Carambola Botanical Gardens

Carambola Botanical Gardens (tel. 504/445-3117, www.carambolagardens.com [1], 8 a.m.–5 p.m. daily, US$5, age seven and under free), located off the highway opposite the entrance to Anthony’s Key Resort [2] (AKR), is the only developed inland reserve on the Bay Islands [3]. Well-built trails wind through forests of ferns, spices, orchids, flowering plants, fruit trees, and even a few mahogany trees.

way is a turnoff to the fascinating Iguana Wall, a section of sheer cliff that serves as a protected breeding ground for iguanas and parrots. There are great views from the peak over the surrounding reef and, in the distance, Utila [4].

The staff at the visitors center has some information on the reserves, and if manager Irma Brady is around, she is particularly knowledgeable about the reserve’s flora and fauna. Guides can be hired for an extra charge.