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Top 7 Things to Do in Belize

Top 7 Things to Do in Belize

  1. Lamanai Mayan Ruins and River Boat Safari
  2. Xunantunich Mayan Ruins
  3. Exclusive Crystal Cave Tubing and Zipline
  4. Sharks, Rays, Barrier Reef Snorkel and Island Escape
  5. Snorkeling Wonders of the Barrier Reef
  6. Airboat Adventure and Belize City Tour
  7. Starfish Private Island Getaway

 

The Caribbean is known for its crystalline blue waters and endless beaches, but few of its wonders provide visitors the opportunity for discovery and adventure like Belize. From its location on the western border of the Caribbean, Belize is a unique combination of tropical oasis, explorer’s paradise and thrill-seeking playground that makes it a true gem for Carnival guests. Whether you’re taking a family cruise or going on a couple’s getaway, this is the perfect place for a cruise vacation.

Between its picturesque oceanfront, jungle terrain and exotic wildlife, Belize stands out due to its intrigue, sense of relaxation and adventure. Of course, like any Carnival cruise, when you travel to Belize you’ll find many shore excursions that will allow you to discover, explore or simply unwind in one of the most truly unique destinations on earth.

Discover

With a rich history that stems back thousands of years, a cruise to Belize offers a rare glimpse of monuments, ruins and remnants of civilizations past that will fascinate and capture the imagination.

1. Lamanai Mayan Ruins and River Boat Safari

The Lamanai Mayan Ruins and river boat safari excursion is like a passage back in time. Your adventure starts in a climate-controlled bus that takes you through the original colonies of British Honduras as you wind through the Belize River Valley. Afterwards, a short riverboat cruise floats through the rainforest, teeming with exotic wildlife, until you reach one of the largest Mayan ceremonial sites ever discovered. We dare you not to walk away impressed and awestruck by the intricate stone architecture overlooking the magnificent New River Lagoon.

one of the largest mayan ceremonial sites, lamanai mayan ruins, in belize

2. Xunantunich Mayan Ruins

For those looking for a more immersive experience, the Xunantunich Ruins excursion might be just what you need. As one of the most complete Mayan ruin complexes ever discovered, this site envelops you into the mystique of ancient Mayan culture with tours amongst the ceremonial temples, partially excavated ball court and massive palaces that have become synonymous with ancient Mayan culture. Afterwards, lunch in the local city of San Ignacio will give you a personal perspective of the wonderful culture that saturates Belize to this day.

mayanxunantunich ruins in belize

Explore

Along with its remarkable history, Belize is also known as a thrill seeker’s paradise, giving visitors the rare opportunity to explore the rainforest, quicken their pulse and find experiences not easily found anywhere else in the world.

3. Exclusive Crystal Cave Tubing and Zipline

With a little bit of spelunking, intriguing cave tubing, jaw-dropping zip lines through the rainforest canopy and a whole lot of adrenaline, this jampacked cave tubing and zipline excursion has thrills for all. After a short hike amongst the towering Cohune Palms, you’ll soon find yourself standing at the edge of a limestone cliff that serves as the launching pad for your adventure.

two people tubbing in a mayan ceremonial caves, crystal cave

You’ll feel the exhilaration of ziplining through the rainforest and exploring ancient ceremonial caves within the lush landscapes of Belize. Through mysterious tunnels and the crystallized underworld, you’ll float on a tube through intriguing chambers used by the Mayans hundreds of years ago. An authentic Belizean lunch provides a delicious closing chapter to this exhilarating excursion.

4. Sharks, Rays, Barrier Reef Snorkel and Island Escape

Of course, a trip to paradise wouldn’t be complete without some underwater adventure. This excursion allows you to experience the amazing Barrier Reef, where a professional guide will help you explore the otherworldly coral formations and sea life that will immerse you in a new world. Afterwards, you’ll stand on the sandy bottom of the shallow blue water as harmless nurse sharks and stingrays slowly swim around you, allowing you to experience these gentle creatures within their native habitat.

two people swimming among stingrays and sharks as others watch from a boat

5. Snorkeling Wonders of the Barrier Reef

For those searching for a more in-depth experience in the tropical Belizean waters, the Snorkeling Wonders of the Barrier Brief excursion provides that very opportunity. After a short boat ride to a beautiful and private tropical island, Rendezvous Caye, you’ll have plenty of time to snorkel through the hemisphere’s largest barrier reef. You’ll be up close and personal with an endless variety of coral and vividly colored fish. You can also enjoy a refreshing cool drink or tasty snack on the island’s soft and sandy beach when you want to just pause and enjoy your incredible surroundings.

group of people snorkeling among the barrier reef in belize

6. Airboat Adventure and Belize City Tour

If you’re looking for a combination of local culture and water-based thrills, a Belize tour and airboat adventure is right for you. A meandering tour in an air-conditioned bus winds through Belize City as your guide teaches you about its rich history, which stretches hundreds of years in the past. Afterwards, you’ll board a 450 horsepower airboat and zip across Almond Hill Lagoon, feeling the warm sea air tugging on your skin and thrilling you from head to toe. Along the way, you’ll slow down to explore the mangroves, water lilies, birds, turtles and massive manatees lounging in the warm waters.

tourist enjoying an airboat tour across the almond hill lagoon

Unwind

As exhilarating as Belize might be, there’s always room for relaxation and time to unwind. Fortunately, Carnival guests have excursions available that will provide you some needed downtime in this Caribbean paradise.

7. Starfish Private Island Getaway

This family-friendly excursion takes you to a small private island, where you will be able to swim, enjoy the warm sun on your skin and relax while listening to local music and enjoying the sights and sounds. This getaway happens at your own pace so be as active, lazy or fun as you want to be. A Belizean buffet style lunch and a full bar means you can take your time, relax and enjoy yourself however you see fit.

family enjoying an ocean obstacle course at starfish private island

A Caribbean cruise to Belize has something for everyone. Whether you’re an adventurer, explorer or simply want to enjoy some relaxing time in a tropical oasis, the time to book your Carnival cruise to Belize is now. Its rainforest, ancient ruins and crystal blue waters are waiting for you.

Note: Onboard activities, shore excursions, and dining options may vary by ship and destination.