Community Baboon Sanctuary
The Community Baboon Sanctuary is one of Belize’s most unique wildlife attractions and an excellent destination for travelers who want to experience nature while learning about conservation and local community life. Located in the village of Bermudian Landing, along the Belize River, the sanctuary protects an important area of tropical forest that provides a home for Belize’s famous black howler monkeys.
Despite its name, the animals are not actually baboons. They are black howler monkeys, one of the largest monkey species in Central America. The name “baboon” became commonly used in Belize because of an old local name for the monkeys.
The sanctuary was established in 1985 through a community-led conservation effort. Local landowners agreed to protect portions of their property and the forest habitat, creating a safe environment where howler monkey populations could thrive. This approach became an important example of community-based conservation.
Visitors can explore the forest with local guides who explain the monkeys’ behavior, habitat and role in the ecosystem. The most exciting moment is often hearing the howler monkeys before seeing them. Their deep, powerful calls can travel surprisingly far through the forest and are one of the most recognizable sounds of the Belizean jungle.
The sanctuary is also home to many other species of wildlife, including birds, reptiles, insects and numerous tropical plants. Walking through the forest provides visitors with an opportunity to experience Belize’s natural environment at a slower, more intimate pace.
A visit to the Community Baboon Sanctuary is more than a wildlife excursion. It demonstrates how Belizean communities can work together to protect their natural surroundings while creating opportunities for sustainable tourism. For nature lovers, photographers and families, it offers a memorable opportunity to see Belize’s wildlife in its natural habitat.
