TOPOGRAPHY: Belize occupies 8,866 square miles. On the east coast of Central America on the Caribbean Sea. Belize is bordered by Mexico to the north and Guatemala to the west and south. The second-largest barrier reef in the world (185 miles long) falls within Belize’s territory along with three of the four coral atolls in the Western Hemisphere. Doyle’s Delight is the country’s highest peak at 3,688 feet.
CLIMATE: The climate is subtropical with a brisk prevailing wind from the Caribbean Sea. The annual temperature averages about 80 degrees Fahrenheit. The rainy season is between June and August.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS: Same as U.S., 110 volts AC.
GOVERNMENT. Belize is an independent country with a democratically elected parliamentary government and is a British Commonwealth member.
LANGUAGE: English is the official language and is widely spoken. Creole, Spanish, Maya and Garifuna are also spoken.
POPULATION: The population of Belize is approximately 311,500 comprising Creoles (African-European), Garifunas (Caribs), Mestizos (Spanish, Indian), Maya, English, Mennonite, Lebanese, Chinese, East Indians and Europeans.
RELIGIOUS DENOMINATIONS: Most denominations are represented in Belize. The majority is Roman Catholic; there are also Anglicans, and Methodists, etc.
TIME ZONE: Belize occupies the time zone GMT-6, the same as US Central Standard Time. Daylight saving time is not observed.
WATER. Tap water in Belize is potable.
TELECOMMUNICATIONS: Direct-dial and cellular telephone, fax, TV, e-mail and Internet are available. Internet cafes are plentiful, and wireless is available at some resorts. Satellite phones in remote areas.
MONEY: Currency exchange; Local currency is the Belize Dollar, or $BZD. One US dollar is equivalent to BZD$2. Banks and ATM’s throughout the country include Atlantic Bank, Belize Bank, Scotia Bank and First Caribbean.
TELECOMMUNICATIONS: Direct-dial and cellular telephone, fax, TV, e-mail and Internet are available. Internet cafes are plentiful, and wireless is available at some resorts. Satellite phones in remote areas.
MONEY: Currency exchange; Local currency is the Belize Dollar, or $BZD. One US dollar is equivalent to BZD$2. Banks and ATM’s throughout the country include Atlantic Bank, Belize Bank, Scotia Bank and First Caribbean.
WHAT TO PACK?
Take light, casual clothing for the beach. For jungle exploration, pack lightweight long pants, long sleeve shirts, good walking shoes or hiking boots and socks.
>>THE ESSENTIALS:
- Bug repellent for mosquitoes and sand flies.
- High SPF sunscreen.
- Sunglasses and an extra pair of prescription glasses. Swimwear and beach shoes.
- Hat for sun protection.
- Poncho for rainy days.
- Sweater for high elevations in winter.
- Digital camera and don’t forget battery charger and extra memory cards.
- Disposable underwater cameras for snorkeling and boat trips.
- Medication you will need for the length of your trip.
- Copies of your passport and credit cards in case they are lost or stolen.
“Amazing Fly Fishing! Incredible Guide! Great Food.”
Scotty H.
Charles Leslie Sr. was an incredible guide. I cannot speak more highly of him. When it comes to Fly Fishing...
... and going after Permit, Tarpon and bones he is amazing!
He knows this area like the back of his hand. If you stay out at the lodge the fishing is literally within seconds of your bungalow. The island (caye) has Tarpon feeding under the mangroves all around you. I have never seen better permit and tarpon fishing in the world. This is the place to go and Charlie will put you on fish. He can really see the fish and knows exactly where to find them. I was amazed at the ability he had to get me exactly in the right place to catch the fish of a life time. He is one of the few guides that is also an excellent fly fisherman. He has 40 years of experience and it shows you will can tell he loves what he does. Book a trip with him soon before retires. His son Carlito will be taking over for him within the next copule years and he will be great too because he has been learning form the best for the past three years. The lunch was great too! I can't wait to go back next year.
“Bow to the King”
James O.
This was our second trip to Tarpon Caye Lodge and it was everything we expected. The fishing was fantastic and we had a great time.
No matter what species you are targeting or if you just want to relax and enjoy the beautiful surroundings, the lodge is perfect for all of your needs. We will definitely be looking forward to our next trip and always dreaming of the fish that didn't get away.