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The wildlife and diversity of ecosystems that surround the Lamanai Outpost Lodge are simply astounding - vast pine Savannah's; pristine spring fed wetlands, tropical jungles, fresh water lagoons and long abandoned Maya cities. Adventurers will be trilled exploring this fascinating area. Twenty three (23) activities with eleven departures per day are offered including hi-count birding expeditions and custom soft adventure itineraries for individuals, small groups and families.
All tours are fully guided, all are conducted with very small groups and no day trips are required.
Crocodile Encounter
To get you up to speed you start with a field presentation on crocodile biology and research techniques. You will travel by airboat into the floodplains and surrounding waterways where you will observe – and even assist if you wish – as one of the crocodile biologists endeavors to capture, collect data and expand our understanding of the endangered Morelet's crocodile. Something that most folks only see on television!
Birding Expeditions
With almost 400 species documented within a 3 mile radius and more than 12 specialized birding excursions to choose from, Lamanai Outpost Lodge is definitely Belize's premier birding location. Habitats range from vast wetlands to broadleaf forest to pine savannah and all are easily accessible by boat, trails, vehicle, airboat or canoe. The expert birding guides will tailor your activities to access your target species in an environment where 200+ species in 3 days is far from unusual. The Headlight Canoeing and Spotlight Safari expeditions provide an amazing opportunity to see roosting waders, nocturnals and some of the more elusive diurnal species up close and personal. Regular sightings include the Northern Potoo, Yucatan Nightjar, Common Pauraque and Nighthawk, Grey–necked Wood Rail, Sungrebe and Agami Heron not to mention a variety of non-feathered wildlife. Although not exactly a bird, watching the ‘Greater Bulldog Bats' hunt along the edges of the lagoon is a fascinating unique experience.
Native Fishing
Fishing becomes a cultural adventure when it's done jungle-style. You'll catch live bait using the local “bottle method” and use the most basic of equipment. Paddle out along the banks of the lagoon with a local fisherman and settle into a quiet cove to land Large Mouth Bass and other local species or by special arrangement, strap on a headlight and go night spear fishing from a canoe.
Lamanai Maya Ruins
In the company of an expert guide explore the mysterious jungle shrouded temples of this once powerful 3000 year old civilization where nature and ancient history coexist. The ruins of Lamanai encompass over 700 structures with excavations and reconstructions still underway. Truly fascinating!
Breakfast on the River
Enjoy a tropical breakfast and nature watching from the spacious 30' pontoon boat as the sun rises over the New River.
Howler Trek
Observe troops of Howler monkeys as they start the day foraging high in the jungle canopy. Babies cling tightly to their mother's backs under the protective gaze of the dominant male whose call can be heard for miles. Learn about the species' lifestyle, social dynamics and infant rearing practices.
Airboat Safari
Nature watching and exploration of the area's floodplains and savannah aboard an everglades style airboat. An exhilarating experience!
Maya Medicine Trail
As the only resource for medicinal aid, indigenous people have long used a wide variety of local plants for their powerful and effective medicinal properties. Unlock the secrets and learn first hand how basic potions and salves are prepared and used to this day in Belize's jungle villages.
Sunrise Canoe Excursion
Strike out across the lagoon in exploration of Dawson's Creek and its surrounding flood plains, islands and savannah. Keep an eye out for manatees, otters, crocodiles and endemic parrots to name but a few. Sure to thrill the nature-loving side of all who participate in this adventure.
Cultural Immersion: The Mennonites
It's time to take up the reins on a Mennonite buggy and learn about their many customs and religious beliefs. Experience first hand what it's like to live without electricity or any modern day technology as your buggy makes its way through the nearby Mennonite community of Indian Creek. You'll make stops at the church, school, shop, the local aluminum smelter and hard wood lumber mill before heading over to a Mennonite home to enjoy a farm fresh lunch. A unique and thought provoking experience.
Snook and Tarpon Fishing
Enjoy a relaxing afternoon fishing for Bay Snook, Tilapia and Catfish from the comfort of a twenty foot motorized fishing pontoon boat. If you want to go after one of the giant Tarpon that inhabit the lagoon in large numbers, bring your own fly fishing gear and prepare for a challenge – no trophy fishing - catch and release or prepared for dinner only.
Water Sports and Lunch on the Lagoon
Imagine having a spring fed 28 miles long lagoon all to yourself; gather up family and friends and head out on our spacious 30' pontoon boat with music, burgers, hotdogs, ice cold drinks, service staff and a jet boat at your disposal. From your personal floating island go water skiing, knee boarding, and tube riding.
Jungle Dawn
As dawn breaks and the mist rises through the canopy, explore the jungle as it awakens. In the company of an expert naturalist guide, you'll learn about the intricacies of a habitat that is home to creatures as diverse as the puma, the impressive Black Howler monkey, the tenacious Jaguarundi and the vividly-colored Keel-Billed toucan.
Starlight Canoeing
The tranquil dark of the evening hours conceals a seldom experienced world of nocturnal activity. Observe and learn about our nocturnal flora and fauna as you canoe with your guide down jungle lined creeks. Headlights are supplied and unless otherwise requested, each guest is accompanied by an experienced local who will handle the paddling for you.
Water Sports
Get adventurous in a jet boat on our deserted 28 mile long spring fed lagoon. Try your hand at water skiing, knee boarding and tube rides; basic instruction can be provided if required.
Spotlight Safari
After dinner, climb aboard one of the comfortable custom built river safari boats and head out into the night. This exciting adventure gives you the opportunity to encounter anything from the Morelet's crocodile to the elusive and endangered jaguar. All this plus close up views of some of Belize's fascinating river birds as they roost on the water's edge make this a not-to-miss adventure!
Cultural Immersion: The Milpa
Experience first hand the agricultural and food preparation methods of the ancient Maya. Learn about a technique that has survived more than 3000 years and is still in use today. Discover how local residents live in an environment almost devoid of electricity and refrigerators as you join a local family and assist with the preparation of a traditional Maya lunch.
Sunrise at Crab Catcher Lagoon
Enjoy nature watching over a sunrise breakfast in the expansive savannah wetlands – one of the area's most interesting and awe inspiring habitats. Inaccessible by other means, airboats provide us access to this untouched wilderness area; home to crocodiles, numerous species of birds, river otters and other small mammals and amphibians. A truly incredible experience!
Sunset Cocktail Cruise
There can be no finer way to end the day than on the New River Lagoon surrounded by tropical forest and wildlife with a well-stocked cooler and your own personal bartender as you watch the sun disappear below the treetops.
Crocodile Nest Search
Head out on an airboat ride across the floodplains and through the shallows of the surrounding savannah wetlands and tributaries as we explore the area and search for the nesting sites of the Morelet's crocodile. An experience not to be missed!
Sedan Chair Tours
Don't let physical limitations stop you from enjoying our walking tours; the sedan chair tours allow you to get out on the trail and experience everything from Howler monkeys as they traverse the jungle canopy to sprawling savannah grasslands to towering Maya temples. By special arrangement only and additional charges may apply.
Night Walk
Experience the jungle's night life under the evening stars, listen as the owls and bats come out to hunt and troops of Howler monkeys call to each other across the canopy.
Depart with your guide after dinner. Headlights supplied.
Irish Creek at Dawn
After anchoring off Irish Creek and enjoying an outdoor breakfast it's time for your guided canoe expedition down this unspoiled lush jungle lined creek. If canoeing is not your forte or perhaps you just want to focus on your surroundings, an experienced paddler will accompany you. Be on the lookout for otters, manatees, turtles, crocodiles, countless species of birds and even the elusive Jaguar which are often sighted in the area. A very special experience!
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