Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System
Belize ·
Description
The Belize Barrier is the Caribbean's underwater treasure. Its 300-kilometer reef harbors 500 fish species, manatees, turtles, and whale sharks. The Great Blue Hole, a sinkhole 300 meters in diameter and 125 meters deep, is one of the world's most iconic dive sites. Jacques Cousteau declared it one of the top 10 dive spots, and each immersion reveals submerged stalactites and reef sharks.
Why It's a World Heritage Site
The Belize Barrier is the Atlantic's largest reef system and the world's second. UNESCO recognized its extraordinary marine biodiversity, the Great Blue Hole's importance as a unique geological formation, and associated mangrove and seagrass ecosystems.
UNESCO Criteria
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, open water certification and experience required. Depth and currents make it challenging.
Yes, but you'll only see the blue color from above. The main attraction is at depth accessible only by diving.
April-June for best visibility. March-June for whale sharks at Gladden Spit.
San Pedro (Ambergris Caye) and Caye Caulker are main bases. The Blue Hole is 70 km from San Pedro.
It was removed from the Danger List in 2018 after protection improvements. Climate change remains a threat.