SOUTHERN BELIZE

Dangriga

A bustling place, attracting a mixed bunch of people, especially divers because of Dangriga's proximity to the sea. It is also home to the wonderful Warribaggabagga Dancers and The Turtle Shell Band! Nearby is Cockscomb Basin Jaguar Reserve, which bustles with wildlife including margay, ocelot, puma, jaguarundi, tapir, deer, paca and hundreds of bird species.

Placencia

This used to be a relaxed fishing village on the south tip of an 11 mile long peninsula. It's a bit more developed now but still relaxed and it's as easy to do nothing here but stretch out on sandy beaches. Activities include sport fishing, snorkelling, scuba diving, birdwatching or photographing the rich wildlife in the region. Treks can be made to the Maya mountains, the Cockscomb Jaguar Reserve or the Monkey River to see the manatees.

Toledo District

This most southerly district attracts those who enjoy exploring in 4-wheel drive vehicles, as the roads are a little rough here. Probably the poorest area of Belize, it is rich in other ways, there is primary rainforest and it is great for birdwatching and visiting some of the lesser known archaeological sites. Fallen Stones Lodge is an excellent place to stay off the beaten track.