HAMILTON, Bermuda (March 20, 2026) — Belize is positioning itself as a leading sustainable tourism destination in the Caribbean as it prepares to host the Sustainable Tourism Conference (STC 2026) from April 27–30 in San Pedro, Ambergris Caye.

Speaking ahead of the event, Anthony Mahler, Minister of Tourism, Youth, Sports and Diaspora Relations, extended an open invitation to regional and global tourism stakeholders, highlighting Belize’s unique blend of natural assets, cultural heritage and long-standing commitment to sustainability.

“It is our honor to host the next Sustainable Tourism Conference under the theme ‘Tourism in Full Color,’” Mahler said during remarks linked to the Caribbean Tourism Organization’s Air Connectivity Summit held in Bermuda.

A diverse and compact destination

Mahler emphasized that Belize offers an extraordinary concentration of world-class attractions within a relatively small geographic area. Among its highlights is the Great Blue Hole, one of the most iconic diving sites in the world, as well as the second-largest barrier reef globally.

The destination is also home to three of the Western Hemisphere’s four atolls, hundreds of offshore islands, extensive river systems, mountain landscapes, and lush rainforests comparable to the Amazon Rainforest.

In addition, Belize’s rich cultural heritage includes significant archaeological sites from the ancient Maya civilization, offering visitors a blend of nature, history and multicultural experiences.

“You don’t have to travel to Australia for diving, Egypt for pyramids, or major global cities for diversity — Belize offers all of that in one destination,” Mahler noted.

A long-standing sustainability model

Belize has been prioritizing sustainable tourism development for nearly five decades, with eco-adventure and community-based tourism at the core of its strategy. The country’s tourism infrastructure includes approximately 12,000 rooms, many of them boutique and locally integrated properties.

The 17th edition of STC, organized by the Caribbean Tourism Organization in partnership with the Belize Tourism Board, will bring together regional and international leaders to explore innovative approaches to tourism development.

Under the theme “Tourism in Full Color: Integrating Blue, Green, Orange and Beyond Economies,” the conference will address key areas such as the blue economy, climate resilience, cultural industries and inclusive growth.

Global voices and strategic dialogue

The conference will feature a keynote address by Dame Pania Tyson-Nathan, Chief Executive of New Zealand Māori Tourism, alongside ministerial roundtables, expert-led sessions and immersive field experiences.

STC 2026 is expected to serve as a catalyst for strategic partnerships and forward-looking policies, reinforcing Belize’s role as a regional leader in sustainable tourism and innovation.