Belize by boat: Hol Chan, sharks and the barrier reef

You’re going to love Belize

Belize is a small country with a huge reef. Off the coast runs the Belize Barrier Reef, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the largest reef systems in the world, with warm turquoise water, sandy cayes and a laid-back Caribbean way of life. San Pedro, on Ambergris Caye, is the main base for the sea.

Out on the water, you can snorkel with nurse sharks and rays at Shark Ray Alley, swim in the Hol Chan Marine Reserve and finish the day on the sunny island of Caye Caulker. A catamaran is a great way to take it all in.

The 5 best reasons to visit Belize

1. 1

   A world-class reefThe Belize Barrier Reef is one of the best places in the Caribbean to snorkel and dive.

2. 2

   Shark Ray Alley and Hol ChanA marine reserve where you can swim among tropical fish, turtles, rays and nurse sharks.

3. 3

   Laid-back cayesAmbergris Caye and Caye Caulker have a relaxed, barefoot island atmosphere.

4. 4

   English is the official languageIt is easy to get around, book and chat with locals, with a mix of Caribbean, Maya and Latin American cultures.

5. 5

   More than the seaMaya ruins, caves, rainforest and wildlife are within reach on the mainland.

What to do in Belize

• Snorkel at Hol ChanSwim over coral gardens full of fish in one of the best-known marine reserves in the country.
• Visit Caye CaulkerA tiny, colourful island with sandy streets, beach bars and a “go slow” attitude.
• Explore San PedroWalk or cycle around the town, with its beaches, restaurants and golf-cart traffic.
• Try the local foodFresh ceviche, grilled fish, lobster in season and rice and beans, with a rum punch.
• See the Maya heritageOn the mainland, ancient Maya sites such as Altun Ha can be visited on a day trip.