Amazing Animals in Playa del Carmen: A Wildlife Adventure in the Riviera Maya

Did you know that the Yucatan Peninsula is home to over 500 bird species and a multitude of exotic animals? This incredible biodiversity makes Playa del Carmen and the surrounding Riviera Maya a dream destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. 

In this blog, we'll explore the amazing animals in Playa del Carmen, from fascinating land creatures and vibrant birdlife to mesmerizing marine life. Get ready to embark on a thrilling journey into the heart of this tropical paradise and uncover its hidden treasures.

Amazing Land Animals in Playa del Carmen

Playa’s Monkeys and Rodents

The Yucatan Peninsula is home to several species of monkeys, such as the spider monkey and the howler monkey. Spider monkeys are native to Mexico and can be found throughout the Riviera Maya. With their long tail and agile movements, these primates are easy to spot in the dense jungle canopy.

If you keep your eyes peeled on the treetops, you might spot some monkeys in the quieter streets of 5th Avenue.

Other interesting mammals that live in Playa del Carmen include the agouti and the Yucatan squirrel. Agoutis are rodents that look like a large rat and are native to Mexico. These animals might not be as popular as the monkeys, but they play a vital role in the ecosystem by dispersing seeds and helping the jungle thrive.

Coatis and Other Wildlife in the Riviera Maya

The Yucatan Peninsula is home to many other animals, like the coati or coatimundi, a mammal related to the racoon. Coatis can be found roaming around Playa del Carmen, especially near Mayan ruins and eco-parks like Xcaret Park. I've even seen them wondering around resorts I've stayed at.

These animals are known for their white-nosed appearance and their long tail. Keep your eyes open, and you might spot one of these amazing animals during your visit.

Reptiles and Amphibians of Tulum and Cozumel

Tulum and Cozumel are home to a variety of reptiles and amphibians. Iguanas are a common sight, basking in the sun or resting on ancient Mayan structures. These lizards are harmless and easy to observe, making them one of the popular animals in the region.

In the lush jungle and around cenotes, you can also find frogs and other amphibians. The yellow-spotted frog, for example, is native to the Yucatan Peninsula and symbolizes fertility and life in Mayan culture. Keep your ears open for their unique calls as you explore Tulum's natural habitats.

Jaguars and Other Elusive Creatures

While it's rare to encounter a jaguar in the wild, the Yucatan Peninsula is home to this endangered species. Punta Laguna Reserve, located near Playa del Carmen, is one of the best places to increase your chance of seeing these elusive big cats.

Other elusive creatures you might run into include the Mexican crocodile, also known as the American crocodile, and the tapir. These animals are more difficult to spot but contribute to the incredible biodiversity of the region.

Fascinating Birdlife

Colorful Macaws and Parrots in Playa del Carmen

The skies of Playa del Carmen are filled with amazing animals, including the vibrant macaws and other parrots. These colorful birds can be found throughout the Riviera Maya and are often seen in places like Xcaret Park and Playacar Aviary. With their striking plumage and loud calls, these birds are easy to spot and are a delight for bird enthusiasts.

Coastal Pelicans and Spoonbills of Tulum

Tulum's coastal areas are home to many other animals, such as the pelican and the spoonbill. These fascinating birds can be found near the beach, where they dive for fish and wade through the shallow waters. Keep your eyes peeled for these aquatic birds as you explore Tulum's beautiful shores.

Marine Life Wonders

Sea Turtles in the Riviera Maya

The Riviera Maya is home to several species of sea turtles, which are some of the most amazing animals you can see in the region. Beaches like Akumal and Xcacel are known for being nesting grounds for these endangered species. During the nesting season, sea turtles come ashore to lay their eggs, and if you're lucky, you might witness this incredible event.

Dolphins and Manatees of the Yucatan Peninsula

The coastal waters of the Yucatan Peninsula are teeming with life, including dolphins and manatees. These gentle aquatic mammals can be found in lagoons and near the shoreline. Boat tours and snorkeling excursions in the region provide opportunities to encounter these amazing animals in their natural habitat.

Diving and Snorkeling in Playa del Carmen

Playa del Carmen and nearby Cozumel are two of the best places to explore the underwater world of the Caribbean Sea. The crystal-clear waters are home to a variety of marine life, from vibrant coral reefs to schools of colorful fish.

While snorkeling or diving, you might encounter different species of aquatic animals, such as rays, sea turtles, and even the occasional shark. Be sure to bring your snorkel gear or book a diving excursion to make the most of your visit to Playa del Carmen. If you’re planning on a visit to Cozumel, check out my day trip guide.

Wildlife Viewing Opportunities

Best Places to See Animals in Playa del Carmen

Playa del Carmen offers numerous opportunities to see many animals in their natural habitats. Visiting eco-parks like Xcaret Park and Punta Laguna Reserve allows you to encounter a variety of wildlife, including monkeys, coatis, and even jaguars.

The Mayan ruins near Tulum and throughout the Riviera Maya are also excellent spots to observe iguanas, birds, and other fascinating creatures.

Exploring the Beaches and Coastal Areas

The coastal areas around Playa del Carmen, such as Akumal and Xcacel, are prime locations for witnessing sea turtles, especially during nesting season. Additionally, snorkeling and diving excursions offer the chance to see dolphins, manatees, and a myriad of colorful marine life. One of the best places to spot dolphins in the wild is at Sian Kaʼan Biosphere Reserve.

Discovering the Jungle and Cenotes

The dense jungles and cenotes near Playa del Carmen provide unique wildlife viewing opportunities. Here, you might spot the Yucatan spider monkey, howler monkeys, agoutis, and a variety of reptiles and amphibians. Don't forget to keep your eyes open for tarantulas and other fascinating spiders in Mexico.

Top Tours to Spot Wildlife

• Punta Laguna Nature Reserve: This full-day experience includes a visit to both Punta Laguna and Coba Ruins, both excellent places to spot monkeys in the wild. You’ll also get the opportunity to hike, zipline, and canoe then visit a cenote.

• Off the Cancun coast: If you’re visiting Playa between May and September then you have the opportunity to snorkel with whale sharks and manta rays. This is honestly one of the best wildlife experiences I’ve ever had anywhere so you should definitely add it to your itinerary. There’s truly something special about being up close to these gentle giants of the sea.

• Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve: On this full-day tour you’ll visit both coastal and mangrove habitats teeming with wildlife like dolphins, sea turtles, and a large variety of birds. You’ll get an opportunity to snorkel and see what’s hiding underwater and even get the chance to spot the elusive manatee on its home turf.

• Akumal Beach: This nearby beach town is the home of a bale of both green sea turtles and loggerhead turtles. Thanks to the protection programs in place and the plentiful seagrass found in the bay, you can snorkel with these turtles right from the shore. Keen to see more monkeys as well? You can also find the Akumal Monkey Sanctuary if you head for the jungles of Akumal.

Tips for Responsible Wildlife Tourism

When encountering wild animals, it's important to maintain a respectful distance and avoid disturbing them or their habitats. Avoid feeding wildlife, as it can lead to unhealthy dependencies and disrupt natural behaviors. Keep noise levels low, and stay on designated paths to minimize the impact on the environment.

Supporting Conservation Efforts

Many species in the Riviera Maya, like the sea turtles and jaguars, are endangered due to habitat loss and other threats. By visiting eco-parks, wildlife reserves, and supporting local conservation organizations, you can contribute to the protection and preservation of these amazing animals.

Practicing Responsible Tourism

Finally, practice responsible tourism by choosing eco-friendly accommodations, participating in sustainable activities, and minimizing your environmental footprint. By doing so, you help ensure that future generations can enjoy the incredible wildlife that the Yucatan Peninsula has to offer.

Unforgettable Memories with Playa del Carmen's Wildlife

As you explore the wonders of the Riviera Maya, you'll be amazed by the rich and diverse wildlife that calls this region home. From the agile spider monkeys swinging through the trees to the gentle sea turtles nesting on the shores, the animals in Playa del Carmen offer unforgettable experiences and memories that will last a lifetime. 

Don't miss the opportunity to witness these extraordinary creatures in their natural habitats, and remember to practice responsible tourism to help protect and preserve them for future generations. Let us know in the comments below if you've spotted any of these amazing animals during your visit! 

Looking for more? Check out these other Mexico guides:

Hey there! Just wanted to be transparent and let you know that some of the links in this blog post may be affiliate links. What does that mean? It means that if you click on one of those links and make a purchase, we may receive a small commission. But don't worry, it doesn't cost you anything extra! In fact, it helps support the blog and allows us to keep creating awesome content for you.

My Mayan adventure in Sian Ka’an on the Riviera Maya

Riding down the bumpy dirt road in between a small forest of palm trees, thick enough to allow just small glimpses of the Caribbean Sea, I knew I was about to see something truly special. Cell service was long gone and although we passed the occasional house, there was no sign of modern life. I had definitely reached the end of the road.

Despite previous research, I had no real idea what to expect on my Sian Ka'an tour other than I'd be getting to see some wildlife and snorkelling was on the agenda.

My crash course on the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve was thanks to Kay Tours and I was lucky to have my new blogger friends from Claire’s Itchy Feet and Viva La Travelista along for the ride.

If you’re looking for info on what to expect in this less-visited part of Mexico, then read on to see what my experience in Sian Ka’an was like.

What is Sian Ka’an?

Sian Kaan means "place where the sky is born” in Mayan. Spend a day out there and you’re sure to see why.

Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve is the third largest protected area in Mexico, covering 5280 km² or 1.3 million acres. The National Park was established in 1986 and as well as being one of the most beautiful places in the Yucatan Peninsula, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

In a region that's known for nightlife and big theme parks, Sian Kaan is like the antidote for those looking to experience the natural side of the Riviera Maya.

Sian Ka’an fast facts

• Sian Ka'an makes up 10% of the State of Quintana Roo

• Over 380 species of bird have been identified in the park

• The reserve is also home to 115 mammals species, 47 dragonflies species and 318 species of butterflies

• The following animals call Sian Ka’an home: manatees, howler and spider monkeys, crocodiles, Jabiru stork, ocelots, pumas, jaguars, pink flamingos, toucans and tapirs

• Sian Ka'an has a variety of inlets, marshes, mangroves and coastal and in-land lagoons

• The climate is tropical with summer rains and usually wettest in September

Where is Sian Ka’an

Sian Ka’an is found on the Caribbean Coast, about an hour south of Tulum and two hours from Playa del Carmen.

 

Who should visit Sian Ka'an?

• Bird watchers, in particular, will love this tour

• Nature and animal lovers in general

• Anyone looking to get away from it all

This area is all about relaxing, taking in the scenery and getting the chance to see wildlife in their natural habitat.

What to expect on Kay Tours’ Sian Kaan Tours

Highlights:

• Wildlife observation - birds, dolphins, crocodiles, sea turtles and manatees (if you’re lucky)

• Guided snorkelling tour at the coral reef

• Refreshments, fruit and snacks in the van

• Lunch and free time at the fishermen village of Punta Allen

• Free pictures of your day

• Tour duration is approximately 10 hours

Sleepy Playa

Playa is not exactly an early morning destination and visitors to this little city are often surprised not to be able to find breakfast before 8 in the morning.

Nevertheless, expect an early wakeup because one of the benefits of a trip with Kay Tours is you’ll be the first boat out and the first one to get to all the sights (unless you’re a boatload of bloggers who take way too many photos and make the tour run an hour late. Oops.)

The little touches are all taken care of, however. Even though my day started early, I was pleasantly surprised to find fruit, breakfast bars and coffee on the van to snack on.

Once everyone was picked up, which doesn’t take too long since tours run with a maximum of ten people, we got a briefing of how the day would look from our friendly tour guide, Juan.

This is when we learned about Kay Tours’ brilliant use of aluminum water bottles to eliminate the need for plastic bottles. Each bottle already had our names marked, ready to be refilled throughout the tour.

We had ten hours ahead of us but the van was very comfortable and some took the opportunity to have a quick snooze. If you stay awake, though you’ll get some great views of Tulum and the coast.

Entering Sian Ka'an

Once you get to the entrance of the National Park, you’re sure to know, whether asleep or not. The bumpy road to our starting point of Paso Lagartos makes sure you're aware you’re not in Kansas anymore. This is what we came for - pure, unadulterated nature and Mexico at its best.

Along the way, we made a quick pit stop to stretch our legs and get our first glimpse of the clear waters of the lagoon. We took the opportunity to have a chat with the local fishermen trying their luck out at a conveniently placed bridge and they were kind enough to point out one of the largest crocodiles I’ve ever seen. And I’ve lived in Australia, the land of Crocodile Dundee!

Next stop was to our boat pick-up point at Paso Lagartos where a yummy sandwich awaited us. I certainly wasn’t about to go hungry on this tour. While the boat was packed, we got the chance to explore the coast on one side and the lagoon on the other.

This is when I got my first glimpse of the local wildlife, a sunbathing iguana. I love these guys, especially after my encounter at the Green Iguana Conservation Project in San Ignacio, Belize.

The boat tour begins…

Once we jumped on board and got settled, we got another briefing in more detail of what we could expect to see for the day.

First stop - dolphins! Who doesn’t love dolphins? And while I’ve been fortunate enough to see these adorable creatures around the world, this time, I got to spend time with what I thought was an adorable baby frolicking with who I imagined was his mum and dad.

Mmmmmm. Turns out he was a frisky teenager and all that frolicking was his idea of flirting. Kind of PG 13+ but that’s nature for you.

Another high point for me was Isla de Pajaros (Bird Island). This was a mangrove island covered with chatty birds of all kind. I spotted some pelicans, boobies (of the bird variety) and frigates along with lots of babies, thanks to the season.

Snorkel time

Due to being a protected area, swimming with the wildlife is against the park rules and not permitted. If you’re keen to get into the water, however, no need to worry. There are spots on the coral reef where snorkelling is allowed and our boat captain took us out there so we could don our gear and head underwater.

While I wouldn’t be heading back to Sian Ka’an to snorkel in a hurry (Cozumel holds the crown for the best snorkelling in the area), I was super impressed by how uncrowded the reef was. No getting bonked in the head by a rogue flipper here. You’re free to explore the reef at your own pace and not feel like you’re in the water equivalent of a Contiki tour.

Juan was quick to point out any interesting under-water critters and managed to spot a little shark hiding out underneath a rock. Get your best pose ready because tour guides are also equipped with a GoPro for underwater pics.

Once we were done snorkelling, we headed out to find some more wildlife. Overall on the trip, we got to see tons of birds, dolphins, sea turtles, spotted eagle rays, crocodiles, starfish and sharks.

Punta Allen

One of my favourite things while travelling is getting to see small towns around the world, a real example of what life is like for a lot of people around the country.

Our stop in Punta Allen gave me a chance to explore the town, chat to some friendly locals and of course, feed that growing hunger that accumulated after all that swimming.

Lunch was all local food, set up buffet style right by the water. There was a ton of veggie options, including fresh salad.

Once we’d had our fill, it was time to head back to the boat and sadly make our way back home. Our trip back was made a little bit more exciting, though, as we were trying to race an incoming storm. Our timing was impeccable as we got back to the van just before the rains hit.

What you should know about Kay Tours

• One of my favourite things about Kay Tours is that while they do an amazing job at private tours, they also provide the opportunity to join small group tours. If you’re travelling solo or can’t make up enough for a full tour, they will help you match up with other travellers.

• My second favourite thing: Free pictures! With Kay Tours, you don’t need to spend your day trying to get that perfect shot. Just sit back, relax and take it all in while your tour guide has you covered with pics taken from a professional camera.

• Kay Tours makes a real effort to be as environmentally conscious as possible. From the use of an aluminum water bottle for the day to serving your morning coffee in cute little mugs, they’re not just paying lip service to being “eco”.

• The tour guides are genuinely awesome. Kay seems to have handpicked his guides from the pool of the best guides in Mexico. Claire’s done a handful of tours with Kay tours now and has said that every single one has been first class.

Juan, our tour guide was attentive and considerate showing a level of professionalism that I don't see often. An example was when he warned us that we had a bumpy ride coming up and made sure those who get motion sick sat upfront before they started to feel ill.

If you’re spending a while in the Riviera Maya, Kay Tours also have tours to some of the popular tourist attractions including Chichen Itza, Tulum, Coba and even to swim with the whale sharks near Isla Mujeres.

Looking for somewhere off the beaten track? Kay Tours also visit Las Colorodas, the stunning pink lakes in the north of the region and Muyil, located deep in the jungle.

Budget travellers should make sure to check their website because they often have promos. There’s currently 20% off on offer for the Sian Kaan tour.

Kay Tours

Website: kay.tours

Email: contact@kay.tours

Outside Mexico: +52 19 84 1 43 23 47

Inside Mexico: 0 44 98 41 43 23 47

---

Belize travel - First impressions of my time in Belize

Belize was the last country on my list in Central America and after 10 years of travelling through the region, I finally made it there.

Known as British Honduras as recently as 1973, Belize is the only English speaking country in Central America and is often a quick stop for people travelling from Mexico to Guatemala.

All I had heard about the place was that it was the most expensive in Central America and that I should visit San Ignacio and Caye Caulker. I knew that it was supposed to be a good spot for snorkelling and diving and full of adventure activities.

So here are my very first impressions after spending a few weeks in the country. I’ll work on some individual posts about each of my favourite things over the next few weeks but this should be a good first taste for now.

My first impressions of Belize

1) Belize Zoo is a must see

This place almost made me cancel the rest of my plans and move in permanently. The Belize Zoo is not really a zoo and the name doesn’t really reflect all the amazing work that they do for native wildlife.

It was started in 1983 to provide a home for a bunch of wild animals that were used to make a documentary about tropical forests. The founder of the zoo quickly realised that its local visitors were unfamiliar with many species of local wildlife and committed to creating a space for wildlife education.

The zoo keeps animals which were orphaned, rescued and born at the zoo, though breeding is not a focus and today the zoo exhibits over 175 animals, representing over 45 native species. 

I stayed almost two weeks at the adjoining Tropical Education Centre (or The Belize Zoo Lodge). They offer basic cabañas, fancier houses facing their pond and even dorm style rooms. All meals are served at the lodge and they made me some of the best vegetarian food I had in Belize. You can even do some animal spotting at the lodge where agouti, pacas and even the resident croc are easy to spot and if you’re a birder then they have lots of dedicated walks and an elevated platform for easy spotting.

I’ll write a dedicated post about the zoo and the lodge soon but for now, just know that this is a must visit when you’re in Belize.

2) I’m in two minds about Caye Caulker

I spent just three nights in Caye Caulker and really wanted to stay longer but it wasn’t really for me. For anyone who’s been to the Bay Islands in Honduras or the Corn Islands in Nicaragua then you’ll see that it has a very similar feel.

I arrived on the night of Super Bowl Sunday so my first impression of the island was that it was loud and full of drunk Americans. I could have turned around straight away but decided to give it an extra night.

I grew to like it more in the light of a new day but it still feels very much like less of a real place where people live and more like a dedicated tourist destination where you might go to unwind for a week or two. It has the feel of tiny Playa Del Carmen when I really wanted it to be more like Mazunte, my favourite beach spot in Mexico.

The island is tiny and you can easily walk around it in a couple of hours. Some people rent golf carts and there are also bikes for hire to get around but it’s completely unnecessary. On the main side of the island there aren’t any traditional beaches but if you’re happy to swim off a dock or jump into “the split” that separates the island then you’ll be fine.

I booked in for the famous snorkelling tour around the islands and the reef that includes a visit to Shark Ray Alley, Hol Chan Marine Reserve and a small shipwreck. If you’re lucky and there in the right season you could see manatees along the way, I was not but I did get to hang out with some friendly nurse sharks, sea turtles, rays and loads of tropical fish. This trip was a whole lot of fun but you are often surrounded by boatloads of other tourists at the same time all staring at the one sea turtle.

Caye Caulker is slightly more expensive than the mainland which makes sense given they have to get all their supplies shipped over but it’s possible to eat on the cheap, especially if you like the ubiquitous fry jack.

I probably could have given Caye Caulker more of a chance but it lacks the more flashpacker style accommodation I’m used to and the pricier hotels were out of my budget. Airbnb’s are spread out around the island but a lot of the best ones were booked out well in advance.

Sunsets at Caye Caulker are pretty special

3) San Ignacio has so much to do!

My legs and shoes after Crystal Cave

You could spend a whole week here and not run out of things to do in San Ignacio. It is very well geared towards tourism but still retains a lot of its authentic small-town feel. I started my trip here and it was a good decision. It gave me a deeper insight into the mixed cultures of Belize and I got to do some cool activities.

One of my favourites was the Crystal Cave day trip which involved a 50-minute hike through tropical forest to the cave entrance, where you scramble down 15 feet into the cavernous entrance. Caves played a very important role in the Maya culture, considered to be a supernatural realm where their ancestors' deities resided.

I got to see the shimmering formations in the cave that give it its name, slide and wriggle my way through tight openings and sometimes just grip onto ledges for my dear life. I’m not going to lie, this way one of the toughest things I’ve done in my life and part way through, I really just wanted to throw my things down, have a tantrum and demand to be airlifted out of there. Or however else an ill-equipped over consumer of brownies and pasta gets out of an underground cavern.

I’m glad I did it though and while I was sore for days afterwards, still kind of am, I think, I highly recommend that you try this or any of the other cave experiences while you’re in Belize.

My next favourite thing was the Green Iguana Conservation Project. Created in 1996 because of the decreasing survival rate of Green Iguanas in Belize caused by overhunting, the owners decided to start a program that would both protect the species and also educate locals and visitors about these very cool reptiles.

The project follows a continuous course of rearing the Iguanas from the egg to juvenile stage and then later sets them free by releasing them into their natural habitat. There are some special long-term guests who can’t be released because of permanent injuries or because they were raised as pets and are now too comfortable with humans.

I got to learn a bunch about them and also had the opportunity to pet and hold some of the more chilled out ones. At first, I was terrified to even reach out and touch them but by the end, I was holding my little friend for over 20 minutes and didn’t want to put him back.

4) Accommodation is geared to the super budget traveller or more high-end visitors

Belize is filled with eco-resorts and jungle lodges and these are supposed to be great, if you can afford it. There aren’t many hostels in the country and if you’re outside of the tourist hotspots you’ll be lucky to find one.

Most towns will always have some basic budget lodging so if your standards are low and you’re happy with a place to rest your head at night then you’ll be fine. I skipped some places, though, because of their lack of quality mid-range or even high-end budget options.

I’m sure as tourism picks up, this will improve but just be warned that if you’re looking for quality budget or mid-range places to stay then you might be disappointed.

5) Eating vegetarian in Belize is relatively easy

I definitely was spoiled by my time at the Tropical Education Centre where they made me all sorts of local-style food with fresh veggies and locally made meat alternatives. When I was travelling around though, I could always find the staple rice and beans, potato salad and plantains and stuffed fry jacks were also a favourite quick snack.

Many tourist towns will have good spots with separate vegetarian sections on a menu or will be happy to make something special for you. Don't forget my #1 tip for eating vegetarian while traveling - when in doubt, try breakfast for lunch.

6) Buses are basic but get you can get where you need to go

If you’re happy taking basic chicken buses around the country then you’ll be fine. Shuttle transfers are pricey so I tried my best to avoid theme especially when it costs no more than $10 to get from one side of the country to the other.

The one issue I did have was there’s no clear timetable or schedule and there are loads of different bus companies servicing each region so you have to rely on often outdated advice online. You could end up waiting up to an hour or more for a bus if you haven’t timed it well and some routes (like the Dangriga to Placencia route) only have one or two buses a day. 

If you’re hitting the two main tourists spots of San Ignacio and Caye Caulker then you’re not going to have an issue taking local transport. Buses are as frequent as every half an hour and ferries are hourly during the busiest times.

Once you want to get a little off the beaten track though, you’re at the mercy of the transport Gods. All I’ll say for now is try not to travel on a Sunday when everything slows down even more and don’t just turn up expecting that you will get where you’re going. I relied heavily on the often updated Belize Bus website which is run independently and relies on user submissions for timetable changes.

7) You’ll still get to practice your Spanish

One reason I wasn’t super keen one Belize is that I thought it would interrupt the Spanish immersion that I was getting in the rest of Central America but that was so wrong.

Even though the main language is English, you’ll mostly here a mix of Creole and Spanish as you travel around. The Belizean people are made up of Maya, Kriol, Mestizo, Garifuna, East Indian, Mennonite and Chinese. There are also a large number of expats in areas like the Cayes and San Ignacio.

Sometimes I wasn’t sure which language to start off with but you’re usually fine with English and most people were happy and able to chat in whichever language I chose. The Belizean Creole is very different to what I learnt in Trinidad but if you know you’re creole then you should be able to understand what’s going on.

Overall I will say that I kept trying to compare Belize to its neighbouring countries but you can't really do that here. Belize is really in a class of its own. While it's easy to say I recommend Nicaragua over Guatemala and mainland Honduras is best left to more seasoned travellers (or anyone who's keen!), Belize for me is difficult to rate or describe.

If you love wildlife, nature or adventure activities then Belize would be a great place to visit. It's friendly English speaking residents make it an easy place to navigate and it's definitely worth at least a week of your time.

---

That’s all for now and I hope you enjoyed a quick taste of what I experienced while I was in Belize. I’d love to hear your thoughts on the country whether you’ve visited or you’d like to go. Let me know in the comments!

Pin for later

<--             -->

Why You Should Visit Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary On Your Next Aussie Vacation

When you live in Australia and friends and family visit usually the first thing they want to do is either cuddle a koala or pet a kangaroo. I’ve been to Australia Zoo more times than I count due to the legend of “The Crocodile Hunter”, Steve Irwin and now his daughter Bindi's fame spreading to the rest of the world via Dancing With The Stars. It must be the same for people who live near Disney World or Times Square in New York. Great to visit a couple of times, not so much the eight, ninth and tenth times.

This week I had a friend visiting from the States and I was surprised when she suggested we spend the day at Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary. Doing some research I found that Lone Pine actually ranks as #2 on TripAdvisor and it’s really affordable. Adults are $32.50 and kids (under 13) are $19.80 if you book online. They also offer discounted family passes.

---

 Check out some more great websites for planning your holiday activities

---

Where is it?

Lone Pine is located 15 minutes by car from Brisbane City. You can also get here by public transport from Brisbane. Bus number 430 from Queen Street Station and bus number 445 from Wickham Tce stop 158 are your easiest options. Check out Translink’s website for help planning your trip and fare information while in Brisbane.

What can I see and do?

Lone Pine is the oldest and largest koala sanctuary in the world. Here you can learn all about these super cute animals and get a chance to take a picture with them or even hold them and have a cuddle session.

Lone Pine houses 130 koalas that live in different exhibits around the sanctuary, according to their age and gender. These homes include the “Boys”, the “Kindergarten” and the “Retirement Home” where the oldies go for a more quiet and relaxed lifestyle. These areas are spread out throughout the sanctuary so there’s always a koala nearby.

There are two koala talks on during the day (at 12 pm and 2 pm) so that you can learn more about the koalas and get a chance to learn how you can help them thrive in the wild.

At 1 pm there is an opportunity to get a picture with your own camera for a small donation of your choice. Get there early as the line can be quite long but does go quickly. If you want a more hands-on experience then you can opt for a professional photo session. Starting from $18, you can hold a koala and get a professional shot to take home with you.

A male koala is easily distinguished by a brown mark on his chest. The brown mark is his scent gland which he rubs against the base of the trees in his territory as well as rubbing it on the trunk as he climbs. In doing this he marks out his territory and attracts females. If you can smell a strong odour, it may be the males in front of you. Photo by Les Olsen / CC BY-SA 2.0

Almost sharing the spotlight with the koalas are the kangaroos. Lone Pine has a large kangaroo and wallaby free-roaming reserve. You can walk amongst the kangaroos, pat them and even feed them. Make sure to pick up a bag of kangaroo food from the cafe for $2. With some of these pellets you will quickly become the most popular human around!

There are also a few emus wandering around that are very friendly. One was almost a little too friendly and went snooping around my handbag!

On my day trip to Lone Pine I easily spent a couple of hours hanging out in the Kangaroo Reserve. If you’re travelling with kids it will be hard to pry them away to visit the other animals!

Top Tip: If you're heading to Sydney you can also have some fun animal opportunities at Taronga Zoo, which is also on the water with great views of Sydney Harbour.

Failed kangaroo shot! He was getting up and close and personal trying to get some food :|

Other Australian wildlife that you can see at Lone Pine include tasmanian devils, snakes, perentie (Australia’s largest lizard) wombats and dingoes. On my visit I was extremely lucky to be able to visit the snake exhibit right after they were fed. I got an eye-opening experience of a snake slowly devouring a baby chicken. if this is your thing, then make sure to ask one of the staff what time they’ll be fed.

There are also platypus in the same area and I know from experience how tough they are to spot in the wild so make sure to check out these cute little guys while you’re here.

---

Did you know?
Lone Pine was home to a special koala named Sarah until 2001. Sarah made it into the Guinness Book of Records for being the world’s longest lived koala.

---

Male kangaroo next to a female. Check out those muscles!

There are several shows on during the day including a raptor show, platypus feed and keeper presentations and a sheep dog show. Have a look at the schedule before you visit and make sure to pick your must-sees. Try to arrive 5 minutes early to get the best seats!

For a more hands-on animal encounter you should participate in the wild lorikeet feeding and the barn animal encounter experiences. These are great for little and big kids. Imagine being surrounded by these cute colourful birds while you are used as a tree while they eat.

The raptor show lets you see these grand birds in action. You get to learn about them and their hunting habits and also have a few close call fly overs. Sit up the front for the chance to feed an owl yourself. Not for the fainthearted though!

Wallaby selfie :D

Emu sneaking through my handbag!

Facilities

There is free wifi available all around the sanctuary but it is fastest near the cafe. You can also find charging ports near the cafe in the Blogger’s Lounge which is very useful when you’re battery is dying after too many kangaroo selfies!

The General Store is where you can buy kangaroo food, cafe-style meals and snacks, coffee and cold drinks. There are gluten free and vegetarian options available. For something more something substantial, though, and a much better view, the Riverside Cafe is located just outside the sanctuary but still on the grounds. There are picnic tables and a bbq there if you want to self cater. Just make sure to get a stamp from the gift shop at the exit so you can come back in.

There are excellent toilet facilities through the sanctuary that are kept super clean. My only critique is that I couldn’t find any water fountains to fill up my water bottle but the water is safe to drink in Australia so I just used the tap from the restrooms.

One great feature that I noticed are the child-height view points in most of the exhibits. If you have a little one they should be able to get their own unique insights into each of the animal habitats. I also used these to get some great ground level photos.

Koala Facts

• The life expectancy of a wild koala is 8 to 10 years whilst captive koalas can live 12 to 15 years.

• Male koalas generally have a shorter lifespan than females.

• Male koalas are also larger than females. An adult male koala weighs between 7 and 14 kilograms whilst females usually weigh between 6 and 11 kilograms.

• Each koala’s hand print is unique, just like our fingerprints.

• Koalas first and second toes are fused together on their hind paws and there are two claws on this toe. They use this claw like a little comb to clean themselves.

Visitor information

Open 7 days a week
9:00 am to 5:00 pm

Address: 708 Jesmond Road, Fig Tree Pocket, Qld 4069 Australia
Phone: +61 7 3378 1366
Email: service@koala.net

Website: http://www.koala.net/

You can pre-purchase tickets online and save 10% (no code needed).

You Might Also Like

El Valle De Anton Travel Guide

El Valle De Anton, Panama is a beautiful little mountain town located in the largest inhabited volcano crater in the world. It enjoys a lovely spring climate all year round. I spent hours wandering the streets of the town enjoying being surrounded by the amazing views and greenery, feeling very safe and at peace.

If you have a spare couple of days, I suggest a brief stop here, a great opportunity to relax or regenerate your travel mojo.

Things to do

Getting around town to the various sites and attractions is really easy, with signs posted everywhere you go. If you get a bit lost don’t be afraid to stop and ask any of the locals. They are some of the friendliest people I have met in my time in Panama.

You should also spend a half-day by cycling. Bikes are available to hire at either your hostel or one of the rental places around town. Most people seem to get around by bike and you can feel relatively safe on the roads around town.

Hiking

You can easily spend a few hours just wandering the town and taking in the spectacular greenery. For the adventurous traveler, there are several hikes to attempt, including the challenging La India Dormida -The Sleeping Indian Girl.

Another great hike is the Cerro Cariguana. It is best done at around 4:30 pm to get a great view of the valley with the dramatic background of the sunset. Take a flashlight or headlamp to get back to town in the dark.

If you want to do a short hike, you might like to visit the Arboles Cuadrados or the Square Trees. I say ‘might’ because you will have to use your imagination on this one, but it is a pleasant walk.

Waterfalls

I visited Chorro Las Mozas while in El Valle and enjoyed a dip in the river after a short walk to the waterfalls. The walk is a bit tricky at times, but shouldn’t take longer than 10 minutes.

It costs $1 to enter, but if you get there before opening hours you should be able to enter without charge.

The other waterfall in town, Chorro Del Macho is certainly more spectacular but does cost $5 to enter. There is a small suspension bridge and while you can’t swim at the waterfall, there is a man-made pool you can have a dip in.

Hot Springs

The Pozos Termales are located very close to the centre of town. With a $3 entrance fee, it’s a cheap way to recharge your batteries and chat with other travelers and locals. You can even smother yourself in natural mud for an instant facial.

Many travelers I met couldn’t get enough of the experience, but keep in mind that these hot springs are not as hot as you might be used to (think warm) and this is definitely not a luxury spa experience. Keep that in mind and you should have a nice time relaxing in the waters.

Wildlife

If you would like to see some local wildlife check out El Nispero Zoo which has a great frog exhibit. This includes a chance to see the Gold Frog which is native to El Valle.

There is a Butterfly Haven with a $5 entrance fee that includes a guided tour. You can see not just butterflies in their different life stages, but also hummingbirds and local birds in their garden. This is a great rainy day activity as the space is fully covered.

If you’re into creepy crawlies then a visit to El Serpentario is a must! It is a small snake house with a $1 entrance fee. You get to be as up-close and personal as you wish to a variety of snakes and even get your photo taken with a boa-constrictor.

El Mercardo

There is a local market located in the center of town with two sections - local produce and arts and crafts.

Eating out

There are several restaurants and cafes  in El Valle. I did find prices to be on the higher side, but there are some great local options and more international style fare. Vegetarians should find it pretty easy to find something to eat at most of the restaurants in town.

If you’re on a budget you could find a hostel with a kitchen to create your own dishes with local produce. The local bakery, Cano Panaderia, has delicious fresh bread and well-priced sandwiches.  Another great option is Carlitos. While most of their food is quite pricey, they have empanadas for $1.40 including vege options.

Where to stay

There are a lot of options in all different price brackets in El Valle. From boutique hotels with lush gardens to hostels and locations all around the town.

I stayed at Bodhi Hostel in their 27-bed dorm. For $15 you got a comfy bed with privacy curtains, individual fan and light, as well as a pancake breakfast. It wasn’t anywhere as horrific as I imagined a 27-bed dorm could be, but I didn’t stay there when it was at full capacity.

They have some lovely small touches that I haven’t seen in any other hostels I’ve stayed at, including a little bag in your bed to put small items that are handy to have close by (a pair of glasses, for example) and a little cubby to put your toothbrush and toothpaste near the sinks. They had just started up a free morning yoga which looked like a lot of fun.

The town centre with la india dormida in the background. Spot her?

Getting there and away

Getting to and from El Valle via Panama City is super easy. There is a direct bus that leaves from the main bus terminal in Panama City every 30 minutes. It’s about 2.5 hours and costs about $4.50.

Heading back to Panama City you will need to catch the same bus, which will say “Panama - El Valle” in the window, from the main road in El Valle De Anton.

Try to do the trip in the daylight so you can take advantage of the spectacular views on the way. Also, make sure to look out for the outline of La India Dormida!

Getting to anywhere else is a little bit trickier. You need to catch a local bus to San Carlos (approx. 45 minutes) which passes through the main street every 20 minutes. From there, you need to wait at the bus stop on the highway for a bus to pass by. Depending on where you're heading to next the best options are usually a David or Santiago bound bus.

I went to Boquete after El Valle De Anton and found the experience to be relatively straightforward but quite long. Be prepared with some snacks or bring along some change to grab some on the way from the local vendors who hop on the bus. You can read a more detailed report of my trip here.

Planning on exploring around Panama for a few days? Check out my suggested itineraries for Panama for advice on how to spend a few days to a few weeks in the country.

Have you been to El Valle? Any other experiences you'd like to add or favourite places to stay or eat at?