Does Belize Have a Lot of Tourism?

By Robert Palmer

Belize is a small country located in Central America, known for its lush tropical forests, pristine beaches, and diverse wildlife. The country has been gaining popularity as a tourist destination in recent years, but does Belize have a lot of tourism? Let’s take a closer look.

Tourism in Belize

Tourism is one of the major industries in Belize, along with agriculture and fishing. The country has a lot to offer to tourists, including ancient Mayan ruins, barrier reefs for diving and snorkeling, and national parks for hiking and wildlife spotting.

According to the Belize Tourism Board, the country welcomed over 503,000 visitors in 2019. This was an increase of 6.4% from the previous year. The majority of visitors came from the United States (66%), followed by Canada (11%) and Europe (9%).

Types of Tourism in Belize

Belize offers a variety of tourism options to cater to different interests. Some popular types of tourism in Belize include:

Eco-Tourism:

With over 40% of its land covered by forests and protected areas, Belize is an ideal destination for eco-tourists. Visitors can explore the lush rainforests on foot or by zip-lining through the canopy.

Adventure Tourism:

For thrill-seekers, Belize offers activities such as cave tubing, kayaking through rapids, and even shark diving.

Cultural Tourism:

With its rich history and diverse ethnic groups such as Maya, Garifuna and Mestizo cultures, cultural tourism is also popular in Belize. Visitors can explore ancient Mayan ruins or participate in traditional ceremonies such as drumming.

The Impact of Tourism on Belize

While tourism brings economic benefits to the country by creating jobs and generating revenue for local businesses, it also has some negative impacts. The high influx of tourists can put a strain on the environment and local resources. Additionally, the development of tourism infrastructure can lead to the displacement of local communities and cultural practices.

Sustainable Tourism:

To address these issues, Belize has been promoting sustainable tourism practices. This includes eco-friendly accommodations, responsible tour operators and conservation efforts to protect the country’s natural resources.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Belize does have a lot of tourism with over 500,000 visitors in 2019. With its diverse offerings including eco-tourism, adventure tourism, and cultural tourism, it’s not hard to see why people are drawn to this small Central American country. However, it’s important to ensure that tourism is sustainable and benefits both visitors and locals alike.