The Belize Zoo, which is also identified with the Tropical Education and Research Center, is a 29-acre sanctuary located only 30 miles west of Belize City. Over 125 native Belize animals are helping to educate an audience about 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 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.
Parrots at the Belize Zoo (Jonathan Brunger)
Navigating Your Way Through the Zoo
When on a Belize tour, a stop at the Belize Zoo is one of the most enriching and family-friendly experiences available. It's a favorite on many Belize wildlife tours and offers an up-close look at the country’s most iconic creatures in their natural habitats. 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 these 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.
The Tropical Education and Research Center
The Tropical Education and Research Center works alongside the Belize Zoo to support wildlife conservation and environmental education. Located next to the zoo, the center provides hands-on learning opportunities for students, researchers, and visitors. It promotes sustainable practices and helps raise awareness about Belize’s native species and natural habitats. 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 is also cooperating with the Tropical Education and Research Center in raising environmental awareness among Belizeans and visitors alike to work towards respecting and restoring the deteriorating habitats that harbor these spectacular species of wildlife. With more than 125 animals in the zoo, including some rare and endangered species, it’s easy to see why this stop is considered a top wildlife experience when deciding what to do in Belize. 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 Belize Zoo is a great side trip on your way to or from Belize City! (Monica Laflin)
History and Mission of The Belize Zoo and Tropical Education Center
The Belize Zoo and Tropical Education Center were started in 1983 as a last-ditch effort to provide a home for a collection of wild animals used in making documentary films about tropical forests. Shortly after the backyard "zoo" began, it was quickly realized that Belizean visitors were unfamiliar with the different species of wildlife that shared their country. This sparked a commitment to develop the little zoo into a dynamic wildlife education center.
Today, the Belize Zoo is settled upon 29 acres of tropical savanna and exhibits over 125 animals, all native to Belize. The zoo keeps animals that were either orphaned, born at the zoo, rehabilitated, or sent to the Belize Zoo as gifts from other zoological institutions.
A visit to the zoo is the best way to get an introduction to the animals of Belize and to understand why it is important to protect the habitats that sustain them. The Belize Zoo believes that by bringing the people of Belize closer to the animals, which are their natural heritage, they will feel proud of these special resources and want to protect them for future generations. The zoo receives over 10,000 schoolchildren every year as part of its progressive education programs. Popular zoo events include April the Tapir's birthday party, summer camps, Science Fair, Teacher Training, and Student Career Training. The Belize Zoo is also the headquarters for the Tapir Specialist Group/IUCN/SSC and maintains an active captive breeding program for the green iguana, Iguana iguana.
Plan Your Visit
Explore more with our Belize Wildlife Tours to spot these incredible creatures of Belize in the wild! Talk to our Trip Planner for a personalized journey in Belize.
How many acres is the zoo? The Belize Zoo covers 29 acres of natural savannah and jungle habitats, offering a spacious and ethical home for over 125 animals. Where is the Belize Zoo located? The zoo is located about 30 miles (48 km) west of Belize City on the George Price Highway. It’s an easy drive by rental car, private shuttle, or as part of a guided Belize wildlife tour. How far is the Belize Zoo from the Belize cruise port? The Belize Zoo is approximately a 45–60 minute drive from the Belize City cruise port, making it a perfect half-day excursion for cruise passengers looking for things to do in Belize. How old is the zoo? It was founded in 1983, making it over 40 years old and one of the oldest conservation-based zoos in the region. How many animals are in the zoo? There are over 125 native animals and Belize wildlife in the zoo, including jaguars, tapirs, howler monkeys, ocelots, and scarlet macaws. What animals are in the zoo? The zoo is home to a wide range of native species such as jaguars, toucans, howler monkeys, crocodiles, tapirs, kinkajous, and harpy eagles.
