ECOLOGY Nature TOURS
Monkey River TourPrepare for a remarkable wildlife adventure with our top-rated tour that promises abundant sightings of nature's finest. The journey commences with a boat ride from Placencia to Monkey River, a 30-minute voyage that unfolds through the enchanting mangrove canals.
Guided by a knowledgeable local of Monkey River, your tour embarks on a leisurely river exploration, unveiling the captivating residents of this lush ecosystem. Keep your eyes peeled for thrilling encounters with crocodiles, iguanas, bats, river turtles, and a colorful array of tropical birds. The adventure continues with a guided hike along nature trails, where the iconic howler monkeys often make their grand appearance. Here, you'll gain an up-close view of the tropical rainforest's medicinal plants, enriching your connection with Belize's natural wonders. Belize is home to a sub-species of the West Indian manatee, one of four living species of manatees. Manatees are primarily herbivorous and feeds on a wide variety of submerged, floating, and shoreline vegetation. They range in weight from 440 to 1,320 lbs and can reach length of up to 11.5 feet. The Placencia Lagoon and nearby coastal habitats are some of the prime feeding grounds and home for this magnificent creature. This tour allows you to learn about threats and conservation effort for the sustainability of this endangered and threatened marine mammal. Duration: 2 hours After the hike, the tour meanders back down the river to the village, where a sumptuous lunch awaits at a local restaurant. But the journey isn't over yet – as you make your return to Placencia, you'll pause to search for the gentle giants of the sea, the Manatees, in their natural habitat. It's a journey that ensures unforgettable wildlife encounters from start to finish. Cost: US$90 |
Placencia Lagoon/Mangrove Ecology Tour by KayakMangrove forests, a captivating ecosystem of extraordinary biological diversity, teem with life. Within their enchanting embrace, you'll discover a rich tapestry of hundreds of species, spanning from algae and mollusks to crustaceans, fish, insects, reptiles, birds, and mammals. The residents of these mangroves are as diverse as they are fascinating.
Here, saltwater crocodiles silently patrol the waters, while pelicans, egrets, herons, and even boa constrictors find their refuge. These are just a few of the enchanting inhabitants that thrive within this complex web of life. The Placencia Lagoon emerges as a natural haven, showcasing all the mangrove species that grace Belize's landscapes. Embark on this eye-opening journey led by knowledgeable and experienced guides, and you'll uncover the secrets of this remarkable ecosystem. For a more intimate exploration, you can choose to navigate its waters in small boats, ensuring an immersive experience into the heart of mangrove magic. Cost: US$40 per person for up to 2 hours. $10 for each additional hour. Cost includes drinking water, light snack and guide. Minimum of 2pax Max 8 PAX |
Jason led our Monkey River tour and it was amazing. The depth of knowledge he has about the wildlife and flora in the area is impressive. Not only did we see a lot of wildlife (crocs, monkeys, manatees, birds galore, bats, otters, etc), but we learned a ton too. It was a great way to spend a few hours, and we felt lucky to have Jason as our guide.
-Brooke