Protected Areas in Belize

The Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System (BBRRS), a globally significant testament to Belize's unwavering commitment to preserving its unparalleled marine treasures within the vibrant Caribbean Sea, was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996. This comprehensive and interconnected network comprises seven distinct protected areas, each a unique jewel contributing its specific array of reef types, diverse ecosystems, and crucial habitats to the remarkable overall biodiversity of the Belize Barrier Reef, the second-largest barrier reef system on Earth.

Nestled on the eastern coast of Central America, Belize is home to one of the world's most iconic marine ecosystems – the Belize Barrier Reef. Within this natural treasure trove lies the Hol Chan Marine Reserve, a protected area that is a testament to Belize's commitment to conservation and sustainable marine management. Hol Chan offers visitors an unparalleled opportunity to immerse themselves in the Caribbean's vibrant and diverse underwater world.

Belize is a land of rich historical significance and remarkable biodiversity. Among its most renowned treasures are the ancient Maya city of Caracol and the expansive Chiquibul National Park. These two interconnected sites provide an invaluable glimpse into the region's ancient past while showcasing its ecological richness. Together, they offer a compelling narrative of human ingenuity, environmental preservation, and cultural heritage.

The Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, nestled within the Cockscomb Range in southern Belize, is one of the world's most successful and pioneering conservation areas. This sanctuary, the first dedicated jaguar preserve, provides a protected habitat for Belize's elusive big cats and safeguards biodiversity within its dense tropical forests, rivers, and mountainous terrain. The Cockscomb Range and Basin form a unique conservation landscape, offering a refuge for endangered species and a valuable ecological research site.

Extending from southwestern Belize's Maya Mountains eastward to the Caribbean Sea, the Maya Mountain Marine Corridor represents one of the world's most innovative conservation approaches—integrating terrestrial and marine ecosystem management to create a continuous protected landscape from mountain peaks to coral reefs. This visionary corridor bridges the gap between highland forests and coastal waters, where species rely on both terrestrial and marine habitats during their life cycles.

Rising dramatically from the coastal plains and limestone lowlands of west-central Belize and extending into eastern Guatemala, the Maya Mountains stand as both the geological backbone and ecological heart of the nation. This ancient mountain range represents one of Central America's oldest geological features and plays a pivotal role in shaping the region's landscape, biodiversity, and cultural heritage. The Maya Mountains form the centerpiece of Belize's conservation efforts, including the critical Maya Mountain Marine Corridor that connects these highlands to Caribbean coastal waters.