Belize

Formerly British Honduras, Belize is a country defined by various cultures, languages, and ethnic groups including descendants of the Mayans, whose civilisation dominated this region for centuries.

Mayan links are evident in well-preserved remains such as Xunantunich, with its plazas and temples, and Caracol’s 138ft tall Sky Palace Pyramid. Aside from Mayan ruins, Belize’s attractions include rich flora and fauna, and 40% of the country is dedicated to conservation.

The lush rainforests are still home to jaguar, puma and various species of monkey, as well as the beautiful, brilliantly plumed quetzal. Finally, divers and snorkellers migrate to the 174-mile coastline fringed with numerous atolls, known as Cayes, and the second greatest barrier reef in the world.

Our Latin America team have stayed in all the best lodges throughout the country and work with the top guides for cultural and wildlife excursions. We only use the finest dive operators and can arrange dive trips to see whale sharks in this, one of the few places on the planet where marine biologists know when, why and where they congregate. The last Original Travel consultant to dive in Belize saw eight whale sharks on his solitary dive. Not a bad return.