Best of Belize: City Sightseeing
Moderate Activity
Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.
What you will visit:
Belize City
The largest city in Belize is situated on a peninsula jutting into the Caribbean Sea. At the height of the mahogany trade during the late 1800s, the city's south side housed many of the slaves' quarters, and some of the original structures still exist today. But Belize City is a study in contrasts, with affluent residential homes such as the Governor's Mansion and Prime Minister's Mansion. The iconic Swing Bridge located at the mouth of Haulover Creek, connects the southern and northern sections of downtown, which at its core showcases examples of restored colonial architecture as well as St. John's Cathedral, Central America's first Anglican church. In Belize's commercial hub, the majority of the historical buildings are still standing and include the Supreme Court building, constructed in 1926. Memorial Park honors the fallen soldiers of World War I, and the iconic 50-foot Fort George Lighthouse stands guard over the harbor.
St. John's Cathedral
Central America's first Anglican church, St. John's Cathedral is a stately brick structure built in 1812 over eight years by slave labor. The interior has an antique pipe organ, stained-glass windows and furnishings crafted from locally sourced hardwoods. While modest in its design, St. John's Cathedral holds the distinction of being the only church outside of England where kings have been crowned by the British.
Old Belize Mini-Tram Ride/Natural History
All aboard a charming mini-train for a 15-minute ride through Belize's history, featuring exhibits that showcase the archaeological, ecological, political and industrial history of the country and its people. Traverse a replica rainforest to learn more of the ecosystem's flora and fauna. Then delve into Mayan history and the lives of some of the country's earliest inhabitants. Explore the local industries, including sugarcane, and see a real press and steam-powered saw mill. A reproduction of a Garífuna fishing home offers a glimpse into the culture and heritage of these indigenous people and stands in contrast to the 1910 replica of a popular Belize City street.
What you will see along the way:
Enjoy the refreshing ocean breezes as your guide shares the history of this once-British settlement and the cultural diversity that has shaped this young nation. Learn about the business, historical and cultural aspects of Belizean life as your guide calls out the various points of interest around town. View beautiful landmarks and old colonial buildings mixed in with the modern, which give the old Belizean capital its Caribbean charm. Journey along historical Regent Street lined with heritage homes, the Supreme Courthouse, and the famous Swing Bridge.
Photo Opportunity:
Baron Bliss Tomb and Lighthouse Monument
The Fort George Lighthouse is better known by locals as the Baron Bliss Lighthouse, named after the man buried in a tomb near its base, Baron Henry Edward Ernest Victor Bliss, one of Belize's most noted benefactors, who tragically died in his boat in the harbor never actually to grace the shores. In his will, he left nearly $2 million to the country, along with his wish to be buried by the sea near an obelisk or lighthouse. A 50-foot lighthouse on the harbor was erected. The funds were also used for improvements throughout the country.
Shopping:
A little time is allotted during your tour to shop for colorful souvenirs or a quick local snack (at your own expense).
Schedule
Medical Restriction
participants must be able to stand and walk short distances unaided
Exceptional Value
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Moderate Activity
Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.
What you will visit:
Belize City
The largest city in Belize is situated on a peninsula jutting into the Caribbean Sea. At the height of the mahogany trade during the late 1800s, the city's south side housed many of the slaves' quarters, and some of the original structures still exist today. But Belize City is a study in contrasts, with affluent residential homes such as the Governor's Mansion and Prime Minister's Mansion. The iconic Swing Bridge located at the mouth of Haulover Creek, connects the southern and northern sections of downtown, which at its core showcases examples of restored colonial architecture as well as St. John's Cathedral, Central America's first Anglican church. In Belize's commercial hub, the majority of the historical buildings are still standing and include the Supreme Court building, constructed in 1926. Memorial Park honors the fallen soldiers of World War I, and the iconic 50-foot Fort George Lighthouse stands guard over the harbor.
St. John's Cathedral
Central America's first Anglican church, St. John's Cathedral is a stately brick structure built in 1812 over eight years by slave labor. The interior has an antique pipe organ, stained-glass windows and furnishings crafted from locally sourced hardwoods. While modest in its design, St. John's Cathedral holds the distinction of being the only church outside of England where kings have been crowned by the British.
Old Belize Mini-Tram Ride/Natural History
All aboard a charming mini-train for a 15-minute ride through Belize's history, featuring exhibits that showcase the archaeological, ecological, political and industrial history of the country and its people. Traverse a replica rainforest to learn more of the ecosystem's flora and fauna. Then delve into Mayan history and the lives of some of the country's earliest inhabitants. Explore the local industries, including sugarcane, and see a real press and steam-powered saw mill. A reproduction of a Garífuna fishing home offers a glimpse into the culture and heritage of these indigenous people and stands in contrast to the 1910 replica of a popular Belize City street.
What you will see along the way:
Enjoy the refreshing ocean breezes as your guide shares the history of this once-British settlement and the cultural diversity that has shaped this young nation. Learn about the business, historical and cultural aspects of Belizean life as your guide calls out the various points of interest around town. View beautiful landmarks and old colonial buildings mixed in with the modern, which give the old Belizean capital its Caribbean charm. Journey along historical Regent Street lined with heritage homes, the Supreme Courthouse, and the famous Swing Bridge.
Photo Opportunity:
Baron Bliss Tomb and Lighthouse Monument
The Fort George Lighthouse is better known by locals as the Baron Bliss Lighthouse, named after the man buried in a tomb near its base, Baron Henry Edward Ernest Victor Bliss, one of Belize's most noted benefactors, who tragically died in his boat in the harbor never actually to grace the shores. In his will, he left nearly $2 million to the country, along with his wish to be buried by the sea near an obelisk or lighthouse. A 50-foot lighthouse on the harbor was erected. The funds were also used for improvements throughout the country.
Shopping:
A little time is allotted during your tour to shop for colorful souvenirs or a quick local snack (at your own expense).
Schedule
Medical Restriction
participants must be able to stand and walk short distances unaided