South America : Belize

Belize, once the center of Mayan civilization, is a small country nestled between Mexico and Guatemala on the Caribbean coast. Belize is known for its intriguing geographical mix—tropical forests rich with wildlife, verdant mountains surrounded by rugged karst limestone hills, cays protected by huge forests of mangrove—and for its multiethnic mix of warm and friendly people. Belize was settled in turn by Mayans, English puritans, buccaneers, Mexicans, and even Confederate veterans of the American Civil War. Belize achieved independence from Britain in 1981, and is now a parliamentary democracy.

Belize's barrier reef is the second-largest in the world, and is only part of a complex coastal ecosystem with incredible snorkeling and swimming opportunities. Three large coral atolls lie outside the barrier reef. The reef itself runs the entire length of the country and supports a tremendous number of patch reefs, shoals and cays.

Over six hundred Mayan sites have been discovered in Belize, and artifacts and major sites are discovered regularly. Excavation projects take place throughout the country, giving a glimpse into how spectacular this civilization was and what an integral part of Belize history it is.

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