5 Low-Impact Adventures To Try Across Belize
Between its archipelago of cayes, lying like a string of pearls in the Caribbean Sea, to the water-carved karst flanks of the Maya Mountains, Belize is a haven of big adventures with a small footprint. Bursting with beautiful landscapes and loads of ways to take in biodiversity—on e-bike, snorkel, or foot—without putting a strain on the environment, or turning a profit for a purpose. With something for everyone, here are seven eco-conscious experiences that offer plenty of adventure without harming the planet.
1. See two popular Northern Cayes by (e)Bike
While transport of choice is often golf carts on the buzzing Ambergris Caye or calmer Caye Caulker, seeing the sights at your own speed can be even more eco-friendly with just two wheels. Going back to basics with your average beach cruiser is doable, even for the most fitness-averse, considering Caye Caulker stretches for a mere 5 miles, while Ambergris Caye spans 20 more in length. For longer hauls, like exploring North Caye Caulker beyond The Split or South and North San Pedro—even all the way to Secret Beach—opt for battery-powered eco-throttle bikes instead, up to 30mph.
2. Snorkel in a Marine Reserve
Stingrays, curious groupers, and beady-eyed sharks—get excited for the underwater world, enriched by fierce conservation efforts in any of Belize’s many Marine Protected Areas (MPAs)! With at least 21% of its marine area under some form of protection—including 10% as strict preservation zones—Belize isn’t stopping there: our tiny but mighty nation is well on its way to fulfilling a commitment of 30% by 2030. Not only are marine flora and fauna thriving in these no-take or replenishment zones, but your visit is directly funding their management—whether the marine reserve you choose is Hol Chan, Laughing Bird Caye, Silk Caye, South Water Caye, or another.
3. Stay in an Eco-lodge
Long before buzzwords, Belize has prided itself on its regenerative and sustainable efforts—and rightly so. The country is home to a wealth of eco-lodges that allow tourists to maintain a low environmental footprint during their visit without sacrificing comfort or, in some cases, pure luxury. From tented and treehouse jungle lodges to beach bungalows and hydro-powered hotels, an impressive selection of eco-lodges exists in virtually every corner of the country. Many have been recognized internationally—winning awards along the way—or earning special accolades: look for these, like a Green Globe Certification or Pack For A Purpose badge, when booking. Go off-grid entirely, feast on seasonal fare harvested on property within a few miles, and have easy access to a wealth of nature-based activities that promise adventure; think hiking, biking, canoeing, birdwatching, and more.
4. Walk your Favorite Trail
When we step into the wild, our body responds: our heart rate slows, stress hormones drop, the mind clears with sharpened focus, and a deep sense of calm takes over. But when it’s also within a protected area, you’re reinforcing just how important these wild spaces are—although Belize has moved mountains, literally, to safeguard them. More than half of Belize’s landmass remains carpeted by thick, verdant treescapes—and you can enjoy them on the non-profit, ranger-maintained trails of Billy Barquedier National Park, Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, or Mayflower Bocawina National Park in Southern Belize; Cayo District’s refreshing respite of St. Herman’s Blue Hole National Park; or Belize’s smallest protected area (and Belmopan’s urban green space) of Guanacaste National Park.
5. Go Wildcamping
If you’re the outdoorsy type, you’ll love a Belize trip that combines hiking, wildlife spotting, and wild camping! Head into the thickest of pine trees with Mountain Pine Ridge’s San Miguel Campgrounds, or opt for one of the Belize Audubon Society’s co-managed parks—whether that’s St. Herman’s Blue Hole, Cockscomb Basin, or Half Moon Caye. The best bet? They are the most budget-friendly options to wake up to—sans any light pollution, and almost entirely off-grid.
