Belize

Belize Barrier Reef should be high on your agenda. It’s the second largest barrier reef in the world (after Australia’s) and offers fantastic snorkelling and diving opportunities. Sink beneath the waves at this UNESCO World Heritage site and discover more than 100 types of coral and 500 species of tropical fish. Swim past brightly coloured coral, with friendly whale sharks and turtles, or head deeper underwater to explore sunken caves and the Great Blue Hole, a phenomenon of karst topography.

Near the reef, a smattering of islands, known as “cayes”, are perfect for other water activities, such as kayaking, windsurfing, stand-up paddle boarding, fishing or simply kicking back in a hammock and feeling the sea breeze on your face. Ambergris Caye is the largest and most developed of the islands with a relaxed and friendly Caribbean vibe.

Venture inland, and you’ll discover lush tropical jungle, stretching from the country’s Southern and Western regions to the misty heights of the Maya Mountains. This network of national parks and protected wildlife sanctuaries is paradise for bird watchers, who can marvel at some 570 species, including the keel-billed toucan (Belize’s national bird). Other wildlife to look out for include howler monkeys, green iguana and even jaguar.

Action and adventure await all over the country – try ziplining through the jungle, horseback riding through the national parks or canoeing through underground rivers in the Cayo District. While for a dose of culture there are archaeological sites to discover dating back to the Maya heyday (AD 250–1000). Expect vast stone temples with panoramic forest views and natural caverns where Maya kings would perform rituals and make sacrifices.