Belmopan
Belmopan became the capital of Belize in 1961 after a hurricane destroyed the government buildings in Belize City. Today, this commuter hub is home to approximately 20,000 residents and sits at the crossroads of the Western Highway and the Hummingbird Highway. Most of the people here work for the government in some capacity.
More about Belmopan
The town lacks tourist infrastructure relative to nearby San Ignacio, and many travelers bypass Belmopan on their way to Maya ruins or the towns on the southern coast, like Dangriga and Hopkins. Belmopan could be a convenient stop for road trippers – it’s the midway point between the east and west coast, just over an hour from Belize City on the coast and an hour from San Ignacio near the base of the Maya Mountains.
The closest natural attraction to Belmopan is St. Herman’s Blue Hole National Park. This is a favorite spot for hiking and bird watching, with over 200 species flitting among the trees. There are caves to explore and the famous St. Hermans’ Blue Hole for swimming.
Those who do have time to kill in Belmopan can do so at the open air market near the bus station where there are fruit and vegetable stands and several tasty and inexpensive food stalls. Here, diners can experience authentic local cuisine that has both Latin and Belizean influences. Accommodations in town are limited, but there are a few jungle lodges in the surrounding mountains where hikers and birding enthusiasts might want to stay.
Incredible Stays
Sleeping Giant Rainforest Lodge
You’ll find the resort on the edge of the St Herman’s Blue Hole National Park. It’s also a short drive from the Five Blue Lake National Park, so you can fill your days with hiking, swimming, and bird watching in diverse environments. Guests can choose from 31 cozy accommodations, which come in the form of private cabins, riverside rooms, suites, and a penthouse.
View DetailsLamanai Outpost Lodge
In the middle of the jungle, this beautiful and authentic lodge in the ancient Maya city of Lamanai offers both adventure and peaceful nature.
View DetailsJade Jungle Resort
Jade Jungle Resort, is a newly renovated eco-luxury retreat nestled in the heart of the primary rainforest of Western Belize. This high-end resort offers exclusive access to a 7,000-acre private reserve and the serene Roaring River, just 4 miles from the world-renowned ATM cave. Stay in charming thatch cabanas set around an ancient Maya site, each offering a private bathroom with hot water, 24-hour electricity, and a ceiling fan for your comfort. At Jade, you'll experience the beauty and adventure of the jungle with our full range of day tours to the top attractions in Western Belize, including seamless transportation services across Belize and Tikal in Guatemala. They pride themselves on sustainability, using water from a nearby stream, solar power, and fresh, locally sourced food. Whether you're seeking adventure or a peaceful escape, Jade Jungle Resort offers a truly unique experience in a breathtaking natural setting.
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