Belize

With its plentiful outdoor activities, this 25-mile-long island off the coast of northern Belize caters to the snorkeling and diving set. The island was originally inhabited by the Mayans to serve as a far-extending trade route, spanning from present-day Mexico to as far south as Honduras. Today, Ambergris Caye welcomes thousands of visitors seeking easy access to the barrier reef that surrounds the island. Snorkelers and intrepid divers alike will want to explore Hol Chan Marine Reserve.

Plunge into this deep blue hole and you'll discover imposing ancient stalactites (calcium deposits resembling icicles) and coral fringe. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996 — along with six other areas surrounding Belize's barrier reef — the Great Blue Hole remains one of the world's most distinguished scuba sites. Created approximately 10,000 years ago after a cave roof crumbled in, this blue channel contains underwater tunnels, caverns and rock formations. The Great Blue Hole is located about 43 miles off the coast of Belize along the Lighthouse Reef Atoll.

Facing the southern edge of Ambergris Caye, Hol Chan Marine Reserve is the oldest reserve in Belize. Its name translates to "Little Channel," in reference to a coral-filled gap in Belize's immense barrier reef. Encompassing 3 square miles, this densely populated aquatic zone is a sanctuary for stingrays, eels and sharks, among other creatures. The reserve is separated into four parts: the mangroves, the reef, the sea-grass beds and the most recently added Shark Ray Alley. Because of its diversity, the reserve has flourished as a hot spot for scuba divers and snorkelers. Recent travelers said Hol Chan Marine's crystal clear waters and abundant sea life make it a prime spot for snorkeling and diving.

Snuggled on the end of a 26-kilometer sandy peninsula, Placencia is a popular fishing village and beach resort. Travelers come here to bask on some of the best beaches in Belize, eat fresh seafood at the excellent restaurants, fish, kayak the lagoon, and dive and snorkel in the Silk Cayes Marine Reserve. In the village, brightly colored clapboard houses raised on stilts line the narrow concrete path where fishermen used to transport fish in wheelbarrows. Near Placencia, Laughing Bird Caye National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with hiking trails and coral reefs.

Cockscomb Wildlife Sanctuary is a haven for nature buffs. The mountainous tropical forest here protects an impressive array of wildlife, including jaguars, ocelots, pumas, anteaters, tapirs, monkeys, and snakes, although sightings of the cats are rare. Birders will also love it here. Toucans and scarlet macaws are among the 290 species recorded in the preserve. The best way to explore the sanctuary is on the extensive web of trails. The Waterfall Trail is one of the most popular, with a cascade and swimming hole, while Ben's Bluff Hiking Trail is more challenging but offers rewarding views of the basin. Tiger Fern Trail leads to a beautiful double waterfall.

The lush Cayo District in Western Belize is home to some of Belize's top archaeological sites. Xunantunich, perched on a limestone ridge overlooking the Mopan River, is perhaps the most famous. El Pilar is one of the largest archaeological sites in Belize, but little of its history is known, since excavation only began in 1993. You can explore the ruins and surrounding jungle on the vast network of nature trails. Close to the town of San Ignacio, the popular Cahal Pech Archaeological Site is relatively small and includes an excellent museum.