My daily experiences in Belize were truly unparalleled, offering opportunities that I may never have again. Upon our arrival at Lime Caye, we immediately put on our snorkel gear and got in the water. The biodiversity just off the beach was astounding, revealing a hidden world beneath the surface. For 18 days, this became our new normal. We snorkeled at least twice daily, each session lasting a few hours. Each time the boat dropped us off, there was excitement in the unknown of what we would get to see.
We explored countless snorkeling locations, visiting multiple sites and cayes each day. While we occasionally revisited certain spots, we primarily experienced new reefs daily. In addition to the marine life, we also encountered the rich biodiversity thriving on the cayes. Our guides provided insightful tours, highlighting specific wildlife of interest.
After leaving Lime Caye, we spent a few nights at the TIDE Tours house on the mainland, where we were introduced to various native plants and trees. We also had the opportunity to go birding in the mornings. The guides helped us spot and identify bird species using binoculars. They were very knowledgeable about the wildlife and helped us learn more about each species.
Our journey concluded at Southwater Caye, located further north than Lime Caye. Contrary to my expectations, the marine biodiversity here was markedly different. Even during our first snorkel, we encountered numerous new species. Each day brought new cayes and locations to explore, offering unique wildlife encounters.
After each snorkeling session, we used field guides to identify the species we had seen. This process was incredibly rewarding, as it allowed us to quickly recognize and learn about the various marine life during subsequent swims. The sheer volume of species we encountered in such a short period was astonishing. This experience has been invaluable, enriching my knowledge and appreciation of the biodiversity that inhabits our planet.