2027 SMA Belize Conservation Expedition
| Travel Dates: |
June 1, 2027 -
June 10, 2027
Dates tentative until flights confirmed
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| Group Organizer(s): |
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| WTT Contact: |
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| Program Tuition: |
$3,690 USD
Airfare not included in program tuition
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| Estimated Airfare: | $900 |
Important Reminders
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Insurance Reminder
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What to Expect
Please read through all of the information below. More details will be added as your departure draws closer.
Itinerary
We do everything possible to abide by itineraries as originally planned, but decades of experience teaches that we must be flexible in our planning. Changes to a trip’s schedule are uncommon, but Walking Tree reserves the right to make adjustments to programming in the best interest of the group.
| Day | Location | Description | Lodging |
|---|---|---|---|
| June 1 | USA - St. George's Caye | Arrive in Belize and transfer to Belize City to get fitted for snorkeling equipment if needed. Depart Belize City and transfer to St Georges Caye. Participate in orientation to St George's Caye Field Station and settle in. If time permits we will do a snorkel checkout at the Sand Bar, a shallow sandy area with seagrass and associated marine life. All meals will take place at the field station or between sessions in the field. In the evening we'll learn more about our study area and subjects from knowledgeable researchers. | ECOMAR Research Station |
| June 2 | St. George's Caye | The next three days will be spent building in-water survey skills and assisting researchers in collecting data on coral reef health, commercial fishery species, and megafauna. We will visit the different areas important to a healthy coral reef ecosystem including the coral reefs, seagrass beds and mangrove forests. The group will participate in the Belize Barrier Reef Watch program and submit reports on their observations. We may encounter one of the three species of sea turtles: green, hawksbill and loggerhead; or endangered Anitllean manatees or bottlenose dolphins. We will participate in a minimium of two activities each day, one in the morning and one in the afternoon. Between activities we'll return to the island for lunch, or get a pack lunch to go. Evening and morning presentations will be delivered prior to each activity in order to prepare participants for the upcoming day. Kayaks are available to use early in the morning or at the end of the day. One day we will schedule a guided tour of Historic St George's Caye and do a beach clean-up, and visit with local fishers. Which activities are done each day will be decided on site based on the weather, ocean conditions, and group preferences. | ECOMAR Research Station |
| June 3 | St. George's Caye | Today we will be working on building in-water survey skills and assisting researchers in collecting data on coral reef health, commercial fishery species, and megafauna. We will visit the different areas important to a healthy coral reef ecosystem including the coral reefs, seagrass beds and mangrove forests. | ECOMAR Research Station |
| June 4 | St. George's Caye | Fieldwork continues by surveying and assisting researchers in collecting data on coral reef health, commercial fishery species, and megafauna. We will visit the different areas important to a healthy coral reef ecosystem including the coral reefs, seagrass beds and mangrove forests. | ECOMAR Research Station |
| June 5 | St. George's Caye | Today we will have an epic underwater adventure at Hol Chan Marine Reserve! We'll begin out day diving into one of Belize’s first marine protected areas, where vibrant schools of fish swim all around us and big fish roam the waters. At Hol Chan, you’ll be amazed by the incredible variety of fish! It’s the perfect spot to practice our snorkeling skills and snap some awesome underwater photos. After soaking in the sights, we’ll head to a special place where local fishermen clean their catch, and guess what? We’ll enjoy a tasty lunch right on the boat! But that’s not all—our next stop is Shark Ray Alley, where we’ll come face-to-face with friendly nurse sharks and graceful southern stingrays. Imagine swimming alongside these amazing creatures in their natural habitat! As our thrilling day comes to an end, we’ll make a quick stop at Caye Caulker for some delicious ice cream and fun souvenir shopping before heading back to St. George’s Caye. Tonight, we will have our last group dinner at St. George´s Caye. | ECOMAR Research Station |
| June 6 | San Ignacio | In the morning, we’ll wave goodbye to our amazing friends at ECOMAR and hop on a boat back to the mainland. But hold onto your hats because our adventure is just beginning! On our way to the hotel, we’ll stop at the famous Belize Zoo and Tropical Education Center. This isn’t just any zoo; it’s a fantastic place where we’ll discover the incredible wildlife of Belize and learn about their important roles in nature. At the zoo, we’ll meet all sorts of fascinating animals, from majestic jaguars to colourful toucans. Each animal has its own story, many of them rescued and given a second chance at life. We’ll explore their natural habitats and see how they thrive in the wild! After soaking in all that wildlife wonder, we’ll enjoy lunch on the road as we continue our journey. If time allows, once we settle into our cozy accommodations in the Cayo District, we will have the time to have a splash at the hotel´s pool. We will have dinner at the hotel. | Rumors Resort |
| June 7 | San Ignacio | Today, we’re setting off on an incredible expedition through the lush western rainforests of Belize, all the way to Caracol, an ancient Maya metropolis nestled near the Guatemalan border! Buckle up, because this is going to be a day full of exploration and discovery! Once we arrive at Caracol, get ready to be amazed! This ancient city was once home to thousands of Maya people and is filled with towering pyramids, grand plazas, and intriguing ruins waiting to be explored. Imagine walking where ancient kings once ruled and feeling the energy of a civilization that thrived long ago! We will have lunch at this archaeological place, afterwards we drive through the vibrant greenery, we’ll make exciting stops at mysterious caves and sparkling natural pools. Here, we’ll dive into the fascinating geological history of western Belize, learning about how these stunning landscapes were formed over millions of years. | Rumors Resort |
| June 8 | San Ignacio | After breakfast, we’ll embark on an walk through the enchanting forest trails of Belize, where we’ll be on the lookout for the country’s fascinating native birds and other extraordinary wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for vibrant colours and unique sounds as we immerse ourselves in this lush paradise! Our journey will lead us to visit the Green Iguana Conservation Center. Here, you’ll have the chance to learn about these incredible reptiles and the important role they play in our ecosystem. You might even get to see baby iguanas and discover how they are cared for before being released back into the wild!. We will grab lunch in San Ignacio Cayo, and enjoy a delicious Ice Cream. But the adventure doesn’t stop there! We’ll finish our day by exploring the majestic Mayan Ruins that overlook the charming town of San Ignacio. Imagine standing atop ancient structures, feeling the history beneath your feet, and gazing out over breathtaking landscapes! After a day full of exploration, we’ll head back to our hotel and have a joyful time swimming in the pool and then enjoy a delicious dinner. To wrap up our thrilling day, we’ll gather for a structured reflection and fun group activity before heading off to bed. | Rumors Resort |
| June 9 | San Ignacio | Today the group will be headed to the Nohoch Che’en Caves Branch Archaeological Reserve! We will then drive to the site and then go on a short hike through the lush landscape, you’ll gear up and enter the awe-inspiring cave system. As you float down the river, prepare to be amazed as you pass through two enchanting cave passages. Along the way, our guides will share fascinating stories about the geology, ancient history, and rich Mayan culture that shaped this incredible region. We will take a moment to relax and swim in crystal-clear waters while marvelling at stunning cave formations that have been sculpted over thousands of years. Then, brace yourself for the grand finale as we navigate through the last, most active cave passage, where adventure awaits at every bend! After our epic exploration, we’ll refuel with a delicious lunch on the road before heading back to our cozy accommodations. Once we arrive, you’ll have some time to unwind and soak in the day’s excitement before we gather for dinner at our hotel. | Rumors Resort |
| June 10 | San Ignacio - Belize City - USA | After a hearty breakfast to fuel our spirits, it’s time to embark on our journey back to Belize City for our flight home. As we prepare to leave this breathtaking paradise, let's take a moment to reflect on the incredible adventures we've shared—the vibrant wildlife we encountered, the ancient ruins we explored, and the unforgettable memories we've created together. Once at the airpot, the group will catch their international flight hame. Hasta luego! | Your own bed! |
Accommodations
In order to provide a safe and memorable experience, we follow strict guidelines when choosing group accommodations. Walking Tree partners with hotels and guest houses which are centrally located, locally operated, clean and safe. We inspect each partner hotel to ensure they meet these standards.
ECOMAR Research Station
Founded in 2009, the St. George’s Caye Research Station & Field School supports archaeological and marine research for visiting professors and their students. The facilities at ECOMAR are based on traditional Creole colonial architectural styles, students will share screened-in dorm rooms with bunk beds and private bathrooms. As water conservation is a integral part of island life, power is generated each night, and hot water and air conditioning are not available. Students will be grouped in their rooms according to gender and availability.
Cahal Pech
Cahal Pech offers a beautiful setting in San Ignacio town. Rooms include hand-crafted pieces made of Belize hardwoods, two double beds, a writing table, private, screened veranda with deck chairs and a hammock. Free Wi-Fi access is available throughout the facilities to keep everyone feeling connected. Students will be grouped in their rooms according to gender and availability.
Group Flight
Once your flight schedule has been confirmed, the itinerary will appear here.
Walking Tree will secure a seat on the group flight for each participant unless otherwise instructed.
Travelers are responsible for checked baggage fees. Please visit the airline’s baggage webpage to learn if you should expect to pay anything.
We will provide a group manifest – complete with reservation codes and ticket numbers – to the Group Organizer/s before departure, and travelers will need to check in at the airport in order to receive their boarding pass and have documents verified. We recommend arriving no later than three hours prior to the scheduled departure, but contact your Group Organizer for specific details on exactly where and when to meet on the day of departure.
FLIGHT INTERRUPTION, DELAY OR CANCELLATION
Air travel can be unpredictable. Regardless of proper planning, there may still be instances when a flight is delayed or cancelled due to staffing shortages, weather, mechanical problems, etc. Please note that in such an event, Walking Tree Travel (WTT) is not financially responsible for unanticipated costs incurred by travelers en route. Our programs officially begin and end in the destination country, and because our staff doesn’t fly with the group, Group Organizers (the traveling faculty member/s) become the front-line advocate for the group in the event of a delay. In most cases of cancellations or delays, the airline will be the one who re-books travel or possibly arranges a hotel and food the night. Our primary role will be to keep families updated and provide support to the Group Organizer to reach a quick and effective resolution.
Host Community and Project Details
ECOMAR MARINE BIOLOGY CENTER at ST. GEORGE’S CAYE
Historical St. George’s Caye is less than 10 miles from Belize City and one mile from the Belize Barrier Reef, making it an ideal location for getting to and from the mainland and reef ecosystems. The Caye, and the other cayes, reefs, and estuaries that surround it, collectively make up Belize’s section of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System, a chain of barrier islands stretching from Mexico to Honduras that together comprise the largest coral reef ecosystem in the Western Hemisphere. This “seascape” is also the second longest reef in the world, and is home to hundreds of invertebrate and vertebrate species such as whale sharks, Antillean manatees, and hundreds of mollusks found nowhere else in the world. The unique geology of the region and the biodiversity it harbors make it a priority conservation area, and one of Sylvia Earle’s “Hope Spots.”
During our stay in Belize, we will be partnering with ECOMAR, and organization that coordinates marine biology and conservation projects that focus on conserving the Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System and World Heritage Site, along with the associated marine ecosystems and the diverse marine life that is so important to the people that live near the coast. ECOMAR’s mission is to help local people, governments, and visitors learn more about the marine ecosystems that support their livelihoods. “When resources users are more knowledgeable about the ecosystem processes they take ownership of the environment and become involved in protecting these valuable natural resources.”
They do this through a variety of programs that we will learn about and participate in, including sea turtle nesting and in water studies, coral reef ecology studies, manatee and conch research, and a variety of other marine biology research education programs which we will learn about during our stay. We are privileged to be guided in our work by local and visiting researchers who are experts.
Packing List
What follows is a sample packing list that is provided as a guideline. Feel free to augment as you feel necessary. We recommend you bring a larger piece of luggage like a roller, duffel bag, or backpack, as well as a smaller backpack that you can bring on hikes, weekend excursions and shorter activities.
“Less is more” is a packing tip we encourage for all our travelers. The list below should cover everything you would need, but know yourself and what you are comfortable traveling with. We suggest bringing only as much as you would be able to carry on your own.
Finally, we recommend consulting a weather forecast for your destination.
CLOTHES
- Underwear
- Socks (a mixture of good hiking socks and casual socks)
- T-shirts (some quick dry)
- Set of pajamas
- Light sweater
- Rain jacket
- Travel/athletic shorts that are breathable and light
- Comfortable/hiking/everyday pants (NOT all jeans)
- 2 nice shirts/tops to be worn to more formal dinners (girls might want a skirt or something a little nicer for such occasions)
- Durable athletic/hiking shoes
- Swimsuits
- Sandals (Chacos/Tevas etc)
- Long-sleeve rash guard, to protect from sun while snorkeling (mandatory)
- Hat
Important: Snorkeling gear (mask, snorkel, and fins). Visit your local dive shop or sports equipment store and have the staff fit you with a mask. A good fitting, comfortable mask and a well-sealed snorkel can make or break a snorkeling or diving trip, so make sure to try it on and practice at a local pool a couple times before you travel. Snorkeling gear can be rented at ECOMAR for a fee of $11.75/day, and this is not included in the cost of tuition. If you plan to not bring your own gear, please bring enough cash to rent gear for the duration of your time at ECOMAR.
TOILETRIES
BRING THE BASIC TOILETRIES YOU NEED PLUS:
- Reef-safe or mineral sunscreen (mandatory), mosquito repellent, and aloe vera – Read list below
- Band aids, Neosporin and other basic first aid supplies
- Hand Sanitizer
- Medication in properly marked original container
- Lip balm
*Those with long hair, a small bottle of conditioner for tangled hair
MISCELLANEOUS
- PASSPORT
- Small backpack
- Sunglasses
- Journal and pen
- Book
- Camera
- Ziplock bags to keep valuables out of humidity and water.
- Debit card/US Dollars (we recommend about $50-$150, depending on amount of desired souvenirs, extra items etc.)
- Durable water bottle
- 1 quick-dry towel (1 big one or 2 small ones)
- Flashlight/headlamp
- Batteries and/or portable cell phone power banks
- Deck of cards or other portable games
CORAL REEF SAFE TOILETRIES
- Sun Block
- Badger Broad spectrum SPF 35 zinc oxide
- Thinksport SPF 50 Sunscreen
- All Good SPF 30 Sport Sunscreen Lotion
- Babo Botanicals SPF 30 Clear Zinc Lotion
- Suntegrity Natural Mineral Sunscreen
- Raw Elements SPF 30 Certified Natural Sunscreen
- Stream2Sea SPF 30 Mineral Sunblock
- Mama Kuleana Waterproof SPF 30 Reef-safe Sunscreen
- Mosquito repellent
- It is very important to know that all items must be Deet Free.
Support Team
At a minimum, one experienced Program Leader will travel on every trip. In addition to this full time leadership presence, Walking Tree has additional staff in all destinations and 24/7 support from our headquarters in Denver, Colorado. Below you’ll find the the team members involved in the preparation, planning and execution of your program.
Guillermo Montoya Berganza
Guatemala & Belize Country Director
Universidad Rafael Landivar – B.A. Marketing with emphasis on Advertising
Postgraduate studies in Business Management, Costa Rica and India
Guillermo, a globetrotter from Guatemala, has explored North and Central America, Europe, and India, immersing himself in intercultural experiences. His journey began as an exchange student in North Dakota and Canada, later volunteering with an educational organization in Guatemala. This role allowed him to lead Latin American students through Norway and Denmark, fueling his passion for travel. Now based in Antigua, Guatemala, Guillermo champions independent coffee farmers and artisan communities while leading customized programs. Fluent in Spanish and English, he combines his love for adventure, photography, mural painting, and history to create memorable experiences for his clients.
Guillermo has crafted tailored walking tours for VIP clients, including Real Madrid’s Álvaro Arbeloa and former CNN presenters Alberto Padilla and Claudia Palacios, earning a reputation as a sought-after guide. In 2023, he presented on “The Leadership of a Tour Guide” at the XIV National and Ibero-American Congress of Tour Guides in Playa del Carmen. Guillermo has also authored a booklet on Antigua Guatemala’s coats of arms and delivered academic presentations on mural paintings and women’s roles in tourism. With a focus on inclusive tourism and cultural preservation, Guillermo continues to enrich the tourism landscape, blending expertise and passion to showcase Guatemala’s heritage.
Emory University – B.A. Sociology and minor in Latin American History
Luke’s path to student travel began in Mexico, during a year abroad in Mexico and Central America. This formative time led him to join an international volunteer program which, after graduating from college, sent him to the small village of San Gerardo de Rivas in south-central Costa Rica. Welcomed by the loveliest of host families, his experience in this tiny town is directly connected to the beginnings of Walking Tree five years later. His love for travel still burns bright, and today he’s lucky to have a wife and daughter who are equally passionate about exploring the world. Settled in Denver, he adores his family and colleagues, skies whenever possible, and is a devoted fan of all Colorado sports teams.
Group Roster
Below is a list of the travelers enrolled on the program.
Blog and Communication
During travel we work hard to keep families updated as frequently as possible with blog posts and photos, giving you peace of mind that your traveler is safe and thriving on their program. Students regularly contribute to these posts, providing families back home a great way to vicariously track the progress of the trip. You will be notified when the first update is posted, after which we recommend checking in regularly via the black “Program Blog” button at the top of this webpage.
Assuming your school allows the use of cell phones, most destinations are wired enough to allow participants access WiFi at different moments in the program, allowing them to communicate directly with home. Ask your Walking Tree representative about the degree of connectivity on your program.
GLC Curriculum
Walking Tree has developed a curriculum of activities meant to help travelers get the most out of their trip before departure, during travel and after they return home. These simple and engaging activities are meant to spark discussion, frame experiences, and prepare participants to travel ethically and effectively both on this trip and on future adventures.For more information about student learning objectives and the format of the curriculum, click on the ‘learn more’ button below.
To view and complete the Pre-Program Activities, visit our online portal at the button below.
Standards of Behavior
In order to run a safe and successful program, it is vital that travelers are prepared to be on their best behavior and bring enthusiasm and interest to each and every day. A communal atmosphere of trust and mutual respect is the foundational. As such, all individuals participating on a Walking Tree program are required to take responsibility for their actions and adhere to a high standard of personal conduct.
IMMEDIATE DISMISSAL
- Possessing, consuming or distributing alcohol or illegal drugs.
- Associating with participants while they are in possession of alcohol or illegal drugs.
- Behaving in a way that consistently damages the group dynamic or jeopardizes personal or group safety. This includes consistently displaying a negative attitude, intimidating or excluding other participants, sneaking out, disobeying group leaders, and any other behavior that is not conducive to an atmosphere of trust and mutual respect.
GROUNDS FOR DISMISSAL OR IN-COUNTRY CONSEQUENCE
- Getting a piercing or tattoo.
- Stealing, or deliberately damaging or defacing any personal property, buildings or materials.
- Threatening physical or emotional harm, or brandishing a weapon.
- Possessing, consuming, or distributing tobacco or nicotine, including vape pens.
- Riding mopeds, motorcycles, or any other type of unauthorized vehicle.
- Being out of designated area or accommodations after curfew.
- Breaking group rules.
These standards of behavior are essential for the successful completion of your program. Please take the time to review these as a family and make sure everyone understands and agrees to them.
Health and Safety
We strongly recommend visiting the CDC Belize website to get the most updated information on health and vaccination considerations in your destination country. In addition, we encourage you to consult your personal family physician so you can be as informed as possible when making important decisions about vaccinations and other necessary health-related preparations before traveling.
Our in-country staff meticulously prepare for all programs. Walking Tree receives regular updates from the U.S. Department of State’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to proactively stay ahead of any potential security concerns. Our in-country staff also verify the safety records of our partner organizations, vendors, and transportation providers, thoroughly vet homestay families through in-depth interviews and visits, and stay informed about important current events in the region.
Program Leaders are seasoned travelers who are CPR and First Aid certified, undergo thorough training in crisis management, and participate in comprehensive leadership training. We do our best to prepare for any eventuality and have detailed emergency protocols for our leaders, in-country staff, and U.S.-based staff.
We collect medical disclosures from all participants to ensure we can meet every student’s needs during the program. Please inform us immediately of any additional health issues not listed during your initial registration process. Leaders and in-country staff are prepared to respond promptly to any mental, physical, or emotional health concerns and follow comprehensive emergency protocols.
Insurance
While we work hard to ensure the safest experience possible for our travelers on program, experience teaches that travel can be unpredictable. For this reason, we recommend that all travelers consider a travel insurance policy with a Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) provision. Detailed explanations of plan options can be found via the link below.
To provide travelers and families with a quality option, Walking Tree has partnered with Travel Insured International, one of the most respected providers in the industry. Begin by getting a quote here.
IMPORTANT NOTE: in order to secure coverage that includes CFAR, you must purchase the plan within 14-21 days of your first payment to Walking Tree. Be careful when you read the tenets of the policy to ensure you understand the required timeframe for purchase. You must also insure 100% of your trip cost, so program tuition + flight. Please reach out to us with questions.