A diver's paradise
Just off the coast of Belize, one of the world’s biggest coral reefs is located: the Belize Barrier Reef. The reef is over 250 kilometres long and is in a much better condition than the Great Barrier Reef in Australia. Around 350 fish species can be found here, as well as The Great Blue Hole. This was once considered as one of the most beautiful diving spots in the world by Jaques Cousteau. And it is considered to be the Holy Grail for many diving-lovers. No experience with diving? Snorkelling in Belize is also possible!
“ Snorkelling by the Reef was impressive; all of a sudden we swam face to face with sharks, turtles and amazing fish! ”
Johan about snorkelling with his daughter Emma
-
Belize Barrier Reef
This coral reef stretches over an area of 250 kilometres from the northern coast of Belize to the south. The corals are generally in good condition and around 350 fish species have been accounted for. Three out of the four atolls that can be found in the Caribbean are a part of the Belize Barrier Reef: the Turneffe Atoll, Glover’s Reef and Lighthouse Reef.
-
The Great Blue Hole
This Blue Hole is a vertical cave with a diameter of 300 metres and a depth of 124 metres, which is located in the Lighthouse Reef. After he visited the reef, Jacques Cousteau considered it as one of the five most beautiful diving spots in the world.
-
Whale sharks
During spring, from March until June and around full moon, whale sharks visit a reef in front of the coast of Belize, which is called Gladden split. This is the perfect moment for diving, so you can see these massive animals at close range. An experience you certainly will not forget for the rest of your life.
-
Snorkelling
The waters of Belize are an excellent place for snorkelling. We are happy to help you organise a wonderful snorkelling trip for you and your partner or the entire family. Johan, founder of Sapa Pana Travel, said the following about snorkelling with his daughter Emma: “Snorkelling by the Reef was impressive; all of a sudden we swam face to face with sharks, turtles and amazing fish!”
Diving at Placencia and the Belize Cayes
Both Placencia and the so-called Belize Cayes are excellent diving spots. The Belize Cayes consists of more than 200 islands. Ambergris Caye, the biggest island, has a length of over 40 kilometres and can be divided into three parts: mangrove swamps, lagoons and sand. Special about this island: the golf kart and bike are the most common ways of transport here. Ambergris Caye is a unique snorkel and diving destination. It is the second-largest coral reef in the world (only the Great Barrier Reef in Australia is bigger), in other words, it is the biggest coral reef on the western hemisphere. The coral reef is located around 800 metres away from the east coast of the country. It stretches along the entire length of the country and it reaches the mainland at ‘Rocky Road’ in the northeast. The coral reef is part of the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Other frequently visited islands of the Belize Caye are Caye Caulker, Caye Chappel, St. George Caye, Tobago Caye and South Water Caye. These islands are a lot more authentic compared to Ambergris Caye. The relaxed Caribbean atmosphere is typical for the Belize Cayes. You can find many souvenir shops, boutiques and nice bars here. The Belizean kitchen has many Spanish and Mexican influences and obviously, there is a wide range of different fish specials. TIP! Mid-June to mid-February is lobster season!
The Great Blue Hole
The Blue Hole is a vertical cave that was discovered by Jacques Cousteau. There are more blue holes in the world, and it is a phenomenon that mostly occurs in low-lying coastal areas. The best known examples are in Belize, the Bahamas, Guam – Pacific Ocean, Australia – Great Barrier Reef and Egypt – Red Sea. The Blue Hole is located near the centre of the Lighthouse Reef, a small atoll at 70 kilometres off the mainland at Belize-City. The hole has a round shape, is over 300 metres wide and 124 metres deep. The cave was formed during the different periods of ice age when the sea levels were much lower. When the ocean started to rise again, the caves flooded. The Blue Hole is part of the Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System. The latter is, as mentioned before, part of the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Travel through Belize?
Would you like to make a trip through Belize yourself and are you curious about the possibilities? Then take a look at the travel itineraries that we have put together for inspiration. You can book these trips directly, but we are also happy to create a personal programme based on your wishes and ideas.
Do you have a question? Feel free to contact us. Call +31 73 610 62 04 or send an e-mail to info@sapapanatravel.nl. We are happy to help.