About Belize City
Explore Belize
Overview
Running through the center of Belize City is Haulover Creek, a tributary of Belize River, which flows into the Caribbean Sea, dividing the country’s largest city in half.
Belize’s main port and center of commerce, Belize City was once a Mayan city known as Holzuz, meaning “sandy landing place,” and later established by British lumber harvesters in 1638.
Old Belize, on the north side of Haulover Creek, offers an impressive overview of the country’s myriad of natural wonders and cultural history, including a logging camp, ceremonial Mayan cave and replicated Garífuna home.
Kukumba Beach, with its 90-foot water slide, rope swing and floating trampoline, provides a great starting point for families looking to cool off before heading out to the incredible rainforests, ancient ruins and tropical seas of Belize.
What To Do
Visit St. John’s Cathedral, Central America’s oldest Anglican church, the Baron Bliss Lighthouse and the beautifully preserved colonial-style Government House, formerly the home of the Governor General, during a tour of Belize City via van or even horse-drawn carriage.
Explore Old Belize, north of Haulover Creek, for an informative look into the history, culture and natural wonders of the region.
Learn about Belize’s fascinating history at the Museum of Belize, a former jailhouse built in 1857, and its Houses of Culture (HOCs).
Discover one of the country’s most amazing Mayan ruins, Altun Ha, about an hour outside the city.
When to Go
Visit Belize City during the dry season from December through the end of April. The wet season in this tropical destination spans the rest of the year. April is typically the driest month. Temperatures generally range between mid-70s F and mid-80s F during the year.
There are a variety of seasonal celebrations throughout the year, including February’s popular Fiesta de Carnaval, November’s renowned Belize International Film Festival and Holy Week during March and April.
Fast Facts
In 1973, the country changed its name from British Honduras to Belize.
Three years prior, Belmopan replaced Belize City as the country’s capital.
More than 540 species of birds have been found in Belize.
Although Belize is the only Central American Country where English is the official language, many other languages are spoken here such as Spanish, Creole, Garifuna and Mayan.
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