Stepping into the heart of Belize, you’re not just exploring a new destination, but also entering the sets of various films, TV shows, and the living narratives of several books. Nestled in Central America, with its lush rainforests, ancient Mayan ruins, and idyllic beaches, Belize has been a prime location for filmmakers and authors to weave their stories.
10 Famous Films Shot in Belize
Belize’s diverse landscape, rich history, and unique cultural heritage have made it an irresistible choice for numerous film directors. Here are 10 famous films that have used Belize as their canvas:
- The Dogs of War (1980): Directed by John Irvin, this film showcases the unique blend of Belize City’s colonial architecture and natural beauty.
- Mosquito Coast (1986): Filmed in the Belize District, this adventure-drama film captures the untamed beauty of Belize’s countryside.
- The Expendables (2010): The action-packed sequences filmed in Belize City and Ambergris Caye highlight the country’s urban and coastal environments.
- After the Sunset (2004): This crime-comedy uses the picturesque island of Ambergris Caye as its backdrop, showcasing Belize’s tropical splendor.
- Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl (2003): Belize’s scenic coastlines and clear waters make it an ideal shooting location for this swashbuckling adventure.
- The Color of Magic (2008): This fantasy adventure film captures the enchanting landscapes of Cayo District and the enchanting Great Blue Hole.
- Survivor: Belize (2005): The reality TV show turned Belize’s remote cayes and dense jungles into an adventure playground.
- Jaguar Paw (2005): Filmed in the heart of Belize’s rainforests, this intense drama showcases the country’s lush natural beauty.
- Caribbean Paradise (2012): This romantic comedy filmed in San Pedro and Caye Caulker portrays the laid-back island life of Belize.
- Temptation Island (2001): This reality TV series turned film, shot in Ambergris Caye, features the pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters of Belize.
These films have beautifully captured Belize’s unique landscapes, from its lush jungles to its pristine beaches, offering viewers a glimpse of the country’s cinematic allure.
5 TV Shows Set in Belize
Belize’s captivating scenery and rich cultural tapestry have also served as the backdrop for many TV shows. Here are 5 TV shows set in Belize that have captured the spirit of this vibrant nation:
- Breaking Bad (2008-2013): Although not filmed in Belize, the country is referred to multiple times in the series, adding an element of intrigue and mystery.
- Mad Dogs (2015-2016): This black comedy thriller showcases the darker side of Belize, featuring the cityscape of Belize City and the coastal beauty of San Pedro.
- The Real Housewives of Atlanta (2010): The reality TV show captures the luxury and glamour of Belize’s high-end resorts and picturesque landscapes.
- Survivor: Belize (2005): The reality TV show captures the raw beauty of Belize’s remote islands and dense jungles.
- The Bachelor (2012): The popular reality show showcased the romantic side of Belize, featuring its stunning beaches and luxurious resorts.
In these TV shows, Belize’s diverse landscapes and vibrant culture have not only set the scene but also played a key role in shaping the narratives.
5 Animated Films Set in Belize
Belize’s stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity have also inspired many animated films. Here are 5 animated films set in Belize:
- The Road to El Dorado (2000): Although the city of gold is fictional, the movie’s lush landscapes and ancient temples are reminiscent of Belize’s jungles and Mayan ruins.
- Tarzan (1999): The dense rainforests and rich wildlife depicted in this classic animation echo the natural beauty of Belize.
- Rio (2011): While set in Brazil, the vibrant bird life and lush landscapes in this film are reflective of Belize’s own tropical fauna and flora.
- The Wild Thornberrys Movie (2002): This film’s focus on wildlife conservation and exploration resonates with Belize’s own commitment to safeguard its natural heritage.
- Finding Nemo (2003): Though the exact location is never mentioned, the Great Barrier Reef depicted in the film bears a striking resemblance to Belize’s own Barrier Reef, the second-largest in the world.
These animated films, while not explicitly set in Belize, capture the essence of the country’s vibrant wildlife and breathtaking landscapes.
Famous Books Set in Belize
Belize’s rich history, diverse cultures, and stunning landscapes have also been beautifully captured in various literary works. Here are 3 classic and 3 contemporary books set in Belize:
Classic:
- “Beka Lamb” (1982) by Zee Edgell: This novel offers a glimpse into Belize’s colonial past through the eyes of a young girl, reflecting the cultural and political changes during the 1950s.
- “An Episode in the Life of a Landscape Painter” (2000) by César Aira: Although a fictional biography of a German painter, the novel’s vivid descriptions of Belize’s landscapes and wildlife are a testament to the country’s natural beauty.
- “Journey to the River Sea” (2001) by Eva Ibbotson: Set in the early 20th century, this children’s novel, although primarily set in Brazil, includes adventures that reflect the exploration of Belize’s own jungles and rivers.
Contemporary:
- “The Last Flight of the Scarlet Macaw” (2008) by Bruce Barcott: This non-fiction book tells the true story of one woman’s fight to save Belize’s wildlife from a harmful development project.
- “Time Among the Maya: Travels in Belize, Guatemala, and Mexico” (2002) by Ronald Wright: This travelogue explores the history, culture, and landscapes of the Maya, including those of Belize.
- “The Jaguar’s Children” (2015) by John Vaillant: This novel, set in the border regions of Mexico and Belize, explores the plight of Central American migrants.
These books, both classic and contemporary, provide readers with a deeper understanding of Belize’s multifaceted character, from its historical and political complexities to its stunning natural beauty.
Exploring Belize’s Filming Locations – Where to Go
As you embark on your cinematic journey through Belize, here are some must-visit filming locations:
- Ambergris Caye: Known for its beautiful beaches and clear waters, this island has been featured in films like “After the Sunset” and “The Expendables.”
- Belize City: As the country’s largest city, Belize City offers a mix of colonial architecture and modern development, serving as the backdrop for films like “The Dogs of War” and TV shows like “Mad Dogs.”
- Cayo District: Home to a number of ancient Mayan ruins and lush rainforests, the Cayo District has been featured in films like “The Color of Magic.”
- Great Blue Hole: This underwater sinkhole is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has been featured in several documentaries for its unique marine biodiversity.
- San Pedro: Known for its laid-back island lifestyle and stunning beaches, San Pedro has been a filming location for TV shows like “Temptation Island” and “The Bachelor.”
Exploring these filming locations offers an exciting blend of sightseeing and cinematic history, allowing visitors to follow in the footsteps of their favorite characters while discovering the natural and cultural treasures of Belize.
Where to Sleep in Belize: 3 Cheap and 3 Luxury
Whether you’re looking to splurge on a luxury resort or searching for budget-friendly accommodations, Belize offers a diverse range of options to suit every traveler’s needs.
Budget-Friendly:
- Yuma’s House Belize: Located on Caye Caulker, this budget-friendly hostel offers comfortable dorms and private rooms, with easy access to the beach.
- Bella’s Backpackers: Situated in San Ignacio, this hostel provides a quiet and comfortable base for exploring the Cayo District’s natural attractions.
- Pedro’s Hotel: Located in San Pedro, this affordable hotel offers clean and comfortable rooms, just a short walk from the beach.
Luxury:
- Coco Beach Resort: Located on Ambergris Caye, this luxury resort offers spacious villas, two large pools, and a range of high-end amenities.
- Ka’ana Resort: Nestled in the Cayo District, this luxury boutique resort offers a blend of adventure and relaxation with its own on-site adventure company and a world-class spa.
- Chaa Creek: Set on a 400-acre nature reserve in the Cayo District, this eco-lodge offers luxurious accommodations and a range of activities, from bird-watching to horseback riding.
Where to Eat in Belize
From local street food to high-end dining, Belize offers a culinary journey that caters to all budgets and palates.
Budget:
- El Fogon: Located in San Pedro, this local eatery serves traditional Belizean dishes cooked over an open fire pit.
- Erva’s Restaurant: Situated in San Ignacio, this family-run restaurant serves a mix of Belizean and international dishes at reasonable prices.
- Boogie’s Belly: This food stand in Belize City is known for its delicious and affordable Belizean-style tacos.
Luxury:
- Guava Limb Café: Located in San Ignacio, this upscale restaurant offers a fusion of Belizean and international cuisines, using organic ingredients sourced from their own farm.
- Rumfish y Vino: Situated in Placencia, this gastro-pub offers a modern take on Belizean cuisine, with an extensive list of wines and rum cocktails.
- Blu Restaurant & Bar: Located in Ambergris Caye, this beachfront restaurant offers a fine dining experience with a menu that includes fresh seafood and imported meats.
Whether you’re a foodie on a budget or a gourmet traveler looking for a luxury dining experience, Belize’s culinary scene offers something to suit all tastes.
Detailed Itinerary Day by Day
Embark on a cinematic journey through Belize with this 7-day itinerary, tracing the footsteps of famous films and discovering the country’s natural and cultural treasures.
Day 1: Arrival in Belize City
Upon arrival in Belize City, explore the city’s colonial architecture and bustling streets, as seen in films like “The Dogs of War.”
Day 2: Belize City to Ambergris Caye
Catch a water taxi or a local flight to Ambergris Caye. Spend the day exploring the island’s stunning beaches and clear waters, as featured in films like “After the Sunset” and “The Expendables.”
Day 3: Ambergris Caye
Spend another day in Ambergris Caye, perhaps snorkeling or diving in the Belize Barrier Reef or simply relaxing on the beach.
Day 4: Ambergris Caye to Cayo District
Travel back to Belize City and then on to the Cayo District. Explore the lush rainforests and ancient Mayan ruins that have starred in films like “The Color of Magic.”
Day 5: Cayo District
Spend the day exploring more of the Cayo District’s natural attractions, such as the Actun Tunichil Muknal cave or the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve.
Day 6: Cayo District to San Pedro
Travel to San Pedro in Ambergris Caye. Explore the town’s vibrant nightlife and laid-back island lifestyle, as featured in TV shows like “Temptation Island” and “The Bachelor.”
Day 7: Departure
Spend your last day in Belize relaxing on the beach or doing some last-minute shopping before catching your flight home.
Cryptid Legends and Curiosities
Belize is not only known for its stunning landscapes and rich history but also for its folklore and cryptid legends. One such legend is the tale of the Tata Duende, a gnome-like creature with backwards feet who is believed to protect the jungle and its animals. Another well-known cryptid is the Llorona, a weeping ghost woman who is often seen near bodies of water, warning of impending doom.
These cryptid legends add an element of mystery and intrigue to Belize’s natural attractions, making it a fascinating destination for not only moviegoers but also fans of the supernatural and the unknown.
Hidden Gems in Belize
Beyond its well-known filming locations, Belize also boasts a number of hidden gems that offer a unique and off-the-beaten-path experience.
- Hopkins Village: This small coastal village in Stann Creek District offers a unique glimpse into the rich culture of the Garifuna, an Afro-Caribbean ethnic group.
- Blue Hole National Park: Not to be confused with the Great Blue Hole, this lesser-known natural attraction in the Cayo District offers beautiful hiking trails, a stunning blue cenote, and the St. Herman’s Cave.
- Mayflower Bocawina National Park: Located in the Stann Creek District, this park offers a range of activities, from hiking and bird-watching to rappelling down waterfalls.
Exploring these hidden gems will give you a deeper appreciation of Belize’s diverse natural beauty and cultural heritage.
What to Pack for a Trip to Belize
When packing for a trip to Belize, consider the country’s tropical climate and the activities you plan to do. Essentials include lightweight clothing, a swimsuit, comfortable walking shoes, insect repellent, sunscreen, and a hat for sun protection. If you plan on exploring the jungle or visiting during the rainy season, a rain jacket or umbrella is also a good idea.
How to Dress in Belize
In Belize, casual and comfortable is the way to go. However, Belizeans tend to dress a bit more formally for church or when conducting business. As a visitor, your wardrobe should depend on the activities you plan to do. For exploring the cities and ruins, lightweight clothing and comfortable shoes are recommended. If you’re heading to the beach, don’t forget your swimsuit and a cover-up.
Transportation Tips in Belize
Getting around Belize can be done by bus, taxi, car, or even by boat. Buses are the cheapest option and are great for traveling between cities, but they may not be the most comfortable or reliable. Taxis are more expensive, but they provide more flexibility. Car rentals are available in larger towns and at the international airport. Boats, or water taxis, are essential for reaching the offshore islands.
Travel Documents Needed for Belize
When traveling to Belize, you’ll need a valid passport with at least six months remaining before expiration. Visitors from the U.S., Canada, the EU, and several other countries do not need a visa for stays up to 30 days. However, an extension can be obtained from the immigration department. Proof of return or onward travel may be required upon entry.
In conclusion, Belize’s stunning landscapes, rich cultures, and cryptid legends make it a fascinating destination for film buffs and adventurous travelers alike. Whether you’re exploring the ruins of a Mayan city, relaxing on a sandy beach, or following in the footsteps of your favorite movie characters, Belize offers a unique and unforgettable travel experience. So why wait? Start planning your cinematic journey to Belize today!
