Blue Hole National Park and St. Herman's Cave
The Blue Hole is a popular recreational spot, where water on its way from a tributary to the Sibun River, emerges from a collapsed karst sinkhole. The pool, from which the park receives its name, is a beautiful sapphire blue that is about twenty-five feet deep. After a short run through a natural jungle setting, the stream disappears into a large underwater cavern.
In addition to the pool, St. Herman's Cave is within boundaries of the reserve. This cave has archaeological importance because the Maya used the cave during the Classic Period. Pottery vessels, spears, and torches are among some of the artifacts that have been recovered by the Department of Archaeology. Since the Blue Hole National Park contains some 575 acres of primary and secondary forest, there is a significant opportunity to observe birds and animals, as well as a plethora of flora.
Five Blues Lake National Park
Five Blues Lake National Park is over 4,000 acres of diverse landscape located in rugged limestone karst terrain. A 200-foot deep lake surrounded by steep limestone hills is the prime attraction to this national park. Orchids flourish during April and May on a forested island, which lies near one side of the lake. Activities at the park include swimming in the lake, camping, canoeing, hiking, biking, caving, and birding.
Horseback Riding in the Mountain Pine Ridge Reserve
Explore the rainforest of the Maya Mountains and the pine forest of the Mountain Pine Ridge on horseback. Half day and full day rides offer visits to creeks, caves and shady trails. After lunch visit the Rio Frio Cave & Rio On Pools for some cave exploration and swimming. Experience this spectacular cave with 65 feet arch entryways on both sides of a mountain, then on to Rio On Pools where rocks in the river have formed series of mini swimming pools and water falls. Bring along your swimsuit to enjoy a dip.
The Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary is located just west of the village of Maya Centre which is at Mile 15 on the Southern Highway in the Stann Creek District. Originally established in 1984 as a Reserve to protect a large jaguar population, as well as other resident wildlife, the sanctuary is also known as "The Jaguar Preserve". Situated within the shadows of the Maya Mountains, the sanctuary encompasses some 100,000 acres of tropical moist forest that rises from 300 feet above sea level to approximately 3675 feet at the summit of Victoria Peak. Since the sanctuary is home to numerous members of the cat family, there is also a large population of mammals and birds to support the food chain. Therefore, even though you may not see a jaguar or another carnivore during your visit, the opportunity to see herbivorous animals, a multitude of birds, and beautiful flora is always present.
Located approximately eight miles west of the Northern Highway this Sanctuary was once used as a cattle ranch. Through a grassroots effort, the villagers and landowners have committed to preserving the habitat necessary to insure a healthy population of Black Howler Monkeys. Consisting of some eighteen square miles of basically subsistence farms, the sanctuary exhibits the spirit of coexistence that Belizeans have with nature.
Offers an excellent birding experience for both avid and casual birders. Visit the nearby Mennonite community, savannahs, farmland and rainforest. Canoe the lake or take a leisurely walk on the trails in search of water birds such as black bellied whistling ducks, anhingas, herons and kingfishers. The area's mixture of open land, orchard plantings, and jungle edge also provides an excellent habitat for yellow-tailed orioles, blue-gray tanagers, and a myriad of other species. Even those with a more casual interest in birds will be delighted at the colorful avian displays during their visit to Laguna Aguacate.
Located 33 miles northwest of Belize City off the Northern Highway, it was established as a Nature Preserve in 1984. The Sanctuary has attracted thousands of birds and other wildlife such as the rare black Howler Monkey, crocodiles, turtles and iguanas. Here you will find the Jabiru Stork, the largest flying bird in the Western Hemisphere with a wingspan of nearly twelve feet; and a variety of herons, pelicans, ducks, vultures, and swallows. Boat trips are also available to get a closer look at these fine-feathered specimens
Want to improve your Natural History experience? Be sure and make the Belize Zoo one of your first stops. Located at Mile 29 ½ west of Belize City on the Western Highway, the Belize Zoo is one of the most unique and finest facilities of its kind. Each of the animals has a pet name and is maintained in a natural setting at the zoo. Learn what the indigenous birds and animals of Belize look like, and how to spot them in their natural habitat.
