Belize lacks the major white water necessary for serious rapid enthusiasts. Most of the rivers here are rated Class I, II, or III. Still, many of these rivers are quite well suited for gentle canoe explorations and less technical kayaking adventures. The Macal and Mopan rivers in the Cayo District are perfect for these types of adventures, and most of the hotels and tour operators in the area offer a range of these types of tours.
However, sea kayaking in Belize is excellent. The relatively calm waters and protection provided by the barrier reef and mid-ocean atoll lagoons, combined with a string of small, relatively closely spread cayes, makes this a perfect place to tour and explore by sea kayak. Glover's Reef Atoll is probably the most popular and best place for a sea kayak adventure.
Outfitters
Island Expeditions (tel. 800/667-1630 or 604/452-3212 in the U.S.; www.islandexpeditions.com) run various multiday kayaking tours to the outer atolls, Glover's Reef Atoll, and the coral islands along the southern stretch of Belize's barrier reef. An 8-day/7-night excursion runs US$1,500 to US$2,000 (£795-£1,060).
Slickrock Adventures (tel. 800/390-5715 or 435/259-4225 in the U.S.; www.slickrock.com) specializes in multiday kayak tours around Glover's Reef Atoll, and they even have their own rustically comfortable base camp and lodge on a private caye here. An 8-day/7-night trip costs US$1,975 (£1,047) per person.
