Belize – Caribbean Wildlife Adventure

Coral fringed islands, the world’s second largest barrier reef and some of the most pristine rainforests in the world – this is Belize.

Under this natural beauty lies a growing problem. A combination of habitat loss and human impact have affected Belize’s endangered manatee population. Spend part of the time monitoring the health of the manatee population, taking measurements of the environment and counting the population of the West Indian Manatee. This information is crucial for the people you’ll work with who track these gentle creatures.

You’ll also have a chance to explore the reefs and jungles, meet with the friendly locals, uncover the ancient Mayan past and take in Belize’s laidback Caribbean rhythms.

Lend a hand to the experts who are dedicating their careers to preserving the endangered manatee population. Venture out to three different ecosystems including calm lagoons, the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea and along jungle rivers to see these beautiful creatures in the wild. Help to measure the salinity of the water and currents, collect the size, weight and number of manatees as well as other wildlife and observe their overall health. Learn about the conservation initiatives underway in Belize to save these marine animals.

During this time, you’ll experience the natural beauty of Belize. Live amongst mangroves where colorful parrots take to the sky for the first part of the trip. Then venture to a quaint seaside town that puts the world famous Port Honduras Marine Reserve at your footsteps for the second half of the trip.

Spend your days exploring the sandy beaches, colorful reefs and verdant jungles of this Central American country. Venture to a 20 ft. high waterfall that leads into a clear blue swimming hole one afternoon and learn to make coconut oil the next. Take a boat to the white sand beaches of a tropical caye and kayak through the mangroves scouting for wildlife. Hike deep into the jungle to a system of caves that offer cool swimming pools and unforgettable views. Uncover the ancient Maya past of Belize by visiting a Maya ruin site and spending an afternoon with with a Maya family making tortillas and cocoa as well as trying local instruments.