Day 2 - Highlights of the Rainforest - (B,L)
Todays adventure begins at the front of the hotel where the guide will give you a brief explanation of the tour and give you your equipment.
You will first cross the clear blue Caves Branch River and hike through the jungle led by the guide who is fully knowledgeable, and who will point out flora and
fauna along the way. He will also answer any questions that you may have.
After about an hour you will get into the river with your inner tubes
and float down miles of shallow waterways and through five spectacular caverns (some have been photographed by National Geographic.
Along the way you will be able to see the stalagmites and stalactites that the
cave system has. Also, as you tube, you will be able to go further into the cave and view small rooms that were once used by the Mayas that have
beautiful formations.
Next you will explore one of the oldest accessible caves on the planet as you tour the Crystal Cave. Venture below the surface, through narrow passages and magnificent cathedral size caverns...all filled with spectacular shimmering crystal stalactites,
stalagmites, rim stone dams, flow stone and pillars like rock columns. Visit 'Wonderland' and see natures most "AWESOME" creations whose destiny it was
to never be seen by man .. millions of years in creation, with only your headlamp to light your way.
To step into Crystal Cave is to explore the rich civilization history of the Mayans. This is an inner sanctum of crystal stalactites, stalagmites,
rim stone dams and Mayan artifacts. The crystal room which is located inside the crystal cave has many beautiful formations that are enhanced by
indirect lighting.
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Jaguar Paw snuggles in thick lush jungle near the crystalline waters of the Caves Branch River. The Lodge offers top-notch adventure in the day
with cool, comfortable surroundings at night.
Whilst Europe was deep in the "Dark Ages", the inhospitable and hostile jungles of Central America were being transformed into the home
of one of the World's great civilisations. Temples, Pyramids and Palaces were built by peasant farmers and slaves without the benefit of beasts of
burden or even the wheel.
This morning you will enjoy an exciting start to the day on the Aerial Trek Canopy Tour which offers a thrilling opportunity to
soar through the jungle treetops high above the forest floor.
We soon arrive at Maya Center and the entrance to the Cockscomb Basin Jaguar Preserve. We stop briefly to sign in and to view the beautiful
hand-carved slate plaques, baskets, clothing and jewelry made in the village by the local Mayan Indians.
Experience the cayes and barrier reef, as well as the beautiful Sittee River. Your guide will make several stops along the reef enabling you
the opportunity to snorkel in warm, crystal clear waters filled with a multitude of fish and coral.
