Deeply rooted in history and abundant with wildlife, travelling outside the city for adventures to explore Belize City Rural is just what you need for a deeper connection with natural beauty and locals. Whether you’re journeying through the Belize River Valley or traversing the scenic Coastal Plane Highway, the rural communities have something to offer. Here are five activities to do during vacation!
Cruising the Belize River
As the sun prepares to disappear, embark on a sunset river cruise along the gleaming Belize River once known as “The Old River.” Look out for crocodiles, howler monkeys, and birds like the Jabiru Stork as you glide along lush banks passing by villages like Ladyville, Lords Bank, and Burrell Boom. The serene sound of swaying trees and chirping birds will calm you down after a long bustling day.
Visiting Altun Ha
Exploring the Belize City Rural isn’t complete without a visit to Altun Ha, one of Belize’s most significant Maya archaeological sites. It is the closest Maya temple to Belize City and is renowned for discovering the Jade Head. Altun Ha is a must-have on your itinerary for exploring Belize Rural, with its two main plazas displaying historical magnificence.
Touring The Belize Zoo
You cannot say you’ve experienced wildlife in Belize without a visit to “the best little zoo in the world.” Locals and travellers consider The Belize Zoo one of their favourite attractions, as it is home to many native animals, such as the tapir, jaguar, keel bill toucan, and spider monkeys. Stroll the shady trails with your map channelling the inner explorer in you. To add more thrill, you can even do a night tour of the zoo or a personal encounter with the jaguar, tapir or toucan.
Bird Watching at Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary
Belize is known for its vast bird species population, boasting over 500 types of birds, 250 of which can be found at the Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary. In one trip cruising the Crooked Tree Lagoon, you’re likely to see 10 to 20 different birds. From Muscovy ducks to great black hawks, snowy egrets, and wood storks, you’ll have an unforgettable time listing all you’ve seen. You can also view other wildlife, like iguanas, crocodiles, and turtles. If you’re an avid birder, you’ll be in your glee as this is a hotspot for bird-watching tours!
Eating Local Dishes
Food made with love is the perfect way to describe the meals coming from Belize City Rural. From warm, fluffy rice and beans from the fyah haat (fire hart) to the teasing aromas of game meat and creamy potato salad, you’re in for a treat when indulging in authentic Creole meals. Additionally, the rural communities are abundant with tropical fruits like coconut, soursop, mangos, berries, and cashews, even resulting in the cashew festival in Crooked Tree. Fruits are used to make wines, jellies, and desserts. Aside from meals and locally-grown fruits, desserts like bread pudding, potato pound, and coconut tart will make you smile from ear to ear!
Exploring the villages surrounding Belize City is a fusion of history, wildlife, and culinary delights. It is a nature trail wherever you go, surrounded by fluttering butterflies, howling monkeys, and crawling creatures. The warm embrace of locals from the villages dotted along the highways whether heading to Orange Walk, Belmopan, Stann Creek, or along the Belize River will capture your heart to visit frequently.
With annual highlights, such as La Ruta Maya, Cashew Festival, Horse Races, and Cross Country- to name a few. Travel to Belize to experience its uniqueness away from the islands and mountains for a tranquil time in the jewel.
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