Top 8 Activities for Kids in Belize

Belize, with its unique blend of Caribbean and Latin American culture, offers a treasure trove of experiences that will enchant even the youngest explorers.

With countless offshore islands, expansive rainforests, and rich biodiversity, Belize sparks adventure and curiosity in visitors of all ages. If you’re taking the kids, here’s how to make this trip a cherished family memory.

Is Belize a family-friendly destination?

While it has its challenges, Belize is indeed a great place for families. With a wide range of activities and attractions across the country, planning an exciting multigenerational vacation is a breeze, even for those obsessed with TikTok.

Nature serves as your playground here. Exploring ancient Maya ruins, drifting along rivers, and having close encounters with wildlife create the essence of a perfect getaway. Additionally, even the pickiest of eaters may appreciate the absence of chain restaurants and the abundance of fresh, locally sourced meals.

One of the primary challenges of visiting Belize with children is locating stroller-friendly areas. The uneven paths in towns and steep hills in places like Cayo can complicate mobility for families with infants or toddlers. Additionally, baby changing facilities are quite scarce, so consider bringing a travel changing mat.

Despite these issues, Belize’s family-oriented culture ensures that kids are greeted with warmth and friendliness. Many resorts offer discounted rates for children under 12 and feature accommodations tailored for families.

What are the best places in Belize for kids?

Locations such as Caye Caulker, Placencia, Hopkins, San Ignacio, and the Belize River Valley all offer safe and thrilling experiences, each with unique attractions.

The Cayo District features one of the country’s most popular family-oriented resorts, the Lodge at Chaa Creek. Kids will stay engaged with eco-adventures, including a butterfly farm, archaeological sites, and an organic garden on-site.

In more secluded areas like the Toledo District, finding activities to keep everyone entertained can be challenging the longer you stay. However, this district is a top spot for cultural tours and lesser-known attractions.

Top activities in Belize suitable for babies and toddlers

Check out the 'best little zoo in the world'

The Belize Zoo, one of the country’s first fully accessible attractions, is designed for both strollers and wheelchairs. It provides a unique experience with natural enclosures that replicate real wildlife habitats instead of traditional concrete cages.

Suitable for visitors of all ages, it's an ideal place to encounter tapirs, jaguars, scarlet macaws, and spider monkeys up close.

Treat yourself to gelato on the Placencia Peninsula

The Placencia Peninsula boasts numerous all-inclusive resorts that simplify travel with toddlers, featuring some of the best beaches and delicious ice cream. Located in the heart of Placencia village, Tutti Frutti Gelato is a must-visit spot for tourists.

For just BZ$4 per scoop, enjoy popular flavors like coconut and salted caramel, or try something unique like soursop.

Top activities in Belize for younger kids

Experience the journey from bean to bar with a chocolate-making tour

Introduce the kids to the art of making their favorite treat at AJAW Chocolate & Crafts in San Ignacio, where they can grind cacao beans and taste a variety of unique hot chocolate flavors.

This hour-long session costs BZ$28 per person and runs every hour from 9am to 6pm daily, except Sundays, with a minimum age requirement of eight years.

Check in at the San Iggy Hotel and meet its welcoming residents

Situated on a hillside with a view of the town, the San Ignacio Resort Hotel hosts the Green Iguana Conservation Project. For BZ$24 per person, guests can enjoy a guided tour and interactive displays featuring rescued green iguanas.

Join a Garifuna drumming class in Hopkins

At The Lebeha Drumming School on the northern side of Hopkins, locals and visitors of all ages can deeply engage with Belize’s Garifuna culture. It’s an excellent opportunity for kids to embrace new experiences with enthusiasm.

To schedule a class for approximately BZ$75, contact the school via their website, although many local resorts can arrange it for you. Alternatively, feel free to stop by and enjoy the sounds or dance to the rhythms of the Garifuna drums.

Top activities in Belize for teenagers and tweens

Meet the howler monkeys at the Baboon Sanctuary

Get up close with the loudest land mammals in the world. Located in the village of Bermudian Landing within the Belize River Valley, the Community Baboon Sanctuary offers a chance to connect with nature and discover Belize’s rich wildlife, especially its black howler monkeys.

The sanctuary is open daily from 8am to 5pm and provides guided hikes starting at BZ$20 per person, which also includes a visit to the community museum.

Float down rivers in an inner tube

Cave tubing is a must-do adventure for families visiting Belize. It offers an exciting way to explore the country’s underground wonders, often culminating in a refreshing swim in a river or natural pool.

With multiple locations and tour operators available, Ian Anderson’s Caves Branch features one of the longest cave tubing experiences in Belize. Ideal for children aged 10 and older, this tour is priced at BZ$190 per person and includes an optional zip line experience.

Enjoy snorkeling at the cayes

Southern Belize is renowned for having some of the finest snorkeling locations in the nation. Resorts like Ray Caye near Placencia are perfect for families, offering plenty of fun and engaging offshore activities. Visitors can expect to see century-old turtles, spotted eagle rays, and stunning coral formations that will captivate any eager explorer.

Even better, many resorts along the Belize coast provide snorkeling tours, with prices starting at BZ$80 per person.

Planning Tips

• Regardless of when you visit Belize (or where), keep in mind that it's a tropical locale. Mosquitoes, doctor flies, and sand flies are prevalent during the rainy season, so be sure to bring bug spray and protective clothing.

• For traveling with kids, the most comfortable and efficient method is to use transportation services offered by resorts. Since puddle jumper flight costs can add up, public water taxis are a cost-effective and enjoyable alternative for reaching the cayes.

• While some resorts provide babysitting services, it’s not standard practice. If this is a feature you want, be sure to verify before booking or inquire about available arrangements.