There is no shortage of nature-driven euphoria in Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
05.01.2024 - 14:47 / lonelyplanet.com / River Valley
Known for its dual identity as a Caribbean and Latin American nation, Belize holds a world of wonders that will delight even the littlest of travelers.
Hundreds of offshore islands, vast expanses of rainforest and tons of biodiversity combine to ignite a sense of adventure and curiosity in visitors regardless of age or taste. If you’re planning to bring the kids, here’s how to make Belize one of your most memorable family vacations.
Though not without its challenges, Belize is a family-friendly destination. Thanks to the slew of activities and attractions found throughout the country, it’s easy to plan a multigenerational trip that’s exciting and engaging for everyone (including the family TikTok fiend).
Here, nature is your backyard. Navigating ancient Maya sites, meandering down rivers and streams and enjoying close encounters with wildlife: this is what dream vacations are made of. Plus, even your pickiest eater might find joy in the country’s lack of chain restaurants and abundance of delicious, farm-fresh meals.
One of the biggest issues you’ll encounter when visiting Belize with kids is finding stroller-friendly areas. Uneven footpaths in cities and towns, along with steep hills in places like Cayo make getting around a lot tougher for families with babies or toddlers. Baby changing stations in restrooms are also few and far between, so be sure to invest in a travel changing mat.
Nevertheless, thanks to Belize’s family-oriented culture, little ones are met with welcoming attitudes. Quite a few resorts in the country offer discounted rates for children under 12 and many have accommodations designed with families in mind.
Destinations like Caye Caulker, Placencia, Hopkins, San Ignacio and even the Belize River Valley are all safe and exciting options, each with their own draws.
The Cayo District is home to one of the country's most renowned family-friendly resorts, the Lodge at Chaa Creek. Eco-adventures and experiences including the butterfly farm, archaeological sites and even an on-site organic garden will keep the kids active.
In more remote destinations, like the Toledo District, you’ll have a harder time finding activities to keep everyone occupied the longer your stay. Still, the district is one of the best places for cultural tours and more off-the-beaten-path sites.
One of Belize’s first-ever fully accessible attractions, the Belize Zoo is both stroller and wheelchair friendly. It offers a unique experience that forgoes concrete cages for natural enclosures that mimic real wildlife habitats.
Fit for all ages, it’s perfect for getting up close and personal with tapirs, jaguars, scarlet macaws and spider monkeys.
Home to quite a few all-inclusive resorts that can make travel with toddlers much easier,
There is no shortage of nature-driven euphoria in Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
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