
Belize Zoo
A sanctuary for native Belizean wildlife, offering unique encounters and supporting vital conservation efforts.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Animals are more active

Belize Zoo
Best Time
Animals are more active

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A sanctuary for native Belizean wildlife, offering unique encounters and supporting vital conservation efforts.
"An incredible sanctuary that truly cares about the well-being of the animals and education."

🎯 Book Night Tour Early
Spots for the 'Belize Zoo at Night' tour are limited and sell out fast. Book ahead!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on natural trails. Good footwear is a must!

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Jaguar Encounter
Big Cat Enclosure
Witness Belize's majestic jaguar, a symbol of the wild. Learn about conservation efforts for this elusive feline.

Tapir Feeding Experience
Tapir Habitat
Get up close and personal with Belize's national animal, the tapir. A truly unforgettable interactive experience.

Nocturnal Wildlife Tour
Zoo Grounds (after dark)
Discover the jungle's secrets after sunset. See and learn about Belize's fascinating night-active creatures.

Scarlet Macaw Flight
Aviary
Marvel at the vibrant colors of the scarlet macaw, a stunning native bird.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Nocturnal Wonders
Understand the Mission
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Night Tour Early
Spots for the 'Belize Zoo at Night' tour are limited and sell out fast. Book ahead!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on natural trails. Good footwear is a must!
💧 Stay Hydrated
Belize can be hot and humid. Bring water or purchase it at the zoo.
📸 Capture the Moments
Bring your camera! The Belize Zoo offers fantastic photo opportunities of native animals.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Night Tour Early
Spots for the 'Belize Zoo at Night' tour are limited and sell out fast. Book ahead!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on natural trails. Good footwear is a must!
💧 Stay Hydrated
Belize can be hot and humid. Bring water or purchase it at the zoo.
📸 Capture the Moments
Bring your camera! The Belize Zoo offers fantastic photo opportunities of native animals.
🤝 Support Conservation
Every ticket and purchase helps fund the zoo's vital rescue and rehabilitation work.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise The Belize Zoo for its dedication to native wildlife conservation and its unique sanctuary approach. Many highlight the knowledgeable and friendly staff, especially during special tours and encounters. While the facilities are described as basic, the overall experience is considered educational, engaging, and impactful, with the night tour being a standout activity.
"Rainy season has its perks - we were two of the few people at the zoo and TEC. Our room was adequate, basic, and we were glad for the AC at night. Our dinner and breakfast were very good, and they catered to my daughter's dietary needs. The pristene pool was delightful for both afternoon and morning swims - and cool-downs. The zoo was very interesting, and we appreciate what they are doing for education, care, and rehab for Belizean animals. A lot of important work goes on behind the scenes. While we enjoyed our zoo visit during the afternoon, we LOVED the nocturnal tour to see, hear, and learn more about the night animals that weren't active during the day."
Barbara V.
"Incredible sanctuary that truly cares about the well-being of the animals and education. All the residents are native to Belize who came here for another chance. Many species of native birds, tapirs (they are huge!), native cats, and some lizards and agouti to round out the visit.
Small cafe and gift shop on site."
Deirdre Lind
"We had a fantastic time at the Belize Zoo! We took part in the special experiences with the tapir and the scarlet macaw, and they were truly unforgettable. Even though the jaguars were deep in sleep, it didn’t take away from how amazing the visit was. Our zookeeper was outstanding—friendly, knowledgeable, and went above and beyond to make sure we had a great time. It was such a fun and educational morning learning about Belize’s incredible wildlife. Highly recommend for anyone visiting the country!"
Monica Heredia
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Belize Zoo is located about a 45-minute drive west of Belize City. You can hire a taxi, take a local bus heading towards San Ignacio, or arrange for a private transfer. Many visitors opt for tours that include transportation from Belize City.
Yes, it's quite accessible. The drive from San Ignacio to the Belize Zoo takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. You can find local buses heading towards Belize City that stop near the zoo, or arrange for a taxi or private shuttle.
Options include local buses, taxis, private shuttles, and organized tours. Many hotels and tour operators in Belize City and San Ignacio offer packages that include transportation to the zoo.
Absolutely. The zoo is located directly off the George Price Highway, making it easily accessible by car. There is ample parking available on-site.
While the zoo itself offers basic cabanas for overnight stays, there are limited hotels directly adjacent. Most visitors stay in Belize City or San Ignacio and make it a day trip.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission prices can vary, but generally, there's a fee for entry. It's best to check their official website or social media for the most current pricing for adults and children.
The Belize Zoo is typically open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. However, it's always a good idea to confirm the exact opening hours before your visit, especially for special events like the night tour.
For general admission, booking in advance is usually not required, but it can save time. For special experiences like the night tour or animal encounters, advance booking is highly recommended as they have limited capacity.
Yes, the zoo offers unique experiences like the 'Belize Zoo at Night' tour and special animal encounters (e.g., with tapirs or scarlet macaws). These provide a more in-depth and interactive visit.
Information on re-entry policies is best confirmed directly with the zoo. Typically, day passes allow for re-entry on the same day, but it's wise to get a stamp or confirmation if you plan to leave and return.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Belize Zoo exclusively houses native Belizean animals. You can expect to see jaguars, pumas, ocelots, tapirs, howler monkeys, spider monkeys, kinkajous, coatis, various native birds like toucans and scarlet macaws, and reptiles.
Absolutely! The Belize Zoo is very family-friendly. The enclosures are well-maintained, and the educational focus makes it a great learning experience for kids. The 'Boo at the Zoo' event is also a popular family activity.
This guided tour allows you to experience the zoo after dark, when many native animals are most active. You'll learn about nocturnal species and their behaviors in a unique, immersive setting.
Yes, zookeepers often lead informal tours or are available to answer questions, providing insights into the animals and their conservation. Some organized tours also include a guide.
The zoo has restrooms, a gift shop, and a small cafe or snack bar. Some visitors mention basic but comfortable accommodations if you choose to stay overnight.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a small cafe or snack bar on-site where you can purchase refreshments and light meals.
While not explicitly stated, it's generally acceptable to bring your own water and snacks, especially for families. However, purchasing from the cafe supports the zoo's operations.
The cafe typically offers local snacks, drinks, and simple meal options. It's a convenient place to grab a bite during your visit.
Dining options are limited directly around the zoo. Most visitors eat before or after their visit in Belize City or San Ignacio, or utilize the zoo's cafe.
Some reviews mention that the cafe can cater to dietary needs, but it's best to inquire directly upon arrival or when booking any special experiences.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning or late afternoon often provide softer light. The 'Belize Zoo at Night' tour offers unique photographic opportunities of nocturnal animals, though low light conditions require good camera settings.
Generally, photography for personal use is allowed. However, flash photography might be restricted in certain areas to avoid disturbing the animals. Always check for signage or ask staff.
Jaguars, scarlet macaws, tapirs, and howler monkeys are often highlights for photographers due to their striking appearance and behavior.
The enclosures are designed to allow good viewing and photography opportunities. Special experiences, like feeding sessions, can offer even closer perspectives.
A versatile zoom lens (e.g., 70-200mm) is useful for capturing animals from a distance. For the night tour, a camera with good low-light performance and a fast lens is beneficial.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families: Bring plenty of water and snacks, wear comfortable shoes, and arrive early to avoid the midday heat. The 'Belize Zoo at Night' tour might be a bit spooky for very young children, but older kids often find it thrilling.
🌿 Nature Enthusiasts & Wildlife Lovers
The 'Belize Zoo at Night' tour is particularly recommended for its unique insights into nocturnal ecosystems. Engaging with the knowledgeable zookeepers provides a deeper understanding of the challenges and successes of wildlife conservation in Belize. This is more than just a zoo; it's a living testament to conservation efforts.
📸 Photographers
For those interested in unique shots, the 'Belize Zoo at Night' tour presents a challenge and reward for low-light photography. Consider bringing a telephoto lens to get close-ups of the animals and a wide-angle lens for capturing the lush jungle environment. Remember to be mindful of flash restrictions to protect the animals' well-being.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Belize Zoo's Conservation Mission
The zoo's primary focus is on education and rehabilitation. They aim to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation for Belize's unique biodiversity among locals and visitors alike. Through interactive exhibits and keeper talks, the zoo educates the public about the importance of conservation and the threats facing native species, such as habitat loss and human-wildlife conflict. The 'Belize Zoo at Night' program, for instance, highlights the fascinating world of nocturnal animals, often unseen by most visitors.
By visiting The Belize Zoo, you directly contribute to these vital conservation efforts. Your admission fees and any donations help fund the care, feeding, and medical treatment of the animals, as well as support ongoing research and community outreach programs. It's a place where you can connect with Belize's natural heritage while actively participating in its preservation.
Experiencing the 'Belize Zoo at Night'
This tour is an excellent opportunity to see animals like kinkajous, owls, and other nocturnal mammals and birds in their element. The guides share insights into their natural history, adaptations, and the challenges they face in the wild. It's an immersive and educational adventure that provides a deeper appreciation for Belize's diverse nocturnal wildlife. Due to its popularity and limited capacity, booking this tour well in advance is highly recommended to avoid disappointment.
Beyond the Enclosures: Special Animal Encounters
These encounters are not only fun but also highly educational. You'll learn fascinating facts about the animals directly from the keepers who care for them daily. It's a chance to ask questions, understand their individual stories, and appreciate the dedication involved in their care. These special experiences are often limited in group size to ensure a quality interaction for both guests and animals, so booking ahead is essential.



Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit