Explore Belize Book

Formerly Adventure Guide to Belize, this fully revised 4th edition leaves no stone unturned in this fascinating land of colorful tropical flowers, lively monkeys and regal jaguars. The only English-speaking country in Central America, Belize is home to 500 species of birds, innumerable Maya ruins, as well as the world's second largest barrier reef. Over 80% of the land remains covered with primeval forest and 30% has been set aside as national parks/preserves.

Award-winning Harry Pariser pulls no punches in this comprehensive 400-page volume, guiding you to the best - and steering you away from the worst - places on offer. An introduction covers the land, climate, food and drink, sports, transport, visas, money, language, shopping and health concerns. This section also has extensive coverage (far outreaching other books in its staggering detail) of the flora and fauna, the economy, government and history. Belize City, Ambergris Caye, Gallows Point, the Turneffe Islands, Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary, Orange Town, Chetumel (Mexico), Belmopan, San Ignacio, Benque Viejo del Carmen, Tikal, Guatemala, Dangriga, Punta Gorda and Placienca are but a few of the places covered. A special chapter is dedicated to El Mundo Maya - the people, the civilization, religion, temples. For each destination Pariser tells you of the best snorkeling and diving sites, accommodations to suit every budget, dining options, birdwatching, horseback riding and hiking trails, local lore and festivities, natural history and culture and local services (tours, transport, post office, banks). Particular attention is given to the nature preserves and parks, as well as archaeological sites. A glossary, booklist and index can be found in the back of the book. Over 40 maps.