“Beautiful Belize, a piece of paradise that was plucked from imagination, waiting to be ventured.” This is the thought that sparked my interest for the small country within Central America. A country that is not only multilingual but also surrounded by the illusions of the coral reefs. A country that is filled with ancient history and broad culture, Belize anticipates to burst its amazing qualities in front of the visitor.

For those who wish to see the sights of man-made wonders, one eagerly visits Belize, a country that preserves the great architecture of the Mayan. For those who wish to see the natural aspect, understand that Belize is high in abundance with marine life and contains diverse ecosystems.

1. Actun Tunichil Muknal Cave
A wonderful name to behold, this cave paints the picture of stories throughout the days of the Mayans. Deep into the jungles, crossing close from San Ignacio, the Actun Tunichil Muknal Cave travels back in time to when sacrifices were a tradition. Those who enter the cave must do so with a strong stomach and an open mind. As soon as you tour around the cave, you will witness the crystallized skeletons of those who were sacrificed for the rain god. In specific terms, these skeletons were those of an infant or an adult, ranging in age from one year old to adolescence. A terrifying look into the past, yet a crystallizing sight to bear, the Actun Tunichil Muknal Cave was meant for the strong-willed. A recommended hint at what culture was like in the past.

© Bernard Dupont

2. Lamanai
If you can consider the Actun Tunichil Muknal Cave to be a small window into the old times, you can consider Lamanai to be the gateway. With eight ceremonial plazas, five temple structures, a residential group and an ancient harbor for river traffic, it can be very reassuring that the trip to Belize is definitely worth the consideration.

The tourists who regularly visit Lamanai explore the area to gain the true fruits of discovery. For such an awe-inducing view, the temples will definitely inspire you to bring out the best qualities of Belize. The tapestry and artwork of the Mayans is showcased throughout the area and the place will leave you wondering how much sweat, blood and tears it took to complete the infrastructure.

© Bernard Dupont

3. Caye Caulker
South of the Ambergris Cave, second largest cave in Belize, you can find Caye Caulker, an island that lengthens to four miles. Originally, Caye Caulker was a fishing community. As years passed, it created an influx of travelers and backpackers interested in diving and snorkeling. One of the great tourism attractions is the Belize Barrier Reef, where denizens and visitors can swim in tranquility. The calming effect of swimming in the great blue waters encircling the reef is one of the mainstays for most tourists. However, you should be cautious in swimming around the area, due to traffic with boats and currents. Locals and guides will point out the safer areas to swim in. Although you cannot swim with the manatees that often immerse themselves in the reef, they often swim out to boats to introduce themselves. Whether it be windsurfing, sunbathing or jet skiing, Belize is the perfect spot to participate in all.

© Jennifer Stahn

4. Old Belize Museum
If you’re hankering for the history of more recent years, the Old Belize Museum is for you. Packed with ecological, archeological, industrial and political history, the 45-minute tour guides you through a rainforest, which leads to replicas of tombs and temples, ending with the chance to buy knick knacks at the gift shop.

Not only does the tour showcase ancient history but it also highlights the innovation of the sugarcane press and the steam-powered saw mill. The museum has also reproduced an early 20th century, life-size model of a Belize Town street. The Old Belize Museum is an interesting spin to replicating the past.

5. The 1,000 Foot Falls
A majestic view that can sink your sense of astonishment, the 1,000-foot waterfall is meant to mesmerize. Any and all hikers from around the world travel to the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve, where a special viewing area is set up with benches and a public restroom.

The nickname does not reflect the reality of the waterfall. The waterfall is actually 1,600-foot tall. The descent of the waterfall ends at a disgorgement pool in the bottom. Like any and all sceneries, you’d want to see the waterfall at it’s best. Avoid going there if it is a rainy day because most the waterfall won’t be as beautiful as a the view during a sunny day.