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About this trip
Embark on an unforgettable 9-day birding and photography adventure in the diverse and bird-rich habitats of Belize. Join Stan Tekiela to explore tropical rainforests, pine forests, wetlands, savannas, and an ancient Maya site while capturing vibrant photographs of the many toucans, hummingbirds, tanagers, and many other striking avian species that call these ecosystems home. Along the way, learn about the ancient Maya civilization that once flourished here. Amid rainforests, archaeological sites tell the story of this culturally rich region while also providing habitat for a diversity of flora and fauna, including hundreds of bird species. Sharpen your photographic skills at every step of this journey and return home with an amazing portfolio of images and a new sense of wonder about the tropics.
Highlights
- Visit the Belize Zoo to learn about native Belizean wildlife and the conservation efforts underway to protect it.
- Venture into the sprawling forests of Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve, home to a wide variety of species like the Plumbeous Vireo, Cabanis's Wren, Golden-hooded Tanager, and Ornate Hawk-Eagle.
- Explore the ancient Maya site of Xunantunich and discover its deep archaeological and cultural significance.
- Spend three days exploring Chan Chich, an exemplary eco-lodge that offers unparalleled opportunities to observe and photograph bird species like the Lovely Cotinga, Agami Heron, Northern Jacanas, Spectacled Owl, and many more.
- Discover both concentrated flocks and rare sightings of avifauna, such as the Jabiru, Yellow-headed Amazon, Roseate Spoonbill, and Great Blue Heron, in the wetlands and pine savannas of Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary.
Meet your host
Stan Tekiela
Naturalist, wildlife photographer and author/writer Stan Tekiela is the originator of the popular state-specific field guides such as Birds of (state name) Field Guide, Wildflowers of (state name), and Trees of (state name). Over the past four decades Stan has authored more than 200 field guides, nature appreciation books and wildlife audio CDs for nearly every state in the nation, presenting many species of birds, mammals, reptiles and amphibians, trees, wildflowers and cacti.
Holding a Bachelor of Science degree in Natural History from the University of Minnesota and as an active professional naturalist for more than 40 years, Stan studies and photographs wildlife throughout the United States and has received various national and regional awards for his books and photographs.
Also a well-known columnist and radio personality, his syndicated column appears in over 20 newspapers and his wildlife programs are broadcast on a number of Midwest radio stations. He is a member of the North American Nature Photography Association and Canon Professional Services along with many other professional organizations.
$6,750
Per person
About this price
Land cost only. Does not include round-trip airfare to and from destination.
Single room supplement $1400
What makes us different
Rich content
Carbon offsetting
Wildlife up-close
Service anytime
We know what photographers need
Unique Itineraries
Daily Itinerary
Print ItineraryBurrell Boom
San Ignacio
San Ignacio
Gallon Jug
Gallon Jug
Gallon Jug
Crooked Tree
Crooked Tree
Farewell!
Pricing
Print Pricing$6,750
Per person
About this price
Land cost only. Does not include round-trip airfare to and from destination.
Single room supplement $1400
What's Included
- Activities and meals as mentioned in itinerary
- Full time expert birding guide for duration of program
- Private transportation and driver for the duration of the program
- Arrival and departure transfers based on individual flight schedules
- Non alcoholic beverage with meals
- Water refill station during transfers
- Carbon Offset
What's Not Included
- International airfare
- Gratuities
- Travel Insurance
- Items of personal nature
Pricing Details
A deposit of $350 per person is required to reserve your place on the program. Reservations received after the final payment deadline must be accompanied by full payment. Should you need to cancel your reservation, the following per person fees will apply: 120 days or more before departure: $100 cancellation fee. 119-96 days before departure: $350 cancellation fee (full deposit). 95 days or fewer before departure: 100% of the total program cost is non-refundable. In most cases, any applicable refunds will be issued to the original form of payment.
Holbrook Travel strongly recommends the purchase of travel protection for medical emergencies while traveling and to protect your investment. Please note the purchase of Cancel for Any Reason Coverage or to exclude pre-existing conditions with Trip Cancellation coverage may require policy purchase within 10-14 days of your initial deposit, depending upon the provider
Travel Info
Print Travel InfoEntry & Exit Requirements
U.S. citizens must have a valid passport to enter Belize. U.S. passports must be valid for the duration of your stay in Belize. As this requirement is subject to change at any time without notice, we recommend at least six months’ passport validity.
A visa is not required for visits up to 30 days.
When leaving Belize by air, there is a departure tax of USD $55.50, which is usually included in the cost of your airfare. Consult with your airline to determine whether the departure tax is included in your ticket cost. If the departure tax is not included in your ticket cost, it should be paid at the airport prior to check-in, payable in cash only (U.S. currency). Please note exit taxes are subject to change without prior notice.
Health Information
IMMUNIZATIONS
The Centers for Disease Control recommends that all travelers be up to date on routine vaccinations such as measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-pertussis-tetanus vaccine, varicella (chicken pox) vaccine, and your yearly flu shot, as well as COVID-19 vaccination, before every trip.
There are no vaccinations required for entry into Belize, unless you are traveling from (or transiting through) a country where yellow fever transmission is a risk, in which case proof of yellow fever vaccination is required.
Though not required for entry, the CDC recommends vaccination against hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and typhoid for most unvaccinated travelers visiting Belize.
Please consult your physician for additional information and recommendations based on your individual circumstances.
MALARIA
Malaria is caused by a parasite found in Anopheles mosquitos, which are active from dusk until dawn. The CDC advises that the risk of malaria in Belize is low, but travelers should still take precautions against mosquito bites. To protect against mosquitos, the CDC recommends that you cover exposed skin with lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and pants, consider treating clothes with permethrin, and use an insect repellent containing an EPA-registered active ingredient like DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE). Apply sunscreen first, followed by the repellent, ideally 20 minutes later.
Be careful when applying products containing DEET, as it can damage or dissolve certain synthetic fabrics as well as plastic, rubber, vinyl, or elastic materials, such as those used in camera equipment, binoculars, phone cases, sunglasses, or watches. Additionally, some research suggests that when DEET and picaridin enter local waterways, they can be harmful to amphibians and other wildlife. When selecting a repellent, it is ultimately up to each traveler to weigh the risks and benefits of different options, keeping in mind both environmental factors and the importance of protecting against illness.
DENGUE FEVER AND OTHER INSECT-BORNE ILLNESSES
Other insect-borne illnesses are known to occur in Belize, including dengue fever, leishmaniasis, Zika virus, and others. Travelers to Belize should protect themselves against insect bites using the measures described above.
After spending time outdoors in grassy or wooded areas, the CDC recommends showering and conducting a full-body check for ticks. If you find a tick attached to your skin, safely remove it as soon as possible.
As a precaution, the CDC advises women who are pregnant to consider postponing travel to any area where Zika virus transmission is ongoing.
OTHER NUISANCE PESTS
In places with rich vegetation and proximity to bodies of water, you may encounter chiggers. These are mites that can superficially attach to skin and leave behind itchy red bumps that appear 3-6 hours after initial contact. Their bites are sometimes mistaken for those of bed bugs or other insects; however, unlike bed bugs, which tend to target exposed skin, chiggers look for skin folds or areas where clothing fits tightly—like the ankles, waist, underarms, elbow creases, and the back of the knees—to feed on broken-down skin cells. They are not known to transmit any illnesses in Belize but can cause considerable discomfort.
We recommend that travelers protect themselves against chigger bites using the measures noted above. Additionally, if potential exposure occurs, we recommend showering and scrubbing skin with soap and hot water as quickly as possible. If that is not immediately feasible, promptly rub skin with a dry towel or cloth and place any exposed clothing in a zip-top bag until it can be washed. To treat any itchiness, we suggest over-the-counter anti-itch lotion and/or oral antihistamines.
SUN EXPOSURE
The effects of the sun can be damaging to the eyes and skin. Spending time outdoors exposes you to the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, even on cloudy days. To protect yourself from the sun, use a broad spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 15, protect skin with clothing, wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses, and drink plenty of fluids.
Respiratory Illness Protocols
Please review our Respiratory Illness Protocols page, which explains our policy and procedures if you or another traveler should develop symptoms of a respiratory illness during your trip. Your participation in a Holbrook Travel program indicates that you are in agreement with these protocols.
Liability Waivers
Please note you may be asked locally to sign liability waivers in order to participate in certain activities. If you would like to receive a copy of any required waiver in advance, please contact Holbrook Travel.
Resources
Print ResourcesPacking Recommendations
Everyone has personal preferences when it comes to packing; for this reason, the information below is offered as a general guide and not a definitive list. You know yourself best: Use your discretion and pack what you think will serve you, based on your personal preferences and specific itinerary.
You may find many of the items below in the New Headings Gear Store. Use code HolbrookGuest10 for a 10% discount on your purchase.
CLOTHING
Casual, comfortable clothing is suitable for most activities in Belize. You may wish to bring a slightly nicer outfit or two (eg sundress, polo shirt) if your itinerary includes dinners out or more formal activities.
Bring enough clothing suitable for the length of your program. If you prefer to pack light, note that many hotels offer laundry services at additional cost. If you plan to hand-wash items, remember that humidity may delay drying time.
Pack clothing that can be worn in layers to adapt to weather changes throughout the day. Belize’s rainy season is June to November, but it can rain at any time. Clothing that wicks away moisture and dries quickly is recommended.
- A combination of short-sleeved and lightweight, long-sleeved shirts for sun and insect protection
- Shorts
- Lightweight, quick-drying long pants for sun and insect protection
- Undergarments
- Sleepwear
- Lightweight jacket or sweater/sweatshirt
- 1-2 bathing suit(s) for the beach, if applicable, plus many hotels have pools; if you'll be snorkeling, consider rashguards and swim/surf leggings for added sun protection
- Socks – Bring extra pairs. If your itinerary indicates muddy hikes with rubber boots provided on-site, pack a few pairs of knee socks to prevent blisters.
- Shoes – Consider your specific itinerary when choosing footwear. For most programs, you’ll likely want at least one pair of comfortable, closed-toe walking or hiking shoes suitable for forest hikes and walking over cobblestones or other uneven terrain. Sturdier hiking boots may be appropriate for more active itineraries. In addition, many participants opt for a pair of sturdy sport-strap sandals (e.g. Keens, Tevas, or similar) and/or casual flip-flops or sandals. If you’re caving or visiting the beach or cayes, you may also want a pair of aqua socks, reef walkers, or water shoes.
- Lightweight rain jacket, hooded poncho, and/or windbreaker
- Visor or wide-brimmed sun hat
- Bandana, scarf, or neck gaiter
Personal Toiletries
Pack toiletries based on your personal preferences and habits. Below are just a few recommendations to keep in mind.
Note that COVID self-test kits are not legal in Belize and may be confiscated at the airport.
- Shampoo, conditioner, lotion, deodorant/antiperspirant , etc. – If possible, avoid strong fragrances if you are sensitive to insect bites and to be considerate of your fellow travelers.
- Soap and washcloth or a small, quick-drying microfiber towel – Washcloths are not standard in all hotels. If you normally use a washcloth, you may wish to bring one from home.
- Hairbrush, comb, hair ties, shower cap
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Razor
- Ear plugs, especially if you are a light sleeper
- Personal hygiene products
- Insect repellent with DEET or picaridin (see note below about treating clothing with permethrin)
- Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF – If you’ll be in the ocean, biodegradable/reef-safe sunscreen with a mineral-based active ingredient like zinc oxide or titanium oxide is required.
- Aloe vera gel
- A travel pack of tissues – also useful as napkins or toilet paper if needed
o Your local guide will carry a basic first aid kit, but you may also wish to pack a small medical kit for personal use. Helpful items might include: bandages, antihistamine, a pain reliever, motion sickness and/or altitude sickness medication (if you are prone to either), anti-diarrhea medicine, powdered electrolyte packets to prevent dehydration, aloe vera gel to treat sunburn, individually wrapped pre-moistened towelettes and/or hand sanitizer, COVID-19 self-test kit, antibiotic ointment, anti-fungal cream, moleskin for blisters, aloe vera gel for sunburn, eye drops, tweezers, a mini sewing kit, and an extra pair of disposable contact lenses or eyeglasses if you wear them.
Days before you leave home, you may wish to consider spraying any clothing, socks, and shoes that will be worn in lowland, tropical sites with permethrin, an anti-parasite medication, to repel irritating pests and prevent the spread of disease. A recommended brand is Sawyer. Carefully read all instructions before use. Please note permethrin is highly toxic to cats and fish, and some aerosol products may be harmful to birds. Side effects may include minor itching, burning, or redness. You may want to use a laundry marker to label and keep track of which socks are permethrinized. Only one application per item is necessary; permethrin on treated clothes remains effective through several washings. Permethrin should NOT be applied directly to skin.
Miscellaneous
Remember to pack valuables such as your passport, cash/credit cards, and medications in your carry-on luggage.
- Passport and photocopies of all travel documentation
- Personal insurance card and travel insurance information
- Money – ATM/credit card and/or cash; small bills in good condition are recommended
- Prescription medicines (if applicable) – Packing medications in their original bottles/packaging with pharmacy labeling is recommended.
- Yellow fever certificate (if required; only if arriving from a country where yellow fever transmission is a risk)
- Sunglasses with strap
- Portable handheld or neck fan (rechargeable or battery-operated) and/or cooling towel
- Small day pack for hikes and excursions
- Flashlight and/or head lamp
- Travel alarm clock or inexpensive waterproof wristwatch with alarm – Not all hotels provide alarm clocks.
- A pocket calculator or phone to assist with conversions and currency exchange
- Binoculars with lens cleaner
- Camera and related equipment, such as charger, lenses, and extra memory cards
- Reusable water bottle
- Non-perishable snacks; electrolyte powder packets
- Pocket-knife or multipurpose tool – Pack in your checked luggage
- Zip-top style bags – useful for packing toiletries, sorting clothing, storing damp or muddy shoes, or as a dry bag for protecting electronics
- Notepad or travel journal and pen
- Music or reading material for down time, long bus drives, or on the airplane, and a portable bright light to read by
- Collapsible walking stick with rubber tip
- A small quantity of laundry detergent if you’ll be washing clothing by hand
- Travel-size umbrella – Some people find this unwieldy to carry, while others find it offers better protection than a rain jacket alone.
- Money belt
- Converter/adapter
- Chargers for electronics
Questions?
Contact Debbie Jordan at 866-748-6146 or debbie@holbrooktravel.com
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