Written by Jayme Madson and Molly Demmer for Tonka Times Magazine.

In many ways, the small country of Belize is much like Minnesota in the spring. I make this comparison not because of the weather (average highs are in the upper 80s in Belize in May), but rather because Belize and springtime in Minnesota have something big in common: potential. Just as the Twins are emerging from baseball’s winter hibernation and tulips are emerging from the thawing ground, Belize is emerging as one of Mother Nature’s best kept secrets and an incredible travel destination.

Southern Belize in particular offers a travel experience unlike anywhere else in the world, where visitors have the opportunity to enjoy three very unique destinations (and an abundance of activities) in one visit. Mountains? Check. Rainforest? Check. Beach? Check. Southern Belize has it all. Here’s why…

Vast Private Reserves & Protected Wilderness

Imagine spending your vacation exploring pockets of a 60,000 acre private reserve which is itself surrounded by 1.2 million acres of nationally protected wilderness. Deep within are the ruins of ancient Maya civilizations, lush tropical rainforests, flowing rivers, vast mountain ranges, immense cave systems, and the largest barrier reef in the western hemisphere. All of which provides a home for some of the most unique wildlife on Earth, including the elusive jaguar whose last refuge in the Americas is this protected land. So when we say that Belize is Mother Nature’s best kept secret, we mean it.

To make the most of your visit, we recommend an all-inclusive Trans Habitat Experience, which affords visitors the opportunity to explore all that southern Belize has to offer.

Ancient Maya Civilizations

The foothills of the Maya Mountains in southern Belize were once home to ancient Maya civilizations, some of which date back as far as 2,000 B.C. As part of the Trans Habitat Experience, guests will journey into these foothills with a local Maya guide. During their exploration, guests will not only tour remote archaeological sites, but also learn about the culture and history of the Maya people. A visit to one of the many thriving Maya villages in the area will also provide a rare opportunity to see the interaction between modern life and ancient culture, language and tradition.

Lush Tropical Rainforest

Linking the foothills of the Maya Mountains to the clear waters of the Caribbean is a lush tropical rainforest. Flowing through the heart of the rainforest is the Golden Stream. A canoe or kayak trip down the stream affords visitors with an opportunity to glide peacefully through the jungle while enjoying the sites of colorful flora and the sounds of tropical birds and monkeys swinging from tree to tree.

Island Paradise

Let’s face it, part of the reason most of us vacation to exotic locales is to disconnect from the “real world” and simply relax. While there are plenty of opportunities for just that during the first leg of a Trans Habitat Experience, nothing says vacation and relaxation like a quiet beach, endless sunshine and the sound of gentle waves lulling you to sleep.

Compared to the many busy tourism hubs scattered throughout the Caribbean, the Trans Habitat Experience in southern Belize offers a one-of-a-kind beach getaway without the crowds. In fact, the experience ends with a three-night stay on the private island of Moho Cay. With an entirely new ecosystem to explore, visitors to Moho Cay Island can enjoy some of the world’s best snorkeling and diving during full-day expeditions to the Great Belize Barrier Reef. Or, if you’re like me and prefer a more leisurely beach experience, spend your days lounging on the beach in your own private paradise.

For more information

Whether you’re interested in adventure, exploration or relaxation, southern Belize has it all. Contact us to learn more about Belize or visit our Belize collection.

Top Five Reasons to Visit Belize

1. Unique experiences: Diverse wildlife, unique cultural experiences, and unparalleled adventure abound in Belize.

2. Diverse Flora and Fauna: Belize’s wide range of climates and habitats, low human population and vast areas of undistributed land provide an ideal home for more than 5,000 plant species of plants, and hundreds of species of animals.

3. Mouth-watering cuisine: The unique mix of Maya, Kriol, Garinagu, Mestizo and British influences in Belize have inspired mouth-watering cuisine that is a “must try” experience in itself.

4. Customizable Adventure: Whether you’re looking to plan your next family get-away, intergenerational trip or your honeymoon, the Trans Habitat Experience in southern Belize can be customized to fit your unique tastes and travel preferences.

5. The happiest people on Earth: Known as one of the happiest and peaceful countries in the world, travelers to Belize are greeted by friendly faces at every turn.