If you are a responsible tourist you are going to love green travel in Belize and the wealth of experience this Central American country holds. The advantage that developing nations have when boosting their travel and tourism trade is they can start with a relatively small carbon footprint, unlike established tourist countries that have to undo and change years of environment-unfriendly development. Belize has plenty of natural attributes to bring to the sustainable and responsible travel party and we’re waking up to how marvelous travel in Belize is.
One of the most wonderful travel experiences in Belize is to take part in a once in a lifetime opportunity to stay with a Maya family and experience firsthand their traditional village life. The families welcome visitors into their homes for about $10 per night. Guests participate in daily activities like weaving, retrieving coconuts for water and farming. The area is located about an hour from the Punta Gorda airport in the village of San Jose, and travelers should know that there is no electricity or running water. Anticipate a bumpy ride over. Participants are also encouraged to bring water filters and flashlights.
Half of Belize is covered in rainforest and home to hundreds of plant and animal species. Much of the jungle remains unexplored, but there are several ecologically conscious tours companies available for hire. During your travel in Belize, look for guides who promote conservation of the environment and preservation of the unique plants and animals who live there. The emphasis should be on minimal human impact – like keeping hands off the wildlife, taking only photographs and making sure no trash is left behind.
Travel to the Guatemalan border about 80 miles outside of Belize City to find this well preserved site. It easily ranks among the most impressive Mayan ruins in the whole region of Central America. Much of it remains unexcavated, but visitors can see a pristine frieze. The site is rumored to be inhabited by a female spirit, the “Stone Woman,” and the name refers to her legend. Some claim to have seen her disappearing into the stone wall of “El Castillo,” the second tallest structure in the country.
Travel to Belize and you’ll find a humble, beautiful country eager to welcome and please its visitors. As this list of things to do in Belize has focused on green activities, it hasn’t mentioned that in fact, Belize also has a stunning coastline, and sticking with the green theme, there are plenty of environmentally friendly and sustainable resorts if you want a fabulous beach holiday. Have you been to Belize? Was it amazing?