Orange Walk - Discovering Belize

Travelling to Orange Walk

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Orange Walk, 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 Orange Walk 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 Orange Walk, 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 Orange Walk for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Orange Walk

Orange Walk is a town and district in the northern part of Belize, located roughly 53 miles (85 km) north of Belize City. It is the fourth-largest town in the country, and is home to approximately 17,000 residents. The town is surrounded by rolling hills, pine forests, and citrus groves, and is known for its rich Mayan history and archaeological sites. Some of the most popular attractions in Orange Walk include the Lamanai Mayan Ruins, the Rio Bravo Conservation Area, and the New River. The economy is primarily based on agriculture, with crops like sugar cane and oranges being major exports. The culture in Orange Walk is a blend of Mayan, Mestizo, and Creole influences, and the town is home to several annual festivals and celebrations.

What to visit in Orange Walk

Sure, here are some of the popular tourist attractions in Orange Walk, Belize: 1) Lamanai Archaeological Reserve: This is a Mayan ruin site that is situated on the banks of the New River. Visitors can take a boat tour to reach this site, which is believed to have been inhabited by Mayans for almost 3000 years. Lamanai is one of the largest and most impressive archaeological sites in Belize, with stunning views of the surrounding jungle and the New River.
2) Rio Bravo Conservation Area: This conservation area covers over 250,000 acres of tropical forest, and is home to a wide variety of wildlife including jaguars, monkeys, and over 390 bird species. Visitors can take guided hikes or boat tours to explore the diverse ecosystem, which is also a vital watershed for the region.
3) Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary: This sanctuary is located on a lagoon that is home to various species of waterfowl, including the Jabiru Stork, and is a popular destination for birdwatchers. Visitors can also take guided tours through the sanctuary to learn about its diverse ecosystem, which includes mangrove forests, wetlands, and grasslands.
4) Belize Zoo and Tropical Education Center: This zoo is dedicated to promoting conservation and education, and features over 170 animals that are native to Belize. Visitors can take guided tours to learn about the animals' lifestyles and their roles in the ecosystem, and can also participate in feeding and other interactive activities.
5) New River: This river runs through Orange Walk District and is a popular destination for fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing. Visitors can take boat tours to explore the river, which is surrounded by dense jungle and beautiful scenery.
Overall, Orange Walk offers a great mix of historical, cultural, and natural attractions for visitors to explore.

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

When to go on holiday to Orange Walk

The best time to visit Orange Walk in Belize is during the dry season which runs from December to May. During this time of year, the weather is mostly dry, with little to no rainfall, making it ideal for sightseeing, hiking and outdoor activities. Additionally, the dry season offers the best conditions for fishing and exploring the many ruins of the Mayan civilization located in the area. However, it's worth noting that the peak tourist season in Belize runs from December to April, so prices may be higher and attractions more crowded during this time. If you prefer a more relaxed and budget-friendly vacation, you might consider traveling to Orange Walk in the shoulder season which runs from June to August.

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

How to get to Orange Walk

To get to Orange Walk, Belize, you can: 1. Fly: The nearest international airport is Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport in Belize City. From there, you can take an intra-country flight to Orange Walk Airstrip, which is located within the city limits.
2. Bus: There are daily regular buses that run from Belize City to Orange Walk. The journey lasts about 2 hours, and the cost is reasonably affordable.
3. Private transport: This option can be facilitated by renting a car or hiring a private driver to drive you from Belize City to Orange Walk. This option is relatively faster and comfortable, but it can be more expensive.
4. Shared taxis: Shared taxis are also available from Belize City to Orange Walk. However, this is not a recommended option because of its unpredictability and its lack of set schedules.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Orange Walk, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Orange Walk

Orange Walk is a district in Belize that is rich in culture and cuisine. Some of the typical foods of Orange Walk, Belize with a short description for each of them are: 1. Cochinita Pibil: Cochinita Pibil is a traditional Yucatan style slow-roasted pork dish that is marinated in achiote paste, wrapped in banana leaves, and cooked in a pit oven. It is served with pickled red onions, tortillas or bread, and sometimes with black beans and rice.
2. Tamales: Tamales are a classic Mesoamerican dish made of masa (corn dough) that is wrapped in banana leaves or corn husks and filled with meats, vegetables or chilies. The tamales may be boiled, steamed or baked, and they are often eaten as a breakfast or brunch dish.
3. Salbutes: Salbutes are a popular street food in Orange Walk and are made with deep-fried tortillas that are then topped with shredded chicken, onion, tomato, cabbage, and cilantro. They may also have refried beans and habanero sauce added on top.
4. Panades: Panades are fried empanadas that are typically filled with fish or shrimp, seasoned with garlic, onion, herbs, and spices. They are often served with a side of hot sauce made from vinegar, onions, and chilies.
5. Escabeche: Escabeche is a dish of chicken or fish that is vinegar-pickled and served with onions, carrots, and other vegetables. It is typically served cold as an appetizer or as a main dish.
6. Ceviche: Ceviche is a popular dish in Orange Walk made with fresh raw seafood marinated in lime juice, with onions, peppers, and cilantro. It is often served with tortilla chips or crackers as an appetizer.
7. Relleno Negro: Relleno Negro is a rich black stew made with a mix of ground meats including pork, beef or chicken, along with spices, capers, and onions, all cooked in a black recado (spice paste) made from charred chilies.
These traditional dishes of Orange Walk offer a culinary experience you won't want to miss during your trip to Belize.
You can find general info about typical foods in Belize here.

Is Orange Walk an expensive destination for tourists?

Compared to other destinations in Belize, Orange Walk is generally considered an affordable destination for tourists. However, the cost of a trip to Orange Walk will ultimately depend on the type of accommodations you choose, the activities you participate in and the amount of time you plan to spend there. Generally speaking, budget travelers can find inexpensive accommodations and dining options in Orange Walk, while those seeking more luxurious options may have to pay more. The cost of activities, such as guided tours of Mayan ruins, wildlife sanctuaries or river excursions, also varies, but can typically be arranged for a reasonable price.

Where to find accomodation in Orange Walk

There are various areas to find accommodation in Orange Walk, Belize. Some popular areas include: 1. The town center: This area has a high concentration of accommodation options including hotels, inns, and guesthouses. It's a convenient location with easy access to restaurants, bars, and shops.
2. Riversdale: This area is located just outside of town and is known for its scenic beauty. There are various lodges and resorts that offer riverfront accommodation with stunning views.
3. Chan Chich: This remote area is located in the heart of the jungle, and offers eco-friendly lodges and bungalows for a unique experience. 4. Lamanai: This area is home to the ancient Mayan ruins of Lamanai and offers scenic boat tours of the nearby lagoon. There are various small guesthouses and inns in the area for those looking to stay close to the ruins.
Ultimately, the best place for you to stay depends on your preferences and itinerary.
You can check hotel prices at Orange Walk here:
Booking.com

Is Orange Walk a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Orange Walk, Belize is generally a safe place for tourists. However, as with any destination, it is important to take necessary precautions to stay safe. These can include: 1. Avoiding walking alone at night in secluded or poorly lit areas.
2. Being aware of your surroundings and avoiding areas that feel unsafe.
3. Keeping your belongings secure and not flashing valuables in public.
4. Taking taxis or organized tours instead of hitchhiking or using public transportation.
5. Following the recommendations of local authorities and hotel staff.
By taking these precautions, you can have a safe and enjoyable trip to Orange Walk, Belize.
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 Orange Walk.

What type of travelers will enjoy Orange Walk the most?

Orange Walk, Belize is a great destination for a variety of travelers. Here are some types of travelers who may enjoy it the most: 1. Nature lovers - Orange Walk is surrounded by pristine nature reserves that are home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. Visitors can enjoy bird-watching, hiking, and exploring the lush landscapes.
2. History buffs - Orange Walk has a rich cultural history and visitors can learn about the Mayan civilization and other aspects of Belizean history.
3. Couples - Orange Walk is a romantic destination that has plenty of secluded spots for picnicking and peaceful walks.
4. Families - Orange Walk is a family-friendly destination that offers a variety of activities suitable for children, such as visiting the Lamanai Mayan Ruins.
5. Adventure-seekers - Orange Walk is perfect for those who love outdoor adventure and adrenaline-fueled activities, such as zip-lining, water sports, and cave tubing.
Overall, Orange Walk, Belize is a great destination for a wide range of travelers.

How to get around Orange Walk

In Orange Walk, you can move around by taxi or by renting a bicycle, a motorcycle or a car. However, it is important to note that the road infrastructure in the area is not very developed, so some areas may be more easily accessible with a 4WD vehicle.

What to see around Orange Walk

Sure, here are some options: 1. Lamanai Archaeological Reserve: This ancient Mayan city is one of Belize's most impressive archaeological sites, located just 24 miles south of Orange Walk.
2. New River Safari: Take a boat tour up the New River and spot wildlife like howler monkeys, crocodiles, and exotic birds.
3. Rio Bravo Conservation and Management Area: This vast nature reserve located just west of Orange Walk offers hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife spotting.
4. Community Baboon Sanctuary: Located in the village of Bermudian Landing, this sanctuary is home to howler monkeys that are protected by the local community.
5. Altun Ha Archaeological Reserve: Located roughly 30 miles southeast of Orange Walk, Altun Ha is another impressive Mayan ruin site that is worth exploring.
6. Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary: This protected area is known for its wetlands and birdwatching opportunities, with over 300 bird species recorded in the area.
7. Belize Zoo: Just an hour's drive south of Orange Walk, this zoo offers visitors the chance to see Belize's native wildlife up close, including jaguars and tapirs.
I hope this helps!
For every travel information about Belize you can click here.

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