The Maya Forest

The Maya Forest is classified as lowland tropical broad-leafed rainforest, characterized by mahogany, cedar and quamwood, punctuated with stands of Caribbean pine. More than 375 of the plant species in the forest are not found elsewhere and many may have as yet unknown medicinal or economic value. The Maya Forest has more than 400 species of birds such as toucans, parrots, motmots, trogons and hummingbirds. In winter, the forest provides a vital food source for over 250 species of migratory birds from North America. Wildlife is abundant with more than 95 mammal, 45 reptile, 18 amphibian and 112 fish species recorded in the area.

Las Cuevas works to help manage and conserve the Maya Forest in partnership with the Government of Belize

Jaguar photographed by Dr Marcella Kelly using a movement triggered camera trap close to Las Cuevas

Conservation Volunteers working in the forest

The Chiquibul Forest Reserve & National Park

Las Cuevas lies in the heart of the Maya Forest within the Chiquibul Forest Reserve and National Park. This is the largest protected area in Belize, totalling half a million hectares. It is an area of outstanding biological diversity providing critical habitat for many endangered species and forming a key part of the tri-national Maya Forest - the largest remaining intact tropical forest north of the Amazon.

Some of the more endangered species are frequently seen by visitors to Las Cuevas including: Jaguar, Ocelot, Harpy Eagles, Bairds Tapir, Black Howler Monkey, River Otters, Tree Frogs, Morelet's Crocodiles and Scarlet Macaws.

Scarlet Macaw nest by the Macal River