Page 90 - Visitor Guides

A RAINFOREST OF DISCOVERY

RIVER TRAVEL
The rainforests of Belize and the Yucatan are a treasure-house of biological diversity and

rare beauty. Just hours away from the sun-bright barrier reef, in the mist shrouded Maya
Mountains and Peten lowlands, thrive some of the richest rainforests in all of Central Within minutes of launching
America. Tropical rainforests cover only 7% of the planet, yet harbour over 50% of the your inflatable kayak into
earth’s species and are considered the oldest intact ecosystems on earth. Once you enter the current, you’ll feel like
the forest, wild cats, toucans, flocks of scarlet macaw and troops of howler or spider you’re being carried into an

monkey may be encountered at anytime. Small wonders are everywhere, like delicate enchanted world. At times,
orchids that bloom for only a few hours in the year. the river brings us the wild thrill of whitewater and the
It used to be that travellers to the region rarely ventured far from the coast; the accomplishment of a line well run. Its serene moods
captivate as we float on calm pools with the green jungle
interior was little known – a hinterland of the imagination, with impenetrable jungles and
mirrored in the water and bird calls all around. River
tales of lost Mayan cities. Only recently, Belize and the Yucatan have gained a reputation
for the stunning beauty and wildlife that lies hidden amongst the mountains, rainforests valleys are also vital corridors for wildlife to travel, and
and rivers. The most exciting Mayan ruins and ceremonial caves require careful planning in Central America when the dry season is reaching its

to reach. As varied as the land are the activities we engage in: river travel with both calm peak, they will concentrate in these cooler, life-sustaining
jungle floats and wild, fun white-water rides. In the rainforest, caving and horseback riding, habitats. For adventurers, when the heat of the tropical
hiking, birding and photography all make for one-of-a-kind experiences. day is on, a refreshing swim is just moments away and in
the evening, a well-chosen campsite along the riverbank
is the perfect place to see wildlife. On the river, our two-
My jungle/kayak trip was my favorite trip ever!! My tent got blown up into palm trees, we saw person inflatable kayaks combine the responsiveness and
a jaguar carry its baby across the river in her mouth, we sailed in our kayaks to little knobby maneuverability of a kayak with the stability and comfort
islands and drank Belizean panty rippers - which I STILL make for my guests at every soiree! of a raft, enabling you to quickly learn the skills needed

Lisa Corbett , Boise, Idaho Coral Jaguar to captain your boat in both calm and moving water.

For detailed itineraries visit www.ultimateadventure.travel | www.mayaworld.travel | www.gloversreef.travel 25