
Situated just outside of Belize City sits the untouched wonders of the Burdon Canal Nature Reserve. These beautiful permanently waterlogged back swamps are the perfect location to see birds such as herons, egrets, and kingfishers. If you are lucky, you might even spot a turkey vulture or a pelican.
Of course, the Burdon Canal Nature Reserve isn’t just home to a wide variety of birds. Travelers can also see blue land crabs and fiddler crabs scavenging in the mud holes that surround the region. Alternatively, if larger animals are more your cup of tea, you can also watch out for the many American crocodiles and manatees that live in the area. Put simply, if you are looking for a place to witness the animals of Belize in their natural habitat, the Burdon Canal Nature Reserve is the place to do it.
Visiting The Burdon Canal Nature Reserve
There really isn’t a bad time of year to visit the Burdon Canal Nature Reserve. However, if you wish to experience the nesting at the Northern Lagoon, your best bet is to travel in February, March, or April. During this time, the area is aflutter with activity and bird song.
There are two main ways to get to the Burdon Canal Nature Reserve. For travelers who are staying in Belize City, the easiest way to explore the region is with an organized tour. These tours leave the city by bus on a regular basis and are almost always led by experienced guides who will be able to show you the sites and answer any questions that you might have about the region.
If you would prefer to take a different approach to your Burdon Canal Nature Reserve adventure, you may want to consider starting your journey in Gales Point Village – just South of the reserve. From here, you can connect with a local villager or guide who can lead you into the reserve. If you are up for a hike, your guide may even be able to some of the stunning caves and turtle nesting beaches in the region.
In Closing
From its beautiful trees to its wide variety of animals, the Burdon Canal Nature Reserve truly is a nature lover’s paradise. If you are at all interested in seeing the wilder side of Belize, make sure you plan a trip to the reserve the next time you are in the region.
