Education doesn’t need to be boring. In fact, it can be quite an adventure.
One of the things Chaa Creek prides itself on is providing an informal learning experience for our guests by stimulating interest in Belize’s fascinating history, natural environment and culture, and then providing the tools to follow up that interest. For example, guests can wander up to the Belize Natural History Centre (NHC) and get a glimpse into the local ecology, Maya culture, flora and wildlife at their own pace, and then feel free to ask our knowledgeable licenced naturalist guides questions.
Since we’re situated in the very Heartland of the Maya, there’s no better place to learn about this enigmatic ancient culture, for it’s all around you. As another example, while running electricity into the Chaa Creek gift shop some years ago, we unearthed a perfectly preserved chultun, an ancient Maya storeroom, and the NHC has more examples of Maya artefacts we’ve uncovered over the years.
And then, of course, there’s the Maya Medicinal Plant Trail where you can see the many plants and herbs still used today in curing a wide range of ailments. Ancient Chaa Creek was one of the breadbaskets of the Maya civilisation, and our Maya organic farm supplies our restaurant and also gives an interesting snapshot of Maya farming techniques
Nearby Xunantunich and Cahal Pech have excellent visitors’ centres that provide a wealth of information that will make your own explorations of these beautiful sites even more interesting, and with over 70 recorded ancient Maya archaeological sites right here at Chaa Creek, you can hike, horseback ride or mountain bike your way into the past glories of Belize’s Maya heritage.
Have an interest in birds? Over 308 avian species were recorded on Chaa Creek’s 365 acre private rainforest reserve during the Birds Without Bordersproject we assisted the Zoological Society of Milwaukee and the Foundation for Wildlife Conservation in conducting, and our senior birding specialist, Rickie Manzanero, can tell you all about them.
The jungle even holds evening classes – our Creatures of the Night guided nature walks open the amazing nocturnal world of our local wildlife.
And, of course, there’s phys ed. If you ever wanted to get proficient with horses or canoes, here’s your chance. We have horses for all skill levels, and our patient wranglers and canoe guides are very happy to work with you.
These are just a few of the many courses offered by Mother Nature on the Chaa Creek campus. Of course, you may opt to spend your Belize summer vacation totally switched off, just lounging around the pool or enjoying a cool drink while swinging in a hammock.
But no matter how much or how little you choose to do, we bet you’ll leave Chaa Creek having learned one or two things you didn’t know before – and then want to come back for a refresher course!