Reefs, Rainforests & Ancient Ruins

Does the notion of horseback riding to Mayan ruins, snorkeling with sharks near one of the world’s largest barrier reefs and rambling through lush rainforests make your heart go thump? Pack your bags for Central America!s smallest and only English-speaking country, Belize. 

Photos by San Ignacio Resort Hotel

“Known as one of the most romantic destinations in Central America, Belize attracts an increasing number of soon-to-be-weds annually. From exotic wildlife roaming through pristine tropical forests to cool mountain rivers spilling into the turquoise Caribbean Sea; wedding inspirations range from magnificent backdrops like mystic ‘under-world’ caves, to the tallest waterfall,” says Anthony Mahler, Minister of Tourism and Diaspora Relations for Belize.

Photos by Itz’ana Resort

Beachside Base

Itz’ana Resort: The young boutique resort is a great base and the perfect canvas for couples to paint picturesque weddings on a beautiful beach in Placencia at Belize’s southern tip. Whether you chose an intimate ceremony or buy out the resort for a boho bash, Itz’ana Resort shimmers. Be sure to book yourself a sumptuously spacious beach-front villa, taste rum at the Great House and enjoy a few Belizean bests like night hiking searching for jaguars or floating in the Great Blue Hole.

Photos by San Ignacio Resort Hotel

Royal Treatment

San Ignacio Resort Hotel: A resort that hosted Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II understands a thing or two about royal treatment. Boasting a variety of venues the elegant San Ignacio Resort Hotel is centrally located in the Cayo District. The family-owned hotel can host everything from a champagne toast for two, a reception for 500 people, and a ceremony at an ancient Mayan ruin. Venues include a luscious private garden, a hall with a private terrace viewing the jungle, indoor and outdoor dining spaces, an outdoor pool and tennis courts. The gracious property is run by four sisters who learned the art of hospitality from their father Escandar Bedran.

Photos by Alaia Belize

Natural High Style

Alaia Belize: A highlight of Belize is its 185-mile long barrier reef, the largest reef in the Northern Hemisphere. Tying the knot in Ambergris Caye gives you great access to the national treasure as well as the opportunity to get hitched at Alaia Belize. The resort offers a plethora of places to get married including beachside soirees, sunset rooftop celebrations, poolside, a terrace, bar and lounge, and stylish wine room.

Photos by Alaia Belize

6 Ways to Wed in Belize

• Hop onto a sandbar on the coast of Ambergris Caye
• Enjoy the serenity of a private island witnessed by wildlife
• Channel Mayan magic in an underground cave
• Unite under a canopy of trees and feel jungle vibe in the rainforest
• Exchange your vows officiated by a Mayan Shaman one of the myriads of Mayan temples
• Watch the sunset on the Caribbean Sea on a sailboat

Traveling to and around Belize

You can get there in a non-stop or one-stop flight from several major hubs in the U.S. and can easily navigate the country in a day trip by road or less than an hour on a domestic flight. You!ll want to take your time engaging in Belize!s biological diversity and getting to know its kindhearted people.