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The People of Belize
Belize, Wondrous and Unusual, is a unique destination for the traveler seeking to experience vibrant culture and explore exotic environments
An English-Speaking, Cultural Melting Pot
Belize is a vibrant cultural mosaic where ancient traditions and modern influences blend. With a population made up of Maya, Mestizo, Creole, Garifuna, East Indian, Spanish, Mennonite, and Chinese communities, Belize is a place where diversity isn’t just celebrated—it’s lived every day. Throughout the country, you might hear Creole slang in the markets of Belize City, witness a sacred Maya ceremony in the jungle, feel the rhythm of Garifuna drumming in Dangriga, and savor Mestizo tacos in Orange Walk. This unique mix of cultures gives Belize a rich tapestry of music, food, language, and festivals—making it not just another tropical destination but a celebration of human connection.
I had the most fantastic experience with Island Expeditions! What a beautiful place and the most beautiful, kind-hearted people.
-Safiya T (Ann Arbor, MI)
The Garifuna
The Garifuna people are a vibrant and essential part of Belize’s cultural landscape. Descended from West African, Carib, and Arawak ancestors, the Garifuna have preserved a rich heritage of food, dance, language, and spirituality. Known for their drumming, traditional dress and storytelling through song, they bring energy to Belizean culture. Towns like Dangriga and Hopkins remain strongholds of Garifuna traditions, where visitors can experience their unique way of life firsthand.
The Maya
Belize was once the heart of the Mayan civilization. For thousands of years, the Maya thrived here, developing advanced systems of writing, astronomy, agriculture, and architecture. Throughout Belize there are over 600 archaeological sites dating back to at least 1500 BC. Today, their legacy lives on not only in the impressive ruins like Caracol and Lamanai but also in the vibrant traditions, language, and crafts of modern-day Maya communities who call Belize home.
The Creole
The Creole people of Belize, also known as Kriol, are primarily of African and British descent. They have played a central role in shaping the countries identity. Known for their lively spirit, storytelling, music, and cuisine, the Creole culture blends African and European influences into something uniquely Belizean. Belizean Creole is far and away the most widely spoken language throughout the country and serves as a unifying voice across cultures.
The Mestizo
The Mestizo people of Belize are of mixed Spanish and Maya descent and represent one of the largest cultural groups in the country. Their traditions reflect a fusion of Spanish colonial and Maya heritage. This can be seen in their language, food, music, and dress. Spanish is commonly spoken among Mestizo communities, especially in northern Belize. Vibrant cultural festivals like “Dia de los Muertos” happen annually in Orange Walk and Corozal. The Mestizo play a vital role in Belize’s multicultural identity.
Our Guests Have A Lot To Say
London, Canada
If there were higher ratings I would give them. There are some many positive things to say - but one thing which really stands out is the care the local guides take to engage us in their culture and let us know what we are seeing on land and in the sea.
Victoria, Canada
The food was incredible - both guides were top notch. Patient and flexible, fun and knowledgable. Extremely professional.
Stittsville, Ontario
I was blown away by the staff on this trip and they felt like family by the end! I just wish I had more time here.
Winnetka, Illinois
The guides were superb and well organized with lots of activities planned
Westminster, Colorado
We enjoyed the first so much we decided to return. We met some very nice folks and your staff are excellent. There aren’t many similar options out there.
Red Deer County, Alberta
We loved that we stayed with the same group more or less for the complete time. We became close. Lounging places were great in both locations. We hope to come again.
Ottawa, Ontario
A very special place. Snorkelling and reef were excellent. The sunset happy hour on the sandbar was phenomenal. A great start to the trip.
Toronto, Ontario
Well-run travel company with great customer support, in-country knowledge and support, and awesome people. Highly recommended.
Passekeag, New Brunswick
Both Alex and Matthew have been excellent. They took great care of us in planning a variety of activities based on our interest, comfort and fitness levels, and weather conditions. They were thoughtful, courteous, and put our safety and enjoyment as top priorities.
Redwood City, California
Excellent food, loved it all, amazing what she can cook up on an island. Enjoyed learning about Belize, it's people & it's cultures. Felt safe & well taken care of.
Cincinnati, Ohio
First experience was incredible. In fact we said it was the best holiday wed ever had. This time it was even better! Happy hour on the sand bar is so special. All my friends and family saw our Facebook posts and were blown away and everyone said they are tagging along with us next time.
Calgary, Alberta
Both of these guides were professional, knowledgeable and courteous. They genuinely cared about your needs and concerns and answered all of your questions without making you feel like a burden. Linden actually sat and just talked with us for a long time one morning sharing stories and information about his life in Belize.
Onancock, Virgina
Mel accommodated my dietary preference amazingly well. The food was so good that I looked forward to every meal .
London, United Kingdom
The meals were varied and balanced - I didn't feel I needed more. I liked the the adventures you offered. I like everything about glovers reef. Thank you, we'll be back.
Fernie, British Columbia
I'm very, very appreciative of the vegan meals that Mel and Elta provided. The food was delicious and filling and I felt very well looked after. Thank you! It's a trip I will be grateful for forever.
Victoria, British Columbia
After our first trip we were hooked, we have now returned 6 times!
Duncansville, Pennsylvania
Steve was wonderful at managing this large group and very personable and funny and entertaining and organized and knowledgeable about all of the nature on shore and in the water. Also other guides were just as helpful.
Ripley, Ontario
All meals were excellent. Really enjoyed the last night “special” dinner. Just an overall great trip. Well organized and just amazing environment to visit.
Brookings, South Dakota
Shannan and Mel made it super easy to line up what I wanted to do in my limited vacation time, and from the moment I touched down until the day I headed back to the airport the entire trip went seamlessly from one thing to the next. I'm extremely impressed with how efficiently everything was run. I've already been raving about this to all my friends, and I can't wait to come back!
Petawawa, Ontario
My family really appreciated the way meals were laid out to allow everyone, including children to help themselves family style. Meant everyone could eat what they enjoyed! Eating the fish we caught was a real highlight!
Calgary, Alberta
We have been using island Expeditions for many years because of the quality of services and expertise. Thank you for a wonderful experience.
Iowa City, Iowa
Overall it was an awesome trip. I was a little nervous, bringing 10 others besides myself, that they might not find it as exciting and delightful as I had the first time. I need not have worried - all in our group had an outstanding experience, and I've received nothing but gratitude for being the catalyst and organizer.
Portland, Oregon
Had so much fun on our first trip and wanted to do it again. Love the guides, snorkelling and kayaking. It was another fantastic action packed adventure, with enthusiastic guides and participants
Spruce Grove, Alberta
I had the most fantastic experience with Island Expeditions! I felt connected to the people and environment of Belize, learning more about its history, culture, wildlife, and geography every day. The island and its facilities were beautiful, and sleeping in my tent every night with the sea breeze blowing on me and the sound of the waves crashing was an unforgettable experience.
Ann Arbor, Michigan
They seemed to arrange the snorkeling so that the sites got better as we went rather than doing the best first. That is a good way to see lots but also make each new place the best. They answered all our questions and were also willing to talk about life in Belize. Which helped us understand the country and people better.
Harrison, Idaho
We chose Island Expeditions because we love the glamping and snorkelling and rustic luxury that they offer - AND longstanding relationship with their staff, their commitment to the environment and to Belize.
Vancouver, British Columbia
I think the actual service you provide is far beyond what you advertise. This really was a full-service tour company that didn't just help us set up a great vacation, but led all the important work to ensure the trip could logistically happen.
Pemberton, British Columbia
Your glamping camp systems and details are excellent, organized, comfortable and clean, so dialed. The whole team was very warm, cheerful, supportive and helpful. Lighthouse reef is a beautiful location with lots of adventure options.
Argenta, British Columbia
Above and beyond our expectations!! You are doing an amazing job! The staff was truly fantastic!
Hopkinton, New Hampshire
I have been travelling with IE for 10 years, on 5 separate trips. I initially found them when looking for a kayak trip to Belize. The IE SUP trips combine adventure, tropical weather and sun, skills development and snorkeling in a small group environment. Each day, the adventure is different and even better then the day before.
Sidney, British Columbia
We will definitely be recommending Island Expeditions to our friends. Your facilities and your guides are exceptional.
Anchorage, Alaska
I have worked in the education field my whole life. I was blown away by the care, knowledge and professionalism all of these guides had for us. They bent over backwards to make us happy. Best experience ever.
Flossmoor, Illinois
All the staff made our trip fantastic. They all work hard all day. Siri is new and her knowledge will grow. It’s great to see a female guide. Even though this was my fourth trip to Lighthouse Reef/Half-moon Caye I still learned new things from the guides.
Victoria, British Columbia
My trip will be forever remembered because it was special and outstanding. I enjoyed the happy hour also! Always delicious snacks and drinks.
Tobiano, British Columbia
I felt the guides all had great qualities and they cared well for our safety - and all while guiding a large group with such varied abilities and strengths. I don’t know how you get such wonderful guides, but keep up the great work!
Gaylord, Michigan
The setting was beautiful, the snorkeling and other nature on the island were wonderful but what really made the trip for us was the fabulous staff - each person we encountered (office staff and on the island) were professional, friendly and each added to our having a great experience.
Verona, Wisconsin
We knew it was going to be a great trip, but the team exceeded expectations every step of the way. We underestimated the amount of time we would spend learning about the ocean - the daily chats about coral, fish, etc were such a cool thing for our 10-year-old to experience. Thank you for such a memorable vacation, I have no doubt we will be back one day!
Winnipeg, Manitoba
EXCEPTIONAL. The whole place was ran like clockwork. The manager Luis was extremely personable, knowledgeable, helpful, he created an environment that was close to paradise. Everyone else was superb as well. The guides were superior and I particularly liked how they interacted with guests. It felt like one big family and we were introduced to the other guests to create a community.
Deep River, Ontario
The guides were all outstanding. Very knowledgeable, caring and considerate. They always did their best to make our experience top tier. Trip of a lifetime!
Pemberton, British Columbia
We chose Island Expeditions because of the small group sizes, unique experiences and care for the community and environment, This was the best trip we've ever taken - we look forward to traveling with you again.
Kansas City, Missouri
Pedro was always ready with interesting information and stories. A wonderful person to lead the Maya Moho River trip.
Vancouver, British Columbia
Crooked Tree is a very special place. So many birds! And staff who are committed to helping you find them. This was our first time to Belizian Mayan sites and those were very interesting.
Canmore, Alberta
The guides were all so very helpful and fun, patient, knowledgable and kind. Love, Love, Love and am planning to return!
Toronto, Ontario
Ben was very special for our family. He stayed with us the entire trip and became very close with the kids. Extremely positive and knowledgeable and kind. Hope we can see him again. One of our best family trips ever for the whole experience. Thank you for all the work and care in arranging our trip.
Woodlands, Texas
The snorkelling was AMAZING. I have never seen water that colour before. So many fish. The guides were so competent and would tell us each kind they saw. You could tell that safety was a priority. We met so many participants that had taken trips with Island Expeditions a number of times and we could see why. We want to join their number.
Deep River, Ontario
I loved the area where happy hour took place, as well as the dining area. It really allowed people to get to know each other. The "culture talks" were a highlight. The staff (Louis, Ben, Garfield, Matthew, and the cooks and housekeeping staff) were fantastic!
Glen Haven, Colorado
The only problem we ever have with IE trips is choosing which one to do. We love Belize