Belize

See our gap year, short career break and extreme expeditions to Belize.

Geography

Belize is one of the most beautiful and diverse countries in Central America . It offers a fascinating mix of tropical rainforest, a huge collection of ancient Mayan ruins and the second largest coral reef in the world. It is generally low-lying, although the Maya Mountains lie to the south and to the west of the country.  Belize, with a population of 290,000, is the size of Wales and is situated between Guatemala and Mexico.

About 70% of Belize’s forest is still intact, thanks to the protection of much of it through reserves and national parks. A large proportion of Trekforce projects in Belize involve working with the local community groups, scientific research organisations and NGOs that manage these areas in support of their infrastructural and development needs.

Despite a relatively well-developed transport network throughout Belize, the country is still very much in the early stages of tourism.  With the growing popularity of travel to distant shores encompassing activities such as diving, snorkeling, jungle trekking and adventure sports, it is increasingly necessary to ensure that these are sustainable sources of income for the local communities that protect Belize’s valuable natural resources.

Wildlife

Belize’s rich complexity of ecosystems plays host to many exotic species, including large communities of puma, ocelot and jaguar, howler monkey, tapir, manatee, dolphin and a wealth of other colourful creatures. Belize also has over 500 species of rare and beautiful bird.

Culture

Belize is an extremely multicultural country, with various ethnic groups of different origins contributing to its diverse cultural melting pot. The largest communities are Creoles, who are of African descent and based largely in the coastal Caribbean regions.  A third of the population are Spanish-speaking Mestizos, who are of mixed European and Amerindian descent.

There are also Garifuna, Maya, English, Mennonite, Lebanese and Chinese influences and cultures. Due to racial harmony and religious tolerance, all of these different elements have mixed and blended successfully, and Belize has gained a widespread reputation for its friendly approach to visitors.

Ex-volunteer

"I loved living in the jungle with my group; the atmosphere was fantastic and all the people were wonderful. I made some amazing friends, and I feel very privileged for that. One day during my expedition we went to visit a waterfall. It was amazing. I loved swimming underneath it. That felt like paradise.

During our project we built a path of stones from the river. It was fun as it meant working in the water. It was a hot day, so it was nice to play in the river and do something useful at the same time.

Whenever we went back to civilisation for a few days, returning to our base camp in the forest was like coming home. The thought that the jungle was actually our home so much more than some civilisation was incredible!

If you want to do something amazing, you don't mind physical work, and think living in the jungle sounds incredible, join Trekforce for the experience of a lifetime."