BELMOPAN AREA AND THE HUMMINGBIRD HIGHWAY

Belize’s relatively new capital, Belmopan, is nothing more than an annoying bus layover for most travelers. The surrounding countryside, however—and the beautiful Hummingbird Highway that snakes through it—is not to be missed, whether as stunning scenery from your bus window, or as a memorable morning backdrop when you emerge from your cabin or tent on a bluff above the Caves Branch River. Some of the country’s most famous adventure lodges (Ian Anderson’s Caves Branch, Jaguar Paw, and Banana Bank) occupy various riverbanks in the area, as does Belize’s only mainland golf course on Roaring Creek. The area’s accommodations are destinations in themselves, and are also used as bases for forays into the west and south. There are homestay programs in some of the villages along the Hummingbird, as well as trails and guides to take you around Guanacaste, Blue Hole, and Five Blues Lake National Parks.

Market Square: Take a stroll through Belmopan’s small, bustling outdoor commercial section, then walk over to the plaza by the government buildings. (read more)

Banana Bank Lodge: Go horseback riding at this famous riverside ranch—or cave tubing, jungle trekking, and rappelling at nearby Ian Anderson’s Caves Branch or Jaguar Paw Resorts. (read more)

Roaring River Golf Course: Shoot a leisurely nine holes at this relaxed set of links, just west of Belmopan. (read more)

The Belize Zoo: This famous, lush home for animal ex-movie stars and more is an easy stopover as you travel between Belize City and points south and west. (read more)

Blue Hole National Park: Get out the hiking boots, binoculars, and a bathing suit for a visit to this park and St. Herman’s Cave, halfway down the Hummingbird Highway. (read more)