Cheap flights to Belize from £574

Bordering Mexico and Guatemala, with the Caribbean Sea at its doorstep, the tiny nation of Belize was once regarded as a destination for the more “adventurous traveller”, but this is no longer the case. Today travellers booking flights to Belize range from honeymooners and families to ecotourists and scuba divers. And although it is one of the smallest countries in the region it has the most abundant natural beauty and a fascinating history to rival any of its neighbours.

Thanks to its strategic location, Belize boasts some of the best diving in the Americas which is a good reason for avid divers booking flights to Belize to pack their dive logs. The Belize Barrier Reef – a Unesco World Heritage Site – is the second longest in the world with the most diverse and protected marine ecosystem. The country’s ubiquitous caves are another major draw. Actun Tunichil Muknal, the most popular with visitors, has limestone formations and Mayan artefacts adorning it.

History buffs will revel in Belize’s magnificent ancient ruins dating back to 1500 BC. Caracol located at the foothills of Maya Mountains, and Altun Ha in the north, are two of the most significant sites of the Maya civilisation.

Belize climate

Belize has a temperate climate with two seasons. The rainy season lasts from June to November with rainfall averaging 150cm in the north and 41cm in the south. The coastal regions average temperatures of 27 degrees, but it cools down much more in the hills with an average temperature of 21 degrees.

Getting around Belize

The best way to get around is by car and all major car hire companies are represented there but it’s cheaper to reserve a car before arriving.

Another great way to get around is by commuter plane – Maya Island Air and Tropic Air are the main domestic carriers.

All of the major tourist destinations are served by buses which are more commonly used by the locals.

What is good to know if travelling to Belize?

• See the country’s most elusive animals including tapirs, pumas and howler monkeys at the Belize Zoo in Belize City.
• Visit the beautiful beaches and coral reef in Caye Caulker, the small coral island. There’s a small channel – the Split – running down the middle of the island which is a great place to relax, sunbathe or enjoy a picnic. Snorkel, dive or take an organised tour from Caye Caulker and spot dolphins, sting rays and nurse sharks swimming in the crystal clear water.
• The “Blue Hole” is one of the most stunning sights in Belize. This popular dive site is more than 300 metres deep and 120 metres across and has a cave system which is home to sponges, barracuda and angel fish.  
• A thousand Mayan ruins are preserved throughout the country and the most impressive is Lamanai which is about an hour from Belize City. While there, take a boat trip along the New River.
• Keep a little back to cover the Departure Tax at the airport – $39.25 (US dollars) for visitors, although many airlines will include this in their ticket prices.