Though small, Belize is infinitely unique, so you may find facts on our list to be somewhat startling. Whether you’re about to embark on your first Belize journey or you’ve been to the nation so often, you consider yourself an expert on the nation’s quirkiest facts, we're certain that something on this list will inspire you, something will enlighten you--and yes, you could discover something that may shock you!
Revelation #1: Think Mexico and Guatemala are the only places to find Maya ruins? There are 900 of them in Belize. Headquarter at Cahal Pech Village to be so close to Cahal Pech ruins, you can walk to the area that was once home to royalty and villagers in 1000 BC.
Revelation #2: There’s only one protected jaguar preserve in the world and it happens to be located in Belize and within the confines of Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary. This endangered cat is often represented on Maya murals and carvings so your tour of ruins could be enhanced if you spot jaguar symbols.
Revelation #3: The legend surrounding El Duende, an evil dwarf with no thumbs so scary, Belize children avoid forested areas to avoid him. Can anything be scarier? How about El Sisimito, Belize’s Big Foot? He’s got no knees; his feet are backwards and he dines on human flesh. He never visits Cahal Pech, so you are perfectly safe within you comfortable digs.
Revelation #4: There is much to say about the islands off the Belize shoreline called cayes, and not every Belizean is aware of the fact that there are so many. If the question comes up next time you play Trivia, show everyone how smart you are by estimating 450 cayes. Collect your prize.
Revelation #5: Belize is loaded with skyscrapers. It’s true. They’re not modern structures that emulate those found in world capitals and they’ve been around long before those capitals existed. These sky-high structures are Maya temples, built to honor gods.
Revelation #6: You might think you’re in the U.K. when you visit Belize. The land was colonized by Brits for so long, the nation’s parliament and constitution recognize England’s reigning monarch. English is Belize’s first language and to honor Queen Elizabeth, a special dish dubbed the royal rat was served during her visit.
Revelation #7: Ornithologists have spotted over 540 bird species in Belize. One species even had an island named after it: Laughing Bird Caye. This nation is a bird-lover’s paradise. See these amazing creatures for yourself on a Cahal Pech birding tour.
Revelation #8: Belizeans call speedbumps “Sleeping policemen,” but you won’t find uniformed officials napping at these sites. Instead, these substitute traffic lights are so huge, your city government wouldn’t dare install them for fear that car repairs would set off neighborhood protests.
Revelation #9: No nation takes “Island time” as seriously as does Belize. Expect to adjust your internal time clock and grasp the fact that just because you’ve got an appointment at a certain hour, that doesn't mean delays aren't likely. Frequent visitors’ advice? “Roll with it and keep your expectations low!”
Revelation #10: If you’re obsessed with fast food and can’t live without it, double down on your favorites at the airport before you fly. There isn’t a single McDonald’s, Burger King, Starbucks or KFC in Belize. The good news is that you may not care after sampling Belize delights like affordable lobsters, Belikin beers, cashew wines and Belize chocolates. Food is cheap, plentiful and divine. Who needs a Big Mac?
If you have questions about traveling to Belize or need help in booking a trip, please email our Reservations Manager at info(@)cahalpech.com.
