Belize beckons travelers with the longest barrier reef in the Western Hemisphere, a preserve with the highest known concentration of jaguars anywhere in the world, and ancient Mayan ruins scattered throughout much of the country. Although many travelers come for diving and relaxing along the coast or on the cayes, adventurous travelers who venture inland are richly rewarded.

Culture and Language

For such a tiny country Belize's population has a diverse ethnic mix. Creoles, descendants of British pirates and African slaves, make up approximately 30% of the population.  They speak a unique dialect of English which sounds familiar but can be hard to decipher for standard English speakers. A rather distinctive segment of the population found in Southern Belize is the Garifuna, descendants of South American Indians and African slaves. Their unique and colorful culture is a mixture of traditions, music, dance and spirituality of both heritages. Three distinct linguistic groups of pure-blooded Maya make up another 10% of the population; and Mestizos (mixed European and indigenous ancestry) make up the largest ethnic group in the population at around 44%.

Great Mesoamerican Barrier Reef

Second in length only to the Great Barrier Reef of Australia, the Mesoamerican reef is a cornucopia of opportunities for fun.  Beyond diving, this great location offers some of the best saltwater fly-fishing on the planet, excellent snorkeling in the shallow and remarkably clear water within the reef, and kayaking among the smaller cayes and mangrove swamps. If you‘re there between March and May you may be lucky enough to spy—or even snorkel with—the immense whale shark, the world’s biggest fish (don’t worry – despite the name and size it is a gentle filter feeder – NOT a man eater!