The longest barrier reef in the Western Hemisphere is located in Belize near Ambergris Caye. The underwater flora and fauna are visible 50 to 100 feet in the crystal blue ocean water. Snorkeling and scuba diving through coral gardens are popular pass times for locals and visitors alike. Astounding coral formations and more than 500 fish species close to the shore greet dive enthusiasts from all around the world. Night diving opens the mysterious world of nocturnal sea life to divers. The famous Blue Hole is viewed as a unique dive site and is considered one of the world’s most beautiful.
On Land Adventures
Diving is only one of the things to do on Ambergris Caye. The natural coastal anatomy is perfect for leisurely walks, hikes and other “landed” adventures and the ocean beaches are great for relaxing. Clear, fresh-water pools and the ocean provide any water sport the holiday traveler might enjoy.
The local restaurants provide a congenial atmosphere with tropical style entertainments. There are several celebrations that take place throughout Belize and Ambergris Caye especially from September to December when tourism is especially popular. The National Craft Centre and other cottage industries provide mahogany and ziricote carvings, handcrafted jewelry, other handicrafts and woven straw hats. Any of these original art works make fantastic souvenirs.
Bicycles can be rented at several area shops or through resort offices. Fantastic golf courses are available for play. The Lalas Bird Sanctuary provides vantage points and a “people perch” for bird watching. Jet skis, wave runners, wind surfing, para-sailing and kite surfing take place outside the reef in order to protect the coral. Day sailing trips around Ambergris Caye and nearby islands can be easily scheduled.
Learn About Native Flora, Fauna and Butterflies
A guided one kilometer walk along an Ecological Nature Trail gives visitors understanding of native trees, plants and insects. One of the newest attractions is the Butterfly Jungle where every growth stage from egg to jeweled butterfly can be observed. Guides teach visitors about the role butterflies play in the rich ecosystem of Belize. Casual and avid sports and fly fishermen enjoy the local streams and rivers, and ocean fishing excursions provide deep sea fishing opportunities.
The diversity of flowering and leafy plants, along with a variety of rain forest trees makes for fascinating treks through the mysterious overgrowth. Ambergris Caye is an especially exotic section of the beauty that is Belize. The forest is a paradise for bird watchers with over 500 species to view and film. Visitors can ride a zip-line through the rain forest canopy, tube down winding rivers, explore above and below water caves, enjoy Mayan ruins such as Altun Ha and Xunantunich, and ride horseback along the beaches and forest trails.
The variety of things to do on Ambergris Caye runs the gamut. Whether visitors are young, old or in between they can find entertainments of all kinds, especially outdoor activities to fill their holidays. The photos, videos and memories of a trip to this part of Belize will be enjoyed forever.
