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Nelson Maya Adventures

Alluring Mayan Site Tours and Outstanding Transfers Service for the Insightful Traveler.

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Belize Wildlife & Nature Tour

With our team of expert travel agents and tour operators, we ensure your experience is truly unforgettable.

Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary

Price

Price varies and can be done during a transfer.

Difficulty / Requirement

Easy - Walking and and Watching

What's included

Guide, Entrance Fee, Round Trip Transportation, Lunch, Water, and (full day tour).

What to bring

Bug spray, Sunscreen, Hat and Sunglasses.

Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary

Nestled in the heart of Belize, Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary is a haven for birdwatchers, nature lovers, and wildlife enthusiasts. Spanning over 16,400 acres of wetlands, lagoons, and savannas, this protected area is one of the best places in Central America to observe rare and migratory birds, including the iconic Jabiru stork—the largest flying bird in the region. The sanctuary is a designated Ramsar Site, recognized for its global importance in the conservation of wetlands and wildlife.

What to Expect at Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary

  • Birdwatching Hotspot: Home to over 300 bird species, including kingfishers, herons, hawks, ospreys, and the rare Jabiru stork, making it a must-visit destination for birdwatchers.
 
  • Boat & Canoe Tours: Glide across the lagoons and waterways on a guided boat or canoe tour, offering an up-close look at the thriving ecosystem.
 
  • Scenic Hiking Trails: Walk through forest trails and open savannas, where you might spot iguanas, crocodiles, howler monkeys, and even deer.
 
  • Photography & Nature Walks: With its diverse landscapes and rich biodiversity, Crooked Tree is a dream location for photographers and nature lovers.
 
  • Local Creole Culture: The nearby Crooked Tree Village offers a glimpse into traditional Creole life, where you can enjoy authentic Belizean cuisine and interact with friendly locals.

The Journey to Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary

  • From Belize City: About 45 minutes via the Philip Goldson Highway, followed by a short turnoff to the village.
  • From San Ignacio: Approximately 1.5 hours, making it a great stop when traveling between Belize’s mainland destinations.
  • From Orange Walk: A short 40-minute drive, perfect for those exploring northern Belize.

The best way to experience the sanctuary is by taking a guided boat tour, which allows visitors to navigate the interconnected waterways while spotting wildlife in its natural habitat. The dry season (November to May) is the best time to visit, as birds gather in large numbers around shrinking water sources.

Why Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary is Special

Unlike many other wildlife destinations, Crooked Tree offers a peaceful, immersive experience where nature takes center stage. It is one of the best birdwatching locations in the region, drawing birding enthusiasts from around the world. The combination of wetlands, forests, and traditional Creole culture makes it a truly unique place to explore.

Location to your destination

Nearby Attractions

If you’re visiting the Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary, consider exploring these nearby destinations to make the most of your trip:

 

  • Lamanai Maya Ruins – A short drive away, where you can combine nature and history by exploring one of Belize’s most famous Maya sites. Take a boat ride along the New River to reach the ruins, adding an adventurous twist to your journey.
 
  • Black Howler Monkey Sanctuary – Located nearby, offering a chance to see and hear Belize’s iconic howler monkeys up close. This community-run sanctuary provides a unique opportunity to observe these incredible primates in their natural habitat while supporting local conservation efforts.
Testimonials

Good Service, Happy Clients!

  • star rating  My husband Joe & I had a great tour with Josh as our guide. He took us to the Community Baboon Santuary to see the Black Howler Monkeys, the Belize... read more

    avatar thumb Tara S
    February 2, 2023
  • star rating  While visiting Caye Caulker with friends we decided to visit the Xunantunich ruins. Booking was seamless and our guide Auner met us at the water taxi. ... read more

    McGregor4
    October 25, 2022
  • star rating  We did a day trip from Belize City to Xunantunich with Auner as our guide and it was amazing experience with such a knowledgeable guide who provided so much information.

    44isballn
    October 25, 2022
  • star rating  We decided to arrange a private tour for a family of four to Tikal with Nelson Maya Adventures after reading a couple of reviews here and on a couple of... read more

    ViajeroIndiana
    August 8, 2022
  • star rating  We decided to arrange a private tour for a family of four to Tikal with Nelson Maya Adventures after reading a couple of reviews here and on a couple of... read more

    ViajeroIndiana
    August 4, 2022
5/5

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