55 Fun Facts About Belize

We hope you enjoy these fun facts about Belize as much as we enjoyed our time in this wonderful country!

I found Belize a fascinating country. They have an amazing mix of cultures and all sorts of different types of nature. Picturesque beaches, jungle, ancient temples, you name it. It’s all worth checking out. I loved our two weeks there. I wish we spent longer.

It did get me thinking: there must be so much about this tiny country that nobody really thinks of. So I dug up some great facts about Belize!

a street sign with Belize on it

55 Fun Facts About Belize

Let’s wait no longer – here are the facts about Belize you have been waiting for:

Fun Facts About Belize – General

  1. The Belize dollar is pegged to the US dollar at a rate of 2:1, providing economic stability to the country and making it easier for tourists to manage their finances.

  1. Belize is one of the few countries in the world with a manual telephone exchange system still in operation, reflecting its blend of modernity and tradition.

  1. The country’s unique judicial system is based on British Common Law, reflecting its historical ties to the United Kingdom.

  1. The Belizean flag is distinctive, featuring a coat of arms that highlights the country’s past logging industry and its rich natural resources, making it one of the only national flags in the world to depict human beings.

  1. The name “Belize” is derived from the Maya word “Belix,” meaning “muddy water,” referring to the Belize River that flows through the country.

  1. The country’s education system includes a mix of public and private schools, with a curriculum that emphasizes bilingual education, preparing students for a globalized world.

  1. Belize’s agricultural sector is not just about export crops; it also includes a vibrant array of local markets where farmers sell fresh produce, reflecting the importance of agriculture to local communities and the economy.

  1. The Toledo District, known as the “Chocolate Heart” of Belize, hosts an annual Chocolate Festival, celebrating the region’s rich history of cacao production and chocolate making.

  1. Belize’s Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport is named after one of the country’s national heroes, serving as the main gateway for international visitors and reflecting the country’s pride in its heritage.

  1. Belize is pioneering in sustainable tourism practices, with numerous eco-lodges and tours that emphasize conservation and community involvement.

  1. The annual La Ruta Maya Belize River Challenge is a four-day canoe race that attracts competitors from around the world, celebrating Belize’s river culture and adventurous spirit.

  1. Belize’s literacy rate is among the highest in Central America, reflecting the country’s commitment to education and the empowerment of its people.

  1. The country celebrates Children’s Day on November 20th, emphasizing the importance of children’s rights and education.

  1. Belize’s “Ally’s Guest House” in Placencia is known for being one of the smallest hotels in the world, showcasing Belize’s charm and the unique experiences it offers visitors.

  1. Belize’s national motto, “Sub Umbra Floreo,” means “Under the Shade, I Flourish,” reflecting the country’s resilience and the protective nature of its vibrant culture and ecosystems.

  1. Belize has embraced renewable energy sources, particularly hydroelectric and biomass energy, contributing to its environmental sustainability goals.

  1. Belize’s economy is heavily dependent on tourism, agriculture, and marine products, with the country being a leading exporter of sugar, bananas, and citrus fruits, alongside its growing ecotourism and adventure tourism sectors.
A bamboo hut on the seaside in Belize

Fun Facts About Belize – Nature

  1. Belize is home to the world’s second-largest barrier reef, offering a paradise for divers and snorkelers due to its extensive and vibrant marine life.

  1. The Great Blue Hole, a giant marine sinkhole off the coast of Belize, is visible from space, attracting divers from around the world to explore its deep crystal-clear waters and rich marine biodiversity.

  1. Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary in Belize is the world’s first jaguar preserve, established to protect the largest concentration of jaguars in the world and showcasing Belize’s commitment to conservation.

  1. Belize boasts diverse ecosystems, ranging from tropical rainforests to mountains and coral reefs, supporting an extraordinary variety of plants and animals and making it a key destination for eco-tourists and nature lovers.

  1. The Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for its exceptional natural beauty and significant biodiversity, including hundreds of islands, atolls, and coral reefs.

  1. Belize’s national flower is the Black Orchid (Encyclia cochleatum), symbolizing the country’s extraordinary biodiversity and the beauty of its natural landscapes.

  1. The national animal of Belize is the Baird’s Tapir, also locally known as the “mountain cow,” highlighting the country’s commitment to protecting its unique wildlife.

  1. Belize is a leader in environmental protection, having banned offshore oil drilling within its maritime territory to protect the Belize Barrier Reef and its marine biodiversity.

  1. Belize’s Placencia Peninsula boasts some of the most beautiful and pristine beaches in Central America, offering miles of white sandy beaches and a peaceful retreat from the busier tourist spots.

  1. Belize is a birdwatcher’s paradise throughout the year, with the country’s diverse ecosystems providing habitats for an array of tropical birds, making it one of the best places in the world for birding.

  1. Hol Chan Marine Reserve, established in 1987 off the coast of Ambergris Caye, was one of the first of its kind in Central America, emphasizing Belize’s pioneering role in marine conservation.

  1. Belize’s barrier reef offers some of the best deep-sea fishing in the world, attracting anglers seeking to catch marlin, tuna, and dorado.
The coatline of Belize from the air
  1. Shipstern Nature Reserve, covering over 27,000 acres, is home to five different ecosystems, showcasing Belize’s environmental diversity and its efforts to protect natural habitats.

  1. The Maya Mountain Marine Corridor is an initiative that links terrestrial and marine conservation areas, demonstrating Belize’s innovative approach to environmental protection.

  1. The Sarstoon Temash National Park, established to protect Belize’s largest wetland system, is crucial for the conservation of biodiversity and the sustainable use of natural resources.

  1. The annual Lobster Festivals celebrate the start of the lobster season, showcasing Belize’s seafood and its cultural festivities.

  1. Belize’s “Laughing Bird Caye National Park” is named after the laughing gull, emphasizing the country’s dedication to protecting its marine life and the unique names of its natural attractions.

  1. Belize is a haven for birdwatchers, with more than 590 bird species recorded, ranging from the keel-billed toucan, the national bird, to rare and exotic species attracting ornithologists and nature enthusiasts.

  1. The Belize Zoo and Tropical Education Center was started in 1983 as a last resort for a collection of wild animals used in a documentary film, evolving into a natural wildlife habitat focusing on Belizean species and conservation education.

  1. Belize’s maritime territory includes several hundred cayes (islands), ranging from tiny uninhabited islets to larger inhabited islands like Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker, popular destinations for relaxation, diving, and snorkelling.

  1. The Belize Audubon Society, established in 1969, plays a crucial role in the conservation of the country’s natural habitats and protected areas, underscoring the importance of environmental stewardship in Belize.

Fun Facts About Belize – History

  1. Belize was a significant part of the ancient Maya civilization, boasting numerous ruins like Caracol, Xunantunich, and Lamanai that offer insights into the advanced society that thrived there thousands of years ago.

  1. Belize gained independence from the United Kingdom on September 21, 1981, marking its sovereignty with national celebrations every Independence Day.

  1. After Hurricane Hattie devastated Belize City in 1961, the capital was moved to Belmopan, a decision made to protect the government’s operations from future natural disasters.

  1. The country’s National Institute of Culture and History (NICH) plays a vital role in preserving Belize’s cultural and historical heritage, supporting museums, archaeological sites, and cultural events.

  1. The Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM) cave is not only a natural wonder but also an archaeological site, containing skeletons, ceramics, and stoneware left by the Maya.

  1. The Hand Crank Ferry at Xunantunich is one of the last remaining hand-cranked ferries in the world, providing a unique way to access the ancient Maya archaeological site and highlighting the country’s blend of history and tradition.
Cahal Pech ruins

Fun Facts About Belize – Culture

  1. Belize’s population is a melting pot of cultures, including Maya, Mestizo, Creole, Garifuna, East Indian, Mennonite, Arab, and Chinese, reflecting a rich tapestry of cultural influences and traditions.

  1. Belize celebrates its multiculturalism and ethnic diversity through various festivals and events, including the International Costa Maya Festival and the Lobster Festivals in coastal towns, showcasing its rich cultural heritage and culinary diversity.

  1. The Garifuna people, descendants of African, Caribbean, and Arawak people, celebrate Garifuna Settlement Day on November 19, commemorating their arrival in Belize in 1832 and preserving their unique culture and language.

  1. The country has a “timeless” Caribbean pace of life, where the laid-back atmosphere is part of its charm, encouraging visitors to slow down and enjoy their surroundings.

  1. While English is the official language of Belize, Belizean Kriol is widely spoken among the locals, reflecting the country’s diverse cultural heritage and history of colonialism and Creole development.

  1. Belize has a significant Mennonite population, who are known for their farming skills, particularly in the production of dairy products and poultry, contributing to the country’s agricultural diversity.

  1. Belize’s music scene is a lively blend of Punta, Brukdown, and Reggae, reflecting its cultural diversity and African, Caribbean, and Maya heritage.

  1. The Belize International Film Festival, held annually, showcases local and international films, highlighting Belize’s growing influence in the arts and culture scene.

Fun Facts About Belize – Cuisine

  1. Chocolate has a long history in Belize, dating back to the ancient Maya who cultivated cacao and regarded it as a divine gift, with Belize still producing some of the world’s finest chocolate today.

  1. The Toledo District, known as the “Chocolate Heart” of Belize, hosts an annual Chocolate Festival, celebrating the region’s rich history of cacao production and chocolate making.

  1. The country’s diverse culinary scene blends Maya, Spanish, African, and Caribbean influences, offering an array of traditional dishes like rice and beans, stew chicken, and seafood.

Plan Your Trip To Belize Here

Heading to Belize? Here is all you need to make the trip.

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A wooden suspension bridge in the jungle

Fun Facts About Belize – Final Thoughts

There you have it! 55 fun and interesting facts about Belize. Belize is a gem blending breathtaking natural landscapes with a deep cultural history and a strong commitment to conservation.

From snorkelling in the world’s second-largest barrier reef to exploring ancient Maya ruins and experiencing the vibrant mix of cultures, Belize promises an escape that’s both thrilling and enlightening.

Its dedication to preserving its ecosystems and wildlife is especially appealing to those who value sustainability and eco-conscious exploration. Belize offers the perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion, making it an ideal destination for those looking to enrich their travel experiences and make meaningful connections with the world around them.