No trip to Belize is complete without a visit to its jungle. Those with a deep and abiding appreciation of nature can find hundreds of beautiful plants and animals, countless breath-taking vistas, gorgeous rivers, and caverns that have been shaped by countless centuries of watery force.
The Cockscomb Basin expanse from Outlier summit. Image by Harvey Valenzona
Belize’s jungle is not just for nature lovers; those with a keen interest in history can practically lose themselves in a variety of cities from the ancient Maya civilization. The jungle is also one of the main venues for many of the country’s greatest natural treasures, such as cascading waterfalls that yield crystal-clear blue water. With all of this wonder for Belize to offer the world, you should know that visiting the jungle requires some planning; going into the jungle with your barest of essentials is likely to go poorly. Fortunately, a proper jungle kit is not hard to stock.
1. Never pack more equipment than you can comfortably carry.
Use soft, flexible containers like a duffel bag or backpack, never rigid luggage.
2. Bags.
To clarify, bring one dedicated bag for storing moisture-sensitive possessions and a few spare resealable plastic bags or individually containing those possessions.
3. Proper footwear.
Bring one set of running shoes and one set of footwear suitable for the water.
4. A Light.
Specifically, you bring a headlamp and some spare batteries. Headlamps are crucial whether you are going caving or exploring the surface come nightfall.
5. Strapped sunglasses.
Protect your eyes from UV rays while minimizing the chances of losing them in the water.
6. A buff.
This is a multipurpose fabric and a boon for dealing with the elements during a paddling excursion.
7. Skin cream.
You want something like diaper rash cream, so your nose and lips stay protected on the water.
8. Environmentally friendly sunscreen.
Not all sunscreens are kind to the environment, look for a biodegradable brand.
9. A wide sunhat.
You want something that will keep the sun out of your eyes and off of your face, scalp, and neck.
While this article gives a general commentary of the wonders hiding within Belize’s jungle, anyone interested in specifics should greatly consider doing a bit of research with either the Belize Tourism Board or the Belize Audubon Society to learn about the latter’s groups conservation efforts of Belize’s environment, including its nature parks.
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