Belize on the world map

Summary

Location of Belize on the world map

Belize is located in North America in a subregion of Central America. On the world map, Belize can be found near the southeast corner of Mexico, below the Yucatan Peninsula.

In terms of coordinates, Belize is located at 17.1899° N and 88.4976° W. This means it lies just above the equator and slightly to the west of the prime meridian – which passes through Greenwich in England.

The coordinates put Belize in an advantageous position for both trade and travel with many other countries in Central America as well as with those from further afield.

The location between two oceans also gives Belize access to Atlantic and Pacific trade routes, which has helped foster economic growth over the years.

Countries bordering the map of Belize

Belize shares land boundaries with only two countries – Mexico to the north and Guatemala to the west and south. Where else its coastlines border the Caribbean Sea on the east side and the Gulf of Honduras on the west.

Size

The area of Belize covers 22,966 square kilometers which is equivalent to 8,867 square miles. It has a coastline of 386 km (240 miles) along the Caribbean Sea and a land border with Guatemala of 266 km (165 mi) whereas the Belize-Mexico border is approximately 250 km (155 mi) long

Population

The population of Belize has been steadily increasing since the beginning of the 21st century. As of 2021, the estimated population is nearly 400,000 people.

This increase in population has led to greater diversity in language and ethnicity. Over 60 percent of the population speaks English as their first language, while Spanish, Creole, Garifuna, and Mayan languages are also spoken commonly throughout the country. With an estimated 3.3 percent growth rate in 2021, Belize’s population is expected to continue to grow over the next few years.

Interesting facts about Belize

Here are some interesting facts about Belize:

• The official language of Belize is English making it the only english-speaking nation in Central America
• Red kidney beans, rice, and coconut milk make up the national cuisine of Belize, known as “Rice and Beans.”
• The second-largest barrier reef in the world, behind Australia’s Great Barrier Reef, is found in Belize, which is also home to some of the most stunning coral reefs on earth.
• One of the few nations in the world having jaguars living inside its boundaries is Belize.
• Over 3,000 years ago, the Maya civilization flourished in what is now Belize, leaving behind numerous artifacts and sites like Xunantunich and Caracol that are still visible today.
• Over 450 different bird species may be found in Belize, making it a popular destination for bird lovers from around the globe.
• There are two outstanding natural wonders in the nation that are designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the Caracol Archaeological Reserve and the Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System.
• Due to its large network of underground rivers and caves that extend across the nation’s deep rainforest regions, Belize is regarded as one of the best places in Central America for cave exploration.