Hiking In Belize: Exploring The Country's Natural Beauty And Ancient Secrets

Belize is a haven for hikers, with its lush jungle ecosystems, ancient cave systems, and numerous nature reserves. The country's many national parks offer a range of hiking experiences, from gentle nature walks to challenging climbs. With its unique blend of diverse culture and landscape, bordered by Mexico, Honduras, Guatemala, and the Caribbean Sea, Belize is a hiker's dream.

The country's tropical forest covers over 60% of its land area, providing well-maintained trails that are some of the best in Central America. From the Maya Mountains to the Caribbean Sea, Belize offers hikers the full range of its natural beauty.

Victoria Peak Climb

Victoria Peak is the second-highest mountain in Belize, soaring to 3,675 feet (although some sources state 3,670 feet). It is located in the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary in the Stann Creek District, Maya Center Village, and is considered one of the country's major attractions.

The Victoria Peak Trail is only open during Belize's dry season, from February 1 to May 31. It is recommended that hikers plan to spend 3-5 days in the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, with 3-4 days for hiking and 5 days if you are not in good physical condition. The journey to the peak is approximately 27-28 kilometers (17-18 miles) and is mostly uphill through dense terrain.

Day 1

The first leg of the journey is typically 12-19 kilometers, with a stop at a camp for the night. This part of the trail is relatively easy, with little change in elevation.

Day 2

The second day of hiking becomes much harder. The trail is approximately 7 kilometers and involves continuous up and down grades of 20-60 degrees. There are no switchbacks, so hikers must pull themselves up using roots and trees and slide down on their backsides. This section of the trail takes you through mature forest with massive trees and small streams that provide a good source of drinking water.

Day 3

The third day is the most challenging and rewarding. It involves a steep 40-minute climb up a 45-degree incline to reach the true base of Victoria Peak. From there, the trail turns into a rock wall with a very narrow path and a steep fall on the other side. Some basic climbing gear and ropes are recommended for this section. The final stretch to the summit involves a series of small, steep inclines through a wet tropical forest environment.

Summit

Reaching the summit of Victoria Peak offers breathtaking views of the country's forests and mountain ranges. It is recommended to take some time to center yourself and snap photos of the well-earned vista.

Descent

The descent can be just as challenging as the ascent, especially if hikers need to make it back to the 19-kilometer camp before nightfall. It is important to note that the journey back to the camp can take around 6-7 hours, so an early start is advised.

Essential Information

• It is mandatory to be accompanied by a certified guide or a licensed tour guide to summit Victoria Peak.
• The journey is recommended for experienced hikers or at least fit travelers.
• Pack light and bring long-sleeved breathable clothing, plenty of water and snacks, and proper footwear with excellent grip.
• The Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary is the world's only jaguar preserve, and the surrounding sanctuary is home to the densest population of jaguars in the world. While these big cats pose little danger to humans, it is still important to be cautious and follow the guidelines provided by the sanctuary.

Mayflower Bocawina National Park

Hiking Trails

The park boasts four hiking trails, catering to different skill levels, that wind through the lush rainforest and lead to breathtaking waterfalls. Here are some of the notable trails:

• Antelope Trail: This trail is approximately 1.9 miles long and takes about 1 hour and 14 minutes to complete. The first part is relatively flat, while the second half becomes steeper and more challenging due to its slick surface. The trail culminates at the stunning Antelope Falls, where hikers can take a refreshing dip in the natural pool and even rappel down the rocks.
• Tears of the Jaguar and Bocawina Falls Trail: This 3.5-mile trail takes around 1 hour and 37 minutes to complete. It leads hikers to the Lower Bocawina Falls, known for its accessibility and natural pool. A steeper section continues to the Upper Bocawina Falls, and a final ascent reaches the Tears of the Jaguar waterfall.
• New Waterfall Trail: This trail, approximately 2.8 miles long, is less difficult compared to others in the park. It leads hikers to a beautiful, lesser-explored waterfall.

Waterfalls and Rappelling

Wildlife and Birding

The park forms part of the Maya Mountain Massif, a crucial area for wildlife conservation, supporting Belize's largest population of jaguars. It provides excellent opportunities for wildlife observation and birding, with over 200 bird species spotted within the park, including toucans, trogons, and hummingbirds.

Archaeology

The park is also an archaeological treasure trove, with evidence of an ancient Mayan city. Three Mayan sites are located within its boundaries, and excavations are ongoing by the Mayflower Archeology Project. It is predicted that once fully excavated, the Mayflower site will rank among the largest archaeological sites in Belize.

Blue Hole National Park

St. Herman's Blue Hole National Park in Western Belize’s Cayo District offers a 1.5-mile hike through a verdant forest. The trail leads to a 25-foot-deep swimming hole, formed by a collapsed river channel within the dense forest. The park is managed by the Audubon Society and is known for its beautiful forests and blue waters.

The Crystal Cave Tour is a popular activity in the park, where visitors can hike through the tropical forest and explore the Crystalline Cave within the jungle. The cave is known for its crystal-like interior and is a unique feature of Belize's landscape.

The Blue Hole National Park also offers opportunities for more adventurous activities, such as repelling and climbing. Signing up with a local guide is recommended for these types of explorations, as they can provide valuable insights into the local culture and history.

The park is a great place to experience the natural beauty of Belize, with its lush forests, blue waters, and unique cave systems. It offers a short but sweet hike for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary

The Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary is a nature reserve in the Stann Creek District of south-central Belize. Covering an area of about 150 square miles of tropical forest, it is the world's first and only Jaguar Preserve. The park is the culmination of many years of work and perseverance by individuals and national and international organisations. It was established in 1986 to protect the forests, fauna and watersheds of the eastern slopes of the Maya Mountains.

The name 'Cockscomb' comes from the appearance of the Cockscomb Mountain ridge, which resembles a rooster's comb. The Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary is actually made up of two adjacent geographic basins: the West Basin and the East Basin. The West Basin is harder to access and remains relatively unexplored, while the East Basin consists of the upper watershed of South Stann Creek. The site consists of two distinct adjacent watersheds and is accessible via a low-intensity trail system.

The Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary is known for its excellent network of well-maintained trails. There is a self-guided nature walk for explorers of all fitness levels, which takes roughly an hour. The River Overlook and Warrie Trails are usually the best for wildlife. The Rubber Tree Trail offers the small chance of spotting the secretive Agami Heron on the banks of the South Stann Creek. The lower forest and the regrowth around the sanctuary headquarters are good for birdwatching.

The Tiger Fern Trail is a 4.3-kilometre trail that attracts hikers who prefer a strenuous uphill ascent, with a 279-metre elevation gain. There is a lush waterfall at the end of the trail. Ben's Bluff Trail is an ideal intermediate hike of four kilometres, open all year round. Victoria Peak, Belize's highest mountain at 3,675 feet, is a challenging multi-day expedition.

Guanacaste National Park

Belize is a haven for hikers, with its natural beauty, crystal caves, lush tropical forests, and the Caribbean Sea. The country offers a range of hiking options, from nature walks in national parks to challenging climbs.

One such hiking destination is Guanacaste National Park, a 50-acre park in central Belize, in the Cayo District of Western Belize. The park is located about 50 miles west of Belize City and is named after a massive guanacaste tree that loggers spared due to its three-pronged trunk, which reduced its value as timber.

The park is open to the public from 8 am to 4:30 pm, with an admission fee of $1 BZD for citizens and $5 BZD for tourists. It is easily accessible from Belize's major cities and is a popular spot for families. Visitors are advised to wear long-sleeved shirts, sturdy shoes, and pants to protect themselves from poisonous plants.

Frequently asked questions