Howler monkeys swing through broadleaf forest in this southern Belize national park, a wildlife sanctuary whose winding trails lead to Maya ruins and lacy waterfalls. Top activities in Mayflower Bocawina National Park include hiking, swimming, ziplining, and waterfall rappelling, with options that range from laid-back to adventurous.
Mayflower Bocawina National Park comprises just 11 square miles (28 square kilometers) of lush forest, but it’s a wildlife powerhouse—you can spot coatis, monkeys, and hundreds of species of birds among the trees here. The park’s most thrilling offerings include zipline and rappelling tours that take you over swing bridges, thundering waterfalls, and cliff edges. More relaxed options include hikes to several partially excavated Maya ruins, Bocawina Falls, and the 100-foot (30-meter) Antelope Falls.
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Hiking trails here have uneven terrain, so come prepared with sturdy footwear.
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Consult trail designations before setting out. Routes with very steep sections, such as the path to Antelope Falls, are indicated on park maps.
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Bugs are plentiful, but long sleeves, long pants, and repellent keep insects at bay.
Mayflower Bocawina National Park is located in southern Belize, a 30-minute drive from the towns of Hopkins and Dangriga. If you’ve visiting on your own, it’s a good idea to come in a 4WD, as the national park access road is unpaved and can be quite bumpy.
The best time to visit national parks in Belize is during the dry season from December through April, when the country enjoys clear skies, warm weather, and fewer bugs. Birds are easier to see this time of year, too, since they congregate at limited water sources. For fewer crowds and lower prices, consider the shoulder season months of November and May—increased rainfall still leaves plenty of dry days for exploring.
Whether you’re spotting monkeys or searching for elusive pumas, Belize is a spectacular place for wildlife encounters. Not far from Mayflower Bocawina National Park is Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, home to jaguars, pumas, and ocelots. An hour from Belize City is Community Baboon Sanctuary, dedicated to protecting the country’s black howler monkeys. Birds and butterflies are the colorful highlights of Rio Blanco National Park, in a remote location near the border with Guatemala.
