Mélange Travel & Lifestyle Magazine October 2016 | Page 99

Discover Belize’s
SEVEN Distinct Regions
Northern Belize is a destination for those wanting to get closer to Mother Nature, avoid large
crowds or experience everything from the archaeological wonders of the Maya sites to exploring the
jungles, rainforests and lagoons. If you’re looking to get off the grid, head here.

Belize North Islands Two of the most popular Belizean islands, Ambergris Caye and Caye

Caulker, are located off of the northern coast of Belize. Caye Caulker signs caution visitors to “Go Slow,”
but few need to take notice, as the island’s unwritten motto is evident by its easygoing people, sandy roads
for golf carts and the rhythmic pace of the waves. Ambergris Caye is known as “the place to get away,” and
it provides something for everyone, whether it’s underwater adventure or relaxing on the beach. It’s all
here, what you do is up to you.

Central Coast Home to the howler monkeys and many rare bird species, Central Belize is

perfect for travelers looking to get into the wild. Consisting of the Belize and Cayo districts, Central Belize
brings together some of the country’s best features, including Maya sites, dense jungles, rushing waterfalls
and extensive caves. The Central Coast is also home to elize City, the cultural and business
epicenter of Belize.

Western Belize Western Belize is home to many archaeological sites, like Cahal Pech. Other

points of interest include the Butterfly Farm and the Rainforest Medicinal Trails and the Benque House of
Culture in Benque Viejo Del Carmen. For the more adventurous traveler, Nachuch Che’em Park is known
for its cave tubing and zip-lining offerings. And for everything from Maya temples to caving to hiking to
kayaking or horseback riding, San Ignacio is definitely the place to be in Western Belize.

Southeast Coast The Southeast Coast is a blend of culture and adventure. From the Maya

Mountains views to the golden sand beaches, this region has something for everyone. Dangriga, a laidback Garifuna seaside community near Hopkins, is a great beach destination and Placencia is known for
water activities like kayaking, snorkeling and diving. Inland is full of adventures, like Cockscomb Basin
Wildlife Sanctuary, Mayflower Bocawina National Park and Blue Hole National Park. This coast has it all.

Southern Belize Known by many as “The Forgotten Land,” Southern Belize’s

undiscovered
landscapes serve as a threshold for lush rainforests, ancient Maya artifacts, fascinating cultures and
enough ecoadventures to impress even the most discerning traveler. Punta Gorda is the gateway to
everything from off-shore fishing, to river trips, as well as caving, birding and Maya archaeological sites.
Not to mention, some of the nicest people you’ll ever meet.

Belize Reef You may never want to get out of the water. 36 species of coral. Countless species of
fish. It’s all underwater in the Reef District.

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