Hopkins offers something to suit every vacation style and adventure level – take a village tour to experience local culture or learn Garifuna drumming at Lebeha Drumming Center!
Nature enthusiasts will find much to explore at Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, including hiking trails and scenic waterfalls. Additionally, the nearby Belize Barrier Reef provides ample opportunity for snorkeling or diving among mesmerizing marine life.
1. Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary
Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary is the world’s first jaguar preserve and an unparalleled hiking destination for nature lovers. Boasting 17 trails from easy (Easy) to intense (Intense), hikers will find something suitable at Cockscomb for every level of difficulty; taking them past an ecosystem comprised of hundreds of exotic animal species to admire along the way.
This jungle sanctuary is home to five species of big cats: jaguars, pumas, and ocelots as well as deer, anteaters, crocodiles and many birds – not forgetting Belize’s national animal, the mountain tapir!
Trails within the reserve are well maintained and marked, offering visitors an ideal way to discover this stunning jungle area. Along these paths, you will come across incredible natural attractions, such as waterfalls and swimming pools – ideal spots for relaxing after an active day of hiking!
When visiting a wildlife sanctuary, it’s advisable to hire a tour guide so as to gain more out of your experience. Tour guides will be able to share interesting details about the plants and animals you may encounter while hiking through the jungle.
There is a range of hiking tours you can book through your hotel or resort, each offering something different. Some tours will take you through various areas within a sanctuary while others focus solely on trails along top of ridges. No matter which tour you select, be sure to bring bug repellent, a hat, a water bottle, and plenty of sun protection items with you for optimal enjoyment!
No matter when you visit, Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary promises an unforgettable adventure! For maximum animal activity and bird sightings, come during the rainy season from June to November; bird enthusiasts should visit between December and March when migrant birds begin arriving in Belize. No matter when or why you come, however, be prepared for an incredible jungle experience at this magical jungle sanctuary!
2. Glover’s Reef Atoll
Glover’s Reef Atoll is a marine reserve and UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to an exquisite coral atoll boasting an abundant array of reef types. Additionally, this location serves as one of the primary breeding grounds in western Caribbean waters for endangered Nassau grouper fish spawning grounds – making this an excellent location for diving, snorkeling, sailing, or simply relaxing!
An atoll located in southern Belize features a full-service lodge and a host of activities for visitors, offering them an unforgettable experience of the Belize Barrier Reef and more! Boat trips from Dangriga take approximately one and a half hours and offer visitors the unique chance to witness this natural wonder up close!
Glover’s Reef Atoll, Belize’s least visited atoll, boasts turquoise blue waters with shallow lagoons filled with patch reefs teeming with marine life. As one of three atolls that constitute Belize, Glover’s Reef provides ample water sports and exploration opportunities on this tiny island that was once home to pirates!
Visitors have two amazing choices for staying on the island: either at our full-service lodge that sits among coconut palm trees on its edge, or camping. Both experiences provide incredible memories. Travelers staying at the lodge have access to basic beach bungalows, cabins, or safari-style tents as they choose their stay there.
The waters surrounding the islands are calm, making them ideal for Stand Up Paddleboarding (SUP), an activity that allows you to discover marine life on coral reefs. SUP can help beginners learn this sport or help experienced paddlers refine their techniques.
Sea kayaking is another enjoyable activity you can try while visiting the islands, providing a new vantage point while taking advantage of northeasterly trade winds. Kayaks are responsive and lightweight enough for even novice paddlers to enjoy this sport.
Fishing tours can also be organized on the island. Troll, deep drop or bait and cast for the catch of your dreams before returning back to the lodge so it can be prepared exactly to your taste at Black Coral Restaurant.
3. Xunantunich Mayan Ruins
Xunantich Mayan Temples in Belize are some of the most impressive in Central America. Situated in Cayo, these stunning ruins can be reached in two hours from Hopkins but they’re well worth your while – they boast incredible views from their tallest structure; climbing El Castillo will get you even further with expansive vistas stretching across Belizean green forests and river valleys! Steleae covered with exquisite stucco friezes feature symbols depicting the daily life of Mayans along with scenes that depict scenes depicting life throughout history!
Ruins at Cahal Pech are home to several ancient structures such as the Great Temple, Throne Room, and Ball Court – once used for ceremonies honoring Mayan gods – now preserved as museums featuring intricate carvings and inscriptions that illustrate Belizean Mayan culture history. You can even take part in a ritual at this site led by local Garifuna drummers!
While at the ruins, stop by their gift shop and gallery. Here, you can purchase anything from beaded necklaces and knitted blankets to handmade baskets and musical instruments at reasonable prices from friendly staff members.
After touring the ruins, be sure to stop into a local restaurant for an authentic Belizean dining experience. Here, you will meet many residents living nearby – an absolute must is garlic fried plantains served alongside black beans and fresh lime wedges!
Another must-do activity in Belize City is taking a drumming class at Lebeha Drumming Center. Not only will you enjoy it immensely but you will gain invaluable cultural experience as you discover a bit more about Garifuna culture!
Hopkins offers numerous popular activities for both adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts alike, including swimming, snorkeling, diving, and mesmerizing marine life, making this village the ideal setting to engage in these pursuits. Also of note: Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary boasts the world’s first Jaguar Reserve as well as lush rainforest, refreshing waterfalls, and breathtaking mountain landscapes. Take a guided tour and experience these delights firsthand!
4. Hopkins Beach
Hopkins Beach offers the perfect blend of culture and natural beauty on Belize’s Caribbean coast. A charming Garifuna village on Hopkins Beach encased within natural landscapes blends seamlessly with cultural authenticity for an unforgettable vacation destination.
Hopkins features miles of beautiful beaches with clear waters that make for ideal strolling or swimming, perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation. Relax under swaying palm trees as you soak up the sunshine and take pleasure in this coastal oasis. To spice up your stay, rent kayaks to explore Hopkins Beach’s mangrove forests or hike to one of its ancient Mayan sites; alternatively attend Garifuna drumming and dance rituals at Lebeha Drumming Center!
While in Hopkins, be sure to sample local Belizean cuisine and beverages. One of the most delicious offerings is Hudut – a fish stew prepared using yams and cassava; alternatively try an array of seafood options at Love on the Rocks or Ella’s Cool Spot restaurants.
Hopkins Village is also home to various craft breweries and distilleries, while Sitte River Waterfront Bar provides the ideal venue for enjoying cocktails with live music performances. Furthermore, take a boat tour around Hopkins to spot crocodiles, iguanas, and other wildlife!
Nature enthusiasts should visit Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, an expansive national park that’s great for hiking and wildlife spotting. Additionally, visit Xunantunich Mayan Ruin Site from Hopkins – it offers easy access.
If you’re up for some adventure, why not visit one of the nearby UNESCO-listed reefs to snorkel or dive? With vibrant coral reefs teeming with life including sea turtles, sting rays, and whale sharks to behold; followed by relaxing hammock time while reading your book while sipping delicious beverages? Nothing quite compares!
