Hol Chan

Hol Chan

The quick ride out to Hol Chan Marine Reserve makes this the most popular half-day tour for visitors staying at Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker. Set aside in 1987, this reserve covers an area of 3 square miles (7.8 sq km) and is found off the southern tip of Ambergris Caye. As a result, this area of the Belize Barrier Reef supports healthy populations of fish and colorful coral. Turtles, nurse sharks, grouper, jacks, reef fish, and barracuda are just a few of the species you might see here. The reef ranges from 10–30 feet (3–9 m) deep and most guides take snorkelers along the outer edge of the reef. While this site is great for beginner snorkelers, as well as divers, swimmers should pay attention to currents which can be strong throughout the reserve.

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The Hol Chan cut is a natural, 30-foot-deep (9-m-deep) break in the barrier reef. The Maya dubbed this formation Hol Chan, which translates to “Little Channel.” This break allows for ocean currents to sweep nutrients into the inner reef lagoon, thereby attracting a range of marine life to the area. Keep your eyes out for moray eels, nurse sharks, and black groupers.

The popularity of this site means that you will not be alone on the reef. From San Pedro, the ride out to the reef is less than 20 minutes, and every day dozens of boats moor up to the buoys that have been installed at the site. Most tours are combined with a stop at Shark Ray Alley.

Tours & Activities

Experiences in Hol Chan

Explore hand-picked Hol Chan tours and experiences led by local insiders, from wildlife encounters to cultural deep-dives.

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Trips to Inspire

Hol Chan itineraries

Explore hand-picked Hol Chan itineraries designed by local insiders who know every hidden corner. Each trip is completely flexible, customized to your pace, travel style, and budget.

From $1,184 per person

8 days · San Ignacio, Ambergris Caye

Family

Megan’s family vacation in Belize blended adventure and relaxation for a memorable Caribbean getaway. They trekked from San Ignacio’s rainforest highlands to the Tikal ruins, then snorkeled with sharks and rays at Hol Chan Reef along Belize’s tropical coast. Friendly locals and knowledgeable guides shared Maya history and coastal traditions, leaving Megan’s family with a deeper appreciation for Belize’s vibrant heritage and natural wonders.

8 days · San Ignacio, Ambergris Caye

Belize

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6 days · San Ignacio, Ambergris Caye

Couple

I would and have recommend Belize to others as well as Anywhere, they were very patient and easy to work with and came through on their part of every aspect of our trip. Thanks Anywhere!

6 days · San Ignacio, Ambergris Caye

Belize

From $1,531 per person

9 days · San Ignacio, Ambergris Caye

Family

Such a great trip from start to finish. Our kids had such a great time and we did as well. Everything was planned so perfectly! Thank you Rodrigo!

9 days · San Ignacio, Ambergris Caye

Belize

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12 days · San Ignacio, Ambergris Caye, Caye Caulker

Family

Anywhere has always (third trip booked) done a great job in the choices, planning and logistics. Best travel company ever!!

12 days · San Ignacio, Ambergris Caye, Caye Caulker

Belize

From $3,823 per person

8 days · Ambergris Caye, Placencia

Solo

You want adventure, tropical weather, and plenty of indulgence. This Signature Trip to Belize delivers all that and more in large doses.

8 days · Ambergris Caye, Placencia

Belize

From $1,822 per person

8 days · Ambergris Caye, Caye Caulker

Solo

-Sigh-…That’s the sound of relaxation. Island hop from Ambergris Caye to Caye Caulker where you’ll enjoy soft sand, crystal clear waters, and plenty of good times. #VacationMode

8 days · Ambergris Caye, Caye Caulker

Belize

From $1,154 per person

6 days · Ambergris Caye

Family

Fun in the sun and epic adventures combine to create the perfect family getaway when you choose this Signature Trip to beautiful Belize.

6 days · Ambergris Caye

Belize

From $2,555 per person

7 days · Placencia, Ambergris Caye

Solo

Think Belize is nothing but sunbathing on the beach? Think again! From swimming with sharks and rays to river safaris through the jungle, Belize is anything but boring.

7 days · Placencia, Ambergris Caye

Belize

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10 days · San Ignacio, Hopkins, Ambergris Caye

Solo

Take yourself on a grand adventure through Belize. Enjoy both beaches and jungles. Go snorkeling, zip lining, horseback riding, caving/spelunking, and more.

10 days · San Ignacio, Hopkins, Ambergris Caye

Belize

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7 days · San Ignacio, Ambergris Caye

Family

The guides did a wonderful job adjusting to the desires and abilities of our group. We're a big group with very active kids, and all our needs were met!

7 days · San Ignacio, Ambergris Caye

Belize