BElize Photography Report

Belize: an overpriced paradise home to incredible nature, friendly locals and Maya temples

Belize is a somewhat overpriced destination. I only went there to end a Central America roadtrip and to visit the Mayan temples of Lamanai and Caracol. Unfortunately if you don’t rent a car it is quite tricky to explore those sites on your own and you will be forced to rely on the pricey tours (you won’t find below 120$…). I would recommend Caracol over Lamanai not only because the site is much bigger and remote (less crowded) but rather due to its political and historical significance for the Maya. Caracol was a very sophisticated city with advanced urbanism and a very powerful military (the city even defeated Tikal!).

Due to the alleged nice corrals (I have not tried but they are the world’s second-largest) and pristine tropical beaches. The country is a destination for American cruise ships and for Westerners into snorkeling and diving. This influx of US tourists has the consequence of driving prices unreasonably high, and bringing locals to expect a tip for anything. Accordingly the accommodations are all overpriced and the value for money is particularly bad.

Also, unlike its neighbors, Honduras, Guatemala & Mexico, Belize does not offer Uber which is probably deliberate as it forces one to rely on taxis (and to be ripped off).

In addition to being very Westernized, the food is particularly expensive and uninteresting; especially so considering neighboring Guatemala and Honduras both offer delicious and very inexpensive cuisine.

All the above-mentioned negative points can be easily forgotten if one decides to venture into the breathtaking countryside. The jungle with its wildlife is truly stunning, but again, accommodation will be prohibitively expensive.

I found Belize City to be a bit of a rough and shabby town. It's hard to find any charm (believe me, I've tried) and there are some areas where one does not feel safe. I would not recommend spending time there. I have not been to San Pedro and other “paradise” spots of the country but I met a US dude who got mugged on the island under the threat of a knife.

Although quite touristy San Ignacio on the other hand was pretty nice to visit with its very steep streets, quaint architecture and joyful inhabitants. Locals were very friendly and it was easy to interact with people. I also found food there way better than restaurants in Belize City.

My trip to Belize was short and somewhat disappointing but that should not discourage you to visit. As mentioned above I was mostly driven by the Maya temples but if you are into diving or eco-lodge retreats you may have nice incentives to come.