ROAM / Destinations / Belize City / Ambergris Caye, Belize

Belize City / Ambergris Caye
Belize

Belize is one of only two countries in the Americas where English is the official language. Its Garifuna culture (African-Caribbean Indigenous people) makes it especially meaningful for Black American travelers. World-class diving on the Belize Barrier Reef.

ROAM 4.4 ★ CultureDiasporaBeach
Best time
November-April (dry season), November for Garifuna Settlement Day
Currency
BZD
Language
English
Mid-range / day
BZD 140

Safety for Black Travelers

Belize City has elevated crime — do not linger in Belize City more than a day. Go directly to San Pedro (Ambergris Caye) or the cayes for safety and enjoyment. San Pedro and Hopkins Village are very safe. Garifuna communities in Hopkins and Dangriga are extremely welcoming.

Neighborhoods to Know

Ambergris Caye (San Pedro)

Island, diving, beach

Belize's most popular tourist destination — barrier reef snorkeling and beach culture

Hopkins Village

Garifuna, authentic, laid-back

One of Belize's most authentic Garifuna communities — drum music, hudut (fish stew), welcoming

Dangriga

Garifuna capital, cultural

Garifuna capital city — Garifuna Settlement Day (November 19) is the most authentic experience

Must-Visit Places

Belize Barrier Reef (Blue Hole)

Nature · $

Great Blue Hole — a giant marine sinkhole visible from space. One of the world's best dive sites

Belize City / Ambergris Caye, Belize District

Garifuna Cultural Experience (Hopkins) Black-Owned

Culture · $

Learn Garifuna drumming, taste hudut and serre, connect with Afro-Indigenous culture

Belize City / Ambergris Caye, Belize District

Garifuna Settlement Day (Nov 19, Dangriga)

Festival · $

Annual celebration of Garifuna arrival — canoes landing, drumming, dancing, authentic food

Belize City / Ambergris Caye, Belize District

Caracol Maya Ruins

Historic Site · $

Belize's largest Mayan ruin — in the Mountain Pine Ridge jungle

Belize City / Ambergris Caye, Belize District

Cave Tubing (Belize Cave System)

Experience · $

Float through ancient Maya ceremonial caves on inner tubes — unique Belize experience

Belize City / Ambergris Caye, Belize District

Local Belizean cuisine Black-Owned

Restaurant · $

Rice and beans Belizean style, Garifuna fish dishes, Marie Sharp's hot sauce on everything

Belize City / Ambergris Caye, Belize District

Visa

No visa required for US citizens (up to 90 days)

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