Sports & Activities > Hiking
......................................................................................
Hiking
Bring your camera and get set to explore the rich diversity of plants and wildlife as you trek the tropical forests of Belize.

Learn about the medicinal qualities of local plants as you hike the Blue Creek rainforest preserve with experienced IZE Belize guides.

IZE Belize Rainforest Hikes
Wherever you go in Belize youre never far from a chance to see exotic plants and unusual wildlife. Belize is truly a nature-lover's paradise, with it's lush rainforest jungles teeming with animal and plant life.

At nightfall, the rainforest jungle comes alive with the incredible sounds of animals and birds communicating with one another. Close observers on a night hike will be rewarded by brilliant displays of color and diversity.

No matter what time of day you explore the jungle, be sure to bring your hiking boots, camera, and binoculars to spot the incredible wildlife. International Zoological Expeditions, Inc. (IZE) arranges many interesting jungle hikes for adventurers of all abilities, including:

• Ethnobotany Walk
A centuries-old history of medicinal and other useful plants of the rainforest will be presented on this walk. Learn about plants that modern medicine is using to fight diseases such as cancer and find out how to survive in the rainforest making shelter from cohune palms, finding water in the jungle, and identifying the many edible plants, trees, and fruits found in the rainforest.

• Hokeb Ha Cave Hike
Located just 20 minutes from Blue Creek Village is the Hokeb Ha Cave, a limestone cave that is part of Belize's underground river system. The name of this cave literally means "where the water enters the earth." Long vines hang from the shear rock wall above the cave. The calm water at the main entrance is perfect for swimming most times of the year.

Inside, stalactites hang from the ceiling, and colonies of bats dwell in the darkest crevices. Be on the lookout for Mayan artifacts over 1,000 years old – many Late-Classic ceramics have been found, as well as a Mayan alter. Make sure you take along your camera and flashlight for this unique hike.

• Iguana Hike
Swim and hike along the river as your guides look for iguanas in the overhanging trees, and then gives you the opportunity to view them first hand. You'll want to wear your water socks and take along your diving mask.

• Rugged Jungle Climb
Take along your water bottle and insect repellent and bring up to 5 people with you to enjoy this 4 hour expedition. This advanced rainforest hike is for the most physically fit.

• Monkey Hike
Howler monkeys, known locally as baboons, are out there - but they may be a 3 or 4 hour hike away from the lodge! Insect spray, water bottle, and camera are a must.

• Early-morning Bird Walk
Wake to the melodic sounds of the nightingale wren at 5:30 a.m. and head out at 6 a.m. with your local guide to enjoy Belize's spectacular diversity of birds. Bring along your binoculars!