Belize

Belize is a small country in Central America. It sits on the Caribbean Sea, next to Mexico and Guatemala. The country has rainforests, rivers, and a huge coral reef. About 400,000 people live in Belize, and the capital city is Belmopan.

The Great Reef

Belize has the second biggest coral reef in the whole world. Only Australia's Great Barrier Reef is larger. The Belize Barrier Reef is home to sharks, sea turtles, dolphins, and thousands of colorful fish. There is also a giant underwater hole called the Great Blue Hole. It looks like a perfect dark blue circle from above. Scuba divers come from all over to explore it.

Jungle and People

The jungles of Belize are full of wild animals. Jaguars, howler monkeys, and toucans all live there. Long ago, the ancient Maya people built stone cities in the rainforest. You can still visit their tall pyramids today. People in Belize speak English, Spanish, and a language called Kriol. They enjoy eating rice, beans, and fresh seafood.

Fun Facts

• Belize is the only country in Central America where English is the official language.
• The jaguar, the biggest cat in the Americas, is the national animal.
• Belize has more than 900 ancient Maya sites.

Did You Know?

The Great Blue Hole in Belize is so big that you can see it clearly from space.