The Ultimate Belize Wildlife Experience
Belize is known worldwide for its biodiversity — but nowhere in the country offers wildlife encounters as extraordinary as Chan Chich Lodge. Our unique location inside the vast Maya Forest creates a natural haven for wildlife.
Here are the top wildlife experiences you can only have when visiting us:
Spotting Jaguars in Their Natural Habitat: Chan Chich Lodge sits in the heart of a protected jaguar corridor. Sitings are not guaranteed, but happen almost every week at the Lodge, giving you the best opportunity to set your eyes on one when in Belize. In fact, our trail cameras have frequently seen 9 different jaguars nearby the lodge, so we know the jaguars are happy and healthy near us. Guests can spot jaguars on:
- Day or Night drives
- Early morning walks
- Even crossing the road near the lodge
Watching Tapirs Up Close: Tapirs, Belize’s national animal, are frequently seen around the property — especially near streams and forest openings.
Daily Birding Paradise (by walking, driving, boating and atop the Escarpment): With over 400 bird species recorded, Chan Chich is a global birding hotspot, but the Lodge features a number of unique ways to spot native and rare birds.
Expect to see:
- Royal Flycatchers
- Toucans
- Ocellated turkeys
- Crested guans
- Migratory warblers (December is prime season!)
Birdwatching can be done in various forms at the lodge. You can (at your own pace, or with a guide) take early morning bird walks or night walks if you prefer. You may also take day and night drives on our open-air safari trucks; you can go on a boating tour at Laguna Seca or Verde or visit the highest point for bird viewing at the escarpment. Either one you choose will provide an exceptional bird watching experience.
Wildlife-Filled Night Safaris: Night drives in our open-air safari trucks are a must, offering sightings of:
- Jaguars
- Pumas
- Ocelots
- Foxes
- Owls
- Kinkajous
- Nocturnal birds
Trail Camera Viewing Sessions: Twice weekly at the Looter’s Trench, guests get an exclusive look at real trail camera footage captured at the Lodge, with a guide to walk you through what you see on the screen. It’s one of the most popular activities at the lodge and is a great time for sharing stories with fellow guests.
Experience Belize wildlife the way few ever will. If you love nature and wildlife, Chan Chich Lodge is the most rewarding destination in Belize. Book your wildlife adventure at Chan Chich Lodge today and experience Belize’s rainforest like never before.