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1. Barrier Reef
The largest reef in the Western Hemisphere and 2nd Largest in the World, this 185-mile coastal wonder was designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. It encompasses over 400 islands, white sand beaches, fringing and patch reefs and over 100 species of coral. These include Ambergris Caye, Caye Caulker, atolls etc.
2. Great Blue Hole
The “Blue Hole” is located in the center of lighthouse Reef Atoll, which is about fifty miles due east of Belize City. Originally a cave, the roof fell in some 10,000 years ago, as the land receded into the sea. Almost a perfect circular hole, 1,000 feet in diameter, and it is 412 feet deep.
3. Hol Chan Marine Reserve
The Hol Chan Marine reserve focuses on the Hol Chan (Mayan for “Little Channel”) Cut, which is in the barrier reef, some four miles southeast of San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye. Established in 1987, the reserve; the first of its kind in Central America includes a five square mile area of three distinctive zones. Popular site for novice or expert snorkelers.
4. Blue Hole National Park
The Blue Hole National Park is located twelve miles southeast of Belmopan on the Hummingbird Highway. The Blue Hole is a popular recreational spot, where water on its way from a tributary to the Sibun River, emerges from a collapsed karst sinkhole. The pool, from which the park receives its name, is a beautiful sapphire blue that is about twenty-five feet deep. After a short run through a natural jungle setting, the stream disappears into a large underwater cavern.
In addition to the pool, St. Herman's Cave is within the boundaries of the reserve. This cave has archaeological importance because the Maya used the cave during the Classic Period. Pottery vessels, spears, and torches are among some of the artifacts that have been recovered by the Department of Archaeology. Visitors to St. Herman's cave do not have to get the usual permission that is required from the government to explore caves.
Since the Blue Hole National Park contains some 575 acres of primary and secondary forest, there is a significant opportunity to observe birds and animals, as well as a plethora of flora. Here visitors can take a dip in an natural pool, or just enjoy nature trails, picnics and camping.
5. Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary
Situated within the shadows of the Maya Mountains, the sanctuary encompasses some 100,000 acres of tropical moist forest that rises from 300 feet above sea level to approximately 3,675 feet at the summit of Victoria peak.
Originally established in 1984, as a reserve to protect a large population as well as other resident wildlife, the sanctuary is also known as “The Jaguar Preserve.” Since the sanctuary is home to numerous members of the cat family, there is also a large population of mammals and birds to support the food chain. Therefore, even though you may not see jaguar or another carnivore during your visit, the opportunity to see herbivorous animals, a multitude of birds and beautiful flora is always present. You can hike or bike on the 20 mile hiking trail. Swim in any of the numerous waterfalls along the trails as well.
6. Mountain Pine Ridge
The Mountain Pine Ridge is 300 square miles of forest reserve that is south of the Western Highway in the Cayo District. The Mountain Pine Ridge is home to the Hidden Valley Falls (1,000 Foot Falls), the Rio On River, the Rio Pools, and the Rio Frio Cave and Nature Trail, as well as numerous small streams and waterfalls. Also is the location for one of the country's largest Mayan Sites of Caracol. The largest pyramid Caracol, “Canaa” (SKY Place), rises 140 feet high and it is the tallest man-made structure in all of Belize.
7. Lamanai Archaeological Site
A scenic boat trip down the New River takes you to this site. A fascinating natural history tour showcases the remains of two Christian churches, as well as a sugar mill. From the top of the pyramids one gets a spectacular view of the surrounding tropical forests. Lamanai was the only site continuously occupied from 1500 BC to the 19th Century.
8. Agua Caliente Nature Reserve
Located in the Toledo District near Laguna Village is excellent for bird-watching and hiking.
9) Caves Branch
Located in the Cayo District, you tube down through river caves once used by the Maya people to carry their wares from place to place. The caves are still filled with Maya art and wall carvings.
10) Caves Branch
Located in the Cayo District, you tube down through river caves once used by the Maya people to carry their wares from place to place. The caves are still filled with Maya art and wall carvings.
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