Belize Natural Wonders

A branch of the New River splits Belize City in two, with the North side full of markets, shops, and museums and the South side marked by upscale riverfront homes of the city's elite. Farther along, the city gives way to the beautiful natural scenery of the surrounding jungle as you approach Lamanai.

Protected by forests and rivers, Mayan San Ignacio was one of the centers of rebellion against Spanish conquistadors -- in 1641, Mayan priests staged a parody of the Mass to incense the missionaries, and later the city befriended the independent British loggers who settled in defiance of the Spanish. Today the city maintains its independent, laidback charm.

See Belize's diverse and colorful wildlife as you cross bridges, cables, and platforms suspended high in the rainforest canopy.

Grab an inner tube and explore the caves considered sacred by the ancient Mayans. You'll see amazing rock formations, archaeological remains, and more as you glide down underground rivers.

Explore the 6 plazas and more than 26 temples and palaces that make up this ancient Mayan city. Head to the steps of El Castillo, the largest pyramid and second tallest structure in Belize, and see if you can spot the “stone woman” with the fire red eyes that is said to haunt the site. Climb to the very top of the village for a spectacular view of the surrounding countryside – you can even see all the way to the Belize and Guatemala border!

Explore this 29 acre zoo for a chance to see native Belizean animals such as jaguars, ocelots, iguanas and more. Learn about the zoo’s efforts to create awareness and share knowledge about Belize’s wildlife as you visit each of the animals in their natural habitats.

Visit a Belizean school to meet local students, practice Spanish and see the differences between schools there and schools at home.

The Hol Chan Marine Reserve cuts through the coral reef up to the mangrove forest on the shoreline, giving you a cross-section look at three ocean habitats.