Head off the beaten track and discover some of the most beautiful sights of your life in Belize – a true Caribbean gem. Here are the most remote destinations to discover in Belize…
With social distancing at the forefront of most travellers minds, we are having to branch out and explore more far-flung and remote destinations than before. It is a great chance to explore somewhere completely new and tick a new country off our bucket list. Combining lush rainforests with clear, beautiful waters and a rich history, Belize is a destination that fulfills all the criteria. With a population of just 380,000 it offers an array of undiscovered places to explore where you won’t see another soul for miles. You can hike the lesser-known Maya ruins, sleep in a remote jungle lodge, or snorkel in the crystal clear waters. It’s a Caribbean gem that you’ll never forget. Here are the most remote destinations to discover in Belize…
EXPLORE BELIZE’S EXTRAORDINARY MAYAN HISTORY
Whilst Xunantunich is at the top of the list for many keen to learn about Belize’s Maya heritage, Caracol is an amazing and less frequented alternative. Located 50-miles from the nearest town of San Ignacio, visitors will take a winding, jungle road through the mountains to enter the site. Considered as the largest on-going ancient Maya archaeological site in the country, Caracol rests 500-metres above sea level and offers incredible views overlooking miles of the protected Chiquibul Forest. Visitors can hike to the summit and explore the enormous temples, grand pyramids and royal tombs without large tour groups or another soul in sight. Visitors interested in exploring Caracol can book a tour with Maya Walk from £85 per person www.mayawalk.com
HIKE THE DENSE, VARIED RAINFOREST LANDSCAPES OF BELIZE
From rugged peaks capped with green velvet trees to dark jade rivers fringed with vines, Belize’s landscape is wild, extraordinary, and ready to be explored. As 80% of the country is covered by rainforest, Belize’s numerous national parks and nature reserves offer trails that are undiscovered by many tourists. Adventurous travellers should head to the Cockscomb Basin Forest Reserve for a hike up Victoria Peak. Though it can be a challenging journey, those who are successful are rewarded with a spectacular view. For a truly exhilarating experience, hikers can take part in a night time walk. As small or private groups tour the area, keeping quiet is key whilst searching for the elusive, nocturnal wildlife that inhabits the park, including jaguar, ocelot, and kinkajou to name just a few. Travelers can book a tour with Roam Belize from £80 per person www.roambelize.com
SNORKEL THE SECLUDED WATERS OF CAYE CAULKER
Bordered to the east by the Caribbean Sea, Belize boasts 386km of spectacular coastline and is home to the second largest barrier reef in the world. From schools of fish, to turtles, stingrays and nurse sharks, there’s ample opportunity to explore the protected reefs. Located in the west of Belize, Caye Caulker is one of the destination’s foremost diving locations and is largely undiscovered by tourists. Caye Caulker offers a range of snorkelling and scuba diving tours for those who are experienced in snorkelling and travellers that are keen to try for the first time. Visitors to Caye Caulker can book a full-day sailing or snorkelling tour with Raggamuffin Tours from £57 per adult, and £49 for children. www.raggamuffintours.com
STAY IN THE JUNGLE AT THE SLEEPING GIANT LODGE
Next in our list of remote destinations to discover in Belize is the Sleeping Giant Lodge. Nestled in the foothills of the mountains alongside the Sibun River, Sleeping Giant Lodge is a pristine paradise in the Mayan Heartland. With just 31 suites and rooms across the 10,000 acre Sibun Reserve, the lodges are designed with comfort and relaxation in mind and are the perfect antidote after a day’s adventure. The surrounding green tropical foliage provides a sanctuary for many native birds and wildlife and an exciting retreat for those wishing to truly head off-the-beaten-track. With several activities including caving, tubing, hiking and horseback riding on offer, guests can enjoy small group or even private tours with expert guides. Rates start from £202 per night. www.sleepinggiantbelize.com
A TRUE ISLAND GETAWAY
You can’t get much more remote than Bird Island. Located just 18 minutes from the village of Placencia in southern Belize, Bird Island’s protected beautiful waters and total privacy is what makes it special. With no neighbours or staff, the island hosts up to six guests at a time and guests can snorkel and kayak over the multi-coloured coral or take out a fishing boat and attempt to catch their next meal. Islanders will need to stock up on supplies before arriving as they will have the islet completely to themselves, but will be supplied drinking water via the filtered-rain water system. Those lucky enough to spend the night here are guaranteed an unforgettable experience. Prices start from £560 per couple, per night. www.birdislandplacencia.com
What are your thoughts on the top remote destinations to discover in Belize? Let us know in the comments below!
