24 Oct Get to Know a Snorkel Site: Part Two

No visit to Belize is complete without a visit to our two most famous snorkel spots.

Snorkel Site #1: Hol Chan

Off the southern tip of Ambergris Caye is the Hol Chan Marine Reserve. Hol Chan is the Mayan name for ‘little channel.” This sanctuary was officially established in 1987, and since then the return of all species of fish has been quite dramatic.

Hol Chan Marine Reserve and Shark Ray Alley is approximately 4 miles (6.4 km) south of San Pedro Ambergris Caye. It is the single most popular day trip from San Pedro, perfect for snorkeling or diving.

The reserve covers approximately three square miles (7.8 sq km) and is divided into three zones. Buoys clearly mark each zone. The entire reserve focuses on a cut through the reef which is little more than 25 yards (23 m) wide and 30 feet (9 m) deep.

Snorkel Site #2: Shark Ray Alley

For several years, local fishermen often cleaned their catch in this area, located just inside the reef, to the south of Ambergris Caye. When fishermen noticed that their activity had attracted Nurse Sharks and several Southern Sting Rays, they reported this information to the dive operations in San Pedro, who then dispatched some divers to investigate. What they found was a bonanza, and “Shark-Ray Alley” quickly became a very popular dive site.

As soon as your boat arrives in the area, the Dive Master points out all of the dark shadows in the shallow (eight foot deep) waters. These are the sharks and rays that hear the boat approach and come in search of a few scraps of fish.

Contact us to schedule your incredible Belize wildlife encounter today!