Skip to main content
EF Go Ahead Tours logo

6 Hidden gems in Belize to visit

There are so many hidden gems in Belize—from Mayan ruins that date back to 800 B.C, to the lush rainforest, to one of the biggest coral reefs on the planet, to a chocolate factory worth melting over.

If you ask anyone on our Go Ahead staff, they’ll tell you: Belize is an underrated vacation destination. There are so many hidden gems in Belize—from Maya ruins that date back to 800 B.C. to one of the biggest coral reefs on the planet.

That’s why we’re going to take you through the six little-known things to do in Belize on tour. Get a notepad, because you’re going to want to start planning your trip today.


Img

1. The Lamanai Mayan ruins

Lamanai is one of the oldest continually inhabited archeological zones in the Mayan World—making it one of the top things to do in Belize. Explore the partially restored trails of this once prominent pre-Columbian city and listen to the howler monkeys as you learn about life in 200 A.D.

There are three main temples to explore: the Jaguar Temple, the Mask Temple, and the High Temple. You’ll see impressive carvings, as well as one of the carved Mayan calendars that “predicted” the end of the world in 2012. You can even climb to the top of the High Temple and soak in views of the jungle, where many ruins have yet to be discovered.

Fact: Lamanai is one of the only Mayan ruins close to a body of water. The word Lamanai comes from the Yucatec Maya word Lam’an’ain, meaning submerged crocodile. It’s no surprise, then, that crocodiles cruise the nearby New River Lagoon.


Img

2. Hol Chan Marine Reserve

Admire views of the sparkling blue water and snorkel through the “little channel” of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the second largest reef in the world. Locals created this reserve to control overfishing and diving activities in the area—and the preservation efforts have paid off.

Today, you can search for local wildlife, including turtles, dolphins, rays, and over 160 species of fish that call the reserve home. You’ll also learn about the country’s commitment to preserving the reef. It’s one of the top things to do in Belize for a reason.


Img

3. Any Mayan chocolate factory

Chocolate lovers, rejoice! This hidden gem in Belize is for you. Visit a Mayan chocolate factory like we do on our Belize tour to learn about the history of one of the country’s most delicious foods.

You’ll see how cacao is produced, harvested, and turned into chocolate—a process that’s taken place in this area since 1500 A.D. Of course, you’ll also get to taste the sweet treat, too.


Fact: The ancient Mayans made liquid chocolate from crushed cacao, chili peppers, and water because they didn’t have sugar in Central America at the time. They do now!


Img

4. Jaguar Paw

Nowhere else in the world can you float on a river through a network of ancient underground caves like you can at Jaguar Paw. Our Ruins, Reefs & Rainforests trip will take you right into the heart of it all.

Sit back, relax, and cool off a bit as you learn all about the Mayan history, local geology, birds, plants, and animals. It’s an unforgettable opportunity to see the local flora and fauna up close (and from an entirely unique perspective). The water is crystal clear, the local guides are fun, and the views of the pointed stalagmite formations reflecting on the sparkling river will make you feel like you're on another planet.

You’ll even get to visit the secret spots where the ancient Mayans worshipped and sourced their sacred water—though the Mayans didn't travel there on an inner tube.

Img

5. San Antonio Women's Cooperative 

This nonprofit in the Cayo District’s San Antonio Village is one of the most rewarding hidden gems in Belize. Here, more than 25 women dedicate their lives to preserving Maya traditions, building awareness of Maya culture, and generating ethical income for the community from your visit.

During your visit, you can shop for meaningful souvenirs like handmade embroidery and pottery crafted with the ancient techniques and even try your hand at it. If you’re feeling hungry, the women here would be delighted to prepare you an authentic lunch. It’s an experience you’ll never forget.


Img

6. San Ignacio

If you’re looking for an artistic experience, add this vibrant village in the Cayo district to your bucket list. Everywhere you look, the town’s walls depict Belize’s rich culture. You’ll see gorgeous murals that showcase everything from the city’s evolution to the story of a midwife who delivered over a thousand local babies.

Every Saturday, San Ignacio also hosts the biggest market in the entire country. Watch the district come alive with a vibrant blend of colors and crafts, try some fresh dragonfruit juice from a local vendor, and maybe even bring home some handmade jewelry as a unique souvenir from your Belize trip.

Been to Belize? Share your top things to do on Facebook.

About the author

Go Ahead Tours team

We’re a team of passionate travel experts, dedicated to helping people explore the world. From inspiring stories to tips for an amazing trip, the topics we cover are all about getting you out there and making discoveries.

Related tours

Loading tours

More travel inspiration

Skip to end of carousel
Travel buzz

Is Colombia safe to visit? How a nation overcame conflict to welcome the world

Travel buzz

Feeling the loneliness epidemic? You’re not alone! Here’s how guided group travel leads to new connections

Travel buzz

The best places to visit in 2024 and 2025 to see the northern lights

Travel buzz

A conversation about our new Pride Tours and EF Go Ahead Tours’ commitment to LGBTQ+ traveler trust

Travel buzz

Where was “Shōgun” filmed? Discover the real locations in Japan & beyond that inspired the show’s filming locations

Venice Italy
Travel buzz

Is Venice sinking? Yes, but there’s more to the story

View from Corfu fort Greece
Travel buzz

Looking for the perfect summer trip? Here are the best places to travel in June

Street View Osaka Japan
Travel buzz

Need a reason to visit Japan in 2024? Here are 6 that show why Japan travel is trending this year

Fireworks over London
Travel buzz

Where to travel based on your favorite holiday movies

snow covered mountain under blue sky during night time in Zermatt Switzerland
Travel buzz

7 destinations that’ll whisk you to the world of “A Court of Thorns and Roses”

beach in mykonos greece
Travel buzz

Winter blues got you down? Here are the 10 best cities in Europe to visit this summer to shake off the cold

Giants Causeway Ireland
Travel buzz

Epic adventure awaits at these spellbinding “Dungeons and Dragons” filming locations in Northern Ireland and beyond

Small and picturesque fishing village of Naoussa in Paros, Greece
Travel buzz

6 of Greece’s islands you can’t miss this summer

Egypt pyramids of Giza and Sphinx
Travel buzz

Postcard from Egypt: What it’s like traveling to Egypt alone on a Solo Tour

Travel buzz

The 10 best solo trips to book for Singles’ Day

Travel buzz

These 12 New Year’s resolutions are guaranteed to become your top travel moments in 2024

Travel buzz

The side hustle that will allow you to travel for free

Travel buzz

From Sicily to Santorini, these are 7 Mediterranean islands you need to visit

Travel buzz

A royal occasion: everything you need to know about King Charles’ coronation

Travel buzz

8 reasons to embrace retirement travel on a guided solo trip

Skip to start of carousel