Belize City is no longer the country’s capital but remains its largest city. You’re most likely to encounter it only at the beginning and end of your visit, but before you escape to your tropical paradise, take a moment to get to know this local hub. How you approach the city is up to you: visit the historic highlights, concentrate on the excellent zoo, or see the best of ancient and modern by combining your sightseeing with a visit to the Mayan city of Altun Ha. Alternatively, visit the zoo with the impressive ruins of Xunantunich, or get a bird’s-eye view from a helicopter which will also introduce you to Belize’s amazing reef.

That reef, by the way, is Western Hemisphere’s most extensive. Discover it by speedboat as you head to the breeding grounds of the amazing manatee and snorkel around breathtaking coral growths. Or maybe you’d prefer to discover inland Belize’s waterways? Go on the ultimate tropical adventure as you climb on an all-terrain vehicle before exploring subterranean river caves on an inner tube. Or combine a jungle hike, rivers and lagoons and the stunning Mayan pyramid of Lamanai. For something a little less strenuous, take a relaxing three-hour cruise on Belize River followed by a visit to Altun Ha, or follow the medicinal trail and learn about the healing properties of tropical plants before seeing the Mayan ruins of Cahal Pech.

The rich diversity of fauna is one of Belize’s biggest draw cards. Birds or baboons? It’s up to you. Spend the morning in the Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary where you’ll encounter over 360 different species, including the Jabiru stork. Alternatively, visit the Community Baboon Sanctuary, an inspiring grassroots project which provides a home to beautiful black howler monkeys. Finally, let rip in the afternoon on an all-terrain tour of the mighty Belizean jungle.