, there are a handful of privately owned caves where you can go tubing and exploring. Definitely something the whole family will enjoy.
Have a great trip!
-Scott
September 18, 2010 at 8:01 AM
any suggestions on getting from blancaneaux lodge to caye caulker-i am not apposed to flying if that is the quickest way
December 6, 2010 at 12:39 PM
Hi Scott,
We’re going on our Honeymoon to the Yucatan and Belize. We’ll spend about 7 days in Belize. The problem is that it’s in March, the month of Spring Break! Is Belize over-run with kids during this time?
Do you have any thoughts on where to go for something low-key, relaxed, hammocks, fishing and snorkeling? And off the “beaten path” if that exists anymore. Even though it’s our honeymoon, we’d like something simple. Any small hotel or room/apartment recommendations would be great (and cheap).
Since we’ll be visiting ruins while in the Yucatan, we were thinking water coastal while in Belize.
Thoughts?
January 7, 2011 at 8:02 PM
Hi everybody.
A quick note to say, we had a problem with our blogging software and lost about 50 comments
So if you’ve posted a comment in the past month or so, and it hasn’t been published or replied to, my apologies!! Please resubmit it and I’ll do my best to answer.
-Scott
January 7, 2011 at 8:04 PM
Hi Laura,
Belize is definitely not crazy-crowded around Spring Break. You’ll definitely run into crowds in Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker, but ‘crowds’ is a relative term – it’s nothing like Cancun on Spring Break, rest easy on that front.
If you want a low-key coastal experience, Placencia is worth looking into. It’s very mellow.
February 25, 2011 at 10:31 PM
Hi Scott! What a great site : ) We are landing in Belize on April 13, at 10:30am for 12 1/2 days.
I read your advice about picking jungle or beach first. We REALLY want to get to the beach for a couple days to snorkel then start the jungle adventures and then relax at the tale end in Caye Caulker.
So basically, rent a 4×4, head to Placencia Beach area-4days, then Jungle-St. Ignacio area 4days,then Beach-Caye Caulker 4days. We thought we would see/do the following: Placencia (Cockscomb Sanctuary, Monkey River, Sittee River), St. Ignacio (Tikal, Caracol), then drive to Belize City- drop off rental and spend last few(4)days based in Caye Caulker (Day trip to do Shark Ray alley and possible 2nd water excursion to see Blue Reef to snorkel – we don’t dive).
Would you change the amount of days at each location? Are there any “must see/do” in those areas you would recommend that’s not on our list? Is there any place in particular for caving or tubing you recommend? What is are best bet for birds/wildlife etc?
Also, do you recommend Black Rock Lodge or another in St. Ignacio. We are using back packs, somewhat budget-conscious but wouldn’t mind being somewhere ‘nice’ for a few days. Also, we just did Costa Rica in December which was amazing – so we are hoping to see something that might top that in the way of jungle/birds/wildlife and snorkelling as it sucked in Costa Rica. We did most of CR except the Caribbean side.
Wow, thanks so much for any tips and advice. We are movers and shakers and get bored easily so we can pack a lot in! All recommendations are welcome!! Thanks : )
April 26, 2011 at 9:19 AM
My wife and I are heading to Belize for our Honeymoon. And i could use some help with the 2nd half of the trip plan. We are there for two weeks.
night 1-3 Caye Caulker
night 4-5 Raggamuffin Trip to Placencia
night 6-8 Placencia
Here is where i have some trouble.
We want to go to Tikal and also a jungle lodge. I think we want to go to Table Rock http://www.tablerockbelize.com . The reviews sound great.
Is a trip from Placencia to Tikal too much to handle in one day by bus? Is there any great place to stop along the way?
Help!
Thanks so much.
May 11, 2011 at 9:48 PM
Hi Scott,
My husband and I will be in Belize for 10 full days in May, not inlcuding our international travel to and from Belize. We want to end our trip in Ambergis Cay for a few days and will start the trip in San Ignacio at either Blancaneaux Lodge or Ka’ana Boutique Resort. We generally like the freedom of renting our own car. From your comments, it sounds like its an easy drive to get from the airport to San Ignacio ourselves. What are your suggestions for what to do in the middle, since i think 2 places is not enough for 10 days and I am afraid we will get bored in AC because the swimming is not supposed to be great. I was thinking of going to Hopkins or Palencia for good swimming. What do you think? I am more intersted in a good swimable beach, than day trips since we will have already explored the jungle in San Ignazio. Can i easily drive here from Cayo? The other thought was San Pedro since it looks beautiful, but i think it may be too far?
Thanks!
Ariella
May 12, 2011 at 5:30 AM
Hey Scott,
Was hoping to get a little helpful info/tips! I’m going to be taking a Carnival Cruise (Dream) and one of the ports of call is Belize. I’m driving myself crazy reading all the reviews from the shore excursions!… Do you have any suggestions or helpful hints? We will be in Belize from 8-6 so factoring in the tendor time to shoe and back I have maybe 8hrs?? I’m wanting to find a private or SMALL group to do some snorkeling with. It wilbe me and my son (17). I did find an excursion that sent me to Shoretrips.com link??? But the actual site doesn’t offer this excursion…that’s what they told me when I called trying to book and this was after I was unable to book thru the site on line…Snorkel The Belize Barrier Reef is the excursion I was wanting to book. The cost was 184.00 , private tour, 1-4 guest. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated!…….I just don’t want to get stuck in an over priced, over crowded excursion!
Thanks in advance,
Deborah
May 27, 2011 at 7:41 AM
Hi there. We are planning our first trip to Belize in January of next year. We are hopefully going to have at least 8 days if not 10 there and would like to do a mix of the mountains/jungles and the beach. We were thinking of following you suggested itinerary, how long is the drive from the airport to San Igancio? How many days would suggest for each portion of the trip? Thanks so much, we have really learned a lot from your blog!