Belize Car Tours: Top 5 for Adventure & Scenery

Belize, isn’t it something? A treasure trove that holds a mix of Mayan history, super cool jungles, and a coastline that totally stuns, calls for discovery. And you know what might be the very best way to discover it? By car! Seeing Belize behind the wheel gives you, like your own freedom, almost so you can stop whenever, and wherever, you want. You can easily go where guided tours, it’s almost like they can’t.

1. The Northern Historical Route

The Northern Historical Route could be one incredible start to your Belizean car tour adventure. It will really allow you to dig a bit, maybe into the heart of the country’s Mayan heritage. From Belize City, get this, head north to Lamanai. The Lamanai Archaeological Reserve might just wow you with its impressive Mayan temples and super interesting history. A river boat trip actually takes you there, giving it some uniqueness.

After Lamanai, that is, explore Orange Walk Town, you know, the “Sugar City.” See the Tower Hill Bridge and get this, wander round the local markets to get a feeling of the town’s vibe. From Orange Walk, you could then move to the Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary. So many different birds live there, and you might see tons as you drive around!

Highlights: Lamanai Archaeological Reserve, Orange Walk Town, Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary.

Considerations: The roads will probably get pretty rough as you move further north, therefore a vehicle with higher clearance is recommended.

Read our full review: Lamanai Archaeological Reserve Full Review and Details.

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2. The Hummingbird Highway Scenic Drive

For scenery that basically explodes with greens and blues, the Hummingbird Highway probably can’t be beat. A bit like it runs between Belmopan and Dangriga, that, giving you amazing views of the Maya Mountains and rainforest. Pack a picnic, really because you’ll want to stop and soak up what nature gives.

While on the Hummingbird Highway, that is, go to St. Herman’s Blue Hole National Park. It provides great cave swims and trails in jungles. After that, go to the inland Blue Hole, kind of a cenote you could actually swim in! Stop also at the Billy Barquedier National Park; you can then hike up to a super beautiful waterfall.

Drive to Dangriga, so the cultural center of the Garifuna people. Check out their culture, sample foods, and probably experience the vibrant music that seems very specific to the area.

Highlights: Maya Mountain views, St. Herman’s Blue Hole National Park, Dangriga.

Considerations: Road conditions here can vary, that, particularly during rainy times, just a little planning could very well enhance your enjoyment.

Read our full review: Hummingbird Highway Belize Full Review and Details.

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3. The Southern Coastal Escape

Think sun, beaches, and salty air because the Southern Coastal Escape is seriously something. Beginning in Dangriga, head, in a way south towards Placencia, almost a peninsula known for amazing beaches and super laid-back vibes. You can enjoy water activities too.

Spend some time at the Silk Cayes Marine Reserve; it’s so amazing for snorkeling and just seeing coral reefs that pop, really. Then head south, you know, to Hopkins. It’s just another coastal village with Garifuna influences. Take local drumming lessons!

From Placencia, you might consider going to Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, that is the world’s first jaguar preserve. Hike or tube the river. As your day comes to an end, chill a bit more at the Seine Bight, yet a Garifuna village with strong local traditions.

Highlights: Placencia beaches, Silk Cayes Marine Reserve, Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary.

Considerations: This region might offer several super remote sections. Plan accordingly, therefore pack what you will definitely need.

Read our full review: Placencia Belize Full Review and Details.

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4. The Western Adventure Loop

Explore the western regions of Belize because the Western Adventure Loop has a lot to give. Start in Belmopan, then, that is, head towards San Ignacio, it is basically a hub for travelers that gives many activities.

You really must see the Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM) Cave, just a little. It does involve swimming and just walking, arguably through caves to view Mayan artifacts, alright. Make time too for the Cahal Pech Mayan Ruins, and Xunantunich which might give you views that sweep so greatly over the countryside.

Near San Ignacio, there is something very cool called the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve, more or less. It gives waterfalls and a different setting when you think about jungles. The Rio Frio Cave is super beautiful; you’ll probably want to photograph it.

Highlights: ATM Cave, Xunantunich Mayan Ruins, Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve.

Considerations: Access to some of the archaeological sites can be tricky. Check in advance to see how to best arrive. Sometimes, very it is required to go as part of some guided tour.

Read our full review: San Ignacio Belize Full Review and Details.

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5. Community Tourism Trail

Explore, in a way Belize with locals because the Community Tourism Trail can add so much to your experiences. It lets tourists visit villages and you know, see how local residents thrive. It’s really different than going only to big spots for tourism.

A good place for tourists is the village of Seine Bight. Tourists have the opportunity to discover their way of life, along with getting some cool drumming and dance classes, pretty much. Crooked Tree is yet another community with some excellent birding spots, maybe it’s ideal for bird lovers. Participate locally.

Another great location could be the Toledo District, just a little. This area allows tourists to experience Mayan homestays. Guests definitely immerse deeply; a few, more or less find this their favourite.

Highlights: Learn through local tours at Crooked Tree and Seine Bight.

Considerations: Confirm which tourism providers possess true ethical standards that protect native culture and community prosperity. Look further to see where tourist income is steered.

Read our full review: Community Tourism Belize Full Review and Details.

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