10 More Fun Facts About Belize You Probably Didn’t Know
- Craig Densham
- Nov 28
- 4 min read
Updated: Dec 19
Think you already know Belize? Think again. Beyond the famous barrier reef and ancient Maya temples, Belize hides hundreds of small wonders that most visitors never hear about. From quirky wildlife and unusual national symbols to traditions that go back thousands of years, these lesser-known Belize fun facts reveal just how extraordinary this little country truly is.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning explorer, these surprising tidbits will give you a deeper appreciation for the people, nature, and culture that make Belize unforgettable.
If you’re planning your first trip to the country, check out our Ultimate Belize Travel Guide for insider tips on where to go, what to do, and when to visit.
10 Fun Facts About Belize You Probably Didn’t Know
1. Belize Has Fewer People Than Many Small Cities
With a population of around 423,000, the entire country of Belize has fewer residents than many mid-sized U.S. cities — yet it spans nearly 9,000 square miles. That means plenty of wide-open beaches, quiet jungles, and room to explore without the crowds.
2. The Tapir — Not the Jaguar — Is the National Animal
While Belize is famous for jaguars, the national animal is actually the Baird’s tapir, affectionately known as the “mountain cow.” These shy, nocturnal creatures roam the forests and riverbanks and are protected throughout the country.
3. Belize Has Only a Few Traffic Lights
It’s true — you can count Belize’s traffic lights on one hand. Most of the country’s roads are rural highways and scenic coastal routes, where you’re more likely to see a bicyclist or iguana crossing than a traffic jam.
4. You Can Visit an Island Named After Laughing Birds
Laughing Bird Caye National Park, off the coast of Placencia, is named after the laughing gulls that nest there. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral gardens, and easy snorkeling just minutes from shore.
5. Belize’s Chocolate Heritage Dates Back to the Maya
The ancient Maya didn’t just cultivate cacao — they worshipped it. Chocolate was used in rituals, as currency, and even as royal gifts. Today, visitors can still tour cacao farms in southern Belize and make traditional chocolate the Maya way.
6. It’s the Only Country in Central America Where English Is Official
Belize stands out as the only English-speaking nation in Central America. That said, you’ll also hear Belizean Kriol, Spanish, Garifuna, and Mayan dialects, making everyday conversations as colorful as the scenery.
👉 Check out our latest blog post about the languages of Belize!
7. The National Flower Is a Rare Black Orchid
The Black Orchid (Encyclia cochleata) is Belize’s national flower — known for its unique shape and dark purple “lip.” You can spot it growing in the humid lowland forests and even in botanical gardens around Placencia.
8. Belize’s Great Blue Hole Is Visible from Space
This stunning marine sinkhole is not only one of the world’s most famous dive sites — it’s also large enough to be seen from space. NASA astronauts have photographed its perfectly round, deep-blue formation on multiple missions.
9. You Can Eat a National Dish That’s Older Than the Country
Rice and beans with stewed chicken is more than just a staple — it’s part of Belize’s identity. Influenced by Creole, Garifuna, and Mayan flavors, it’s been served in Belizean homes for generations before the country gained independence in 1981.
10. “Go Slow” Isn’t Just a Saying — It’s a Way of Life
From the cayes to the coast, Belize’s unofficial motto is “Go Slow.” It’s a reminder to relax, enjoy the view, and savor every moment. Whether you’re kayaking through Placencia Lagoon or sipping a rum cocktail at sunset, the laid-back pace is part of what makes Belize so special.
Plan Your Belize Adventure
Ready to experience the magic of Belize for yourself? Start planning your tropical getaway with Ocean Breeze Beach Resort — perfectly located in the heart of Placencia Village.
Discover pristine beaches, island-hopping tours, Mayan ruins, and some of the best food in the Caribbean — all within reach of your beachfront suite.
Book your stay today at OceanBreezeBeachResort.com and discover why guests call it one of the top beachfront resorts in Belize.
👉 Read our Ultimate Belize Travel Guide for everything you need to know before you visit Belize.
👉 Or head south and explore the coast with our Placencia Village Belize Travel Guide.
About the Author
Craig Densham is the owner of Ocean Breeze Beach Resort, a boutique seaside resort in Placencia, Belize. With years of local experience and a passion for hospitality, Craig loves helping guests discover the best of Belize — from hidden beaches to authentic local cuisine. Follow Ocean Breeze Beach Resort on Facebook and Instagram for travel inspiration.
