Belize
blends Caribbean warmth, Maya heritage and rainforest wonder. Explore
the surprising facts, cultural insights and hidden stories that
reveal the deeper character of this small but extraordinary Central
American nation.
• Belize is the only Central American country where English is the official language.
• The Great Blue Hole is one of the world’s most iconic marine sinkholes.
• Belize's population is smaller than many single cities.
• You can hear Caribbean Creole, Spanish, Maya, Garifuna and more spoken in daily life.
• Jaguars roam the jungles — Belize is home to the world’s first jaguar preserve.
• The Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary became the world’s first protected jaguar reserve.
• Belize established pioneering marine conservation zones in the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef.
• Maya engineering achievements — temples, water systems and astronomy — remain unmatched for their era.
• The Belize Zoo is globally recognised for rehabilitating native wildlife.
• Saying “good morning” or “good afternoon” before asking questions is expected.
• Public beaches are accessible to all — even resort beachfronts.
• Dress is casual but modest in rural areas and Maya communities.
• Bargaining is acceptable at markets but not in shops with fixed pricing.
• Sundays are quieter, with many families gathering for meals and church.
• George Cadle Price, the “Father of the Nation,” led Belize to independence.
• Andy Palacio, a beloved musician, helped revive Garifuna culture internationally.
• Marion Jones, Olympic athlete, traces her roots to Belize.
• Nadia Cattouse is celebrated for her contributions to Caribbean folk music.
• Belize has the second-largest barrier reef in the world.
• Ambergris Caye is the country’s most visited island.
• Caracol features one of the tallest Maya structures in the region.
• Half the country is covered in forest.
• Many cayes are uninhabited and perfect for day trips and snorkelling.
• Belizeans are known for warmth, humour and hospitality.
• Cultural identity is a blend of Creole, Maya, Mestizo, Garifuna and more.
• Rice and beans with stewed chicken is a national favourite.
• Music ranges from punta and brukdown to Caribbean soca and reggae.
• Garifuna Settlement Day is a major cultural celebration with drum rituals and storytelling.
• Maya traditions remain strong in food, farming and spirituality.
• Carnival brings vibrant costumes, dance and street parades.
• Hand-crafted wooden carvings are a common local art form.
• Belize was once home to over 1 million Maya people, far more than today’s population.
• The British controlled Belize for centuries when it was known as British Honduras.
• Independence was achieved in 1981.
• Archaeological discoveries continue to reveal Maya astronomical genius.
• The Great Blue Hole is visible from space.
• Actun Tunichil Muknal is a sacred cave with preserved Maya artefacts.
• Hol Chan Marine Reserve is a snorkelling hotspot with nurse sharks and rays.
• Lamanai offers lakeside ruins accessible by jungle riverboat.
• English is the official language.
• Home to the Great Blue Hole.
• Jaguars live in protected reserves.
• Second-largest barrier reef.
• Many cultures in one country.
• Ambergris Caye is top-visited.
• Maya cities once thrived here.
• Half the land is forested.
• Hol Chan is a marine hotspot.
• Garifuna culture is vibrant.
• Public beaches are open to all.
• Independence gained in 1981.