Famous Landmarks in Belize
Belize, a small country located on the eastern coast of Central America, is renowned for its rich cultural diversity, ancient Mayan ruins, and stunning natural landscapes. As a tropical paradise bordered by the Caribbean Sea, Belize is home to the world-famous Belize Barrier Reef, which attracts divers and snorkelers from around the globe. Inland, visitors can explore lush rainforests, wildlife sanctuaries, and remarkable archaeological sites dating back to the Mayan civilization. Belize’s unique blend of cultures—Creole, Garifuna, Mayan, and Mestizo—adds to its appeal, offering a vibrant mix of traditions, music, and cuisine.
Despite its relatively small size, Belize is packed with activities for adventure seekers and history buffs alike. Whether you’re exploring ancient temples, snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, or trekking through the jungle, Belize offers a captivating and diverse travel experience. Below are the top 10 famous landmarks in Belize, highlighting the country’s most popular and significant attractions.
1. The Great Blue Hole
Overview
The Great Blue Hole is one of Belize’s most iconic natural landmarks and a bucket-list destination for divers worldwide. Located in the center of Lighthouse Reef, this massive underwater sinkhole measures over 300 meters in diameter and 125 meters deep. The site was made famous by Jacques Cousteau, who declared it one of the top diving spots in the world. Divers can explore the clear waters filled with stalactites, marine life, and coral formations. For non-divers, scenic flights over the Great Blue Hole offer stunning aerial views of this natural wonder.
Location
- City: Near Lighthouse Reef, 70 km from the mainland of Belize
- Coordinates: 17.3151° N, 87.5347° W
Ticket Price
- Entry Fee: Dive trips cost around $200 to $300 USD, including boat transport and equipment.
Nearby Airports
- Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport (BZE): Located in Belize City, about 70 km from the Great Blue Hole.
Railway Stations
Belize does not have a railway system.
Special Attention
Dive Experience Required: The Great Blue Hole is best suited for experienced divers due to its depth. However, boat tours and snorkeling trips are available for non-divers who still want to experience the beauty of the reef.
2. Xunantunich
Overview
Xunantunich is an ancient Mayan archaeological site located near the town of San Ignacio, Belize. The name Xunantunich means “Stone Woman” in the Maya language, and it features some of the tallest and most impressive Mayan ruins in Belize. The most notable structure is “El Castillo,” a towering pyramid that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding jungle and the Mopan River. Visitors can explore the plazas, temples, and stone carvings that tell the story of the Mayan civilization that thrived in this region over 1,000 years ago.
Location
- City: San Ignacio, Cayo District
- Coordinates: 17.0897° N, 89.1417° W
Ticket Price
- Entry Fee: 10 BZD ($5 USD) for adults, free for children under 12.
Nearby Airports
- Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport (BZE): About 120 km from Xunantunich.
Railway Stations
Belize does not have a railway system.
Special Attention
Ferry Ride: To access the site, visitors must take a hand-cranked ferry across the Mopan River, adding a unique aspect to the journey.
3. Altun Ha
Overview
Altun Ha is one of the most well-preserved and easily accessible Mayan archaeological sites in Belize. Located just 50 kilometers north of Belize City, Altun Ha was a major trading and ceremonial center during the Mayan period. The site’s most famous structure is the Temple of the Masonry Altars, which stands at 16 meters tall. Visitors can explore the ancient plazas and temples, and the site’s most famous discovery—a jade head representing the Mayan sun god, Kinich Ahau—is now a national treasure.
Location
- City: Near Rockstone Pond, Belize District
- Coordinates: 17.7638° N, 88.3475° W
Ticket Price
- Entry Fee: 10 BZD ($5 USD) for adults, free for children under 12.
Nearby Airports
- Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport (BZE): About 50 km from Altun Ha.
Railway Stations
Belize does not have a railway system.
Special Attention
Easy Access: Altun Ha is one of the closest Mayan ruins to Belize City, making it a popular day trip for tourists arriving by cruise ship.
4. Caye Caulker
Overview
Caye Caulker is a small Caribbean island off the coast of Belize, known for its laid-back atmosphere, clear turquoise waters, and vibrant marine life. The island is part of the Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System, making it a prime destination for snorkeling, diving, and water sports. Visitors can explore the Split, a narrow channel that divides the island, or relax on the island’s sandy shores. The island’s motto, “Go Slow,” captures its relaxed pace, making it a popular spot for backpackers and eco-tourists.
Location
- City: Caye Caulker, Belize District
- Coordinates: 17.7427° N, 88.0257° W
Ticket Price
- Entry Fee: Free to explore the island. Snorkeling and diving tours range from $50 to $150 USD.
Nearby Airports
- Caye Caulker Airport (CUK): Located on the island, with small planes arriving from Belize City.
Railway Stations
Belize does not have a railway system.
Special Attention
Barrier Reef Access: Caye Caulker offers easy access to the Belize Barrier Reef, making it an excellent base for water-based activities, including snorkeling with nurse sharks and stingrays at Shark Ray Alley.
5. Caracol
Overview
Caracol is the largest Mayan archaeological site in Belize and one of the most significant in the Maya world. Located deep in the Chiquibul Forest, Caracol was once a thriving Mayan city, covering over 200 square kilometers. The site’s tallest structure, Caana (Sky Palace), stands at 43 meters and remains the tallest man-made structure in Belize. Visitors can explore the temples, ball courts, and ceremonial plazas, while enjoying the stunning views of the surrounding jungle.
Location
- City: Chiquibul Forest, Cayo District
- Coordinates: 16.7630° N, 89.1170° W
Ticket Price
- Entry Fee: 15 BZD ($7.50 USD) for adults, free for children under 12.
Nearby Airports
- Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport (BZE): About 140 km from Caracol.
Railway Stations
Belize does not have a railway system.
Special Attention
Remote Location: Due to its remote location, reaching Caracol requires a 4×4 vehicle or booking a guided tour from San Ignacio.
6. Hol Chan Marine Reserve
Overview
Hol Chan Marine Reserve is one of Belize’s most popular diving and snorkeling destinations. Located off the coast of Ambergris Caye, this protected marine reserve is part of the Belize Barrier Reef and features four distinct zones: coral reefs, seagrass beds, mangroves, and Shark Ray Alley. Snorkelers and divers can experience vibrant coral formations, a variety of tropical fish, and close encounters with nurse sharks and stingrays. Hol Chan offers some of the best underwater experiences in the Caribbean.
Location
- City: Ambergris Caye, Belize District
- Coordinates: 17.8696° N, 87.9763° W
Ticket Price
- Entry Fee: 10 BZD ($5 USD) for entry to the marine reserve, with additional fees for guided snorkeling and diving tours.
Nearby Airports
- San Pedro Airport (SPR): Located on Ambergris Caye, about 15 minutes by boat from Hol Chan.
Railway Stations
Belize does not have a railway system.
Special Attention
Shark Ray Alley: This section of the reserve is famous for encounters with nurse sharks and stingrays, making it a highlight for adventurous snorkelers and divers.
7. Lamanai
Overview
Lamanai, meaning “Submerged Crocodile” in the Mayan language, is an ancient Mayan city located in northern Belize. The site is famous for its well-preserved temples, stelae, and artifacts, many of which are set against the backdrop of the New River Lagoon. Visitors can explore the Mask Temple, High Temple, and Jaguar Temple, as well as learn about the site’s rich history at the visitor center. Lamanai is unique because it was continuously occupied for over 3,000 years, making it one of the longest-occupied Mayan cities.
Location
- City: Orange Walk District
- Coordinates: 17.7524° N, 88.6541° W
Ticket Price
- Entry Fee: 10 BZD ($5 USD) for adults, free for children under 12.
Nearby Airports
- Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport (BZE): About 90 km from Lamanai.
Railway Stations
Belize does not have a railway system.
Special Attention
Riverboat Tours: A popular way to reach Lamanai is by taking a riverboat tour along the New River, offering a scenic and adventurous journey to the site.
8. Belize Zoo
Overview
The Belize Zoo is not your typical zoo—it’s a wildlife sanctuary dedicated to rehabilitating injured or orphaned animals native to Belize. Home to over 175 animals, the zoo showcases Belize’s diverse wildlife, including jaguars, tapirs, howler monkeys, and tropical birds. The zoo is set in a lush natural environment, allowing the animals to live in conditions that closely resemble their natural habitats. Visitors can learn about Belize’s conservation efforts while enjoying up-close encounters with the country’s wildlife.
Location
- City: La Democracia, Belize District
- Coordinates: 17.3620° N, 88.5403° W
Ticket Price
- Entry Fee: 15 BZD ($7.50 USD) for adults, 5 BZD ($2.50 USD) for children.
Nearby Airports
- Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport (BZE): About 30 km from the Belize Zoo.
Railway Stations
Belize does not have a railway system.
Special Attention
Animal Encounters: The Belize Zoo offers special animal encounter experiences, such as feeding the tapirs or meeting a jaguar, making it a memorable visit for wildlife enthusiasts.
9. Placencia Peninsula
Overview
Placencia is a popular beach destination located on a long, narrow peninsula in southern Belize. Known for its white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, Placencia offers a perfect combination of relaxation and adventure. The area is famous for its snorkeling and diving opportunities at nearby cayes and reefs, as well as for its laid-back, charming village atmosphere. Visitors can explore local art galleries, enjoy fresh seafood, and take boat tours to nearby islands or wildlife reserves.
Location
- City: Placencia, Stann Creek District
- Coordinates: 16.5213° N, 88.3655° W
Ticket Price
- Entry Fee: Free to explore the beaches and town. Tours and activities have varying costs.
Nearby Airports
- Placencia Airport (PLJ): Located on the peninsula, with daily flights from Belize City.
Railway Stations
Belize does not have a railway system.
Special Attention
Whale Shark Season: Placencia is one of the best places in Belize to see whale sharks, especially during their migration season from March to June.
10. Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary
Overview
Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the most important nature reserves in Belize and is famous for being the world’s first jaguar reserve. Covering over 150 square miles of rainforest, this sanctuary is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including jaguars, ocelots, pumas, tapirs, and over 300 species of birds. The sanctuary offers well-maintained hiking trails, waterfalls, and opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife viewing. It’s a must-visit for nature lovers and those seeking to explore Belize’s diverse ecosystems.
Location
- City: Stann Creek District
- Coordinates: 16.7388° N, 88.6718° W
Ticket Price
- Entry Fee: 10 BZD ($5 USD) for adults, free for children under 12.
Nearby Airports
- Placencia Airport (PLJ): About 30 km from the sanctuary.
Railway Stations
Belize does not have a railway system.
Special Attention
Jaguar Sighting: While jaguar sightings are rare, visitors are more likely to spot other wildlife such as howler monkeys, toucans, and tapirs during their hikes.
