Curator’s statement
Belize is a charming island destination, with friendly locals and great adventures around every corner. It is such a diverse country, that you could spend days exploring areas outside the beach towns most people think of when they think of Belize. My experience there was outstanding. I had the opportunity to visit the interior of the country in San Ignacio, where you can explore local ruins on horseback, and the tranquil beach town of Placencia, where you can discover the Monkey River and nearby islands. They were equally as beautiful in different ways, and the experience was made whole by exploring both on the same trip. In general, Belize is less developed than its surrounding countries, such as Costa Rica. This lends to its charm and makes for a very rugged, beautiful countryside. The locals are always ready to tell you their story and many ex-pats move to the beaches there as well, for good reason.
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Where to stay in Belize
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Things to do in Belize
San Ignacio
A great thing to do while exploring San Ignacio is to take an exciting horseback ride to the ancient Mayan ruin, Altun Ha. This site allows you to explore the archaeological remnants of this ancient city, which was an important center of trade and religion during the Classic Mayan period. A tour of the ruin, Caracol, which was also once a vibrant, powerful city, is equally as beautiful. Both provide stunning vistas, sitting high above the countryside atop the ruins, great for taking photos, relaxing for a bit and learning about the history.
Visit the cavernous underground world of Actun Tunichil Muknal. A must-see, incredible experience featured in National Geographic. This adventure is not for the faint of heart, traversing through underground, water-filled caves. The trip ends with the exploration of spectacular Mayan ritual offerings and artifacts, giving insight into their customs and culture. A truly fascinating and thrilling experience.
Placencia
Take a tour of the Monkey River. A guide will accompany you down the river in a rustic boat, where you will see abundant wildlife, while surrounded by a beautiful tropical jungle. You will dock the small boat and venture into the jungle to explore the ecosystem...and maybe make some monkey friends along the way. A tiny local shop with great gifts to bring home and a restaurant sits at the entrance of the river and can provide you with a simple lunch and allow you to support the locals.
Take a catamaran ride to tour the local small islands and do some snorkeling. Silk Cayes is one of the most clear and protected areas you can snorkel in Belize. Teaming with beautiful fish, you can relax and enjoy. For the thrill-seekers out there, you can opt to swim with nurse sharks or sting rays.
Expert tip: Rent a golf cart to get around. It's fun to explore and easy to get into town (if you are not staying directly there) to restaurants and shops.
Places to eat & drink in Belize
San Ignacio restaurants
While your accommodations may have an include outstanding food, if you are keen to explore the local town, here are some options for great fare:
Lola's Restaurant and Bar is a great place to eat for local fish, curry, and fajitas.
Di'VIne is a local favorite with a stand out Ceviche Menu. Fresh and locally caught, it keeps people coming back time and time again.
Guava Limb is a great find, with organic produce sourced from a farm within the local nature reserve. You can find dishes such as Gado-Gado (an Indonesian stir fry), Pork chops, and blackened fish along with pizza, sandwiches and salads.
Placencia restaurants
With a very vibrant restaurant scene, Placencia is possibly the go-to area to experience what Belize has to offer in terms of food.
Rumfish Y Vino is easily one of the most famous of the restaurants in Placencia. They have expertly crafted fusion food on the menu, and special dishes such as coffee rubbed pescato, and carribean fish stew. The food is excellent and the atmosphere is beautiful as well.
Tucked away in the center of town, but no longer a secret, the Secret Garden is a great way to find local Belizean food that is known to be fantastic. Specials include local fish dishes and the atmosphere is both quiet and romantic. Highly recommend.
Having won a Travelers Choice Award in 2023, the Maya Beach Hotel Bistro is a stand-out, casual place with amazing views and outstanding contemporary cuisine.
ProTip: Don't forget to try their very popular local brew, Belikin Beer
Travel Advisor
Laurie Harris
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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Belize. For more travel tips, check out Fora Advisor Savanna Weis’ guide, A Blissful Week in Belize.