Exploring the Great Blue Hole in Belize

The Great Blue Hole in Belize could easily be described as one of the greatest wonders of the world. It one of the best marine habitats sites ever discovered and it is an experience of a lifetime. And it’s right here in the Caribbean.

It was reportedly made famous by the late marine scientist Jacques Cousteau who visited the hole in 1972 to examine stalactites. In 1997, geologist Robert Gill and a team from the Cambrian Foundation collected stalactites for further examination and analysis.

Do you want to visit the Great Blue Hole in Belize? We’ll take you through the history of the great blue hole, how to get to there and how to plan a trip to this coveted scuba diving and snorkelling site.

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History of the Great Blue Hole in Belize

Belize’s Great Blue Hole is a natural creation that has intrigued scientists and marine enthusiasts for centuries. It is believed that the hole was formed during the ice age through a series of glacial events. Further, incidents of erosion of rock and deposition of material in the area, are believed to have created the wonder that is called the Great Blue Hole.

Where is the Great Blue Hole?

The cavern is located just about 60 miles off the Belize coast and is near the center of the Lighthouse Reef atoll. It is part of the Barrier Reef Reserve System and was designated a world heritage site of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Culture Organisation (UNESCO) in 1996.

The aerial view of the hole shows an almost perfectly circular dark blue abyss surrounded by coral and gorgeous turquoise waters. The contrast of dark blue and turquoise is an eerily stunning sight that beckons visitors and teases about the true depth of the hole.

However, this view does not prepare you for the unique positioning of stalactites and stalagmites and other limestone formations which are accessible only by a diving session. The area, a popular tourist spot, is one of the must-see diving locations on a trip to Belize.

What is the Great Blue Hole?

The circular hole is a limestone sinkhole with dimensions of 300 feet wide and 412 feet deep. There is a coral reef which surrounds the hole and gives the impression of an eyelid of a dark blue eye. The total diameter of this phenomenon measures 1,000 feet and creates a natural home for marine life.

The Great Blue Hole itself does not have much marine life. However, the surrounding reefs are home to several interesting aquatic species. For example, there are several varieties of fish including butterfly fish, parrot fish angelfish, groupers, octopus, shrimp, sea anemones, coral and turtles.

Several shark species frequent the hole. Species that have spotted in areas close to the hole are nurse sharks, bull sharks, black tip sharks, Caribbean reef sharks and hammerhead sharks. On very rare occasions, sharks have been spotted in the hole itself.

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Planning a Trip to the Great Blue Hole in Belize

The best time to visit the Great Blue Hole is during period from January to May. This is the dry season in Belize. It’s a period when chances of excessive rain and tropical storms are almost nonexistent. In contrast, the months of June to December constitute the rainy season. Consequently, visibility under the sea is at its worse.

A visit to the great blue hole can be done by plane, helicopter or boat and there are hotels located on the atolls and islands surrounding Belize. If you are visiting Belize strictly for a visit to the Blue Hole, you should consider staying at one of the resorts situated on the Turneffe Atoll, Caye Caulker or Ambergris Caye. Turneffe Caye is closest to the hole.

Aircraft Tours

Planes and helicopters provide aerial tours which provide a bird’s eye view of the hole and surrounding islands. Tours depart from a several areas in Belize including Belize City, Caye Caulker and San Pedro and usually last an hour. Approximate travel time by boat ranges from thirty minutes to two hours.

Boat Tours

Several companies offer day boat trips to the hole, and because of its allure, the area is in high demand. Tour packages include a combination of scuba diving or snorkelling, lunch, transportation to the hole and back as well as island lodge accommodation. Approximate travel time by boat ranges from two to six hours depending on the departure point.

Accommodation

The Belize Tourist Board’s website has an extensive list of accommodation for visitors. There you will find luxury resorts; family-friendly hotels; vacation rentals; condos; guesthouses; campgrounds; and live-aboard vessels. These are located on the mainland and on the associated atolls, islands and cays. Listings include contact information, rates, amenities, activities and location. You can find Belize hotel deals on the Booking.com website.

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Rules for the Great Blue Hole in Belize

Because the Great Blue Hole is a protected area, there are specific rules which must be followed. The Belize Audobon Society co-manages the Blue Hole Natural Monument and has effected strict rules and regulations for vessels and snorkellers and divers.

Vessels

Vessels must carefully navigate the areas surrounding the blue hole and keep a watchful eye for swimmers and divers. Boaters must inspect the three permanent mooring buoys within the hole prior to tying and must not anchor outside of the designated sites. These buoys are available for everyone to utilize and everyone must share them. However, mariners should be cautious when refuelling in the area, they must refrain from dumping and waste into the ocean. Jet skis cannot enter the area.

Swimmers, Snorkellers and Divers

Swimmers, snorkellers and divers should remember that there are no life guards are on duty at the site. As a result, divers should be extremely cautious and practice safe diving. It is recommended that only intermediate to expert level divers should participate in deep diving. Most importantly, always partner with a buddy or a licensed tour guide. Please note that you cannot fish in the area. Removing anything from the reefs or the entire area of the reserve is against the law.

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