Eco-Museum Belize, located in northern Ambergris Caye, received a Silver Award at the prestigious 2026 International Center for Responsible Tourism (ICRT) Responsible Tourism Awards. The awards recognize outstanding organizations advancing sustainable development, cultural preservation, and community empowerment within the tourism industry.
This year, 16 innovative organizations from around the world were shortlisted for the annual awards. They represented Aruba, Australia, Belize, the Dominican Republic, Fiji, Pakistan, Taiwan, Japan, Saudi Arabia, and the United States.
Eco-Museum Belize was recognized for pioneering the country’s “museum without walls” concept. Instead of preserving history solely behind glass, the organization transforms local landscapes, traditional practices and living culture into interactive educational spaces.
The initiative empowers Belizeans to serve as the primary custodians and storytellers of their heritage while helping to ensure that the economic and social benefits of tourism remain rooted within local communities.
Museum curator Guillermo “Mito” Paz said the recognition is a great honor and validates his vision for a project highlighting the rich history of northern Ambergris Caye. “Eco-Museum Belize highlights Maya, Baymen and Mestizo cultures through a museum without walls,” Paz said. “Receiving this Silver Award from ICRT is an incredible validation of our mission. Belize’s culture is alive, dynamic and best shared through the eyes of our own people.”
“This award belongs to every local storyteller, artisan and community member who keeps our heritage vibrant every day,” he added. Paz explained that residents serve as local curators and help determine which elements of their shared heritage should be preserved and presented. He said the award judges were impressed by this community-led approach, which places living culture, intangible heritage and local ownership at the heart of tourism.
The ICRT recognition highlights Eco-Museum Belize’s dedication to community-led tourism. The international awards celebrate initiatives that champion cultural diversity, protect natural ecosystems and empower local communities.
Eco-Museum Belize is open for tours. For additional information, visit its Facebook page, Instagram page at @ecomuseumbelize, or www.ecomuseumbelize.org. You can also contact the museum at 501-650-6601 or ecomuseumbelize@gmail.com.