Away from the human crowds
Written: Sep 02 '00
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Product Rating:
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Pros: Unspoiled jungle filled with wildlife, warm hospitality
Cons: Spartan lodgings, insects
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| dolphoto's Full Review: Bermudian Landing |
The Community Baboon Sanctuary is a wonderful example of community-based conservation and ecotourism and a great place to visit. With cabins mere feet from the Belize River, the Howler Monkey Lodge makes a great base within the sanctuary.
I went in the late-summer off-season, with heat and mosquitos in abundance. The beauty and peace of the sanctuary were intensified by the lack of other visitors. At the sanctuary's small museum, the history and activities of the program were described by the sanctuary manager. Another member of the community then took me on a walk to find black howler monkeys. During the walk, we observed other wildlife including iguanas, leaf-cutter ants, and several bird species. The guide gave lots of information about the wide range of plant life, including medicinal uses. When we found the monkeys (locally called baboons), he attracted the monkeys into very close proximity and got the male to howl for us. A mother even brought her one-month-old baby down for a look at us.
My favorite experience in the area was a two-hour canoe ride down the Belize river. The guide, another member of the community, had remarkable eyes and was able to spot even the best camouflaged iguanas. We saw at least six troupes of howlers along the way, each in what I learned from the knowledgeable guide was its own territory. At least four crocodiles crossed our paths. Thanks to the silence of the canoe, I was able to get a remarkable photograph of one crocodile out on a log. The silence added to the experience in several ways. The sounds of the jungle were remarkable, combining bird calls, monkey howls, and lapping water in a completely relaxing symphony.
My base for these adventures was the Howler Monkey Lodge. Although not owned by members of the community, it does provide employment for many local workers and fully supports local enterprises. The cabins, located close to the river, are Spartan but comfortable. Meals, served in the main building up near the road, include generous servings of local specialties. With accommodations for 20-30 guests, the lodge provides great personalized service. Located about an hour from Belize city, the lodge is close to other attractions such as the Altun Ha Mayan ruins.
While this trip was not strenuous, it did require a good deal of walking and the dexterity to climb up and down muddy hills. Bring at least two pairs of comfortable, expendable walking shoes. One pair of sneakers remained in Belize, claimed by the sucking mud on the banks of the river. Insects were bothersome, but kept largely at bay by using a strong repellant on bed sheets and by using the locally made "horse tail" purchased at the museum. With the lodge situated in a rural region of an undeveloped country, it is recommended that you bring your own first aid supplies. On the other hand, the remote location of the lodge protects it from the crime problems of urban Belize City.
All in all, I highly recommend a visit to the Community Baboon Sanctuary for those with an interest in wildlife. Like the rest of Belize, the sanctuary also offers insights into diverse ancient and modern cultures. Although Belize's official language is English, the language is generally spoken with one of several pleasant accents, reflecting the population's mix of Creole, Mayan, and other cultures. Regardless of language or accent, the Belizian people are generally warm, friendly and welcoming.
Recommended:
Yes
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Epinions.com ID:
dolphoto
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Member: Sandy Rosenberg
Location: San Jose, CA
Reviews written: 10
Trusted by: 4 members
About Me:
Amateur photographer interested in travel and marine mammals.
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