Belize

Coral reefs and rain forest in the only English-speaking country of Central America.

Belize is small but has so much to offer. In the centre you can find tons of limestone hills with tropical forests, while the coast is home to swamplands with impressive mangrove forests. Off its coast, you’ll find the second largest coral reef in the world.

Belize is a relatively unknown country in Central America, and it’s perfect for an adventurous holiday. 

Before the Spanish arrived, it was home to the Maya peoples, who also lived in Mexico and Guatemala. There are still remains of this famous ancient civilisation in the rainforest, though Belize is more the place for adventure. 

There is a huge coral reef off its coast, and after the Great Barrier Reef in Australia, it is the largest in the world: Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System, of which the Belize Barrier Reef makes up a large part. 

In the south, you can find the only real mountains: the Maya mountains. This is also where the highest mountain of Belize can be found, Victoria Peak is 1.122 meters high. In this inland area, you can wander around the hills in the tropical forests. And on the coast, you’ll find lots of mangrove forests. 

The Maya are the original inhabitants, later the Spanish arrived, followed by the British timber traders and the pirates. This made for a very varied mix of people. Belize is the only English-speaking country in Central America.

All 7 Bucket List Tips in Belize