Belize

Belize is a small Central American paradise where ancient Mayan civilization meets Caribbean culture! Home to the second-largest barrier reef in the world, Belize offers world-class snorkeling and diving in crystal-clear waters teeming with colorful fish, sea turtles, and nurse sharks. The famous Great Blue Hole - a giant underwater sinkhole - is one of the planet's most spectacular dive sites.

Inland, Belize features dense rainforests hiding impressive Mayan ruins like Caracol and Xunantunich, where you can climb ancient pyramids and explore temples. Howler monkeys, jaguars, tapirs, and hundreds of bird species inhabit the jungles and wildlife reserves. Belize is unique in Central America as the only country where English is the official language, though Spanish, Kriol, and Mayan languages are also spoken. The culture blends Mayan, Mestizo, Kriol, Garifuna, and Mennonite influences. From cave tubing through underground river systems to relaxing on palm-fringed cayes (small islands), Belize offers adventure and relaxation in equal measure.