Snuggled between Mexico to the
north and Guatemala to the west and south,
relaxed, English-speaking Belize is only a two-hour plane ride from the continental
United States. Adventure into a land rich in natural
beauty and steeped in the magic of its Maya past. Renowned for pristine waters,
exotic marine and wildlife, lush, unspoiled landscapes, and superb diving, Belize
is Mother Nature's Best Kept Secret.
Once part of the ancient Mayan empire, and colonized by the British in the 17th
century, Belize is the youngest nation in Central America - the country gained
independence from Britain in 1981.
Named British Honduras until 1973,
Belize is also the only country in Central America where English is the official
language. (Spanish, Creole, and other languages are spoken as well.)
Belize is chock full of places to explore. THe stone faces of gods peek out among
the ruins at Lamanai and amid the plazas and temples at Altun Ha - must-see sites
for travelers interested in learning about Mayan culture. And there are finds
belowground, too. To reach such underground hideaways such as Che Chem Ha, filled
with ancient pots and other artifacts, you can enter the cave systems on foot
or in the water on an inner tuber.
During summer, Belize's temperature is approximately 80-85°F; during winter, temperatures range from about 70-80°F. High (dry) season
runs from late November to late April. The low (rainy) season lasts from June to mid-November, but the amount of rainfall varies
widely according to the region (it's much drier in the north). The best airfare and hotel deals can be had during this rainy season,
so this is the best time to visit if you love a bargain and don't mind experiencing some short-lived afternoon showers.
There's so much more to learn... Check out our Facts For The Visitor or read up on our reviews of everything about Belize:
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