Belize may be small in size, but don’t let that fool you — it’s one of the most culturally rich and naturally diverse destinations in the Caribbean. Tucked between Mexico and Guatemala, this gem is home to ancient ruins, the world’s second-largest barrier reef, and a vibrant mix of cultures that make it unlike anywhere else in the world.
Whether you’re planning your first Belize vacation or just curious about what makes this country so special, here are 10 fun facts about Belize that will surprise and inspire you.
1. English Is the Official Language — But It’s a Multilingual Country
Many people are surprised to learn that English is Belize’s official language. It’s the only country in Central America where this is the case, which makes travel easy for visitors from the U.S., Canada, and beyond.
But English is just the beginning. Walk through Placencia, Belize City, or San Ignacio and you’ll hear a beautiful mix of:
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Belizean Kriol – the most commonly spoken language, warm and playful.
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Spanish – widely spoken, especially in the north and west.
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Garifuna – recognized by UNESCO as an intangible cultural heritage.
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Maya dialects – such as Q’eqchi’, Yucatec, and Mopan, spoken in rural communities.
Traveler Tip: Don’t be shy about picking up a few Kriol phrases — saying “weh di goan?” (what’s going on?) will instantly make you more relatable to locals.
2. The Great Blue Hole Is Visible from Space
The Great Blue Hole is one of the most iconic natural wonders in the world. Located off the coast of Belize, this massive sinkhole measures over 1,000 feet across and 400 feet deep.
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It was formed during the Ice Age when rising sea levels flooded a limestone cave system.
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Famous diver Jacques Cousteau helped make it globally known in the 1970s, calling it one of the top diving sites in the world.
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Today, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Belize’s biggest tourism draws.
Traveler Tip: You can dive, snorkel, or even fly over the Blue Hole in a small plane for breathtaking aerial views.
3. Home to the World’s Second-Largest Barrier Reef
Stretching more than 185 miles, the Belize Barrier Reef is second in size only to Australia’s Great Barrier Reef. It’s one of the most biodiverse ecosystems on Earth, home to more than 500 species of fish, 100+ types of coral, and countless turtles, rays, and sharks.
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Popular snorkeling spots near Placencia include Laughing Bird Caye, Silk Cayes, and South Water Caye.
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The reef is so ecologically significant it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996.
Traveler Tip: Always wear reef-safe sunscreen when snorkeling in Belize — it helps protect the delicate corals.
4. Belize Is Packed with Mayan Ruins
Belize was once at the heart of the ancient Maya civilization. More than 600 ruins and archaeological sites are scattered throughout the country, many still being uncovered today.
Some must-see sites include:
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Xunantunich – Known for its towering temple, El Castillo, which offers panoramic jungle views.
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Caracol – The largest Mayan site in Belize, deep in the Chiquibul Forest.
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Lamanai – Accessible by boat, famous for its Mask Temple and jungle setting.
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Altun Ha – Just outside Belize City, it’s the most easily accessible ruin for cruise visitors.
Traveler Tip: Visit early in the morning to beat the heat and enjoy the sounds of the jungle around these sacred sites.
5. The Garifuna Culture Is UNESCO-Recognized
The Garifuna people are descendants of West African, Carib, and Arawak ancestors, and their culture is a vibrant part of Belize’s identity. Recognized by UNESCO as a “Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity,” Garifuna traditions are alive and well in towns like Dangriga, Hopkins, and Seine Bight.
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Their drumming is legendary — a deep, rhythmic beat that captures the soul.
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The Garifuna language, dance, and cuisine are unique to this region.
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Traditional foods like hudut (fish in coconut broth with mashed plantain) are must-tries.
Traveler Tip: Plan your trip around Garifuna Settlement Day (November 19), a national holiday full of parades, drumming, and cultural celebrations.
6. Belize Is a Wildlife Paradise
For nature lovers, Belize is a dream come true. With nearly half of its landmass protected as reserves or parks, it’s one of the most eco-conscious countries in the world.
Animals you can encounter include:
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Jaguars in Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary (the world’s first jaguar preserve).
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Howler monkeys whose calls echo through the rainforest.
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Manatees in the coastal waters and lagoons.
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Hundreds of bird species, including toucans and scarlet macaws.
Traveler Tip: Bring binoculars — birdwatching in Belize is world-class.
7. A Tiny Country with Fewer than 500,000 People
Belize is about the size of Massachusetts, with a population of just under half a million. This means:
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Wide open spaces.
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Small, friendly communities where everyone seems to know each other.
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Less crowded beaches and tourist sites compared to other Caribbean destinations.
Traveler Tip: Take time to chat with locals. Belizeans are famously welcoming and happy to share recommendations.
8. Belize Is One of the Birthplaces of Chocolate
The ancient Maya of Belize were among the first to cultivate cacao more than 1,500 years ago. They used it to make a frothy chocolate drink used in ceremonies and as a form of currency.
Today, cacao is still grown in southern Belize, especially in the Toledo District. Visitors can tour chocolate farms and even make their own chocolate the traditional way.
Traveler Tip: Don’t miss the Toledo Cacao Festival held each May — it’s a chocolate lover’s dream.
9. The World’s First Jaguar Preserve
The Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary in southern Belize is the world’s first and only jaguar preserve. Spanning 150 square miles of lush rainforest, it’s home to an estimated 200 jaguars along with pumas, ocelots, and margays.
While jaguar sightings are rare, visitors can hike, birdwatch, and cool off in jungle waterfalls.
Traveler Tip: Take the Tiger Fern Trail — a moderate hike that rewards you with a waterfall and swimming hole.
10. Belize Has a “Go Slow” Lifestyle
If there’s one phrase that captures Belize’s spirit, it’s “go slow.” Whether you’re walking along the sandy streets of Caye Caulker or relaxing in a hammock in Placencia, Belize invites you to unplug and live in the moment.
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No rush, no stress.
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It’s common to see handwritten signs reminding travelers to relax.
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This easy-going vibe is part of what makes Belize so addictive.
Traveler Tip: Embrace the pace — you’ll return home refreshed and recharged.
Conclusion
From Mayan ruins and Garifuna drumming to the Great Blue Hole and the Belize Barrier Reef, Belize is bursting with history, culture, and natural beauty. For such a small country, it packs in more diversity and adventure than most places three times its size.
So whether you’re coming for snorkeling, wildlife, history, or simply to unwind, Belize is guaranteed to surprise you — and keep you coming back.
Ready to explore Belize for yourself? Book an adventure with Uncharted Jewel and see firsthand why this tiny country leaves such a big impression.