The Most Scenic Hikes in Belize

When you concentrate on Belize, the very first thing that involves thoughts is likely to be stunning sandy seashores with crystal clear waters. If that’s the case, we don’t blame you. In spite of everything, Belize has a number of the finest seashores within the area, making it one of many primary attracts for guests. Nonetheless, there are many others who’re able to commerce their flip-flops and bikinis for mountaineering boots.  Contemplate this your invitation to enterprise off the overwhelmed path and discover the attractive and verdant inside of Belize. The nation is dwelling to many scenic mountaineering trails with various landscapes. Count on lush forests,  hidden waterfalls, and beautiful vistas. Mountain climbing in Belize permits lively vacationers to discover and expertise the fantastic thing about the nation on foot and at their very own tempo.  Whether or not it’s a leisurely however picturesque stroll or a difficult climb, listed below are a number of the most scenic mountaineering trails to discover in Belize. 

About 34 miles (55km) spherical journey, 3-4 days | Degree: Troublesome 

At 3,675ft (1,120m), Victoria Peak is the second-highest mountain in Belize. Discover it within the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary within the Stann Creek District. The prospect to see an abundance of wildlife, in addition to the bragging rights, makes this climb a bucket-list merchandise for each locals and guests. For this hike, you do should be an skilled hiker, as it might probably take as much as three or 4 days.

On the summit of Victoria Peak. Picture courtesy @BelizeMyTravels

The hike begins on the park headquarters, following a comparatively flat dust street to an ATV-accessible picnic spot/campground round 8 miles (13km) away on the banks of the Sittee River. Then it’s rather less than 4 miles (6.5km) by the jungle alongside more and more steep terrain to KM19, the place most individuals camp for the evening. Discuss a real jungle journey! The subsequent leg is the climb to the summit and again; as you climb greater, towering timber make approach for smaller crops. There’s a bit simply earlier than the summit the place you’ll want to make use of ropes and harnesses.

For the descent, you possibly can camp at KM19 once more or push by to the start line. It’s essential to do the Victoria Peak hike accompanied by a licensed information, and it’s solely permitted between February 1 and Could 31, throughout the dry season. Observe that advance reserving with the Belize Audubon Society is required.

2. Ben’s Bluff Path 

About 2.5 miles (4km) spherical journey, 1-2 hours | Degree: Average

The view from Ben’s Bluff. Picture by Rebecca Ross through AllTrails

If you need views of the Stann Creek District with out the exertion of the Victoria Peak hike, Ben’s Bluff Path makes for an excellent different. It’s situated within the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary and is open year-round. The simple first a part of the hike takes you to a small waterfall the place you possibly can swim. After that, a slim path leads as much as Ben’s Bluff, the place good views are your reward.

Although a lot of the path is roofed by tree cover, the trail is cleared, which makes for a cushty stroll. Nonetheless, issues can get muddy, particularly within the wet season. (Though mountaineering throughout the wet season is a good looking expertise in itself. The odor of the moist rainforest and the cool breeze are good combos to ‘Zen Out’ and steadiness your thoughts physique and soul within the jungles of Belize.)

3. Crystal Cave Path 

As much as 1 hour every approach | Degree: Excessive 

Picture by Belize Caving Expeditions

One of many high mountaineering excursions for adrenaline junkies in Belize is the Crystal Cave Path, situated within the St. Herman’s Blue Gap Nationwide Park within the Cayo District. This guided tour will be booked by a number of respected native corporations. 

The hike begins with a strenuous uphill climb by the forest, which may take 45 minutes to an hour. Upon reaching the doorway of Crystal Cave, additionally identified domestically as Mountain Cow Cave, you’ll rappel roughly 15 toes into the opening, the mandatory gear offered by the tour firm of your alternative. From there, your information will take you deeper underground to discover artifacts left by the traditional Maya, together with a couple of skeletal stays. Look out for the cave’s beautiful stalactites and stalagmites which are a sight to behold too.

Exploring the cave requires some crawling and many climbing, so it is very important have health stage and, you’ll want to put on correct mountaineering apparel. Be able to get soiled! The whole tour lasts at the least 5 hours, relying on the tour firm and your itinerary. 

4. Antelope Falls 

About 2.25 miles (3.6km) spherical journey, 1-1.5 hour | Degree: Troublesome 

Picture courtesy Images by Quilz Tamay

As an out of doors advocate and somebody dwelling in southern Belize, Mayflower Bocawina Nationwide Park close to Dangriga is arguably probably the most beautiful locations to hike in Belize, that includes blue-green streams and waterfalls set inside a dense jungle. In case you are a wildlife fanatic like myself, you is likely to be fortunate sufficient to come across spider and howler monkeys, tapirs, and, possibly even a jaguar!

The Antelope Falls path begins straightforward, following a large path. Early on, you’ll cross the Maintzunun ruins, that are basically an unexcavated mound. As you proceed, the path progressively turns into steeper, interspersed with flat stretches. Once you attain the approximate midway level, you’ll have to seize onto assist ropes or tree roots to help your ascent. Is essential to put on correct mountaineering apparel, particularly when you select to hike throughout the wet season (June to November).  

Related: A Newbie’s Information to Mountain climbing in Belize

On the high of the falls, which cascade down roughly 1000 toes, you possibly can take a second to catch your breath and benefit from the breathtaking views of Southern Belize! Then, proceed for a couple of extra minutes to succeed in a good looking pool the place you possibly can take a refreshing swim, eat, meditate, and chill out earlier than heading again down.

The Excellent Time for Mountain climbing in Belize

Picture by Andrea Murray

Whereas the dry season is the very best time for mountaineering in Belize, the Inexperienced Season (wet season) from June to November additionally affords its personal distinctive magnificence. Trails can get muddy and more difficult, however the lush greenery, the refreshing odor of moist soil, and fewer vacationers make for a rewarding expertise. Whether or not you select to hike throughout the dry or wet season, Belize’s scenic trails promise beautiful views and memorable adventures. 

Featured: Vistas from the highest of Antelope Falls, Bocawina. Picture by Carolee Chanona