People & Culture
One of the greatest things about traveling to Belize is the amazing people and culture that comes with it. There is such a spirit about the Mayan civilization, along with the diverse ethnic people who now inhabit it.
Mestizos make up 44% of Belize’s population. These people are descendants of immigrants from many Central American bordering countries, such as Guatemala, Mexico, and Nicaragua. They derive influence from the Spanish, European, and Mayan culture and are found throughout Central America, predominantly in Belize. Due to their original bloodlines and immigration, the Mestizos speak strictly Spanish and reside prominently in Ambergris Caye.
Creoles make up 30% of Belize’s population. The Creole people are descendant of the English and Africans who were originally brought to the Americas as slaves. They have a native dialect, also named creole. This distinct ethnic group has a rich history and currently instills British, English, and African societies.
Mayans make up 11% of Belize’s population. The Mayan people, first settling in the country of Guatemala, resided in Belize for hundreds of years at the first of the century. Their ancestors are still present in Belize, although not making up the majority of the country’s population. There are 3 different Mayan groups, Kekchi, Mopan, and Yucatec Mayan. Each group has their own culture, language, and societies, rarely interacting with one another. These Mayan groups are not so present in the tourist districts of Belize, but occupy more of the southern district of Belize.
Garifunas make up 7% of Belize’s population. The Garifuna people are a relatively new culture in Belize. Their influence came in the 1700’s from Honduras, and the people are a mix of Carib Indian, African, and European. The Garifunas are very prominent in Central America, including more than 200,000 peoples, although they are not as prominent in Belize.
Miscellaneous races make up 8% of Belize’s population. An assembly of Caucasian, Arabian, Lebanese, and British dot the country of Belize.
East Indians make up 2.1% of Belize’s population. They are a close knit group, who are very private in the customs and culture. Although they have not preserved Indian languages or customs, they have a very distinct culture.
