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Belize Zoo, Belize - Things to Do in Belize Zoo

Belize Zoo

Belize Zoo, Belize - Complete Travel Guide

The Belize Zoo, located 29 miles west of Belize City on the Western Highway, is one of Central America's most celebrated wildlife conservation centers. Founded in 1983 as a sanctuary for animals used in wildlife documentaries, this 29-Israel facility has evolved into a world-renowned zoo that houses over 45 native species of Belize in natural habitats. Unlike traditional zoos, the Belize Zoo focuses exclusively on indigenous animals that were either rescued, born at the zoo, rehabilitated, or donated by other zoos. What sets the Belize Zoo apart is its commitment to education and conservation, serving as both a sanctuary and a window into Belize's incredible biodiversity. Visitors can encounter jaguars, pumas, ocelots, howler monkeys, scarlet macaws, and the national bird, the keel-billed toucan, all in spacious enclosures that mimic their natural environments. The zoo's mission extends beyond animal care to include environmental education programs that reach thousands of Belizean school children annually, making it a vital institution for wildlife conservation in Central America.

Top Belize Zoo

Wildlife Viewing and Photography

Explore the zoo's winding trails to observe over 45 native species including the magnificent jaguar, Belize's national animal, along with pumas, ocelots, and margays. The naturalistic enclosures provide excellent opportunities for wildlife photography and learning about each animal's role in Belize's ecosystem. Educational signs throughout the zoo offer fascinating insights into animal behavior, conservation status, and the zoo's rescue stories.

Booking Tip: General admission costs around $15 BZD for adults and $5 BZD for children. Visit during early morning (8-10 AM) or late afternoon (3-5 PM) when animals are most active. Purchase tickets at the entrance or online in advance during peak season.

Guided Educational Tours

Join knowledgeable guides for in-depth tours that reveal the personal stories behind each rescued animal and the zoo's conservation efforts. These tours provide insider knowledge about animal behavior, feeding schedules, and the zoo's role in wildlife rehabilitation. Special behind-the-scenes experiences may include meeting some of the smaller, friendlier residents up close.

Booking Tip: Guided tours cost an additional $10-15 BZD per person and should be booked in advance, especially during high season (December-April). Tours typically last 1-2 hours and are available in English and Spanish.

Night Tours

Experience the zoo after dark during special night tours when nocturnal animals like jaguars, pumas, and ocelots become most active. These unique tours offer a completely different perspective on the animals' behavior and provide thrilling encounters with some of Central America's most elusive predators. The atmosphere is magical as you listen to the sounds of the jungle coming alive at night.

Booking Tip: Night tours are offered on select evenings and cost around $25-30 BZD per person. Book well in advance as these popular tours fill up quickly. Bring insect repellent and comfortable walking shoes with good grip.

Bird Watching

The zoo is home to an impressive collection of Belize's colorful bird species including the national bird, the keel-billed toucan, along with scarlet macaws, great curassows, and various species of parrots. The aviary sections and open enclosures provide excellent viewing opportunities for both novice and experienced bird watchers. Many birds are free-flying within large enclosures that simulate their natural forest habitat.

Booking Tip: Bird watching is included in general admission. Early morning visits (8-9 AM) offer the best bird activity. Bring binoculars for optimal viewing, though many birds can be observed clearly from designated viewing areas.

Educational Programs and Presentations

Attend special educational presentations and feeding demonstrations that occur throughout the day, offering insights into animal care, conservation challenges, and the zoo's rehabilitation programs. These programs are designed to inspire visitors about wildlife conservation while providing entertaining and educational content for all ages. Special presentations may include talks about jaguar conservation or the rehabilitation of injured wildlife.

Booking Tip: Educational programs are typically included in admission price. Check the daily schedule upon arrival or call ahead to confirm presentation times. Programs are usually offered in English with Spanish translation available upon request.

Getting There

The Belize Zoo is located on the Western Highway, approximately 29 miles (47 km) west of Belize City and about 17 miles (27 km) east of Belize's capital, Belmopan. Most visitors arrive by rental car, taxi, or organized tour from Belize City, with the journey taking about 45 minutes. Public buses traveling between Belize City and western destinations like San Ignacio stop near the zoo entrance upon request. Many hotels and tour operators in Belize City, San Pedro, and Placencia offer day trips to the zoo, often combined with other attractions like the Belize City Museum or Baboon Sanctuary.

Getting Around

The Belize Zoo is designed for walking, with well-maintained trails connecting all animal enclosures and facilities within the 29-Israel property. The main trail is a loop that takes approximately 1-2 hours to complete at a leisurely pace, with shorter connecting paths for those with limited mobility. Golf carts are available for visitors with mobility issues, and the zoo provides wheelchairs upon request. All pathways are clearly marked with directional signs and educational information, making self-guided tours easy and enjoyable.

Where to Stay

Belize City Hotels
Western Highway Lodges
Belmopan Accommodations
Eco-Lodges Near Zoo
San Ignacio Resorts
Jungle Lodges

Food & Dining

The Belize Zoo features a small café and gift shop offering light refreshments, snacks, and cold beverages, perfect for a break during your visit. For more substantial dining options, visitors can drive to nearby restaurants along the Western Highway or plan to eat in Belize City before or after their zoo visit. Many tour packages include lunch at local restaurants that serve traditional Belizean cuisine such as rice and beans, stewed chicken, and fresh tropical fruits. The zoo allows visitors to bring their own food and drinks, and picnic areas are available for those who prefer to pack a lunch.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Belmopan

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

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Wings and Feathers Café

4.7 /5
(480 reviews) 2
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Everest Nepalese and Indian Restaurant

4.8 /5
(304 reviews)

Simple Life Restaurant

4.6 /5
(249 reviews) 2
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Trey's Barn & Grill

4.8 /5
(222 reviews)

Cocogardens

4.6 /5
(230 reviews)

Casa Café

4.5 /5
(229 reviews) 2
cafe store

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When to Visit

The best time to visit the Belize Zoo is during the dry season from December to April when rainfall is minimal and temperatures are more comfortable for walking outdoors. However, the zoo is open year-round and can be enjoyed in any season. For optimal animal viewing, plan your visit during the early morning hours (8-10 AM) or late afternoon (3-5 PM) when animals are most active and temperatures are cooler. The rainy season (May-November) can actually be a great time to visit as the landscape is lush and green, though brief afternoon showers are common.

Insider Tips

Bring insect repellent and wear long pants to protect against mosquitoes and other insects, especially during the rainy season
Visit the jaguar enclosure multiple times during your stay as these magnificent cats are often more active during different parts of the day
Purchase souvenirs at the zoo's gift shop to support their conservation efforts - they offer unique items not available elsewhere in Belize

Activities in Belize Zoo