Between the ATM cave, Belize Zoo, Xunantunich Ruins, St Herman’s Blue Hole and Cave, and Guanahste National Park there is so much to do in central Belize. And what better place as your base of operations than centrally located Belmopan! Each of these things is an hour or less away. If you rent a car they’re all within easy reach! Your adventure should start here!
Located smack dab in the middle Belize, the capital city of Belmopan is not only welcoming but has a small town feel. The capital was relocated to Belmopan from Belize city years ago after Belize city was destroyed by a hurricane. Although it is smaller than the biggest city in Belize it remains the government’s central location. You might think that this means it’s going to be a big city in disguise but it isn’t. Its a small town with a local market, small local restaurants, low cost places to stay, and friendly helpful local people! But the real gem of this small town is that it offers access to some of the most amazing things Belize has to offer:
- The ATM Cave: (45 min from Belmopan, guide needed, full day) This amazing cave was featured by National Geographic as the #1 most sacred cave in the world. It is a small adventure to get into and climb around in the cave. It is NOT difficult and appropriate for anyone who is able to swim, hike, and crawl around. Its easy to find a company that will take you in there and you are not allowed to enter without a local guide. Don’t use the company we used as they were unreliable and not very professional.. (please note that you aren’t allowed to take pictures in the cave so the above picture came from Belize.com)
- Belize Zoo : (30 min from Belmopan, no guide, half day) We don’t usually do zoos in foreign countries as conditions for the animals can sometimes be difficult to see. However, after many, many recommendations we did visit the Belize zoo. It is very impressive. More of a rescue than a zoo, there are many local animals in very large enclosures. The animals are obviously well taken care of. There are also some very fun opportunities to interact with the animals which we highly recommend. These include being licked by a jaguar! Don’t miss it!
- Xunantunich Mayan Ruins: (1 hr from Belmopan, no guide, half day) Well restored ruins near San Ignacio, these ruins are a good example of what a Mayan city must have looked like. There are ample opportunities for pictures and learning at this beautiful and safe ruined city. Allow about 2-4 hours to explore.
- Guanahste National Park: (5 min from Belmopan, no guide, half day) A National Park located just north of the town of Belmopan; this park has monkeys, birds, hiking, beautiful scenery, the Belize river, and opportunities to swim. Plan to spend at least 2 hours hiking the whole park to see the beautiful scenery and spot some howler monkeys. If you are interested there is a swimming spot down by the river so bring your swimming suit to be a part of this local tradition. The water is warm and blue green!
- St Herman’s Blue Hole and Cave: (1 hr from Belmopan, no guide unless doing a full cave tour, half-full day) A fun little area located south of the city. The natural sinkhole offers a fun opportunity to swim in some beautiful water. If that isn’t enough for you to venture over; there is also a cave nearby which offers tours from mild to wild. In the same area there is cave tubing. Any way you slice it you should add this area to your itinerary. Just be aware that the area closes around 4pm daily.
There is so much more to do that we didn’t cover here. A little research will provide you with more than enough opportunities to fill at least a week without repeating anything! There are also some great and inexpensive places to eat in Belmopan: Scotchies (famous for Jamaican jerk), Caladium (good steaks and local food), and The Smokeshack (excellent hamburgers) to name a few (all offer very low prices). If you’re wondering where to stay, we stayed at the Belmopan tiny houses. These fun tiny houses offer quiet and out of the way accommodations for VERY reasonable rates. If that isn’t enough to entice you; the owner of this fun place is not only very friendly but also very helpful when booking activities, recommending restaurants, and giving advice about the area. You can’t go wrong with your stay there. But be aware that there is NO air conditioning.
Overall Belmopan offers the savvy traveler a fun place to make your base for exploring the central part of Belize. Not far from so many world class attractions, they can provide everything the adventure traveler needs to successfully engage in this amazing part of the world. Don’t pass up your opportunity to be a part of this exciting travel destination!