Belize Zoo

Let’s take a tour to one of the smallest zoos in the world. The Belize Zoo and Tropical Education Center is home to more than 200 animals, with over 45 native species. Some animals were rescued, rehabilitated, orphaned, born at the zoo or donated from other zoological institutions. Make this a part of your “adventures in Belize”, and get a chance to meet some of the most beautiful, unique and secretive mammals in their natural habitat.

The Belize zoo is located 29 miles from Belize City on the Western Highway. This tiny backyard “zoo” was started in 1983 by Sharon Matola as a home for a small collection of animals that were used for a documentary about the tropical forests. It is a non-profit organization that focuses on the conservation of wildlife through environmental education and rehabilitation. The Tropical Education Center or the Belize Zoo lodge has a variety of accommodations and outdoor activities on an 84 acre of savanna in the forest.

A day at the Zoo is one of the most fun and affordable ways for families to spend time together. Get a closer encounter with a few of the animals; like taking a selfie with a gorgeous toucan, high five one of the jaguar ambassadors, hold a gentle boa constrictor or feed a tapir- the national animal of Belize. Most of the mammals are a bit shy or nocturnal, so you'll have to look closely to see them. You might see a few of them curled up sleeping in their little houses, climbing up the trees or camouflaged in their surroundings. The birds on the other hand are either chilling on their favorite posts showing off their beautiful feathers, or eating fresh fruits from their platters. There are a few species of reptiles at the zoo including the Morlets and the American Crocodile, the boa constrictor and the infamous fer de lance - the yellow jaw!

Thousands of people visit the Belize zoo every year especially for the popular events like: National Tapir Day, World Croc Day, Boo at the Zoo, Birthday Celebrations for Panama the Harpy Eagle, Conservation Camp, Teacher and Tour Guide Workshops and Highschool Student Career Training.

Join us on this two-hour tour as we catch a glimpse of some of Belize’s exotic wildlife. Learn about these amazing animals, and how to protect the habitat that sustains them.