Bocawina is the only lodge in Belize within the boundaries of a protected national park
The Mayflower Bocawina National Park was first established in 2001 to protect and manage the archaeological site and surrounding rainforest biodiversity. The Park is co-managed by the local, non-profit organization, Friends of Mayflower Bocawina National Park, located in Silk Grass Village, and APAMO , the Association of Protected Areas Management Organizations, Belize’s umbrella association for Protected Areas.
The Park
The park is situated on the eastern end of the Maya Mountains next to the Sittee River Forest Reserve in southern Belize. This national park connects a region between the Maya Mountains and the coastal plains. This 7000 acres park, primarily consists of tropical evergreen broadleaf, lowland and hill forest ecosystems.
It is one of the best choices for leisure and adventurous explorations. The park offers excellent wildlife observation and birding opportunities as well as access to several Mayan sites and beautiful waterfalls via a system of maintained trails through the rainforest.
Mayan sites include the main Mayflower Plaza, Maintzunun temple mound and Tau Witz. Waterfalls include Bocawina Falls, Three Sisters Falls, Antelope Falls, Peck Falls and Big Drop Falls.
The Wildlife
While generally secretive, mammal species observed in the park include Baird’s tapir, Yucatan black howler monkey, jaguar, ocelot, deer, coati, white-lipped peccary, paca, agouti, kinkajou, gray fox, Northern tamandua, and several dozen species of bats.
In the Rapid Ecological Assessment for the park, over 300 bird species have been identified including toucans, trogons, orioles, woodpeckers, owls, tanagers, kiskadees, hummingbirds, curassows, and kingfishers.
Hiking Trails
Mayflower Bocawina National Park is a haven for hiking enthusiasts, offering a captivating network of trails suitable for various skill levels. The park features the family-friendly Bocawina Falls Trail, ideal for a leisurely hike, and the more challenging Antelope Falls Trail, renowned for its breathtaking views.
Adventure seekers can test their limits on the strenuous Big Drop Falls Trail, leading to a spectacular waterfall. Additionally, the park offers the Bird Loop Trail, a paradise for birdwatchers, where the diverse birdlife of Belize can be observed in its natural habitat.
Each trail in this vibrant tropical rainforest promises an immersive experience into the unspoiled beauty of Belize, with opportunities to witness majestic waterfalls and rich biodiversity, making Mayflower Bocawina National Park a treasured destination for nature lovers and trekking aficionados.
Download our hiking trails map here
Mayan Heritage
The park has two unexcavated Mayan Temple Mounds, as well as many other unexplored Mayan sites. A small teaching center is located in the plaza area, with an exhibit that includes a brief history of the local ancient Maya, as well as modern man’s impact on the area. Interactive exhibits are designed particularly for younger visitors.
The Mayan Plaza Site includes 11 structures, with two pyramid mounds, a formal cluster, and two aguadas or water reservoirs. Artifacts found at the site include hammer stone, pottery shreds, crushed vases, an effigy censer, a mortar cup, and a stone bead. The site was occupied during the Post Classic Period during the late 800 to early 900 AD. There are also two un-excavated mounds and several sites that have not been investigated but are part of the historical and cultural richness of Belize.
Entrance Fee $5US
