In case you don't know, the city of Belmopan is Belize's sprawling capital. Located in the geographic center of Belize and 76 meters above sea level, Belmopan is one of the few planned cities in the country, with all the well-planned neighborhoods, sidewalks, zones, and greenery that give it the nickname "The Garden City."
Prior to Belmopan's declaration as national capital, Belize City served as the capital until 1970, when it was greatly destroyed by Hurrican Hattie. Belmopan was chosen to serve as the next capital because of its high elevation and absence of rivers that pass through the area. Today, government agencies, foreign embassies, and non-government organization are all based here, with the main campus of the University of Belize also moved here. This said, the city is also one of the most culturally diverse areas in the country.
Living up to its nickname, Belmopan is home to a number of National Parks that harbor much of the country's wildlife. This includes the Guanacaste National Park. The park is home to the famed giant guanacaste tree, for which the park is named for. Otherwise, you can also feast your eyes on the wildlife and lush vegetation that thrive here.
Then there is, again, the main campus of the University of Belize, the largest institution of higher learning in the country. It is home to the Regional Language Center, where a lot of foreigners go to in order to learn English. There's also the Belize Center for Human Rights Studies, which aim to inform and educate the public about their human rights.
Finally, there's the National Assembly Building, which has been designed to look like a Pre-Columbian Maya Temple. Much of the other government buildings are located in clusters around this area.
Because the city is well-planned, it is just easy to get around here. For a start, there's the Ring Road, which tours the entire city and is 2 miles in length. From here, you can go check out the different structures or take a rest in Belmopan's abundant green spaces.
If you're arriving by plane, a small airstrip is located just inside the outskirts of the city.
