), you'll pass big, open trucks heaped with cane, and at certain times of year - the roadsides are littered with stalks that fly off the trucks. Subscribe to Lonely Planet newsletters and promotions. No part of this site may be reproduced without our written permission. The best part? Join the festivities as National Hispanic Heritage Month runs from September 15 through October 15. Because the Hummingbird Highway is situated between some of Belizes other top destinations, it can be an ideal spot for choosing a hotel and the options are excellent. There are few people and fewer population centers. Snorkeling here is also a thrilling adventure, as the wall of the hole is rich with life. The tacos are a breakfast food - chicken or pork cooked to a shredded stew and rolled in fresh corn tortillas. Though its on the water, its not too beachy, so keep yourself busy with excursions out to nearby cayes or seeing some of the lesser-visited Maya ruins nearby. Things to Do in Northern Belize With few exceptions, Northern Belize is overlooked by most tourists who fly into the country and head quickly to the cayes, the Cayo District, the southern beaches, or the Mayan Mountains. The master-planned community at Cerros Sands boasts its own disc golf course with an 18-hole public course for both the pros and beginners to enjoy. Descendants of an Afro-Indigenous population in the Caribbean, the Garifuna survived enslavement and shipwrecks; they intermarried with the Arawak people of St Vincent, then fled to Belize in the 1800s to avoid persecution. Las Banquitas is one of five House of Culture museums; the other four are in Belize City, Corozal Town, Benque Viejo, and Santa Elena, though the Belize City one rarely accepts visitors and is . Since youre already in the area, it wouldnt hurt to drive to the Cerros Maya site, which is the only ruins that sit directly facing the Caribbean Sea. Although tours can run at any time, the best time is early in the morning, when birds are most active. For those craving jungle immersion, book a stay at Chaa Creek to experience the luxurious side of nature, or go further into the wilderness at Black Rock Lodge, where birders feel right at home. There are also buses from Corozal to Orange Walk as well as local buses from Corozal to the local villages if you are adventurous and have lots of time! No longer off the beaten track, Guatemala has made it onto the radar of trendsetters and Hollywood stars. Located in one of the oldest buildings in northern Belize (other than ancient Maya structures), the House of Culture was built in 1886. Depending on the neighborhood you select, you'll need to analysis hotels within the area. But if you are an archaeology and history fiend, if the Maya sites are your top priority, definitely consider staying on the mainland to spend some more time exploring these gorgeous sites. It offers Top Choice Belize Zoo Read our Privacy Policy. The Split beach is the main attraction, thanks to its seaweed-free waters. Perhaps the most fascinating Maya site in Northern Belize, Lamanai lies 24 miles south of Orange Walk Town up the New River (or 36 miles by unpaved road). While Maya culture still exists in Belize today, the rocky ruins of yesteryear are incredible sites for exploring Maya history. Because someone once dropped their camera right onto a skull, photography is prohibited, so you have to experience it to believe it. A marine sinkhole measuring over 120 m / 400 ft deep, and about 300 m / 900 ft wide, seeing this epic sight from the window of a tiny plane is something for the bucket list. Breakfast tacos in Belize are generally 3 tacos for $1bzd. You can't miss it, and every local knows where it is the multiple cars surrounding it at any time are a giveaway to its popularity. Head to Guava Limb Cafe for wood-fired pizza, and dont miss the breakfast fry jacks at Pops Restaurant. Copyright 2013-2019 by Adventures in Belize, the most abundant bird populations around, Asian Dating Websites For Asian-Americans, What you ought to Know About Panel Software, Ways to Create a Vibrant Agenda to your Virtual Mother board Meeting, Different Types of Antivirus Software program, How to get a Croatian Woman meant for Marriage. The head is kept in a solid steel vault in the Central Bank of Belize, though it is occasionally displayed at the Museum of Belize. Ambergris Caye. Enter a sight, restaurant, hotel, or other place to find sights nearby. I want emails from Fodor's Travel with travel information and promotions. Within the reserve, visitors can soak at Rio on Pools, cool off at Big Rock Falls, or book birdwatching trips and horseback riding tours. At the, Located in Corozal District, Shipstern Nature Reserve isa 31-square-mile tropical rainforest, with more than 300 different species of birds awaiting. Located in Corozal, the GabrielHoare Market features local fruits and vegetables, as well as a great look at local life. Orange Walk, for its part, serves mainly as a gateway to the Lamanai ruins and the Ro Bravo Conservation Area. Predominantly boutique hotels are your gateway to the jewel in the crown of Central America, whether its the private island or ecolodge vibe youre after. Lamanai is a popular destination for cruise ship excursions; some days there can be large numbers of day visitors from cruise ships. Visiting Ro Bravo, like the other areas of northwestern Orange Walk, is best done in a four-wheel-drive vehicle. Hire a guidefrom MayaWalk Toursto take you through this archeological site, which includes skeletal remains with stories to tell. Hop in the saddle and head through the rainforest to see waterfalls, mountain vistas and Central American wildlife. Explore a secret mountainous kingdom in Africa, an underwater museum in Australia, a medieval fairytale town in Europe and learn how your visit can benefit local communities when you go beyond classic bucket list places with this inspiring travel guide. Get to the heart of Northern Belize with one of our in-depth, To get there, travelers embark on a boat from Orange Walk town and speed along the New River for 1.5 hours. One of the most remarkable structures in the country, Temple of the Mask, is at Lamanai, Orange Walk Districts very own pride and joy. Sitting on the banks of Haulover Creek, Bliss Center for the Performing Arts is Belize City's cultural hub, hosting a theater, a museum, and the National Arts Council. This former fishing village has transformed into an upscale retreat with beach bars, top restaurants, and high-end resorts. We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. Perfect for Indiana Jones-types, touring this site lets you see amazing cave formations, undisturbed Maya pottery and even the crystallized remains of a sacrificial victim. Planning tip:Theres a company factory in the southern town of Dangriga that offers free tours Monday through Friday; advanced registration is required. We have established close relationships with hotels and resorts in the region to help take the legwork out of planning a Belize vacation. You can also walk through the village and hike birding trails around the area. This colorful caye hashotels ranging from budget to luxe, and classic Caribbean activities like snorkeling and sailing. Other tours are available, including one to the lagoon at Xo-Pol (BZ$150 per person) to see birds and crocodiles; stop at the Shipstern visitor center for more information. This small museumthe name refers to the little benches in a nearby riverside parkpresents changing exhibitions on Orange Walk District's history and culture. The 5,000-acre Archeological Reserve for Maya Flora and Fauna is a notable cultural monument connected to Belize and Guatemala. Even those who enter by land from Mexico frequently make a beeline to Belize City and bypass this region. 23 of the best things to do in Belize. Of these, only Corozal, with its seaside setting and proximity to the Mexican border and Shipstern Wildlife Reserve, is a destination with much appeal to travelers. The regatta, on Easter weekend, includes live music, food, and fun local "catch the greasy pig" games. There are hundreds of islands off Belizes coasts to choose from, and Ray Caye is one of the best. Please try a broader search, or expore these popular suggestions: There are no results for {{ strDestName }} Sights in the searched map area with the above filters. Las Banquitas is one of five House of Culture museums; the other four are in Belize City, Corozal Town, Benque Viejo, and Santa Elena, though the Belize City one rarely accepts visitors and is used for events. Written permission must be obtained before reprint in online or print media. The closest, Santa Rita, is a short walk or drive from the town center. 2023 Lonely Planet, a Red Ventures company. While initially intended as a sanctuary for animals ill-suited to going back into the wild, this zoo now features an amazing array of mammals and reptiles. The Mennonite village of Shipyard in Orange Walk. It's possible to visit on a day-trip from La Milpa Field Station, Blue Creek Village, or even Lamanai or Orange Walk Town, but you need your own transportation and advance permission to come on the gated, private Gallon Jug lands. Find the sweetest measure of tranquility within the sugar regions of Belize. The best rice and beans, an unforgettable dinner, or just a fun morning exploring a new part of the island in your golf cartI want you to find all the good stuff. (The total trip takes just about 2 hours). She returned with the experience of being a features editor, magazine writer, and a published poet. North Belize | Belize Travel Guide | Rough Guides Visit Actun Tunichil Muknal 8. It's a scenic and easy trip from Orange Walk town - a pretty boat ride to the site. It may be an underrated region, but Northern Belize holds natural gems and stunning attractions that have been on savvy travelers itineraries for years. Top things to see and do in Belize City | Belize City Travel Without a doubt, one of the most iconic, top things to do in Belize is to fly over the Great Blue Hole. Hopkins is a tiny seaside village known for its Garifuna culture during the day and its bioluminescence at night. Corozal is a quiet colorful town with a distinctive Mexican feel. The ultimate budget eats. But this chilled-out stretch of Belize, entirely void of crowds, with unbeaten paths, abundant wildlife, fine Maya ruins and deserted beaches is well worth a look if you're seeking to get away from the scene further south. We've compiled the best of the best in Northern Belize - browse our top choices for the top things to see or do during your stay. Whether you want to From hiking in the forest to climbing an ancient Maya temple, Belize is the perfect destination to fulfill the ambitious Belize is getting even better all the time. If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. Copyright 2020 - Caribbean Culture and Lifestyle. Hot sauce is found on every table in the country, so sampling a taste of Maries wont be a problem. Belize has been overshadowed by bigger neighbors, but this Caribbean destination is well worth a visit. The Mask Temple (Structure N9-56) was begun around 200 BC and modified several times up to AD 1300. Don't get caught in Ambergris Caye without it! There are plenty of places to plunge into the deep and get up close with the creatures beneath the sea. Subscribe to Lonely Planet newsletters and promotions. All rights reserved. Its worth booking a few days at Ray Caye for travelers who want to get a sense of what its like to live on a Caribbean island, plus it ensures being closer to the reef than staying on shore. Planning tip:Some tight spaces and water-filled areas need to be navigated during the three hours guests are inside the cave, and tours may be canceled if its raining excessively. Beyond the huge rush of speed and adrenaline, some zip lining tours tend to bring you to a site with another adventurous tour-possibly one where you can pursue relaxing cave tubing. Planning tip: Look out for yoga weekend getaways, when local yoga teacher Brice Dial takes over Ray Caye with a group for a few days of relaxation and mindfulness. Shopping in Northern Belize | Fodor's Travel It's on a low hill across from the Coca-Cola plant near Corozal Hospital at the north end of town. While some of Belizes 400+ cayes are just barren masses of coral, several notable ones, such as Ambegris Caye and Caye Cauler, feature amazing amenities. Sights in Northern Belize | Fodor's Travel Fodor's Belize: with a Side Trip to Guatemala, Rio Bravo Conservation and Management Area, Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information. Visitors can get up close and personal by renting a canoe and taking a journey down the interlocking network of waterways. Kaleidoscopic tropical fish, spectacular coral reefs and year-round warm waters make the Caribbean one of the best places for snorkeling. Belizes sprawling barrier reef makes it ideal for scuba diving. award-winning guidebooks, covering maps, itineraries, and expert It's not too late to catch the cultural festivities and relaxation at these 5 bestCaribbean destinationsthis Christmas. A team from the Royal Ontario Museum first excavated the Maya site in the early 1960s and found 250 structures spread over more than 1,000 square yards. Weve compiled the best of the best in Northern Belize - browse our top choices for the top things to see or do during your stay. If you'd prefer to go by horseback, you pay by the hour. Aquatic wildlife like nurse sharks, sea turtles and eagle rays call the Belize Barrier Reef the second largest in the world home, and one of the best places to see them is just off the coast of Ambergris Caye at Hol Chan Marine Reserve. The local color is one of the most inviting reasons to visit northern Belize, but theres plenty of natural majesties as well. 31 Epic Things to Do in Belize: The Ultimate Guide If you continue on to the edge of the border, youll find Caracol, a Maya ruin that remains the tallest artificial structure in Belize. She has since shared her love of literature, marketing and social media trends through various outlets for her writing. You can find out more about which cookies we are using or switch them off in settings. This 150-square-mile spot is a vast protected wilderness and home to the planets only comprehensive jaguar preserve. Within the reserve's borders are more than 60 Mayan sites; many have yet to be explored. Today, you'll find a variety of ethnic groups in Northern Belize though the population is predominantly Mestizo. Snorkelling at Caye Caulker - one of the best things to do in Belize 2. Gallon Jug has its own private landing strip. Chetumal, Mexico: Is it Worth Visiting If You Are Visiting Belize? Joining a sunset boat tour in Caye Caulker is one of the best things to do in Belize. This is undoubtedly the most Spanish region in Belize. No part of this site may be reproduced without our written permission. REPRINTING CONTENT WITHOUT PERMISSION AND/OR PAYMENT IS THEFT AND PUNISHABLE BY LAW. Best Time to Visit The best time to visit Northern Belize is from December to May. While some are self-guided, others necessitate a licensed guide who can also point out native flora and fauna. Belize is a land of wonders a heady mix of reefs, rainforests and Mayan culture. About one-half of Ro Bravo is managed as a nature reserve, and the rest is managed to generate income, from forestry and other activities, including tourism. The Northern Lowlands of Belize - Orange Walk and Corozal Districts Both Orange Walk and Corozal districts have main towns but are mostly comprised of rural villages - some with beautiful Maya names like Xiabe (pronounced "Shy-Bay") and Chunox ("Sha-Nush") and others named, in Spanish, after saints. Both districts are largely rural, and theres a homey feel to their towns. Other popular ruins include Xunantunich, Cahal Pech and Lubaantun. Records indicate that Cahal Pech was settled in 1,000 BCE and abandoned 1800 years later. For our purposes, "northern Belize" refers to the northern section of the Belize District, as well as the entire Orange Walk and Corozal districts. Orange Walk is inland - in the NW corner of the country with Mexico to the north and Guatemala to the west. Especially the younger folks. Things To Do - Travel Belize Although you can stay and eat in Sarteneja village, Shipstern offers basic cabin accommodations or a budget; meals are an added daily cost. 8 Cool and Unusual Things to Do in Belize - Atlas Obscura Tiny Belize does not. All rights reserved. Meanwhile, the country's diverse cultural heritage means theres delicious cuisine and fun activities to be discovered. If you drive in the district, you'll see field after field of the high grass (sugar can grow over 20 feet tall! Among theRead More. The sanctuary, one of the country's top bird-watching spots, is managed by the Belize Audubon Society. One of the most popular ways to get in touch with the culture is through attending a drumming lesson, which inevitably turns into a dance party. The Lodge at Jaguar Reef is a great place to stay in Hopkins, but there are budget options as well. One of Belize's oldest inland villages, established some 300 years ago, Crooked Tree is at the center of the Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary. Some things in Northern Belize you simply cant miss, and weve outlined the very best of them below. Stop here to pay your admission and arrange a guided tour of the sanctuaryRead More. Orange Walk is predominantly agricultural, and the capital is Orange Walk town, nicknamed "Suga City" in homage to the district's biggest crop. Marie Sharps habanero-based blends have become an international sensation in recent years, electrifying dishes worldwide with their signature Caribbean flavor. Here you can witness the lifecycle of blue morphos and other species, and if you stay at the Lodge at Chaa Creek resort for a few days, you will be given a case with a cocooning butterfly that you can release once it emerges. Snorkel at Shark Ray Alley 9. Belize's unmissable destination. The light produced on these tours is magical and the whole experience can feel more like a dream than a reality. This place of ticks was a common spot for raising livestock. Crooked Tree Wildlife Reserve is a well-preserved stretch of land home to one of the most abundant bird populations around, but its also occupied by iguanas, crocodiles, and more. You'll also find Mennonites, Kriol people, Chinese people, and what I think might be the fastest-growing segment of the population. Passing through the flat farmland and provincial towns of Northern Belize, relatively few are inspired to linger. Drinks, tunes and a second-floor balcony offering stunning views attract crowds to the Lazy Lizard. Perched at the center of Lighthouse Atoll on the Belize Barrier Reef, this perfectly round underwater sinkhole provides a dark chasm into which divers can explore a unique ecosystem, with coral, tropical fish and mysterious stalactites up to 400ft down. Three Iguanas is an excellent affordable accommodation option thats right in town. Kaleidoscopic tropical fish, spectacular coral reefs and year-round warm waters make the Caribbean one of the best places for snorkeling. This generally means that people speak Spanish at home and with friends, butas in all of Belize - just about everyone speaks English too. Top Things To Do in Northern Belize | Fodor's Travel They don't look like much but they are soft and savory and delicious. The largest Maya site, Lamanai, served by regular boat tours along the New River Lagoon, features some of the most impressive pyramids and beautiful . But when heading to the districts for the very first time, there are certain activities that act as rites of passage for a Belize traveler. It may be too quiet for some, but the ocean views at sunset are more than rewarding. About 3 miles (6 km) west of Sarteneja on the road to Orange Walk or Corozal is the Shipstern Nature Reserve; this is the driestRead More. Theres also a rum distillery onsite dont miss a chance to see how Copalli Rum gets made. Rouse your wanderlust with wildlife encounters and intrepid journeys to the best places to go in May. It is also one of the most relaxing activities on Caye Caulker and the perfect way to end a day. So far, archaeologists have discovered 20 large courtyards and 19 stelae. Bring plenty of bug juice. Still totally worth it! Visitors traveling down from the Yucatan, from Cancun, Playa Del Carmen, Tulum and gorgeous Lake Bacalar all pass through Chetumal, Mexico and cross the Mexico/Belize border into Corozal. Board a relaxing pontoon boat for a full days exploration of Western Belizes rich jungle ecosystem, where youre more likely to spot a parrot than a person. Corozal has a legit Maya site right in the middle of town called Santa Rita. Many visitors - especially backpackers - cross the border from the north to travel to Corozal and the country of Belize. The two spots are so close but so very different. Blue Creek village, along the northern border with Mexico, stands out to me. By picking the right season, taking the bus, shopping at local markets and following other tips, you can have a Central American adventure on a budget. Hiking creates a connection to a place and its landscapes. An award-winning journalist, Gisselle brings over five years writing experience to the team. The drive takes you through the forested mountains, between orchards and Mennonite farms, with stops like scenic cenotes and the best tamales youve ever had along the way. Born and raised in the endearing Shuga City, a.k.a Orange Walk Town, Gisselle left to pursue her Bachelors Degree in Public Relations and Creative Writing at Murray State University in Kentucky. Although there isn't a visitor center yet, a caretaker/guide will show you around and collect the admission fee. This is a linked battery of water pools bound by small waterfalls and makes for a great cooling-off spot. The coast of Southern Belize feels like what Ambergris Caye was like before Belize became a major tourism destination, but today Placencia gets the honor of being one of the countrys top beach destinations. When I first visited Ambergris Caye in 2006, I was so smitten. After a very late night at the clubs in Belize City, I've heard stories of friends driving over an hour, up to Orange Walk just for a plate of early morning tacos. It's not finished yetand the easiest way to travel to Sarteneja remains the boat. It offers B Bacalar Chico National Park & Marine Reserve Ancient legacies. The Best Seaside Things to Do in Belize Take a sunset cruise on Caye Caulker. Over the past century, many Mennonite families moved from Russia to Canada to Mexico and then Belize away from any secular encroachment on their way of life. The master-planned community at Cerros Sands boasts its own disc golf course with an 18-hole public course for both the pros and beginners to enjoy. Throughout the year, Placencias own Brice Dial hosts several of these soul-soothing events multiday experiences full of yoga, meditation and chakra balancing at the luxurious Ray Caye Resort. Lamanai is also a popular day trip from Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker, but from the cayes it can be a very long day. Swimmers, snorkelers and scuba divers will. Once youve got all your discs in, head to Blackbeards Beach Bar at the Royale Resort in Corozal for a celebratory drink. Tours of the coffee plantings and the production facility, along with other farm and jungle tours, can be arranged through Chan Chich Lodge. Simply how much Does a Bulgarian Mail Purchase Brides Cost. The resort on the island is developed, has modern, clean lodging on shore, and an incredible restaurant. What makes Lamanai so special is its setting on the west bank of a beautiful 28-mile-long (45-km) lagoon, one of only two waterside Maya sites in Belize (the other is Cerros, near Corozal Town). Admission, a visit to the butterfly center, and a guided tour of the botanical trail is BZ$10 per person. Get FREE email communications from Fodor's Travel, covering must-see travel destinations, expert trip planning advice, and travel inspiration to fuel your passion. For more information about your privacy and protection, please review our full. It almost felt like I was in Nebraska, except the local store sold school books in a low German dialect. Northern Belize comprises two districts: Corozal and Orange Walk, both traversed by the straight, flat Philip Goldson Hwy. Planning tip:There is a small airport thats only a 15-minute flight from Belizes international airport, and its easy to rent the islands quintessential golf cart for transportation from there.