Belize In General
The cayes (pronouced keys), the offshore atolls, and the barrier reef are the main attraction to Belize. The barrier reef, which is 185 miles long, is the longest barrier reef in the Western Hemisphere. The cayes are islands and/or mangroves, that are located between the mainland and the barrier reef, on the barrier reef, and on or within the barrier reef perimeters of the offshore atolls. Although the mangrove cayes are normally uninhabitable by humans, they do provide a superior habitat for birds and marine life. Many birds, fish, shellfish, and marine organisms begin their lives within the protection of the mangrove. On the other hand, the island cayes, which are distinguishable by their palm trees, have provided the foundation for the development of many fine resorts to serve the water sports enthusiasts and the marine naturalists.

The cayes and atolls provide superior opportunity for SCUBA diving, snorkeling, fishing, boating, sailing, sailboarding, and sea kayaking, as well as habitat for both nesting birds and turtles.

For the outdoor enthusiast, Belize presents unlimited opportunities. You might say that Belize is the outdoors. You won't find a lot of big nightclubs, expensive shopping, or fancy restaurants. You will find diving, snorkeling, fishing, hiking, and exploring nature at its best.

Diving and Snorkeling
"...Belize is one of the western Caribbean's premiere dive destinations..." - Skin Diver magazine

Belize's barrier reef has been named one of the Seven Underwater Wonders of the World. The Reef is the largest barrier reef in the Western Hemisphere!
Water visibility commonly reaches 100+ feet; water temperature hovers around 80 degrees Fahrenheit; and the barrier reef makes for calm water most of the year.
SCUBA divers have three major options when deciding how to experience the underwater world of Belize.
· Make rservations with one of the offshore resorts
· Sign on with one of the many liveaboard boats
· Hire a charter boat from one of the many dive resorts along the coast

Rivers and Kayaking

Though Belize is a relatively small country, with very low-lying land, it receives plenty of rain during the winter season, and supports 20 major river systems and smaller streams.
These waterways are potential outdoor adventures for the kayak and canoe lovers. This is an excellent way to birdwatch and view wildlife along the banks. You will also experience the flow of human life in Belize as the rivers of the country are still major gathering places for fishing, cleaning and transportation. Tubing down the rives and through cave systems is a particularly enjoyable past time!

Carnival offers a Cave Tubing excursion or you could do it on your own!