Dangriga, Belize is a small coastal town located on the Caribbean Sea. It is the cultural and spiritual center of the Garifuna people, an Afro-Caribbean ethnic group who are descendants of African slaves and indigenous Carib and Arawak people. With its rich cultural heritage, stunning beaches, and vibrant nightlife, Dangriga is an ideal destination for travelers looking for an authentic Caribbean experience. Here are the top 20 places to see in Dangriga Belize.
1. St. Peter's Church: This historic church was built in 1843 and is the oldest church in Belize. It is the main place of worship for the Garifuna people and is a popular spot for visitors to take in the local culture.
2. Dangriga Town Center: This is the main shopping area in Dangriga and is home to a variety of shops and restaurants. Here you can find everything from souvenirs to local handicrafts.
3. Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary: This is the world’s first jaguar preserve and is located just a few miles from Dangriga. Here you can take a guided tour and spot a variety of wildlife, including jaguars, tapirs, and ocelots.
4. Southwater Caye Marine Reserve: This protected marine reserve is located just off the coast of Dangriga and is a great spot for snorkeling and diving. Here you can explore the vibrant coral reefs and spot a variety of tropical fish.
5. Hopkins Village: This small fishing village is located just south of Dangriga and is a great spot to experience the Garifuna culture. Here you can take a guided tour and learn about the local traditions and culture.
6. Belize Barrier Reef: This is the second largest barrier reef in the world and is home to a variety of marine life. Here you can take a boat tour and spot a variety of tropical fish, sea turtles, and other marine life.
7. Mayflower Bocawina National Park: This park is located just a few miles from Dangriga and is home to a variety of wildlife, including howler monkeys, toucans, and tapirs. Here you can take a guided tour and explore the lush rainforest.
8. Belize Zoo: This is the only zoo in Belize and is home to a variety of animals, including jaguars, tapirs, and toucans. Here you can take a guided tour and learn about the local wildlife.
9. Manatee Lookout: This is a popular spot for spotting manatees, which are native to the area. Here you can take a boat tour and spot the gentle sea creatures in their natural habitat.
10. Sandfly Creek: This is a popular spot for bird watching and is home to a variety of native and migratory birds. Here you can take a guided tour and spot a variety of colorful birds.
11. Lamanai Archaeological Site: This is an ancient Mayan city that is located just a few miles from Dangriga. Here you can take a guided tour and explore the ruins, which date back to the 9th century.
12. Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary: This is a protected wetland area that is home to a variety of wildlife, including manatees, crocodiles, and iguanas. Here you can take a guided tour and spot a variety of birds and other wildlife.
13. Almond Beach Resort: This is a popular beach resort located just a few miles from Dangriga. Here you can relax on the beach or take part in a variety of water activities, including snorkeling and kayaking.
14. Laughing Bird Caye National Park: This is a protected marine reserve located just off the coast of Dangriga. Here you can take a boat tour and spot a variety of tropical fish, sea turtles, and other marine life.
15. Iguana Creek: This is a popular spot for bird watching and is home to a variety of native and migratory birds. Here you can take a guided tour and spot a variety of colorful birds.
16. Placencia: This is a popular beach town located just a few miles from Dangriga. Here you can relax on the beach or take part in a variety of water activities, including snorkeling and kayaking.
17. Punta Gorda: This is the largest town in southern Belize and is home to a variety of shops and restaurants. Here you can find everything from souvenirs to local handicrafts.
18. Cockscomb Basin Forest Reserve: This is a protected forest reserve located just a few miles from Dangriga. Here you can take a guided tour and spot a variety of wildlife, including jaguars, tapirs, and ocelots.
19. Maya Center: This is a popular spot for learning about the Mayan culture and is home to a variety of artifacts and exhibits. Here you can take a guided tour and learn about the local traditions and culture.
20. Rio Blanco National Park: This is a protected rainforest area located just a few miles from Dangriga. Here you can take a guided tour and explore the lush rainforest.