15 Best Things to do in Belize

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Planning a trip to Belize? You’re in the right place! 

This small but stunning country packs in so much variety that it feels like three vacations in one. Think turquoise waters filled with tropical fish, ancient Mayan temples hidden in the jungle, and laid-back coastal towns where the biggest decision of the day is whether to snorkel or sip a rum punch first.

When we first explored Belize, we were blown away by how easy it was to mix adventure with relaxation. One day, we were kayaking through caves, the next, we were savoring stewed chicken and rice in Belize City. There’s just so much to do!

Ready to get started? Let’s go!

Things to do in Belize

1. Explore the Actun Tunichil Muknal Cave

The Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM) Cave is one of the most sacred Mayan sites in Central America and an absolute must-visit for adventurous travelers. National Geographic even named it the #1 sacred cave in the world! This full-day tour from San Ignacio includes a jungle hike, as well as the chance to explore underground rivers and discover the region’s incredible history.

We loved how the journey felt like stepping between worlds. After a drive from San Ignacio, we hiked through Tapir Mountain Nature Reserve, crossing streams and spotting wildlife until we reached the cave entrance. 

From there, things got even more thrilling, swimming into a spring-fed pool, squeezing through passageways, and entering chambers glittering with stalactites and stalagmites. Our guide’s stories made it easy to imagine the ceremonies that once took place here.

The highlight for us was seeing the “Crystal Maiden,” the crystallized remains of a Mayan ceremonial victim lying untouched for centuries, alongside ancient pottery and other skeletal remains. It was both a little chilling and awe-inspiring! After hours underground, emerging back into the sunlight for a homemade picnic lunch felt like a reward well earned.

This tour is best for travelers who want adventure mixed with history. It’s a rare chance to step directly into Belize’s past, and one you’ll never forget.

Check availability and book your ATM Cave adventure from San Ignacio today!

2. Snorkel in Hol Chan Marine Reserve

Belize is famous for its barrier reef, and there’s no better way to experience it than a day at the Hol Chan Marine Reserve. Departing from Caye Caulker, this full-day snorkeling tour takes you straight into the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean, where you’ll swim alongside some of the ocean’s most incredible creatures. With nurse sharks, stingrays, turtles, and even manatees making regular appearances, every stop feels like a new underwater adventure.

We were amazed at just how much variety the day packed in. At Shark Ray Alley, gliding next to harmless nurse sharks was a surreal moment, equal parts thrilling and peaceful! Later, drifting over colorful corals and spotting turtles at Hol Chan’s reef sites was like stepping into a living aquarium. 

The guides made everything feel fun and relaxed, and we loved that they captured the whole experience with free GoPro photos and videos (perfect for sharing the moment without worrying about your camera).

Lunch on the boat was fresh and delicious, and the eco-friendly touches, like reusable containers and proceeds going toward local projects, made the whole trip feel even more meaningful. We wrapped up the day with a stop at laid-back Caye Caulker, which was the perfect bonus before heading back.

This is one of those tours that really shows off Belize’s natural beauty, and it’s a must for anyone who loves the sea.

Join hundreds of happy travelers and book your Hol Chan snorkeling tour today!

3. Visit the Xunantunich Mayan Ruins

San Ignacio

This full-day adventure from San Ignacio combines two of Belize’s biggest highlights: the towering Mayan ruins of Xunantunich and the mystical caves of Nohoch Che’en. It’s the perfect mix of history, culture, and fun in the water.

We started the day just 20 minutes outside of town, where our guide Jose brought the ancient city of Xunantunich to life with stories of its once-mighty rulers. Climbing the El Castillo pyramid gave us sweeping views of the jungle all the way into Guatemala, such a breathtaking moment! After exploring the site, we enjoyed a homemade Belizean lunch before heading into the caves.

Floating through the caverns on an inner tube was equal parts relaxing and thrilling. At times we drifted peacefully, and at others Jose pointed out chambers once used for sacred ceremonies. It was fascinating to experience the “underworld” the Maya believed in while simply floating along the river.

Book your Xunantunich and cave tubing combo from San Ignacio here!

Placencia

Traveling from Placencia, this private full-day tour takes you deep into Belize’s history and natural beauty with two unforgettable stops: Xunantunich and the limestone caves of Nohoch Che’en. With your guide leading the way, the day feels both personal and adventurous!

After the scenic drive inland, we explored Xunantunich, one of the most impressive Mayan cities in Belize. Robin, our guide, shared fascinating details about the site’s temples and plazas, and climbing to the top of El Castillo rewarded us with sweeping views across the jungle and into Guatemala. The sheer scale of it was incredible.

From there, the pace shifted to pure adventure as we grabbed helmets and headlamps for cave tubing. Floating through ancient limestone passages, we listened as Robin explained how the Maya used these chambers for ceremonies and rituals. Between the glowing mineral formations and the cool river waters, it was a magical way to end the day!

Book your private Xunantunich and cave tubing tour from Placencia here!

4. Taste authentic Belizean cuisine on a food tour

One of the best ways to understand a place is through its food, and this Belize City food tour does exactly that. In just two hours, you’ll taste your way through snacks, fruits, and even rum while learning about the history and daily life of the country’s bustling capital. It’s the perfect mix of flavors and stories that leaves you feeling like you’ve seen a different side of Belize.

We really enjoyed how personal this experience felt. Wandering through both the north and south sides of the city gave us a glimpse into its contrasts, from colorful street corners to historic landmarks. 

Along the way, our guide handed us samples of fresh fruits and local treats, each one with a story behind it. A stop at the rum factory and museum was a definite highlight, with tastings that gave us a true sense of Belize’s craftsmanship.

The tour wrapped up with a steaming hot tamale in one of the city’s parks, a simple but delicious ending that felt authentically Belizean! Between the food, the history, and the friendly guide, this tour was a refreshing way to spend a few hours.

Reserve your Belize City food tour and taste the flavors of Belize here!

5. Take a day trip to the Tikal Ruins in Guatemala

A visit to Belize puts you just a short drive away from one of the most extraordinary Mayan cities in the world: Tikal. This full-day trip from San Ignacio takes you across the border into Guatemala, where the vast ruins of this UNESCO World Heritage Site sprawl across the jungle. With thousands of excavated structures, towering temples, and an incredible history, Tikal is one of those places that leaves you speechless.

We set out early with our guide Sergio, who made the border crossing smooth and stress-free. Once inside the park, the scale of the city was breathtaking. Walking through the Central Acropolis, we could picture daily life bustling centuries ago. 

Climbing the Temple of the Grand Jaguar and gazing out from the top was unforgettable, and the towering Temple IV, rising above the canopy, was every bit as impressive as the photos make it look.

After a break for lunch inside the park, we loved having time to explore on our own. With Sergio’s stories still fresh in our minds, wandering among the pyramids and ball courts felt like stepping back into another world. By the time we returned to San Ignacio, we knew this had been a highlight of our entire Belize trip.

With 250+ 5-star reviews, check availability and book this day trip here!

6. Go on a fishing and snorkeling excursion 

Few experiences capture the magic of Belize’s coast like a private day spent fishing, snorkeling, and relaxing by the sea. Departing from San Pedro, this full- or half-day fishing experience gives you the freedom to choose your adventure, whether it’s reef fishing, swimming with colorful marine life, or both. With a private guide to show you the best spots, the day feels personalized and unrushed from start to finish.

We loved the full-day option, which paired fishing with snorkeling before heading to shore for a beach cookout. There’s something special about enjoying fresh fish you’ve caught yourself, grilled over the sand with the sound of the waves in the background. 

For those short on time, the half-day choices are fantastic too, whether it’s snorkeling at Mexico Rocks, spotting manatees at Coral Gardens, or diving into the action at Hol Chan and Shark Ray Alley.

What stood out most was the balance of activity and relaxation. Between casting lines, spotting reef creatures, and swimming in the turquoise waters, we still had time to simply soak in the Caribbean views. With free 24-hour cancellation, booking feels easy and flexible, which makes planning your Belize trip stress-free.

Book your private fishing and snorkeling adventure in San Pedro today!

7. Kayak through caves in Nohoc Chen Park

Exploring Belize’s caves by kayak is one of the most unique adventures you can have, and Nohoc Chen Park is the perfect place to do it! This half-day tour from Belize City combines jungle hiking, river paddling, and the thrill of venturing into the dark caverns of the Maya Mountains — headlamp lighting the way. With ancient legends tied to these caves, every turn feels steeped in history.

We set out with our guide Abner, who made the whole experience feel safe and exciting. After a scenic rainforest hike, we launched our kayaks and began paddling down the Caves Branch River. 

Entering the caves was unforgettable, as we glided through tunnels, spotted sparkling rock formations, and even passed an underground waterfall. At certain points, Abner encouraged us to hop in for a swim, and the cool, crystal-clear water was incredibly refreshing.

What we loved most was the balance between adventure and tranquility. Kayaking kept us active, but floating through the quiet, echoing chambers felt peaceful, too. By the time we emerged back into the sunlight, we were grinning ear to ear. With free 24-hour cancellation and hotel or cruise pickup included, it’s an easy tour to fit into your Belize trip.

With 300+ 5-star reviews, book your cave kayaking adventure here!

8. Relax on an Ambergris Caye sunset sail 

Few moments capture the laid-back charm of Belize quite like watching the sun melt into the Caribbean from the deck of a sailboat. This three-hour cruise from Ambergris Caye is all about slowing down, sipping a rum punch, and soaking in the scenery. It’s an easy evening that feels both romantic and unforgettable!

We set sail aboard the beautiful 40-foot Sirena Azul, a classic sailboat with plenty of space to stretch out on deck. As the captain steered us south along the edge of Ambergris Caye, we kicked back to tropical tunes and clinked glasses with fellow travelers. 

The golden glow over the reef was stunning, and every so often we spotted dolphins breaking the surface or sea turtles gliding near the boat.

By the time the first stars appeared, we were fully relaxed, lulled by the waves and the salty breeze. Whether you’re traveling as a couple, with friends, or even as a family, this sunset sail is a simple yet perfect way to end a day on the island.

Reserve your Ambergris Caye sunset sail with FREE 24-hour cancellation!

9. Jet ski to Secret Beach

Secret Beach isn’t much of a secret anymore, but the journey there can still feel like a true adventure, especially when you go by jet ski. This four-hour guided tour from San Pedro lets you zip across the turquoise waters, stop at hidden beaches, and take in stunning views of private islands and resorts along the way. It’s equal parts thrill ride and island escape!

We loved how the day balanced excitement with pure relaxation. Racing over the lagoon was exhilarating, with stops to swim in shallow, crystal-clear waters before cruising on to the famous sandbar. 

The water here is just six inches deep, making it the perfect place to splash, swim, or simply chill on your jet ski. The highlight, though, was pulling up to Blue Bayou at Secret Beach, where tables sit right in the water. With music playing, seafood sizzling, and drinks flowing, it was the ultimate Caribbean hangout.

By the time we cruised back to San Pedro, we felt like we’d had a little bit of everything: speed, scenery, and plenty of sunshine. With free 24-hour cancellation and flexible payment options, it’s easy to add this adventure to your Belize itinerary.

Hop on a jet ski and experience this epic tour when you book here!

10. See the Lamanai Temples, go on a river cruise, & spot wildlife

Some Mayan sites feel hidden, while others rise dramatically from the jungle, and Lamanai really is the latter! This full-day tour from Belize City combines a wildlife-packed river cruise with a guided exploration of one of the country’s most fascinating archaeological sites. Between spotting crocodiles in the water and climbing the towering High Temple, it’s a day filled with discovery.

The journey started with a relaxing boat ride along the New River. We passed orchids, water lilies, and flocks of tropical birds, while our guide pointed out the occasional crocodile sunning itself on the banks. Hearing the howler monkeys before we saw them was a surreal moment, their calls echoing through the rainforest set the tone for the adventure ahead.

Arriving at Lamanai, we followed shaded jungle paths to some of the site’s most impressive structures. The Mask Temple, with its intricate carvings, and the towering High Temple were both so impressive, especially the views from the top. 

We also explored the Jaguar Temple and the ball courts, with our guide weaving stories of rituals, rulers, and daily life into every stop. A Belizean lunch and a visit to the on-site museum rounded out the day perfectly!

This tour is ideal for anyone who wants history, culture, and wildlife all rolled into one adventure.

Book your Lamanai river cruise and temple tour here!

11. Go Parasailing

There’s nothing quite like seeing Ambergris Caye and the Belize Barrier Reef from above, and parasailing gives you the chance to do just that. On this popular parasailing experience, you’ll soar high over the Caribbean Sea, with panoramic views of turquoise water stretching as far as the eye can see. It’s short, sweet, and absolutely unforgettable.

We loved how thrilling yet peaceful the experience was. As the boat sped ahead, we gently lifted into the air until the island below looked like a postcard. From up there, the colors of the reef were stunning, and we even spotted rays and turtles gliding in the water. 

The crew made everything feel safe and easy, and for a fun twist, they offered to dip us in the water on the way down, a refreshing splash that left us laughing!

Parasailing is perfect if you’re short on time but still want an adventure you’ll talk about long after your trip. It’s an easy add-on to a beach day and a great way to get a whole new perspective on Belize.

Take flight over the Caribbean and book your parasailing adventure here!

12. Snorkel at Silk and Moho Caye

Belize’s cayes are famous for their crystal-clear waters and thriving marine life, and this full-day snorkeling trip to Silk and Moho Caye is one of the best ways to experience it all. Between colorful reefs, laid-back island time, and a freshly cooked beach lunch, it’s the ultimate day in paradise.

Our adventure began with a pickup from our hotel in Placencia. First stop: Silk Caye, a tiny postcard-perfect island surrounded by turquoise waters. Sliding into the sea, we were instantly surrounded by life, nurse sharks gliding below us, rays sweeping gracefully across the sand, and sea turtles drifting calmly through the reef. After snorkeling around the island, we had time to soak up the sun and enjoy the serene beauty of this little slice of heaven.

Next stop was Moho Caye, where our guides prepared a delicious Belizean lunch right on the beach. Eating with our toes in the sand was the perfect break before heading back into the water for another round of snorkeling. The reefs here were vibrant, with schools of tropical fish darting in every direction.

Between the wildlife encounters, the pristine islands, and the relaxed pace, this tour felt like a true escape. It’s simply a can’t-miss while in Belize!

Book your snorkeling trip here with flexible payment and cancellation options!

13. Rent a golf cart and cruise around Ambergris Caye

Booking a golf cart rental in Ambergris Caye is one of the easiest ways to explore the island! With your own cart, you can breeze along sandy roads, stop at hidden beaches, and pop into local restaurants whenever the mood strikes. Whether you rent for a day or your entire stay, it’s a flexible and fun way to see more of the island.

We loved how much freedom the golf cart gave us. Instead of sticking to one area, we cruised down sandy lanes, stopped at beach bars when the mood struck, and even chased a few sunsets along the western shore. 

The carts are modern, comfortable, and perfect for families or groups of friends since they seat up to four people. The novelty of zipping around in a golf cart never really wore off – it felt like part of the island lifestyle!

With easy drop-off and pick-up service in San Pedro and 24/7 customer support, renting one is stress-free. It’s the kind of little upgrade that completely changes your trip, giving you the freedom to explore Ambergris Caye at your own pace.

Read over 350 5-star reviews and secure your Ambergris Caye golf cart today!

14. Discover Belize’s waterfalls and jungles

Exploring the waterfalls of Belize’s Cayo District feels like stepping straight into a jungle adventure. This private pontoon boat tour from San Ignacio takes you deep into the Maya Mountains, where rivers, rainforest, and hidden cascades create the perfect backdrop for a day of swimming, exploring, and relaxing.

Our guide, Nadir, made the day both fun and easygoing. Cruising along the river by pontoon felt peaceful, with lush jungle all around and the occasional glimpse of wildlife in the trees. Each waterfall we stopped at had its own magic, from the ever-changing pools of the unnamed falls to the granite-carved Twin Falls. 

At every stop, we had the chance to swim in crystal-clear water, lounge on the rocks, or even cliff jump for an extra rush of adrenaline!

One of the highlights was the onboard lunch. Nadir cooked a fresh Belizean meal right on the pontoon, and sitting down to eat with the sound of the waterfalls in the background was an experience in itself. The whole day struck a perfect balance between adventure and relaxation, leaving us feeling like we’d discovered a hidden side of Belize.

Grab your spot on this jungle pontoon and waterfall adventure from San Ignacio here!

15. Ride horses at the Xunantunich ruins

Exploring Xunantunich on horseback feels like stepping back in time, and it’s one of the most memorable ways to experience Belize’s Mayan heritage. This private four-hour tour from San Ignacio begins at a well-known local stable and follows the scenic Mopan River all the way to the ruins, combining peaceful riding with a journey into history.

We loved how the ride itself felt like part of the adventure! Trotting along jungle and riverside trails, we spotted tropical birds and even heard howler monkeys echoing through the trees. Crossing the hand-cranked ferry with our horses was a unique moment, and from there it was just a short ride to the base of the site. 

Exploring the ancient city with our guide was truly incredible, and standing at the top of El Castillo with sweeping views across Belize and into Guatemala was easily the highlight!

What makes this tour special is the blend of nature, culture, and calm exploration. It’s great for riders of all skill levels, and the guides take care to match you with the right horse. For families, couples, or anyone wanting to slow down and see Xunantunich in a unique way, this tour is a gem.

Book this private horseback riding tour to Xunantunich here!

Where to Stay in Belize

One of our favorite aspects of Belize is its incredible diversity! Whether you want a relaxing beach getaway, a central city trip, or to explore the vast jungles, there is an ideal place to stay for you. Here are the top cities to stay in Belize and our favorite hotel options at a range of budgets:

Ambergris Caye 

• Luxury $$$ – Alaia Belize
• Mid-range $$ – Isla Bonita Yacht Club
• Budget $ – La Casa de Paz Hotel

San Ignacio 

• Luxury $$$ – The West House Boutique Hotel
• Mid-range $$ – Falling Leaves Lodge
• Budget $ – Las Haciendas

Belize City 

• Luxury $$$ – Fort George Hotel and Spa
• Mid-range $$ – Harbour View Boutique Hotel & Wellness Retreat
• Budget $ – Golden Bay Belize Hotel

Caye Caulker 

• Luxury $$$ – Treetops Hotel
• Mid-range $$ – Sea Dreams Hotel
• Budget $ – Barefoot Beach Belize

For more options, see all of the hotels available in Belize here!

Thanks for reading!

Belize is one of our favorite getaways in Central America. With amazing beaches, lush jungle, ancient temples, and bustling cities, there’s a little bit of everything. Hopefully, you get the chance to tick off every item on this list, as they all highlight the best of Belize!

Before you go, check out all of our Central America blogs. We have plenty of resources to help you plan an epic holiday, from city itineraries, where to stay guides, and lists of top things to do. Here are a few related blogs to get you started – cheers!

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