Nestled in a 29 acre sanctuary located only 30 miles west of Belize City, over 125 native Belize animals are helping to educate an audience of the necessity of preserving the natural habitat that has helped to place Belize at the top of the eco-tourism list. Begun in 1983 by Sharon Matola, the Belize City Zoo has gained international recognition for its efforts to teach future generations an attitude of respect and responsibility for the diverse natural habitats and species in Belize.
Visitors walk on a network of raised gravel paths through natural savannahs and transplanted rainforests to different exhibits complemented by humorous, hand-painted signs that call attention to the varying habitats and endangered status of each animal. Those desiring to see theses magnificent creatures including howler monkeys, jaguars, and toucans must be patient and have a keen eye since the thick cover of the vegetation in these large enclosures often makes spotting these animals a bit of a challenge. The interactive informational exhibits along the way and the innovative visitors’ center help inspire children and adults alike to learn about these native creatures and make this zoo one of the most kid-friendly attractions in Belize. A large attraction is the celebration of April the tapir’s birthday, in which kids from all over the country come to help feed her a cake made of vegetable mash!
The Belize Zoo, cooperating also with the Tropical Education and Research Center adjacent to the sanctuary, has experienced great success in raising environmental awareness in Belizeans and visitors alike to work towards respecting and restoring the deteriorating habitats that harbor these spectacular species of wildlife. A small gift shop is also open to the public and visitors will want to bring a hat for the hot midday sun and a bottle of water. The zoo operates daily and is open from 9 am to 5 pm.
The response from Adventure Life to my first inquiry was prompt and promising. I worked with Jamie Broeckel, Trip Planner, via text, email, and phone calls- always extremely responsive and thorough with information and explaining the process to arrange a private tour for me to Malaysia Borneo. Within about week, the booking was complete and I made decisions because of Jamie's great customer service , friendly manner, and overall competence on behalf of the company's travel expertise. Now I have an itinerary, additional Trip Planner Assistants, several links for vital information for traveling to Maylasia, etc. Still many details for Sept. trip, but now the heavy lifting is done and I can enjoy the rest of the anticipation and research!! Thanks Jamie- you are amazing!!!!
Susan Campo
3 days ago
The trip was not only memorable for the amount of animals we saw but also for the people and accommodations at the two camps where we stayed. Our first guide, BK, was a wealth of information about the animals, landscape and down to the plants and what they were used for. Everyday out was a learning experience with him. All the people at the camps were gracious and the food was excellent.
Our second camp in the Okavanga was just as good as the first as far as the staff, accommodations, food and animals. After our experience at the first camp we amazed that the high quality remained the same. Our guide, G, made sure we were able to enjoy every experience including a rush through the bush to witness a cheetah and an ensuing hunt that he heard over his radio.
In both camps there were enough guides out that if they saw something the other guides were informed which helped in seeing as much as possible. It was also nice that the concessions were large enough that we did not have vehicles following each other throughout the day.
Normally there is always something in a trip of this length that we think could be improved upon but this is the rare case where we cannot think of anything. From the time we left the States to when we returned it was one of the most hassle free vacations we took.
Perhaps emphasizing the use of the laundry facilities at the camps would be useful because of the luggage restrictions would be the only thing I can think of as an improvement to future clients.
Kenneth Dropek
4 days ago
Mary was so pleasant and professional. She made sure all of our questions were answered.