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©Image by The TerraMar Project from Wikimedia Commons

The Great Blue Hole, a stunning underwater universe in the Belize Barrier Reef

This natural wonder off the coast of Belize is one of the most fascinating and mysterious dive sites in the world. Located in the heart of the Belize Barrier Reef, the Great Blue Hole is a circular formation approximately 300 meters in diameter and 125 meters deep, which was formed some 10,000 years ago during the last Ice Age.

It is believed to be the largest phenomenon of its kind in the world. It was formed when, due to rising sea levels, its subway caverns were flooded and its roof collapsed, resulting in the impressive underwater structure we see today. This geological phenomenon, a marine blue cenote, is a window to the past, providing scientists with a rich source of information about climatic changes and ancient life forms.

It is located near the center of Lighthouse Reef, one of the many cayes that dot the coastal waters of Belize. Located 100 kilometers from the mainland coast and the capital, it is part of the Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1996. This unique attraction in the world is a popular destination for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts, and attracts thousands of visitors each year.

The Great Blue Hole became famous thanks to French diver Jacques-Yves Cousteau, who made a first dive in the 1960s and described this site as one of the top ten dive sites in the world. The beauty of the Great Blue Hole is not only its depth, but also the clarity of the water. The visibility of the water is incredibly high, allowing divers and snorkelers to clearly see the impressive cliffs and rock formations found within.

With a wealth of marine life, and a unique geological formation, the Great Blue Hole is a top tourist destination in Belize.

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©Image by Jean-Marc Kuffer from Flickr

This immense chasm fascinates divers because it is home to many species of marine life.

One of the main attractions of the Great Blue Hole is its diverse marine life. In its depths, divers can encounter a variety of shark species, such as Caribbean reef sharks, nurse sharks, hammerheads and blacktip sharks, along with numerous species of fish and corals. As divers descend, they also encounter the karstic limestone rock formations, a geological spectacle that adds a touch of mystery and wonder to the diving experience.

For those who want to explore the Great Blue Hole, there are a variety of options. Experienced divers can dive into the Great Blue Hole to explore its depths, while beginners can opt for a diving or snorkeling tour to see the beauty of the Great Blue Hole from the water's surface.

Travelers who prefer to keep their feet out of the water can also enjoy the view from the air on a scenic flight, appreciating the rich array of colors and shapes of the Great Blue Hole and its surroundings.

The majesty of Belize's Great Blue Hole is difficult to express in words. It is a natural wonder that fascinates all who are fortunate enough to experience its grandeur, whether from the air, aboard a boat, or diving into its depths.

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