Map Of Belize

The Northern half of Belize is more flatlands whereas the Southern half is a low mountain range.

The Maya Mountains, as they are known, reach a little over 3,500 feet above sea level at their highest.

Above all, Belize is a narrow country with a mountain range along its western border and the Caribbean Sea as an eastern border. These conditions combine to create weather variations.

So, as you go further south in Belize, annual precipitation increases drastically. It is this rain which gives southern Belize its lush tropical rain forests.

Just offshore from the mainland, you can experience marine life since Belize has the second-largest barrier reef in the world, including the famous underwater atoll, known as the Great Blue Hole.

Plus, English is the official language of Belize.

Two Main Lifestyle Options In Belize

1. The Mountains

Cayo is a great option in the mountains of Belize. It’s a little higher than sea level so the weather is a little cooler here compared to other areas. 

Cayo is where you go to be in the countryside of Belize and be self-sufficient. The main town in Cayo is San Ignacio. Here you’ll find supplies, stores, and an expat community. Although it’s not fully developed, Cayo is attracting more and more people.

2. The Ocean

Ambergris Caye is a popular destination. However, if you don’t like to live on an island, it might not be for you. A plus of Ambergris Caye is that there are hundreds of expats so you’ll have a strong community of like-minded folks and lots of amenities for expats. 

Ambergris Caye is known for diving and snorkeling, it’s the place to be if you like to be near water.

Other popular destinations in Belize include Placencia, Northern Belize, and Corozal. The areas aren’t as developed but more and more expats are moving there.

A great plan is to switch your time between the mountains and the beach areas. This is very easy to do because Belize has a great, reliable, and affordable internal network of flights. In this way, it’s very possible to embrace the many faces of Belize.