Where is Belize?

Where Exactly is Belize?

Belize is a small, tropical country located on the eastern coast of Central America, along the Caribbean Sea. It is bordered by:

  • Mexico to the north
  • Guatemala to the west and south
  • The Caribbean Sea (also called the Gulf of Honduras) to the east

Key Geographic Features:

  • Area: Belize covers about 22,966 square kilometers (8,867 square miles).
  • Capital: The capital city of Belize is Belmopan, located inland in the central part of the country. However, the largest and most popular city is Belize City, which is located on the Caribbean coast.
  • Coastline: Belize has about 386 kilometers (240 miles) of coastline along the Caribbean, which includes beautiful beaches and the Belize Barrier Reef, the second-largest barrier reef in the world.
  • Islands: Belize has more than 450 islands (known as Cayes), with Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker being the most well-known and popular for tourists.

How to Get There:

1. By Air:

  • International Airport: The main international airport is Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport (BZE) near Ladyville, about 30 minutes from Belize City. This airport serves as the primary entry point for most international travelers.
  • Direct Flights: There are direct flights from major U.S. cities like Miami, Dallas, Houston, New York, and Los Angeles, as well as from Canada, Mexico, and certain countries in Central and South America.
  • Regional Airports: There are smaller regional airports serving popular tourist destinations, such as San Pedro Airport (Ambergris Caye) and Caye Caulker Airport.

2. By Land:

  • From Mexico: You can enter Belize by land from Mexico via the Corozal or Chetumal border crossing, with buses and taxis running regularly from Mexico’s Chetumal to Corozal (a small town on the northern border of Belize).
  • From Guatemala: The Melchor de Mencos border crossing is the most common point of entry from Guatemala into Belize, located in the western part of the country. This border connects to Punta Gorda, a town near Belize’s southern coast.

3. By Sea:

  • You can also arrive in Belize by sea, especially if you’re coming on a cruise or from nearby islands. Several cruise lines offer stops in Belize City, and water taxis operate between some of the cayes and coastal towns.

What’s Close By: Neighboring Countries and Attractions

1. Mexico:

  • Chetumal, Quintana Roo: The Mexican city of Chetumal is just a short drive from the Belize-Mexico border. It is a gateway to the Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza and Tulum in Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula.
  • Riviera Maya & Cancun: To the north of Chetumal is the famous Riviera Maya, with Cancun being one of the most famous tourist destinations in Mexico. You can easily take a bus or drive from Belize to these areas.

2. Guatemala:

  • Tikal (Guatemala): Tikal is one of the most famous Mayan archaeological sites and is just a few hours’ drive from the Belize-Guatemala border. Tikal is located in the northern Petén region of Guatemala, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its towering pyramids.
  • Lake Izabal: Located in eastern Guatemala, Lake Izabal is a beautiful, large freshwater lake, known for its serenity and historical significance. The Rio Dulce river connects it to the Caribbean.

3. Honduras:

  • While Honduras borders Belize to the southeast, it is not as easily accessible by land. However, Honduras‘ Bay Islands (such as Utila and Roatán) are well-known for diving and are a popular extension of many trips to Belize, with ferries and flights available.

Major Points of Interest in Belize:

1. Belize Barrier Reef:

The Belize Barrier Reef is the longest barrier reef in the Northern Hemisphere and one of the most important ecological sites in the world. It’s home to countless species of marine life and is perfect for snorkeling, diving, and fishing.

  • Great Blue Hole: A UNESCO World Heritage site and famous diving location, the Great Blue Hole is an underwater sinkhole near Ambergris Caye, offering stunning marine experiences.

2. Maya Ruins:

Belize is home to many ancient Mayan ruins, including Caracol, Xunantunich, Altun Ha, and Cahal Pech. These ruins offer a glimpse into Belize’s rich cultural history.

3. Cayes and Islands:

  • Ambergris Caye: The most developed and tourist-friendly island, home to San Pedro, a vibrant town popular with divers and beachgoers.
  • Caye Caulker: A smaller, laid-back island known for its stunning beaches, backpacker vibe, and snorkeling opportunities.

4. Adventure and Eco-Tourism:

Belize offers rich eco-tourism experiences, including hiking in Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, exploring caves in the Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM) Cave, and jungle tours in Mountain Pine Ridge and Rio Blanco National Park.

Summary of Location and Accessibility:

  • Belize is situated in Central America on the Caribbean coast, bordered by Mexico, Guatemala, and the Caribbean Sea.
  • Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport (BZE) is the main entry point for most travelers, with direct flights from the U.S., Canada, and neighboring countries.
  • Belize is close to popular tourist destinations in Mexico (like the Yucatán Peninsula) and Guatemala (including Tikal and Lake Izabal).

Belize’s prime location, stunning natural beauty, and ease of access make it a great destination for travelers looking for both adventure and relaxation.