Belize is a small country on the eastern coast of Central America. It borders Mexico to the north, Guatemala to the west and south, and the Caribbean Sea to the east. Although it is located on the mainland, it has strong ties to the Caribbean. English is the official language. The government follows a British parliamentary system. Belize is home to coral reefs, offshore islands like Ambergris Caye, rainforests, and ancient Maya sites.
Key Facts About Belize
Official Language: English
Currency: Belize Dollar (BZD), fixed at 2 BZD to 1 USD
Time Zone: Central Standard Time (CST), no daylight savings
Population: Around 400,000 people
Geographic Location: Bordered by Mexico, Guatemala, and the Caribbean Sea
Coordinates: 17.1899° N latitude, 88.4976° W longitude
Climate: Tropical with distinct wet and dry seasons
Average Temperature: About 79°F (26°C) year-round
Natural Highlights: Belize Barrier Reef, Maya ruins, protected wildlife reserves
Ambergris Caye, in particular, is known for its proximity to the Belize Barrier Reef, making it a top destination for sportfishing, snorkeling, and diving.
Geographic Overview of Belize
Belize sits along the Caribbean coast of Central America, with a landscape that shifts from dense inland jungle to coastal wetlands and barrier reef islands. The country spans roughly 8,867 square miles and includes more than 260 square miles of offshore cayes, or small islands. These cayes are key to Belize’s appeal, offering access to coral reefs, marine reserves, and wildlife habitats. One of the most notable is Ambergris Caye, home to El Pescador Resort and a hub for fishing, diving, and marine tours.
Popular Cities in Belize
Belize City
Belize City is the country’s largest urban area and primary seaport. It’s the gateway for many travelers arriving by cruise ship and offers access to local markets, colonial architecture, the Museum of Belize, and the historic Swing Bridge. Though not a beach destination, it’s a cultural and logistical hub.
Belmopan
Located inland, Belmopan is the capital of Belize and home to the country’s government offices. It’s quieter than coastal towns and surrounded by green hills and local neighborhoods. Visitors often pass through Belmopan on their way to nearby nature parks and mountain trails.
San Pedro (Ambergris Caye)
San Pedro is the main town on Ambergris Caye, located just off the coast of northern Belize. It’s known for easy access to the Belize Barrier Reef, beachfront restaurants, and marine activities. El Pescador is located just north of town, offering quick access to both flats and reef.
San Ignacio
San Ignacio is in the Cayo District near the Guatemalan border. It’s a popular inland base for exploring caves, waterfalls, and Maya ruins like Xunantunich and Cahal Pech. The town itself has a relaxed feel with local eateries, markets, and eco-tour lodges.
Placencia
Placencia is a coastal village on the southern peninsula of Belize, known for its laid-back charm. It features a long stretch of sandy beach, casual seafood spots, and access to snorkeling and diving along the southern reef. It’s ideal for a quieter, slower-paced stay.
Top Things to Do and See in Belize
Belize offers a wide variety of outdoor activities and cultural experiences across land and sea. From reef excursions and wildlife encounters to jungle tours and Maya ruins, these adventures highlight the best of what the country has to offer.
Fly Fishing the Flats
Pursue Belize’s Grand Slam: permit, tarpon, and bonefish. These fish thrive in the shallow flats just minutes from El Pescador’s dock. Local guides know the tides, casting zones, and fish movement to help you land your target species.
Reef and Offshore Fishing
Venture beyond the flats to catch snapper, grouper, kingfish, tuna, and wahoo. The nearby reef system supports year-round bottom and offshore fishing with experienced captains and custom boats.
Snorkeling and Marine Reserves
Explore Hol Chan Marine Reserve or Shark Ray Alley, where you can swim with nurse sharks, rays, and colorful reef fish. These protected waters are ideal for beginners and experienced snorkelers alike.
Maya Ruins and Archaeological Tours
Visit Xunantunich, Altun Ha, or Lamanai to climb temples and learn about Maya history. Many of these sites are accessible by road, boat, or a mix of both, offering scenic routes and local guides.
Cave Tubing and Jungle Excursions
Float along underground rivers through limestone caves. This popular inland adventure pairs well with rainforest hikes, waterfall swims, and wildlife encounters in Belize’s interior.
Sunset Cruises and Kayaking
End the day with a boat cruise along the coast, or paddle through mangrove channels in a sea kayak or paddleboard. Equipment is available directly from El Pescador’s dock.
Wildlife and Culture
From howler monkeys and toucans to jaguar preserves and the Belize Zoo, the country protects an incredible range of biodiversity. You can also visit local villages for chocolate-making, farm tours, and cultural programs hosted by Maya and Garifuna communities.
Why Visit Belize and Stay at El Pescador
El Pescador combines world-class fishing, adventure, and beachfront relaxation in one place. Here’s what makes it one of the top resorts in Belize.
The #1 Belize Resort for Fly Fishing and Adventure
El Pescador is known as Belize’s top destination for anglers. With access to flats, reef, and offshore waters, guests can fish for tarpon, permit, and bonefish just minutes from the dock. Beyond fishing, the resort also serves as a hub for guided adventures on both land and sea.
All-Inclusive Packages for a Hassle-Free Stay
Everything is taken care of in one package—lodging, meals, guided activities, local flights, transfers, and more. El Pescador’s all-inclusive options are designed to simplify planning so you can enjoy your time in Belize without the stress of booking each detail separately.
Suites and Private Villas with Caribbean Views
Stay in beachfront villas, lodge rooms, or private suites—all designed with hardwood furnishings, local art, and direct beach access. Accommodations are comfortable, quiet, and located just steps from the main pool and dock.
Recognized for Excellence and Personalized Hospitality
El Pescador has been consistently rated among the best resorts in Belize for its quality, service, and guest experience. The on-site team builds real connections with guests and works hard to ensure that every stay is memorable.
Sea & Land Adventures Depart Right from the Dock
Most tours begin right at El Pescador’s private dock. Sea excursions include snorkeling at Hol Chan Marine Reserve, Shark Ray Alley, and Mexico Rocks. Inland trips feature cave tubing, zip-lining, and tours of ancient Maya ruins like Xunantunich and Altun Ha. The resort’s expert guides handle everything—from gear to transportation—to make each trip simple and safe.
Complimentary Amenities and Daily Recreation
Guests have full access to paddleboards, sea kayaks, and bicycles for exploring nearby beaches and mangroves. The resort also features beach volleyball, bocce ball, and cornhole courts with shaded seating areas for relaxing between activities.
On-Site Spa and Guest Services
Schedule massage treatments and bodywork through the front desk, or let the team assist you with booking tours, guides, diving, or anything else you need during your stay. The El Pescador staff makes it easy to relax, explore, or do both.
Getting to Belize and El Pescador
- Fly into Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport (BZE) in Belize City
- Take a domestic flight to San Pedro Airport on Ambergris Caye
- El Pescador arranges a private boat transfer to the resort
All transfers are coordinated in advance, making travel easy from the moment you land.
Key Takeaways
- Belize is in Central America, bordered by Mexico, Guatemala, and the Caribbean Sea
- The country speaks English, uses the Belize dollar, and runs on CST
- Ambergris Caye is a gateway to reef, fishing, and sea-based adventure
- El Pescador offers easy access to marine and inland excursions
- Year-round warm weather supports outdoor travel and exploration
FAQs
Is Belize part of Central America?
Yes. Belize is south of Mexico and shares borders with Guatemala and the Caribbean Sea.
What is the official language?
English. Spanish and Belizean Creole are also widely spoken.
Where is El Pescador located?
On Ambergris Caye, north of San Pedro Town, along Belize’s barrier reef coast.
How do I get to El Pescador?
Fly to Belize City, take a short flight to San Pedro, then board a private boat transfer arranged by the resort.
What’s the best time of year to visit?
Late November to May is the dry season, offering sunny days and calm waters for all outdoor activities.
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Book Your Belize Fishing Adventure Today
El Pescador gives you direct access to some of the best flats fishing in the world. Whether you’re casting for tarpon, landing bonefish, or chasing permit across the flats, the waters around Ambergris Caye offer unmatched fishing action. Stay right on the beach, work with experienced guides, and explore both land and sea. Book your Belize getaway today and start planning your next great fishing trip.