Adventure
The magic of the jungle has something to offer everyone!
Belize is filled with many hidden jewels and the Billy Barquedier happens to be one of them! The BBNP is located just along the Hummingbird Highway on mile 17.5 in the village of Steadfast, a site which is easily accessible to both locals and foreigners. The BBNP is blessed with pristine jungles and trails for all types of adventurers. Whether you are an experienced hiker, a wildlife enthusiast, or just someone looking to get away for a couple hours, Billy Barquedier National Park has something to offer everyone. Day-trippers looking to cool off can take a dip in the Billy Barquedier Falls after a short hike (15-20 minutes).
Billy Barquedier National Park is home to many different species of animals, including Belize’s national mammal, the tapir. On a quiet hike through the jungle, one may come cross a tapir trail, gibnuts, howler monkeys, or even a jaguar. Equally attractive as its collection of native species is the breathtaking scenery of the Maya Mountains and the entire Valley of the Stann Creek District on an observation tower which stands at the tip of the mountain at an elevation of approximately 1,230 feet. On a clear day, visitors can catch a view of Victoria Peak and the Caribbean Sea. It takes about 45 minutes of hiking through a steep terrain, which takes visitors along a splendor of lush green forest.
With a plethora of native species, the jungle is one of the best places to come observe wildlife in their natural habitat. This area is a haven for birdwatchers as well. There are several other nature trails in which birders can appreciate the various species of birds that reside in the park or just simply connect with nature. Among these is the “Mot-Mot Trail” that leads to the recreational areas that sits on the hilltop with seating and bathroom facilities to compliment it. These rest areas are perfect for a nature cleanse!
The Billy Barquedier National Park is an area where the Mullins River Basin and North Stann Creek Watershed (NSCW) pass through. The park was created to protect not only the creek, which serves as a watershed for the people of Steadfast Village, but also the amazing biodiversity of the area.
The Waterfall Trail is an easy 15 minutes’ hike through the jungle and along the crystalline creek running from the waterfall leading up to the majestic cascade stemming from the Maya mountains. It falls into a large natural pool of irresistible refreshing water. Swimming can be done all day long or visitors can sit back on the deck to just simply admire the unquestionable beauty of nature.
A camping area is also located along the Mot Mot Trail. This is perfect for those wishing to spend the night beneath the canopy of lush green leaves. The area comprises of benches, a small cooking pit and an outdoor bathroom.
For a second option, there is also the Central Camping area located deep inside the jungle along the Mullins river, approximately 3.5 km from the highway. This is a perfect experience for extreme hikers who may wish to completely disconnect and spend some time appreciating nature.
Facilities available: Your visit to the BBNP is guaranteed to be a comfortable one. Some of the basic facilities available include: - Parking - Bathrooms and showers - Gift shop - Visitor center- currently being developed to enhance the visitor experience