Introducing Northern Belize
Northern Belize is probably the most passed-through region in the country. Many travelers save themselves a small chunk of change by flying into Chetumal or Cancun in Mexico and bussing straight down into Belize City and out to the cayes. Their general take on the transitory sojourn is less than complimentary. ‘Flat terrain, farmland and uninspiring towns, ’ some have said. To these travelers, we say, ‘Have fun in San Pedro!’
Are they gone yet? Excellent!
Now we can talk about the beautiful, chilled-out stretch of Belize that the masses miss entirely, keeping paths un-beaten, and hotel and food prices close to half that of the rest of Belize.
Northern Belize comprises two districts: Corozal and Orange Walk. From the road down from Mexico, the terrain of both appears to be mostly farmland and sparse jungle, with attractions for tourists thin on the ground. While the Northern Hwy lacks the gorgeous curves and panoramic vistas of the Hummingbird or Southern Highways, off this main road lie a plethora of places to explore, including pretty fishing villages, pristine jungles and ancient Maya cities.
Then there’s the food! With its close proximity to Mexico, cuisine in Belize’s north is far more colorful and diverse than it is down south; if you’re ready to trade stew beans, rice and rum for ceviche, empanadas and tequila, you’ll definitely want to head north.
Beautiful, inexpensive, untouristy and tasty: in a nutshell, that’s northern Belize!
Corozal District
The country's northernmost district, Corozal is wedged in between Orange Walk and the border.
Orange Walk Town
Orange Walk Town is many things to many people: agricultural town, economic hub, Mennonite meeting place, street food paradise…but it is not generally considered a tourist town.
Northern Belize destination guides
Sarteneja
If you came to Belize in search of crystal blue waters, delicious fresh seafood, fauna-rich forests and affordable prices, look no further than Sarteneja (sar-ten-eh-ha).
Hotels in Northern Belize
Guesthouses and B&Bs in Northern Belize
Orange Walk District
Orange Walk is one of the more spread out and thinly populated districts in Belize.
Need to know
Entertainment in Northern Belize
Corozal Town
Nine miles south of Mexico and 29 miles north of Orange Walk Town, Corozal has a vibe different from any other town in Belize.
Shopping in Northern Belize