With two distinctly different sections to Belize, namely the rainforest areas inland and the coral reef fringed offshore islands or ‘Cayes’, the natural wonders of Belize offer appealing variety for the safari-goer and are ideal for a wildlife safari holiday.
Combining these sections into one journey can be a great way to get an overall appreciation of Belize’s wildlife wonders, from searching for elusive jaguar in the steamy jungle to diving amongst turtles and sharks in turquoise waters. With over half of the country blanketed in dense rainforest, and the second longest barrier reef system in the world, stretching for 300 kilometres, there is discovery awaiting at every turn.
Belize has one of the healthiest populations of jaguars in Central America with an estimated average of 800 to 1000 individuals. This gorgeously-spotted predator may be the biggest cat in the Americas, but it’s also among the shyest. Spotting one anywhere is a big ask, but in belize’s huge protected area of up to 100,000-hectares of tropical rainforest, it is the best place to look. Much of this forested area is unexplored virgin territory, particularly within the southernmost region of Toledo, and it supports four other big cat species: puma, ocelot, jaguarundi and margay.
Howler monkeys are the biggest species of New World monkeys, found in the tropical rainforest of Belize. These vocal primates boast a prehensile tail which they use as an extra arm to grim and hang from branches. Howlers are characterized by expansion of the hyoid bone into a large shell-like organ in the throat that gives resonance to the voice. Howler monkeys can be seen in Belize’s rainforest sanctuary where large groups can be spotted patrolling the branches and searching for food.
Dr Alan Rabinowitz was one of the world’s leading big cat experts; dedicated to saving the world’s big cats. His extraordinary story started in childhood, where difficulties he faced communicating with the human world led him to seek out the company of animals who became his confidants. A regular visitor as a boy to the Bronx Zoo, his promise to a resident jaguar there to become a voice for big cats became the foundation for a remarkable career.
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NWS Tristan Heads to Central America for his Latest Adventure
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Manatees are marine herbivorous mammals often referred to as ‘sea cows’. Belize is home to the West Indian manatee that can grow up to 13 feet long and weigh up to 1,300 pounds. The South Lagoon, not far from Belize City, is the best spot to be able to spot these gentle giants in a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere. The are approximately 1,000 manatees in Belize, but thankfully for government protection, their population is slowly growing.
It is not everyday that a whale shark will approach you, but when one does, it is an experience that you will cherish for a lifetime and is one of the most humbling experiences in the natural world. The largest fish in the world, growing up to the size comparable to a city bus, whale sharks are non-predatory and are rather gentle. Whale sharks tend to like warmer areas and are found in tropical waters all over the world, making the waters of Belize a perfect habitat. In Spring (March to June), the filter-feeding behemoths congregate at Gladden Spit off Placencia.
The ultimate luxury adventure through the rainforests of Belize, explore the steamy jungle in the Orange Walk district and visit the ruins of Caracol and Rio Frio caves and pools. Arrive and depart from Belize City, heading straight to Placencia to unwind, snorkel and birdwatch around the grounds of your boutique beachfront lodge.
From 7250 per person
An exciting trip through Belize taking in historical sites, beach relaxation and a variety of activities including canoeing, snorkelling, cave exploration and more. Belize is a perfect destination for experiencing a huge variety of natural and cultural wonders, all in one compact country that makes exploration easy. From rainforest to reef, you will then explore the vibrant wonderland of Belize's cayes and atolls, with first-class diving and pristine beaches on which to relax.
From 6875 per personBelize’s thrilling and vast verdant jungles are a stunning habitat for many species of tropical birds. Except to see herons, jabiru stork, kingfishers, a plethora of brightly coloured parrots, magnificent birds of prey and numerous other rare and endangered species. For those who wish to enjoy a wetland safari, keep an eye out for wildfowl and other water birds weaving around the shoreline.
