10 reasons to visit Belize in 2022

Jungle to sea in 30 minutes; rainforests, reefs and rivers. This Central American destination has it all, writes Melody Wren

Experience a tropical island escape in Belize (Getty Images/iStockphoto)

Belize attracts travellers from all over the world, whether to dive or snorkel in the clear Caribbean Sea or explore the rainforest, rich with tropical birds. History buffs who want to learn about Mayan history can immerse themselves in local culture, while adventure activities, balanced between sea and jungle, are wonderfully accessible.

Inland to island travel is simple thanks to short internal flights – you can get from jungle to sea in less than 30 minutes. There’s no doubt about it: this Central American country is definitely having A Moment (helped by Kate and Wills’ headline-grabbing visit in March). Here are 10 reasons to visit in 2022.

Peace of mind

As an extra incentive to visit in 2022, the Belizean government is providing tourists with a ready-made contingency plan against the possibility of contracting Covid. For $18, tourists will be covered for hospitalisation for up to $50,000, or accommodation for quarantining up to a maximum of $2,000. The insurance is mandatory, but a minimal investment removes all worries about the inconvenience of contracting the virus during a visit.

The four ‘R’s

‘R’ is for… rainforest (Getty Images/iStockphoto)

That is: rainforests, reefs, ruins and rivers. Belize is a small country – about one-10th of the area of the UK – but it packs a lot into that space. And, as the attractions are easy to access, visitors can easily indulge in a smorgasbord of them, even during a short visit.

Wildlife watching

Nature is the star attraction in Belize, and is well protected thanks to marine and nature reserves. The temperate subtropical climate and warm seas support a rich and diverse flora and fauna, on land and sea.

Under the sea

Rich marine life at Hol Chan Marine Reserve (Getty Images/iStockphoto)

The Mesoamerican Barrier Reef is the second largest reef system in the world and provides impressive snorkelling and diving opportunities. Check out the Hol Chan Marine Reserve to witness large schools of colourful tropical fish and schedule a visit to Shark Ray Alley to snorkel among nurse sharks and rays.

Jaguars for days

Spot jaguars at Belize’s dedicated reserve (Getty Images/iStockphoto)

The Cockscomb Jaguar Preserve and Wildlife Reserve is the world’s only jaguar preserve and home to approximately 100 out of the country’s 800-strong population. They are difficult to spot during the day, but you might see pumas, ocelots, margay or armadillos (a staple in the jaguar’s diet). The 1,200-acre preserve is also great for hiking, bird watching and river tubing for a completely different perspective.

Get twitching

Toucan play that game (Getty Images/iStockphoto)

With more than 600 species of birds, hobbyists, serious birders and photographers all flock (pun intended) to see and photograph species indigenous to Belize, including toucans, parrots, macaws, fork-tailed fly catchers, vermillion fly catchers and eastern meadowlarks. Even non-twitchers can’t help but be interested in these birds with names as exotic as their colouring, especially after seeing a roseate spoonbill in a roadside creek. Locals are knowledgeable and genuinely fascinated by their local environment and will happily assist you in finding birds to tick off your list.

Gone fishing

Belize is one of the best year-round destinations in the Caribbean to fulfil your fly fishing appetite. Anthony Mahler, the country’s tourism minister, defines the “grand slam” of fly fishing as catching bonefish, tarpon and permit all in one day. Local guides help make this accomplishment a reality for visitors in the sprawling saltwater flats, brackish lagoons and 180 miles of coral reef. Wading from the beaches of Ambergris Caye, travellers can also spot snappers, angel fish and barracudas.

Varied digs

Accommodation options vary widely in Belize to suit every taste and budget. Jungle lodges and simple seaside cottages feature natural surroundings as their main attraction, while larger resorts offer everything from simple, budget-friendly units to five-star settings with gourmet cuisine and a range of excursions to enjoy.

Step back in time

Mayan structures abound in the Lamanai Archeological Ruins and Nature Reserve (Getty Images/iStockphoto)

From 1800BC to AD900, Mayan cities and culture dominated Central America, including Belize. The Lamanai Archeological Ruins and Nature Reserve is on one of the oldest sites, and showcases one of the best preserved Mayan ruins in the country. As you travel through Belize, immerse yourself in the Mayan culture, whether by taking cooking classes or learning about healing herbs. Treat your taste buds to a Mayan chocolate experience or savour the flavour of local Mayan tea.

No language barrier

Many cultures and races are harmoniously represented in Belize, including Lebanese, Garifuna, Black, white, Mennonite, Chinese, Indian, Hispanic and Mayan. But it is the only Central American country in which English is the official language because of its status as a former British colony, rather than a Spanish one. Ease of communication alongside cultural diversity is the icing on the cake for British travellers.

For more information, visit Belize Tourism Board