Exploring Corozal, Belize: Activities And Adventures

Located in the north of Belize, Corozal is a tranquil paradise that has traditionally been one of the least-visited regions of the country. However, this is slowly starting to change as the town gets more publicity. With a rich history, diverse population, and beautiful natural surroundings, Corozal offers plenty of things to do for those who venture there.

The town is known for its laid-back vibe and is a haven for retirees from North America and Europe, attracted by its sleepy charm, immediate access to medical treatment, and nearby shopping opportunities. Corozal also has a strong historical connection with Mexico, as it is the birthplace and home of the Mestizos (Maya and Spaniards).

There are several attractions in Corozal, including the Shipstern Nature Reserve, home to a diverse array of wildlife, the ancient Maya sites of Santa Rita and Cerros, and the fishing village of Sarteneja. Corozal is also a great place to enjoy authentic Mexican food and explore local markets.

Explore the Shipstern Nature Reserve

The Shipstern Nature Reserve, now known as the Shipstern Conservation and Management Area (Shipstern C&MA), is a protected area in the Corozal District of Belize. Covering over 21,000 acres, it is one of the ten most important nature reserves in Belize and is home to a vast array of wildlife and plant species.

The reserve is a tropical rainforest with diverse habitats, including wetlands, lagoons, and tropical forests. It is one of the largest inland lagoon systems in Belize, with the Shipstern Lagoon at its centre. The reserve includes two non-contiguous parcels of land: one covering part of the lagoon and the other protecting the small forest lake, Xo-Pol.

The Shipstern C&MA is a haven for birdwatchers, with almost 300 species of birds, including keel-billed toucans, fly-catchers, warblers, parrots, and 13 species of egrets. It is also home to all five cat species found in Belize: jaguars, pumas, ocelots, margays, and jaguarundis. Other mammals you may spot include peccaries, deer, coatis, Mexican anteaters, and the endangered Baird's tapir.

For those interested in butterflies, the reserve has a butterfly farm at the visitor's centre, showcasing the site's history as a butterfly production centre. The original breeding area still produces some butterflies for tourism. There are also numerous trails to explore, including the Green Trail, which leads to an observation tower. This tower stands approximately 40 feet above the forest canopy, offering stunning views of the Corozal Bay, the Forest Canopy, and the Shipstern Lagoon.

The reserve offers guided tours, including birdwatching and butterfly compound tours. Visitors can also explore the botanical trail and the Mahogany museum.

With its diverse ecosystems and wildlife, the Shipstern Nature Reserve is a nature lover's paradise and a must-visit destination in Belize.

Visit the ancient Mayan sites of Cerros and Santa Rita

The ancient Mayan sites of Cerros and Santa Rita are must-visits when in Corozal, Belize. Here's everything you need to know about these fascinating archaeological gems:

Cerros

The Cerros archaeological site stands out as one of the few Mayan ruins situated on the coastline rather than deep inland. Located about 85 miles north of Belize City, in the northern district of Corozal, Cerros sits on the banks of the New River where it meets the Bay of Chetumal. This geographical position made it a crucial trade centre for the exchange of goods and ideas between inland cities like Lamanai and the Peten, as well as along the Yucatan coast.

Archaeologists estimate that Cerros was continuously occupied from 400 BC to 400 AD, making it one of the few Mayan cities inhabited for centuries. It is believed to be the first Mayan city to establish a king as its ruler, with the first ruling king taking power around 50 BC. This marked a significant urban renewal, with residents burying original buildings to construct new temples, plazas, and a palace.

Despite being a smaller site compared to Mayan metropolises like Tikal and Caracol, with an estimated population of 1500 at its peak, Cerros was a powerful trading centre. The people of Cerros developed an economy based on trade with inland cities, fishing, farming, and creating advanced irrigation systems.

Today, the Cerros archaeological site covers more than 40 acres of land. Visitors can explore stepped pyramids, ball courts, temples, raised fields, irrigation canals, residential buildings, monuments, and burial sites. To reach the site, the fastest way is to take a ferry from Orange Walk Town, or you can opt to drive about 55 miles down the Northern Highway.

Santa Rita

Santa Rita, located on the outskirts of Corozal Town, is a Mayan ruin that dates back to around 2000 BC. It is what remains of Chactemal, an ancient Mayan city that is considered the genesis of the Mestizo people following the first European contact in the region. Santa Rita held a strategic position, controlling trade routes within the boundaries of present-day Mexico and Guatemala.

Excavations at Santa Rita have revealed fishing net sinkers and other artefacts, highlighting the site's coastal significance. The discovery of rulers adorned with jade and mica ornamentation, as well as gold ear decorations, further emphasises Santa Rita's importance in trade within the Yucatan Peninsula and surrounding areas.

The modern town of Corozal encircles the ancient city of Santa Rita, and the site is easily accessible from the town centre. To reach Santa Rita, take the road leading to the border with Mexico from Corozal Town. Continue straight past the northern exit and the town hospital, and you will find Santa Rita a short distance further on your right.

Shop at the local markets

Corozal is a great place to immerse yourself in the local culture and sample some of the freshest produce Belize has to offer. The town has a strong historical connection with Mexico, and this is reflected in the local cuisine and products.

The downtown market near the bus station is a great place to start. Here, you'll find an array of colourful, exotic fruits and friendly vendors. Be sure to try the fresh fruit juices, a local specialty that is particularly good in Corozal. You can also find delicious Mexican and Latino food at the market, including popular snacks like chamoyadas, smoothies, tamales, fish empanadas, paletas, ice cream, and barbecue.

For a more comprehensive shopping experience, head to the Corozal Free Zone, a minimal tax area just across the border in Mexico. Here, you'll find casinos, hotels, shopping arcades, and wholesale depots offering a variety of consumer goods. This area is very popular with locals, as well as the over one million Mexican visitors who come annually to shop for bargains.

If you're looking for a quieter shopping experience, the southern end of Corozal, known as South End, offers a more residential atmosphere. This area is less bustling than the town centre but still boasts local shops and restaurants.

Finally, don't miss the monthly Culture In The Park event, where artists and artisans gather to sell their unique products and mingle with the community. This event is a great opportunity to support local artists and bring home a one-of-a-kind souvenir.

Take a boat tour

A great way to experience Corozal is by boat. The town is located on the coast, providing easy access to the sea and surrounding areas.

Thunderbolt Travels offers a water taxi service between Corozal and Ambergris Caye, with boats departing daily at 7 am from Corozal and 3 pm from Ambergris Caye. The trip takes approximately 2 hours, and there are stops in Sarteneja Village. The cost is $50 one way and $90 round trip.

For fishing enthusiasts, Green Horizon Flats Fishing offers boat tours with professional fishermen Zeke and Nate. They are flexible with reservations and have different types of vessels to meet your needs.

If you're looking for a more luxurious experience, Catamaran Belize Exclusive All-in-1 offers private boat tours in the Corozal District.

Boat tours are a great way to explore the area, offering stunning views of the coast and providing access to nearby attractions. You can also combine your boat tour with other activities such as fishing, snorkelling, or simply relaxing and enjoying the scenery.

Visit the Corozal House of Culture

The Corozal House of Culture is a must-see when visiting Corozal, Belize. Located just off the Corozal Bay, this historic building is a cultural hub offering visitors insights into the town's rich history and vibrant cultural scene. Here are some reasons why you should include it in your itinerary:

• The Building's History: The Corozal House of Culture is housed in a beautiful Spanish Colonial-style structure built in 1886. It is one of only 11 buildings in Corozal that survived Hurricane Janet in 1955. Originally, the building accommodated a bustling market beside the old customs house. Today, it stands as a testament to the town's resilience and cultural heritage.
• Cultural Centre and Museum: The building now functions as a cultural centre, showcasing the local arts and traditions of Corozal. It exhibits a diverse range of local artefacts, providing visitors with a deeper understanding of the area's history and cultural diversity. You can explore the exhibits at your own pace, learning about the traditions and stories of the community.
• De Facto Tourist Office: The Corozal House of Culture also serves as an informal tourist office. Here, you can obtain a copy of the "Corozal Town Historical Walk" leaflet, which guides you on a self-guided tour through the town's historical highlights. This is an excellent way to explore Corozal's past and present while strolling through its streets.
• Monthly Events: The House of Culture hosts various monthly events, including cultural performances, exhibitions, and workshops. Check their Facebook page (www.facebook.com/CHOCNICH) to stay updated on upcoming events and plan your visit accordingly. This is a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture and connect with the artistic community of Corozal.
• Proximity to Other Attractions: The Corozal House of Culture is conveniently located near other attractions in the area. After exploring the House of Culture, you can easily walk to nearby sites such as the old English Fort Barley, the Maya sites of Cerros and Santa Rita, or take a short boat ride across the Corozal Bay to Cerros for a different perspective.

In conclusion, a visit to the Corozal House of Culture is a great way to gain insight into the local culture and history of Corozal, Belize. Its location, historical significance, and cultural offerings make it a must-include destination when exploring all that this charming seaside town has to offer.

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