Sights and Recreation

There are no tourist attractions, per se, in Corozal Town [1], but it’s an unassuming base for fishing trips, nature watching, and tours of a few nearby ruins and waterways. Wander through the town square, stroll the waterfront, and strike up a conversation with the locals or expats who’ve come to love the laid-back lifestyle. The seaside park, called Miami Beach, is a popular hangout on the weekend and holidays.

In the town hall, you’ll find a dramatic historical mural painted by Manuel Villamour. The bright painting depicts the history of Corozal, including the drama of the downtrodden Maya, the explosive revolt called the Caste War, and the inequities of colonial rule.

Some trips include day trips to the Shipstern Wildlife Nature Reserve [2], Sarteneja village [3], and the Maya sites of Cerros and Santa Rita [4].

Local Guides and Tour Companies

One of the best independent guides around is Vital Nature and Mayan Tours, also known as Vitalino Reyes (tel. 501/602-8975, www.cavetubing.bz [5]), whose years of experience qualify him to teach and certify many of Corozal’s other guides. Vital will take you to local ruins, to the caves at Jaguar Paw, to the Belize Zoo [6], on night safaris, or anywhere else you want to go.

Belize VIP Transfer Services (tel. 501/422-2725, www.belizetransfers.com [7] or menziestours [at] btl [dot] net) is your best bet for charter transportation, using brand-new vehicles that are great for groups. Belize VIP specializes in local tours (including a day tour of Corozal [1] and Cerros [4]), Lamanai [8] trips, Chetumal [9] transfers (and other Mexican attractions), and Tikal [10]/Flores [11] trips to Guatemala.

George & Esther Moralez Travel Service (tel. 501/422-2485, www.gettransfers.com [12]) offers transfer services and tours. They will also help you with hotel and local flight bookings. Dial 00 before the phone number when calling from Mexico to Belize.

Hok’ol K’in Guest House handles all such trips as well, especially to local villages. For travel agencies or flight bookings, go to the Hotel Maya.

International flights, ADO bus tickets, and other travel reservations can be booked through Cruzob Travel (33 3rd Ave., tel. 501/607-7930), which is next door to Bayview Guest House.