This city is also the starting point for a boat trip to Lamanai. The ruins of Altun Ha are located east of the town, Cuello and Nohmul to the north, Colha to the northeast and the Rio Bravo Conservation Area to the south west. The International Airport is located 10 miles north of the city. Travelers from all over the world enter Belize here or come from Corozol to the north. The city is a embarkation point for the islands in the Caribbean such as Ambergris Caye, made famous by Madonna's song Isla Bonita .
Water taxis leave several times a day for several locations off the mainland.
Ambergris Caye can also be reached by air from the airport. It is a type of market for crafts such as carved hardwood figurines, slate carvings, black coral jewelry, pottery, essence oils and a host of other items. The Belize Zoo is located about 28 miles west of Belize City. The capitol of Belize is located in land 50 miles southwest of Belize City. Until 1965 Belize City was the capitol, but due to the devastation caused by Hurricane Hattie it was moved to the Cayo District.