In the north eastern corner of Central America, Belize offers some of the most breath taking coastal scenery – both above and below the water – in the Caribbean. Magnificent landscapes, vast archaeological sites and a wide variety of wildlife are all in abundance in this relatively undiscovered destination.

Belize is a well kept secret and a prime destination for divers. With the longest barrier reef in the Americas, there is a wonderful selection of fish and corals best seen from the chain of islands known as cayes. These reefs and islands have some of the most diverse marine ecosystem on the planet with the famous Blue Hole Dive site on Lighthouse Reef – a coral encrusted sunken 300m cavern - a highlight for all qualified divers.

For beach lovers, head to Placencia for smart, stylish accommodation and Caribbean blue sea and soft sandy beaches. For dedicated fishermen, try Turneffe Flats and stalk bonefish, tarpin and permit as well as great snorkelling and diving. For those who wish to experience the jungle, join a jungle hike – you can try anything from a gentle guided walk to a demanding multi- day jungle survival course. Also available are caving, sea kayaking and canoeing trips and horse riding and mountain biking options.

Belize’s densely forested interior remains untouched, with howler and spider monkeys, tapirs, pumas, storks, macaws and jaguars. The rugged uplands of the Maya Mountains offer some of the largest cave systems in the Americas, offering an insight into the mysterious traditions of the ancient Maya race, a civilisation that dominated the area from around 2000BC. Famous Maya archaeological sites include Caracol, Xunantunich and Lamanai – a must see for all budding “Indiana Jones”.

When to go?

Although Belize has its dry and rainy seasons, you will find that the sun shines most of the year. The dry season runs roughly from February to May and the last couple of months before the rains come can be stiflingly hot. During the rainy season from June to November, afternoons can be drenching with heavy rains and the possibility of floods. The worst of the rains are in September and October, which is hurricane season. So with all this in mind the best time to visit Belize is December to March when the vegetation is lush and the skies are generally clear.