Experience the Science and Culture of Belize

Each year, we lead groups of students on week-long trips to experience science and cultural activities in Belize. We base our trips from one of the beautiful VivaBelize resorts, which provide us with accommodations, meals, and exceptional guide services.

Each January, we travel to the rain forests south of Belmopan, Belize to explore tropical ecology, water quality of the Sibun River Watershed, cave ecology, and Mayan culture. Included are trips to the Belize Zoo and Caves Branch Botanical Gardens (among others). For these activities, we are based out of the Sleeping Giant Rainforest Lodge, a beautiful full-service facility on the banks of the Sibun River.

Each May, our experience takes us to Almond Beach where we spend a week learning about coral reef ecology and the culture of coastal Belize. Our base for these activities is the Almond Beach Resort and Spa, on the shores of the Caribbean. This trip focuses on scientific studies of the lionfish, an invasive species that is causing problems with coral reefs in the Caribbean. Other activities include tours of bioluminescent coves, visits to rookeries, and plenty of time studying the coral reef ecosystem.

Individuals who are interested in these trips may elect to receive college science credit through Lincoln Land Community College or participate in a non-credit option, which includes accommodations, guide services, transfers, entrance fees, and most meals.

Information on the January 2018 rainforest trip (Coming soon!)

Information on the May 2018 coral reef ecology trip (Coming soon!)

Here are a collection of pictures from our recent trips.

: Learning about water quality on the Sibun River

: Chemical testing of water quality on the Sibun River

: Cave geology

: The class before entering the caves

: Jungle hike outside of Belmopan

: Botanical garden tours at Cave’s Branch

: Macroinvertebrate sampling on the Sibun

: Macroinvertebrate identification in the lab at the Sleeping Giant resort

: Learning about medicinal plants near Belize City

: Surveying the diversity of the reef

: dissecting lionfish to examine stomach contents

: Our daily transportation to the reef

: Glovers Atoll

: The lionfish dive team

Information from Previous Trips

Daily blog posts from the May 2017 Coral Reef trip

Student Testimonials

Here is what our previous students have to say about these trips:

“Not only was I captivated by the natural beauty of Belize—but I became fascinated by the culture of its people. The laid back style of the Belizean people combined with the impressive biodiversity of Belize has kept me coming back every year since my first trip in 2007” – Marc A.

“…it has expanded my horizons with traveling and seeing new biomes which further drives my urge to do research abroad.” – Richard E

“I really believe that we learn so much from hands-on experiences such as these trips. You learn a lot about yourself, and about the world around you that you aren’t often exposed to. You gain such valuable perspectives that no one can teach you in a classroom” – Savanna S

Educational Opportunities

With over 10 years experience in leading student groups to Belize, we can help you prepare for your trip and provide access to educators to assist you while in the country. If you are a science educator who is interested in developing a study-abroad activity in Belize, please fill out the comment form below.

Educational Resources

We have developed a number of articles and reference materials to support our classes. These are provided free to anyone who has an interest in tropical ecology and education. Please visit our Belize Science Resources page for more information.