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1. Bird Watching
Home to over 600 species of birds, Belize offers some of the best bird watching in the world. The national parks of Belize are great places to begin this adventure. With 66 per cent of the country still forested, viewers can easily spot upwards of 50 species in a single outing. Orange- breasted falcons, keel-billed toucans, red-legged honey creepers and white hawks are just a few of the many rare birds you’ll find. With so many birds, all you have to do is look up.
2. Hiking
Hiking Belize’s national parks is a great way to see many kinds of birdlife, plants and animals.
As intimidating as some of the trails may look on a map, don’t worry. Most are designed in loops so you easily return to your starting point. Some trails are self-guided, while others require the expertise of a licensed tour guide. Whatever level of hiker you consider yourself, Belize has what you’re looking for. Take a day tour or spend several days camping – either one will provide you with the chance to encounter exotic tropical plants and birds, howler monkeys, crocodiles, or the tracks of the elusive jaguar and tapir.
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3. Fishing
From spin to fly to trolling, Belize’s abundance of game fish guarantees excellent sport fishing all year round. And since many rivers empty into the Caribbean Sea, you’re practically guaranteed a daily catch. Not to mention the fact that the country’s guides have no problem sharing their own ‘secret’ fishing spots with guests. Explore Turneffe Atoll, which will provide you with some of the most desired areas in the world for fly fishing. Bonefish, permit and tarpon are everywhere. In fact, Belize is one of few places where you can fish a Grand Slam – that’s bonefish, permit and tarpon – all in the same day.
4. Snorkeling
Think the sea looks beautiful from the beach? You should see what’s happening below. Even if you’ve never snorkeled before, knowledgeable local guides will help you explore the kaleidoscope of colours found in hard and soft corals. There are hundreds of snorkeling sites of varying depths along the Belize Barrier Reef. Every snorkel spot is a little different from the others. From schools of fish and turtles to the occasional barracuda, there’s a lot going on underwater.
creativecommons.org/snorkelingdives.com
5. Kayaking
Kayaks are a great way to explore the sea and rivers of Belize. Look down on the clear waters to see the reefs, fish, rays and sea turtles. Overhead there are migratory birds. Coastal and island resorts offer kayaks for short excursions up the beach and around the islands, while professional kayak outfitters offer multi-day packages that operate from a single base camp, as well as island hopping tours.
creativecommons.org/Larnie Fox
6. Horse Riding
Some of our most beautiful places can only be accessed on foot – or hoof. Horseback riding tours can be arranged through many resorts or tour operators. Popular tours travel through the jungles of the Cayo District, or you can visit Maya sites like El Pilar, Xunantunich and Cahal Pech.
7. Sailing
Belize provides a thrilling challenge for those sailors who consider themselves experts. Hidden coral heads can make navigation tricky, so if you’re up for it, it could be your most rewarding sailing experience ever.
creativecommons.org/Cecilia Schubert
8. Cave Tubing
For a wet-and-wild trip down the rivers and through limestone caves, travellers can take advantage of the many cave- tubing adventures offered in Belize. Caves Branch River, Barton Creek Cave and Crystal Cave all have skilled tour guides to take visitors on an adrenaline-pumping ride down the rivers of these ancient caves, some of which still hold Maya relics.
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9. Jungle Tumble
The new Jungle Tumble offers travellers a thrilling ride inside a giant 3.5-metre inflatable ball. This new eco-adventure activity allows guests the opportunity to tumble down custom designed tracks stretching throughout the Belizean jungle. This zorbing adventure is available just outside Belize City.
10. Parasailing
A parasailing adventure offers riders spectacular views of the blue Caribbean Sea, amazing barrier reef and sandy beaches. This experience is offered on Ambergris Caye as well as Caye Caulker and the pace of the ride can change to cater to either those who long for an exciting adventure, or those looking to just enjoy a leisurely ride with picturesque scenery.