Blue Hole in Belize: Everything you need to know to visit it

If you've ever dreamed of exploring an underwater world filled with mystery and beauty, the Great Blue Hole in Belize should be on your bucket list . This spectacular marine sinkhole is not only a geological wonder but also a paradise for divers and adventurers .

Located near Lighthouse Reef , another atoll in Belize, the Great Blue Hole is a small atoll about 100 kilometers off the coast of Belize in the Caribbean Sea . With a diameter of over 300 meters and a depth of 124 meters , this circular, deep blue hole is visible from space, making it one of the most breathtaking seascapes on the planet.

The Great Blue Hole is part of the Belize Barrier Reef , the second largest coral reef in the world, and is part of the Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The origin of the Blue Hole

This wonder was formed thousands of years ago during the last Ice Age, when sea levels were much lower. At that time, it was a limestone cave on dry land. As sea levels rose, the cave flooded and its roof collapsed, forming the sinkhole we know today . The formation of stalactites and stalagmites inside the Blue Hole is evidence of its past as a dry cave.

The Blue Hole gained worldwide fame thanks to the exploration and documentaries of legendary oceanographer Jacques Cousteau, who in 1971 declared it one of the best diving sites in the world . Since then, it has been a magnet for divers from all corners of the globe, drawn by its crystal-clear waters, abundant marine life, and Caribbean-like temperatures.

Belize has a tropical climate, with a dry season from November to April and a rainy season from May to October. The best time to visit the Blue Hole is during the dry season , when sea conditions are calmer and visibility is optimal for diving and snorkeling. During these months, temperatures range from 24°C to 29°C, making it ideal for outdoor activities.

A paradise for divers

It's true that the Blue Hole is impressive from above. A helicopter flight offers panoramic views of the hole and its stunning surroundings, an experience anyone would want to try. But its true charm is revealed underwater .

Divers can explore the legendary stalactite and stalagmite formations found at a depth of about 40 meters. In addition, the waters of the Blue Hole are home to a variety of marine life , including reef sharks, bull sharks, and occasionally hammerhead sharks.

Taking advantage of a trip to Belize , which you can reach by landing at Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport, visitors can enjoy snorkeling in the surrounding waters, where colorful coral reefs and abundant marine life create a breathtaking visual spectacle. For those who prefer to stay above water, nothing beats the island's best beaches .

Belize: San Ignacio and Cayo San Pedro

The best beaches in Belize

• Ambergris Caye : This island is the largest and most popular in Belize, especially known for its coral reef. Ambergris Caye combines Caribbean charm with a vibrant nightlife and a wide range of activities. The beaches of Secret Beach are perfect for swimming and relaxing. The island is also an excellent starting point for diving and snorkeling excursions.
• Caye Caulker : With its "Go Slow" motto, Caye Caulker is the perfect place to disconnect and enjoy island life. Just a short boat ride from the Blue Hole, this island offers tranquil beaches and a relaxed atmosphere. The waters around Caye Caulker are ideal for swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding.

• Half Moon Caye : This natural gem, located in Lighthouse Reef, is a small paradise island with white sand beaches and mesmerizing turquoise waters. Half Moon Caye is also a bird sanctuary, home to the largest colony of red-footed boobies in the region.
• South Water Caye : This small, private cay is a slice of paradise just 15 kilometers from the Blue Hole. With soft sandy beaches and direct access to the reef, South Water Caye offers some of the best diving and snorkeling opportunities in Belize. The calm, clear waters allow you to discover abundant marine life, including some turtles.

• Glover's Reef Atoll : This atoll, about 45 kilometers from the Blue Hole, is a perfect destination for nature lovers and water sports enthusiasts. The beaches here are spectacular, with white sand and incredibly clear waters. Glover's Reef is also a designated Marine Reserve.

You might also be interested in: House of the Dragon: The series' filming locations in Europe