Continuing our journey through Central America and the Caribbean, this post is about one of the natural attractions of Belize. Situated on the north-eastern coast of Central America on the shores of the Caribbean Sea, Belize is a land of stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity.
Among its hidden treasures, the Belize Botanic Gardens stands out as a haven for nature enthusiasts, offering an interesting blend of horticultural achievements, cultural diversity and conservation efforts. And of course, it’s different in many ways to the botanical gardens found in colder climates.
Belize Botanic Gardens is the largest botanical garden in Belize. It was opened to the public in 1997 after the gradual clearing of farmland that started in 1993. One of the primary drawcards of the garden is its remarkable display of biodiversity. Spread across 18 hectares (45 acres), the gardens showcase a staggering variety of native and exotic plants.
You can walk through the trails on your own or take a guided tour, where you’ll learn why native plants are important, check out the Maya Medicine Trail and sample some teas made from bush plants at the gardens. One of many features is a traditional Maya House where groups can arrange to make tamales over a wood fire.
Visitors can embark on a journey through different themed gardens, each representing various ecosystems found in Belize, from lush rainforests to arid savannahs. The carefully curated collection includes medicinal plants, orchids, palms and numerous other species, providing a vivid tapestry of Belize’s diverse flora. The pictures below illustrate the Beehive Ginger and the Panama Flame.
Belize Botanic Gardens is also home to around 300 species of birds and a number of animals including the tapir, and the ocelot and green iguana, both pictured below.
Vermilion Flycatcher
Educational and cultural
In addition to its aesthetic appeal, the facility serves as an invaluable educational resource. The gardens host guided tours and workshops, allowing visitors to delve into the fascinating world of botany, conservation and sustainable practices. Whether you’re a seasoned botanist or a curious nature lover, the gardens offer a wealth of knowledge about the intricate relationships between plants, animals and the environment.
Belize is renowned for its cultural diversity and the Botanic Gardens encapsulates this cultural richness. As you explore the gardens, you’ll encounter traditional Maya and Mestizo gardens, reflecting the indigenous knowledge and agricultural practices of these communities.
This cultural integration provides visitors with an all-inclusive experience, fostering an appreciation for the interdependence between nature and human societies.
Conservation initiatives
According to the World Bank, Belize is among the most vulnerable and disaster-prone countries in the world due to climate change impacts. Despite its small size, Belize faces environmental issues such as deforestation, coastal development and crude oil exploitation, actions that potentially come at a high cost to the environment. Belize has reaffirmed its environmental leadership by becoming the first country in the Americas to finalise a debt conversion for ocean conservation and the mitigation of climate change effects.
The Belize Botanic Gardens actively contributes to conservation efforts, playing a crucial role in preserving endangered and endemic plant species. Through seed banking, research and propagation programs, the gardens contribute to safeguarding Belize’s botanical heritage. Visitors therefore not only support these conservation initiatives but also gain insight into the challenges and triumphs of preserving biodiversity in the face of environmental changes.
Community engagement
The gardens actively engage with local communities, fostering a sense of environmental stewardship. Through outreach programs, workshops and partnerships, the gardens contribute to sustainable development, promote the importance of preserving natural resources and encourage responsible tourism practices.
Snacks and cold drinks are available at the Visitors’ Centre, but you’re welcome to bring your lunch and picnic anywhere in the gardens. There are picnic tables near the Visitors’ Centre and tables and chairs inside.
The gardens welcome nature enthusiasts, conservationists and responsible tourists alike, offering a multifaceted experience that goes beyond a typical botanical garden visit. From its diverse plant collections and educational programs to its cultural immersion and conservation endeavours, the gardens stand as a testament to Belize’s commitment to preserving its natural heritage.
Belize Botanic Gardens is located in the Cayo district of western Belize, nestled in a valley along the banks of the Macal River, surrounded by the foothills of the Maya Mountains. It’s about 16 kilometres (10 miles) from San Ignacio town and the gardens offer a shuttle service. Two trips a day leave from the Health Food Store located in the San Ignacio Market at 9:30am and 1.00pm, returning at 11:30am and 4.00pm. Adult admission to the gardens costs US$7.50 or US$15.00 with a guided tour included. Children pay half price or get free entry aged six years and under. The shuttle costs US$7.50 per person return.
The capital of Belize, Belmopan, is also located in the Cayo district. It’s a planned city that was founded on the 1st of August 1970 and is one of the newest national capital cities in the world. Belmopan was planned after the near destruction of the former capital, Belize City, by Hurricane Hattie in 1961. Nevertheless, most overseas visitors will arrive in Belize City at the country’s only international airport, Philip Goldson, to which a number of American airlines fly as well as Air Canada, COPA and TAG. Cruise ship passengers can also arrive at Belize City via the Fort Street Tourism Village.
