Belize, on the Caribbean coast of Central America, packs a remarkable variety into a small country: the barrier reef and cayes offshore, rainforest and Maya ruins inland, and Garifuna villages and beaches in the south. English is the official language, and the Belize dollar is fixed at two to one US dollar, which is also widely accepted.
A typical first trip spends a few days on Caye Caulker or Ambergris Caye and a few days in San Ignacio. With more time, add Placencia or Hopkins.
Where is Belize on the map?
Belize is in Central America, on the Caribbean coast of the Yucatán Peninsula. It borders Mexico to the north and Guatemala to the west and south, and looks across the Gulf of Honduras towards Honduras. See where Belize is on the map of Central America.
Map of Belize with towns and islands
The capital is Belmopan, while Belize City is the largest city and main gateway. Inland, San Ignacio is the hub of the Cayo District; in the south are Hopkins, Placencia and Punta Gorda. Offshore lie more than 400 cayes; see the map of Belize's islands. For an overview of the country, see the district map and the road map.