BELIZE and the MAYAN RUINS
of TIKAL, GUATEMALA & CARACOL:
Birds, Ruins, Reef and Rainforest

The EIGHT pyramids of Tikal, Guatemala, tower above a vast rainforest that engulfs this largest of Mayan sites. From the heights of Temple IV (tallest New World pyramid) one scans over the canopy, eye to eye with eagles, parrots and Spider Monkeys. Four days we study the Mayan ruins, pursue photography and search out toucans, trogons, manakins, motmots and Ocellated Turkeys.

Belize is a "Latin" American anomaly. There are only 300,000 people in this small English-speaking country. This low population density combined with the activities of conservation groups and a sympathetic government has resulted in Belize having an excellent system of parks and natural areas. During our 10 days here we'll visit many of the natural areas, including a boat trip on the forest-lined lagoons of Crooked Tree Sanctuary, rainforest walks in the San Ignacio region, exploring the Pine Ridge Mountains, and visit the Mayan ruins of Uaxactun, Altun Ha and the recently excavated Caracol.

In each of these areas there will be different scenery and birds, including the mighty Jabiru, spoonbills and parrots, and forest birds like motmots and toucans. Three days will be spent on Ambergris Caye at the north end of the Barrier Reef. Here we will have time to relax and swim, watch wintering warblers and waterbirds like Reddish Egret, shorebirds and terns, and snorkel amongst splendid corals and an endless variety of colorful fishes. Guides can escort beginning snorkellers in life jackets. The water is warm with great visibility.

This tour presents a unique combination of beguiling archaeology, enchanting avifauna, and relaxing tropical waters.

Two Trip Options for 2010:
February 24 - March 10, 2010, or
March 13 - 27, 2010

GROUND COST: $3585

LEADER: Mark Smith & Regional Naturalists

LIMIT: 14

Belize, Tikal & Caracol Trip Description & Itinerary