4 Best Sights in Ambergris Caye and San Pedro, The Cayes and Atolls

This remarkable nonprofit specializes in the care and rehabilitation of American crocodiles, but they also rescue and rehab pelicans, iguanas, turtles, snakes, and other creatures. Operators Christina Manzi and Chris Summers are warriors for the protection of Belize's wildlife and their habitat. You can schedule an educational visit to the center, and possibly see unreleasable crocs or critters temporarily on-site for medical care. It's a little off-the-beaten track but well worth a visit. 

Development on Ambergris continues relentlessly, but most of the far north of the island remains unsullied by that development. At the top of the caye, abutting Mexico, this UNESCO World Heritage Site spans almost 44 square miles (113 square km) of land, reef, and sea. Here, on 11 miles (18 km) of trails you may cross paths with whitetail deer, ocelots, saltwater crocodiles, and, according to some reports, pumas and jaguars. There are beautiful diving, snorkeling, and fishing opportunities, especially off Rocky Point, and a small visitor center and museum to get you oriented. You'll need a boat and a guide to take you here, where there are at least nine ancient Maya sites. Walk carefully, as loggerhead and green sea turtles nest here. Be sure to bring insect repellent. An all-day snorkel trip to Bacalar Chico from San Pedro is unforgettable.

Put this idiosyncratic iguana sanctuary at the top of your list for San Pedro. Founder Calvin Young celebrates the fascinating, prehistoric reptiles by preserving a patch of mangrove habitat for some 300 black and green iguanas. The impressive park is by-donation only and open daily. Keep your eyes peeled for Oh My God––a seven-foot iguana named for the expression everyone says when they see him. While you can't feed wild iguanas, it's okay to offer a banana or papaya to these critters, which have been raised. 

A small but wonderful cultural center, the House of Culture celebrates the fascinating history and diversity of San Pedro. Past exhibits have explored Garifuna Settlement Day and the village's lobster industry. Be warned: opening hours are erratic.