Belize

A visit to Ambergris Caye must be on the bucket list for any undersea adventurers list of things to do in this Caribbean nation. With its unique culture, sandy beaches, and ancient wonders, Belize truly will excite travellers of all stripes. Free from crowds and ripe with adventure, there is no shortage of lush jungles, sandy beaches, clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, ancient Mayan ruins, and exotic wildlife in Belize. Belize is best known for the Belize Natural Wonders, including the world-renowned Blue Hole, which is great for snorkelling, the varied wildlife, the huge jungles, the gorgeous beaches, small islands, and stunning coral reefs.

Diving enthusiasts from around the world flock to Belize to explore the unspoiled coral reefs of Belize and dive into the world-famous Blue Hole, the largest marine sinkhole just off the coast of the country. Deep-water enthusiasts know that Belize is a popular destination for diving, but the famed Blue Hole is the most exciting dive site of all. The most popular dive destination is the Great Blue Hole, part of the larger Belize Barrier Reef, which is a UNESCO world heritage site.

The best way to get access to the famed blue hole and Mesoamerican Barrier Reef is to go from Ambergris Caye, the largest island of Belize. Accessible by boat only, it is a UNESCO heritage and dive site at the northern tip of Ambergris Caye, near the Belize/Mexico border. With plenty of activities for outdoor enthusiasts, The Great Blue Hole is one of the cannot-miss places in this Caribbean nation.

The Hol Chan Marine Reserve is just four miles from the shores of Ambergris Caye, Belize, making it one of the best things to do there. Aquatic wildlife such as nurse sharks, sea turtles, and hawksbill rays call the Belize Barrier Reef -- the world’s second largest -- home, and one of the best places to see marine wildlife such as nurse sharks is right off the shores of Ambergris Caye in the Hol Chan Marine Reserve. One of the best things to do in Caye Caulker is go snorkelling in the Hol Chan Marine Reserve and Belize’s Barrier Reef - the second largest in the world, behind Australia’s Great Barrier Reef.

From exploring the rainforests and seeing the wildlife, to swimming in the cenotes, to snorkelling on the reef, there are endless opportunities to get adventurous in Belize. The lush jungles and ancient sites at its western tip, the sparkling Caribbean-side cays (islands), and its proximity to the second largest barrier reef in the world, make Belize a mecca for eco-travellers and adventure seekers alike. Because the Belize Barrier Reef is protected, marine life provides first-rate scuba and snorkelling opportunities.

Other popular National Parks in Belize include the Mayflower Bocanaina, the Saint Herman’s Blue Hole, the Rio Blanco, the Hol Chan, and the Blue Hole. Whether visiting Ambergris Caye, Stann Creek, or the Toledo area, Belize’s jungles, rivers, and waterfalls are all stunning with plenty of options for your day trip. The Half Moon Caye Bird Sanctuary is a daytrip from both modern-day Belize City and Ambergris Caye.