15 Facts You Most Likely Didn't Know About Belize

Belize is one of Yellow Dog’s favorite destinations. Not only is it easy to travel to from the United States, but the small Central American country has a host of different options ranging from fantastic flats fishing for tarpon, permit, bonefish, and other species, to terrific activities for non-anglers.

With a wide array of lodges offering different packages and experiences, Belize truly has something for everyone. Do you think you know everything about this small laid-back country? Some of these facts may surprise you!

1. Did you know the official language of Belize is English? That makes everything from ordering food, to find the nearest restroom a piece of cake.
2. Belize has amazing SCUBA opportunities. Anyone who enjoys exploring the depths of the ocean with a SCUBA tank on their back will love Belize. From deep blue holes to spectacular reefs, Belize has it all.
3. One of the famous dishes in Belize is made from one of the world’s largest rodents, the Gibnut. Don’t be afraid this isn’t like one of the rats found on the city streets. It’s delicious!
4. If you haven’t tried Marie Sharp’s hot sauce, then you are missing out on one of the greats! In fact, this is a staple around the Yellow Dog offices where team members traveling to Belize will be sure to return with a fresh supply of the hot sauce.
5. Speed bumps in Belize are called “sleeping policeman.” (Take a look at the signs and you’ll know what we mean!)
6. Belize’s Barrier Reef is the second largest in the entire world! It’s no wonder why the fly fishing in Belize is exceptional.
7. You can explore Mayan ruins that are thousands of years old. There are over 900 ruins in the country some of which are below ground and some above that can be explored by tourists.
8. You can explore Belize’s expanse of underground caves by foot or for the more adventurous by inner tube.
9. The idea of “island time” is very real so be sure to have a sense of humor and relax. People move a bit slower in Belize than what you might be used to back home.
10. Belize has one of the largest percentages (based on land size) of protected conservation lands in, Central, South, and North America.
11. Belize is home to the largest number of Antillean Manatees in the Caribbean. These beautiful sea cows can be seen grazing on different seagrasses.
12. There are over 600 known bird species in Belize. Make sure to bring your binoculars!
13. Turneffe Atoll is one of the largest nesting sites for American Crocodiles. Don’t worry they won’t bother you if you don’t bother them. One night of your stay be sure to join your guide to motor around the lagoon watching for the red glow of the crocodile eyes.
14. It wasn’t until June 1973 that the country’s name was changed from British Honduras to Belize. You can still see the Queen on Belize’s currency!
15. Belize is roughly the same size as Massachusetts. But unlike Massachusetts, Belize is covered with thick jungle, making travel relatively difficult.

With a wealth of ecological diversity and a range of lodge options to choose from, Belize should be at the top of everyone’s fly fishing bucket list.

For more information on Belize lodges, trips, how-to articles, and more visit our Belize fly fishing page or our Belize Recommended Gear Guide. 

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• 12 Lodges with Excellent Eco-Tourism Options
• 4 Belize Fly Fishing Destinations with Excellent Eco-Tourism Options
• 5 Reasons to Book Your Next Trip to Belize
• Sightfishing Opportunities for Tarpon in Belize
• The Ultimate Guide to Belize Fly Fishing