Belize, often called ''Mother Nature's best kept secret'', is a tropical paradise. It is the only English speaking country in Central America and the smallest (in terms of population) non-island sovereign state in the Americas. It is a stable democracy of about 300,000 people. Belize borders Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula to the north, Guatemala to the west and south, and the Caribbean Sea to the east.
Belize is a country of many cayes (small islands), inland tropical forests, pristine rivers, ancient Mayan temples and sacred caves. Along the 300 miles of Caribbean coastline lies the second longest barrier reef in the world. The Belize Barrier Reef is also designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site comprising seven Marine Protected Areas
The rich culture of Belize reflects the diversity of the peoples who call Belize home: Maya, Creole, European, Garifuna, Mestizo, East Indian, Chinese and Mennonite.
The flora and fauna in Belize are spectacular. An amazing number of mammals are found in Belize and, though many of them are nocturnal, you can see them at Belize's famous Zoo, 'the greatest little zoo in the world.' Among the 572 species of birds in Belize, you will hear flocks of parrots noisily announcing their presence in the jungle and the teasing calls of many birds that blend into the tropical landscape.
Study Abroad in Belize
Students interested in study abroad programs should view our comprehensive directory of programs in Belize. There are many study abroad programs available in Belize and it remains a popular desintation for students looking to travel for a semester abroad. One such program is the Monkey Bay Wildlife Sanctuary.
Monkey Bay Wildlife Sanctuary
The Monkey Bay program is a not-for-profit organization, and a program for students to participate in services of conservation of land stewardship in Belize. Monkey-Bay is housed in a 1060-acre sanctuary managed for wildlife protection within Belize protected areas.
