The 9 things to do in Belize City

Going to Belize City? Discover the must-see places and activities available to you from this beautiful Caribbean city

Visiting Belize City, the former capital of the country, is directly immersed in the history of the country. Caribbean atmosphere, turquoise sea typical of Central America, but also meshes and colonial buildings mix to make this city a pleasant cosmopolitan city. Ideal starting point to visit the country, its jungles and islands, Belize City holds you the promise of a trip that you are not close to forgetting.

So convinced? Discover the 9 must-have things to do in Belize City, guaranteed change!

1. Saint John’s Anglican Cathedral

When we look for what to do in Belize City, we cannot ignore the religion that is very important in Belizean culture. Saint John’s Cathedral is one of the most popular religious monuments in the city. In modest size, it is built in red bricks on the model of Anglican churches. Its mahogany interior and organ make it a monument of all beauty that sums up the different influences that shaped the country.

2. The National Museum of Belize

The museum takes place in Her Majesty’s former prison. It is dedicated to the historical and cultural past of the country. The former prison, built in bricks from the United Kingdom, had a period of renovation and conversion in 1998. The National Museum of Belize opens its doors in 2002 and presents a multitude of objects mayas like sculptures, jade subjects or ceramics.

Exhibitions are regularly organized to present local artists. Visit the old cells with the graffiti of the detainees that have been preserved. Learn the history of the country, from the Mayans to today, through the period of colonization.

3. The rotating bridge

This bridge is a symbol of Belize City and its colonial past. Connecting the two banks of the Haulover Creek River, the turning bridge is the oldest in Central America. A system allows you to rotate the bridge to allow the passage to the boats that want to go back to the land or access the ocean. The men’s show running the cranks is a must when visiting Belize City.

Moreover, this bridge is one of the many testimonies of British colonization, since it was built in Liverpool before traveling so far for installation. You will also notice the many colorful buildings and their balconies with typically Victorian architecture.

4. Fort Street Tourism Village

At the seaside, this area is specially built for tourists. Beautiful colorful houses form an alley along which you can walk in search of souvenirs. Set on the terrace of a typical restaurant and enjoy a meal based on seafood. The many shops will allow you to bring back craftsmanship objects, jewellery and textiles.

Visiting Belize City is also testing local products, and Fort Street is the ideal place to taste and get conquered by the powerful flavors of Belize’s chocolate.

5. Crooked Tree Park

The park is located north of Belize City and easily accessible by road. It is ideal for bird watching. The Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary is made up of forests and lagoons on which it is possible to navigate. Embark on a small boat with a guide for an immersive experience in the jungle of Belize. From December to May, thousands of migratory birds come to find refuge in the vicinity of the rivers and marshes. It is an opportunity to discover the herons, parrots, eagles or the famous jabiru, one of the largest birds in America.

The park also hosts the largest population of jabirus in Central America. They are used to coming to nest there between November and May. You will also visit cashew farms and can stay inside the park to make the most of your visit. Lodges offer rooms with observation platforms, to admire the birds from morning to evening.

6. Screaming monkey sanctuary

If you are looking for what to do in Belize that doesn’t exist anywhere else, the shrine of the screaming monkeys is for you. These monkeys are among the greatest in all America and are called “baboon” by the locals. This species is present only in Belize, and in neighbouring territories Mexico and Guatemala .

The Baboon Sanctuary is the place that the inhabitants created themselves in 1985 to protect those primates whose survival is threatened. You will be impressed by their gutural cries, among the ten strongest of all the animals on the planet. These screamings serve them to mark their territory and communicate between groups. You can learn more about their behaviour and watch them evolve in semi-freedom.

7. Belize Sign Monument

If you're going to visit Belize City, don't miss getting yourself photographed in front of the Belize Sign Monument . This site is the perfect place to take a picture of your holiday in Belize. The place is not far from the city center, you can go by a walk along the seaside. The colourful letters that cut off on the turquoise blue background of the Caribbean Sea leave no doubt: you are in Belize!

8. Caye Caulker

It is from the port of Belize City that one of the gems of the region, the small tropical island of Caye Caulker. Beachside and mangrove, licked by abundant crystal clear waters of fish, this Caribbean pearl is an immanquable when looking for a place in Belize City. The island’s motto is go slow , literally go slowly. And this is what you want to do when you land on the pontoon of this little corner of paradise. Farniente on the beaches of fine sand and drink cocktails lying in a hammock hanging between coconut trees are the favorite activities of travelers on Caye Caulker. Restaurants serve lobsters and lobsters directly in return for prices that challenge competition.

For the most sporting and sporting, snorkeling and diving in translucent waters are possible on the Belize coral barrier, the second largest in the world after that of Australia. Healthy corals and multicolored fish await you, in warm and transparent waters that you will no longer want to go out.

9. The Belize City Zoo

Located only 45 minutes by road transport, the Belize Zoo is a real wonder. Nestled in the heart of the primary forest, it houses many endemic animals in the country. You will admire tapirs, toucans, screaming monkeys, constrictor boas and zoo stars, jaguars. All these specimens were saved from the black market, abandoned by their owners, given by other zoos or born in the Belize Zoo.

A full visit will take you between one and two hours. One. Tropical Education Center discovers the specificities of the rainforest of Belize. On site you will find what to restore and moisturize, as well as shops to bring back souvenirs or handmade products. The human size of the zoo offers you the unique opportunity to approach animals as close as possible while observing them evolve in their natural habitats. Small and large will be conquered by this visit.

How to get to Belize City?

By plane Since Europe, there are no direct flights. Most companies therefore offer a stopover in the United States, usually in New York, Miami or Atlanta. You can also transit through Mexico City or Cancún, Mexico.

As the trip is therefore long, it can be convenient to take a few days to another country before visiting Belize City. Shorter links exist from Flores to Guatemala or El Salvador. In any case, go on Ulysses to find the best options and the most advantageous flights.

Once on site, Philip Goldson International Airport is located about 30 minutes away from the centre, opt for a shuttle or private transfer.

By bus If you are already in Central America, buses link Guatemala City or Flores to Guatemala. A night bus also allows to reach Belize City from Cancún to Mexico.

Where to stay in Belize City?

The hotel offer is very varied in Belize City in terms of budget. From the family pension to the luxury hotel to the Airbnb every traveler can find his happiness. Since Belize City is often the city of arrival in the country, it can be good to stay near the airport for your first nights.

The neighbourhoods West Landivar and King’s Park bring together many establishments of good standing. The port of Belize City is also another alternative if you want to be at the heart of animation and ready to board for the islands. Many guesthouses and small charming hotels are located in this area that brings together travellers.

For the most luxurious hotels, opt for the zones Buttonwood Bay and Bella Vista , where high-end services are concentrated. In any case, serve you with one Compare hotels to find the ideal accommodation according to your desires.

You are now ready to leave. Belize City has no secrets for you, at last almost. It is therefore time to embark for an unforgettable journey!