Rainforest Wildlife Extension

Your adventure starts with a pick up in the coastal town of Dangriga, and a short 30 minute drive into the southern Maya Mountains. Situated in the middle of Mayflower Bocawina National Park, Bocawina Rainforest Resort is the perfect location to experience the broadleaf tropical rainforest and the amazing flora and fauna.

You'll start your trip by settling in and learning about the property and the experiences that lie ahead in the surrounding mountains and rainforest. You may want to sign up for the optional afternoon activities or a nocturnal hike.

Rise with the first light of day emerging through the jungle mist, and experience the sounds of the jungle. Finding a quiet spot to sip a coffee with binoculars close at hand is a sure way to soak in the essence of the rainforest. Hear the chatter of parrots and parakeets flying overhead and listen to the Howler monkeys off in the distance.

After a hearty breakfast, we travel by vehicle to the Cockscomb Basin Jaguar Reserve and the village of Maya Center. We make our way up into the park headquarters and museum dedicated to the late Alan Rabinowitz. It was his vision that helped create this park and the world‘s first Jaguar Preserve (Note: “Jaguar“ by Alan Rabinowitz is an excellent read).

We then embark on a guided trail loop with fantastic bird-watching and wildlife-viewing opportunities. Cockscomb is home to the world's largest concentrations of jaguars and other endangered animals, including ocelot, margay, Baird's tapir, and scarlet macaw.

After the hike, return to the nearby village of Maya Center, the Women's Craft Cooperative, and Che-il Cacao - a traditional cacao chocolate maker. On our return journey to Bocawina, we drive through the tranquil Creole Village of Sittee River, stopping at the historic Serpon Sugar Mill. From there, we stop at Hopkins' - a small Garifuna fishing village for a chance to browse the local shops, or enjoy a cool drink next to the ocean. Hopkins is a great place to experience the food, music and traditions of the Garifuna people.

You should sign up for the optional nocturnal hike this evening. A walk in the rainforest is magical at night, as is exploring the moonlit trails and listening to the calls of crickets, frogs, and birds. You are likely to encounter pacas, owls, and kinkajou and maybe even see a wildcat!

For those departing on day 3, your day is completely flexible. Your return transportation by van to Dangriga or Hopkins can be arranged for either before or after lunch. (if you arrived after lunch on Day 1 then lunch can be included on this day)

For those staying an extra day Enjoy the beauty of the jungle by horseback on this half-day tour. Enjoy a leisurely ride while your experienced guide points out the flora and fauna around you. Stop at the river for lunch and a refreshing swim before continuing on to visit the Seaside Garifuna Village of Hopkins. Anyone can enjoy this activity, from the experienced rider to the absolute beginner. The horses are well trained and the guides will be with you throughout the tour.

For the thrill seekers who experienced zip-lining during the day - we suggest the AfterDark zip-line adventure. It's exhilarating and a bit spooky but immensely enjoyable. Please book this adventure at least 24 hours in advance; a small fee applies as this is not an adventure on the regular schedule.

Day four is completely flexible. You can stay close to the lodge or follow a trail to a favorite pool or waterfall.  We highly recommend morning birdwatching guided tour, with over 290 species identified in the property, this National Park is ideal for birdwatching aficionados. Your return transportation by van to Dangriga can be arranged for either before or after lunch.

Travel Notes: On this itinerary, you will have free time to explore or relax at your leisure. Nearby swimming holes, waterfalls, unexcavated Mayan ruins (mounds), and forest trails can be explored without guides. Bocawina National Park offers seven waterfalls that can be accessed from the eco-resort. Optional off-site tours can also be organized at an additional cost.

If you are adding this trip extension to an existing IE trip, transportation must be arranged to one of the rendezvous points in Dangriga. If you arrive late or leave early, we'll make arrangements to accommodate the activities in this itinerary.

Contact our Trip Planners for hotel reservations in Belize City, Flight & Hotel Packages or to extend your Belize itinerary by combining this trip with another Island Expeditions adventure or extension.