DEHUROEN

Plizio Visual Lab

Belize Zoo

Plizio editorial teamData Sources
Animal habitat
—°2
Belize Zoo (Belize)

Weather…

The Belize Zoo and Tropical Education Center was founded in 1983 by Sharon Matola to provide a home for animals left behind after documentary film shoots. Unlike conventional zoos, this institution houses only species native to Belize and places a heavy emphasis on conservation and environmental education. The facility spans 29 acres of savannah landscape and is designed so that the animals live in their natural habitats. Among the most famous residents are jaguars, Baird's tapirs (the national animal of Belize), toucans, and howler monkeys. A special program is dedicated to the rehabilitation of injured animals and educating the local population on protecting endangered species. The zoo plays a central role in national identity and pride regarding the country's biological heritage. Every year, thousands of students and tourists visit the center to learn about the fragile ecosystems of Central America.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan–Mar.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C232426282827272727252423
Rain mm101554534118230149174198243170126

📋 Practical info

📅
Best season
The best time to visit Belize Zoo is during the dry season from November to April, when animals are more active in pleasant temperatures. Early mornings offer the best chance to see native species like jaguars and howler monkeys.
🌅
Best time of day
Plan your visit for early morning or late afternoon when most animals are most active. During midday heat, many species retreat to shade and become harder to spot.
📜
Etiquette
Please do not feed the animals, as it can harm their health. Always maintain a respectful distance and avoid loud noises to prevent stressing the animals.
🎒
What to bring
Binoculars are highly recommended for a closer look at animals in enclosures and up in trees. Comfortable walking shoes and light clothing make for a pleasant stroll along the natural paths.
🧭
Getting there
Belize Zoo is located about 50 kilometers west of Belize City on the road to Belmopan, easily reachable by car or taxi. Public buses run regularly from Belize City towards Belmopan and stop near the zoo.
🦌
What to expect
Be prepared for some animals to hide or rest, especially during the heat of the day. A second stroll or a break in shady spots can increase your chances of spotting shyer species.

Geography

Coordinates
17.33000, -88.56600

Facts

  • Founded in 1983 by Sharon Matola.
  • Houses only animal species native to Belize.
  • The facility covers an area of approximately 29 acres.
  • Home to the Baird's tapir, the national animal of Belize.
  • Operates a successful conservation program for jaguars.
  • Located at Mile 29 on the George Price Highway.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Orange Walk TownOrange Walk Town2 km · EExplore →
Crooked TreeCrooked Tree2 km · NEExplore →
Cockscomb MountainsCockscomb Mountains2 km · SWExplore →
San Lazaro (Orange Walk)San Lazaro (Orange Walk)3 km · SEExplore →
Monkey River HillsMonkey River Hills3 km · NWExplore →
Five Blues LakeFive Blues Lake4 km · SExplore →
New River LagoonNew River Lagoon4 km · SExplore →
Izabal Banana PlantationsIzabal Banana Plantations5 km · SWExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Belize Zoo (2)

Mahogany Heights📍 landmark

Mahogany Heights is a settlement in the Belize District. It is located in central Belize near the Belize Zoo.

La Democracia, Belize📍 landmark

La Democracia is a village in the Belize District. It lies in the southern part of the district.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What are the opening hours of the Belize Zoo?
Open daily from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM. Last entry is at 4:15 PM.
How much is the entrance fee?
Adults (non-residents) pay approx. 15 USD, children approx. 5 USD.
Is the zoo accessible?
Paths are mostly gravel or natural, which can be difficult for wheelchairs.
Is photography allowed in the zoo?
Yes, photography for private purposes is allowed and very popular.
How much time should you plan for a visit?
Plan for about 2 to 3 hours to see all the animals at a relaxed pace.
Belize Zoo: where is it located?
Belize Zoo is located in Belize.
Belize Zoo: what is there to see?
Highlights include Mahogany Heights, La Democracia, Belize.
Belize Zoo: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar.
Belize Zoo: why is it worth visiting?
The Belize Zoo and Tropical Education Center was founded in 1983 by Sharon Matola to provide a home for animals left behind after documentary film shoots.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →
North America
Explore with Plizio Discover more places in North America
More places in Belize →

More places

🗺️
Maya Mountains
The Maya Mountains are a mountain range in southern Belize and eastern Guatemala.
Maya Mountains Foothills — Belize Zoo (Belize)
Maya Mountains Foothills
The gently rising hills before the main Maya Mountains.
Blue Hole National Park — Belize Zoo (Belize)
Blue Hole National Park
A scenic national park featuring a turquoise cenote and the expansive St.
Mountain Pine Ridge Escarpment — Belize Zoo (Belize)
Mountain Pine Ridge Escarpment
The prominent escarpment of the Mountain Pine Ridge highlands.
St. Herman's Blue Hole — Belize Zoo (Belize)
St. Herman's Blue Hole
A popular freshwater swimming spot in a small national park.
Mountain Pine Ridge Highland — Belize Zoo (Belize)
Mountain Pine Ridge Highland
A highland area in Belize with pine forests.
Valley of Peace Market Gardens — Belize Zoo (Belize)
Valley of Peace Market Gardens
Vegetable and market gardens in a quiet rural community in the Cayo District.
Rio on Pools — Belize Zoo (Belize)
Rio on Pools
Natural rock pools in Mountain Pine Ridge that are great for swimming.