Belmopan - Discovering Belize

Travelling to Belmopan

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Belmopan, a pretty good destination in Belize (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Belmopan and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Belmopan, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Belize, here's everything to know about Belmopan for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Belmopan

Belmopan is the capital city of Belize, located in the central region of the country. It was established in 1970 after Hurricane Hattie destroyed the former capital, Belize City. Belmopan is a small, peaceful city with a population of around 20,000 people. It serves as the government and administrative center of Belize and hosts diplomatic missions, commercial offices, and embassies. Belmopan is known for its natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and Mayan ruins such as Xunantunich and Cahal Pech. The city is also home to several higher education institutions, including the University of Belize, which attracts students from all over Central America.

What to visit in Belmopan

Sure, here are some of the tourist attractions in Belmopan, Belize: 1. Guanacaste National Park: This park is around 20 acres and is a great spot for hiking, picnics, and birdwatching. The park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including howler monkeys, toucans, and jaguars. 2. Blue Hole National Park: This park is known for its deep, blue sinkhole, which is surrounded by lush jungle scenery. Visitors can swim and snorkel in the waters, and hike through the surrounding forest. 3. Xunantunich: This is an ancient Maya archaeological site, located near the border with Guatemala. The ruins include a large pyramid, ball court, and several other structures. Visitors can take guided tours to learn more about the history of the Maya civilization. 4. Belmopan Market Square: This is a bustling market in the center of Belmopan. Visitors can sample local foods and shop for handicrafts and souvenirs. 5. Monkey Bay Wildlife Sanctuary: This sanctuary is home to a variety of wildlife, including monkeys, jaguars, and tapirs. Visitors can take guided tours to spot wildlife and learn about conservation efforts in the area. 6. St. Herman's Cave: This is a limestone cave system that includes underground rivers and waterfalls. Visitors can take guided tours to explore the caves, and swim in the crystal-clear waters. 7. Jaguar Paw Cave Tubing Adventure: This is an adventure activity where visitors float through underground rivers on inner tubes. It's a unique way to experience the natural beauty of Belize. 8. Sleeping Giant Rainforest Lodge: This lodge is located in the heart of the rainforest and offers visitors a chance to experience the natural beauty of Belize. Visitors can hike, birdwatch, and relax in the natural hot springs.

You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Belmopan.

When to go on holiday to Belmopan

The best time to visit Belmopan is from December to April, which is the dry season. During this time, the weather is usually sunny and warm with low humidity, making it perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, cave exploring and wildlife watching. However, keep in mind that this is also the high season, so prices tend to be higher and attractions can be crowded. The rainy season runs from May to November, with the wettest months being June to September, so it's best to avoid visiting Belmopan during this time if you want to avoid heavy rain and potential flooding.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Belmopan

The best way to get to Belmopan is by air or bus. If you are flying, you can take a domestic flight from Belize City to Belmopan. Maya Island Air and Tropic Air operate flights to Belmopan several times a day. Alternatively, you can also take a bus from Belize City to Belmopan. Buses depart every hour from the bus terminal in Belize City and take around 1.5 to 2 hours to reach Belmopan. Once you arrive in Belmopan, you can easily explore the city or use it as a base to explore other parts of Belize.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Belmopan, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Belmopan

Sure, below are some typical foods of Belmopan in Belize along with a short description for each of them: 1. Rice and Beans: Rice and beans is a staple dish of Belizean cuisine. The rice is cooked with coconut milk and red kidney beans are added. It's usually served with chicken, stewed beef, or fish.
2. Fry Jacks: Fry jacks are small pieces of fried dough that are usually eaten for breakfast. They're often served with scrambled eggs, beans or cheese.
3. Conch Fritters: Conch fritters are a popular appetizer in Belize. They're made by combining minced conch meat with herbs, spices, and flour. They're then deep-fried until golden brown.
4. Stewed Chicken: Stewed chicken is a common main dish in Belizean cuisine. It's made with chicken pieces that are first marinated in a flavorful sauce and then stewed with vegetables like peppers, onions, and tomatoes.
5. Garnaches: Garnaches are a popular Belizean street food. They consist of small fried tortillas topped with beans, cheese, and salsa.
6. Belikin Beer: Belikin Beer is Belize's national beer. It's a light lager that's refreshing and easy to drink, making it the perfect beverage to accompany Belizean cuisine. These are just a few examples of food and drink items you can try while in Belmopan!
You can find general info about typical foods in Belize here.

Is Belmopan an expensive destination for tourists?

Belmopan, the capital city of Belize, is generally considered to be a more affordable destination than other popular tourist areas like San Pedro or Placencia. However, the cost of traveling to Belmopan may still be expensive for some tourists as it is a remote destination, and transportation costs can be high. Additionally, the cost of accommodations, food, and activities will vary depending on the level of luxury and the type of experiences you are looking for. As with any travel destination, it’s always best to budget accordingly and research the costs beforehand.

Where to find accomodation in Belmopan

Belmopan is the capital city of Belize, and there are several areas where you can find suitable accommodation. Some popular options include: 1. City Center: Here, you will find many hotels and guesthouses that are situated within walking distance of the city's main attractions, such as the Government House, the National Assembly building, and the Belize Botanic Gardens.
2. University of Belize: The University of Belize is located on the outskirts of Belmopan, and it offers a range of affordable accommodations for both students and visitors. This area is also home to some budget-friendly restaurants and cafes.
3. Roaring Creek: Roaring Creek is a small village located about 10 miles outside of Belmopan. Here, you can find some beautiful homestays and guesthouses that provide a quiet and peaceful atmosphere. This area is also ideal for nature lovers, as it is surrounded by lush green forests and exotic wildlife.
4. San Martin: San Martin is another small village situated about 5 miles outside of Belmopan. This area is known for its scenic beauty and tranquility, making it an excellent choice for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
You can check hotel prices at Belmopan here:
Booking.com

Is Belmopan a safe destination for tourists?

Belmopan, the capital city of Belize, is generally safe for tourists. It has a low crime rate compared to other cities in Central America. However, as with any destination, travelers should still take precautions to stay safe. It is recommended to avoid walking alone after dark, not to leave valuables visible in cars, and to be aware of pickpocketing in crowded areas. It's always a good idea to take normal precautions and stay alert while traveling.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Belize here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Belmopan.

What type of travelers will enjoy Belmopan the most?

Belmopan is a great destination for different types of travelers. Here are some of the types of travelers who will enjoy the most in Belmopan: 1. Nature enthusiasts: Belmopan is an ideal destination for people who love nature. The city is surrounded by lush greenery, and there are plenty of outdoor activities to do, including hiking, birdwatching, and exploring nature reserves.
2. Adventure seekers: If you're looking for an adrenaline rush, Belmopan has a lot to offer. You can go caving, ziplining, and river tubing.
3. Families: Belmopan is a family-friendly destination, with many attractions and activities suitable for all ages. Families can go on wildlife tours, visit the zoo, or relax by the pool in one of the many family-friendly resorts in the area.
4. History and culture lovers: Belmopan has a rich history and culture, with several museums and historic sites to explore. Visitors can also learn about the local traditions and customs by interacting with the locals.
In conclusion, whether you're a couple, young people looking for fun, or a family, you can have a great time in Belmopan, as long as you're interested in the outdoor activities and experiencing the local culture.

How to get around Belmopan

Belmopan is a relatively small city, and it is easy to move around on foot or by bicycle. However, if you need to travel longer distances or carry heavy items, taxis are readily available. You can also opt to rent a car, scooter or motorcycle from several car rental agencies in the city. Public transportation in the form of buses is available as well but may be less frequent and less reliable.

What to see around Belmopan

Here are some great options for day trips from Belmopan in Belize: 1. Jaguar Paw Cave Tubing and Jungle Zip Line Tour: Go tubing down a river through a cave system and then soar above the trees on a zip line.
2. Xunantunich Mayan Ruins: Explore the ancient ruins of Xunantunich, climb to the top of high temples and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding jungle.
3. Actun Tunichil Muknal Cave: Take a guided cave tour of this ancient Mayan site and see relics and human remains hidden deep in the depths of the cave.
4. Blue Hole National Park: Swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Blue Hole, explore the trails and birdwatch in the surrounding jungle.
5. Belize Zoo: Learn about the local wildlife and see many species up close in a natural setting.
6. Rio Frio Cave: Walk through this cave with unusual rock formations that lead to a waterfall.
7. Barton Creek Cave: Canoe through this beautiful cave where Mayan artifacts and remains have been found.
I hope you find these suggestions helpful!
For every travel information about Belize you can click here.

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