Billy Barquedier National Park

This relatively new park protects a pristine area of broadleaf forest and the Barquedier Creek watershed. It's known for its beautiful waterfall and...

Billy Barquedier National Park at a Glance

Location
Central Belize & Coastal Plain, Belize, Central & South America
Coordinates
17.023120, -88.438820
IUCN Category
II
Crowds
Very Quiet
Malaria Risk
Moderate

Getting to Billy Barquedier National Park

Nearest airport: Aeropuerto Internacional de Mérida "Lic. Manuel Crescencio Rejón" (MID), 452 km away.

Nearest international airport: Aeropuerto Internacional de Cancún (CUN), 476 km away.

Weather & Climate in Billy Barquedier National Park

The warmest temperatures in Billy Barquedier National Park occur in May, averaging 25.8°C (up to 29.5°C). The coolest conditions are in December at 22.0°C.

The driest weather conditions are typically in April with average rainfall of 83.2mm. Average humidity: 85.4%.

Monthly Temperatures

  • January: 22.2°C (rainfall: 153.4mm)
  • February: 22.4°C (rainfall: 108.8mm)
  • March: 23.8°C (rainfall: 111.6mm)
  • April: 25.1°C (rainfall: 83.2mm)
  • May: 25.8°C (rainfall: 180.4mm)
  • June: 25.6°C (rainfall: 299.4mm)
  • July: 25.2°C (rainfall: 301.9mm)
  • August: 25.3°C (rainfall: 272.6mm)
  • September: 25.4°C (rainfall: 248.0mm)
  • October: 24.7°C (rainfall: 282.3mm)
  • November: 23.2°C (rainfall: 377.1mm)
  • December: 22.0°C (rainfall: 229.9mm)

Best Time to Visit Billy Barquedier National Park

The best months to visit Billy Barquedier National Park are April, January, February, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Good, temperature 22.18°C, rainfall 153.4mm, sunshine 9.5 hrs, humidity 89%
  • February: Good, temperature 22.35°C, rainfall 108.8mm, sunshine 10.3 hrs, humidity 86.4%
  • March: Good, temperature 23.77°C, rainfall 111.6mm, sunshine 11.1 hrs, humidity 86.4%
  • April: Great, temperature 25.05°C, rainfall 83.2mm, sunshine 11.4 hrs, humidity 85.4%
  • May: Good, temperature 25.83°C, rainfall 180.4mm, sunshine 10.6 hrs, humidity 87.4%
  • June: Good, temperature 25.55°C, rainfall 299.4mm, sunshine 9.2 hrs, humidity 89.5%
  • July: Good, temperature 25.18°C, rainfall 301.9mm, sunshine 9.7 hrs, humidity 90.1%
  • August: Good, temperature 25.31°C, rainfall 272.6mm, sunshine 10.1 hrs, humidity 90%
  • September: Good, temperature 25.38°C, rainfall 248mm, sunshine 10.2 hrs, humidity 89.7%
  • October: Good, temperature 24.68°C, rainfall 282.3mm, sunshine 9.4 hrs, humidity 88.3%
  • November: Good, temperature 23.16°C, rainfall 377.1mm, sunshine 8.6 hrs, humidity 89.4%
  • December: Good, temperature 22.03°C, rainfall 229.9mm, sunshine 8.6 hrs, humidity 89.9%

Wildlife in Billy Barquedier National Park

Home to 52 recorded species including 21 waterbirds, 12 iconic birds, 11 birds of prey, 4 tropical birds, 2 reptiles, 1 predators.

Recommended Packing List for Billy Barquedier National Park

Based on average temperature of 24.2°C, typical conditions, humidity 88%.

  • Lightweight breathable clothing - warm 24°C weather calls for light fabrics
  • Binoculars - essential for every game drive
  • Sun hat & sunscreen - protection from the African sun
  • Sturdy walking shoes - for bush walks and uneven terrain
  • Neutral-coloured clothing - khaki, olive, and tan blend with the bush
  • Insect repellent - essential in most safari regions
  • First aid kit - basic medical supplies for remote areas
  • Torch / headlamp - useful for evenings at camp
  • Camera with telephoto lens - capture your safari memories

Notable Species

Safari Lodges in Billy Barquedier National Park

1 safari lodges available.

Other

Similar Parks in Central Belize & Coastal Plain

Visitor Tips - Billy Barquedier National Park

Billy Barquedier National Park is a true hidden gem, offering a refreshing escape into Belize's vibrant jungle. We love the rewarding hike to the main waterfall, where the cool, clear water is an irresistible invitation for a swim. It's a perfect blend of active exploration and serene natural beauty, far from the crowds.

Gate Times

We find Billy Barquedier National Park typically opens around 8:00 AM and closes at 4:00 PM or 5:00 PM, though hours can vary slightly. It's always wise to check their official website or call ahead for the most current schedule, especially during public holidays. Given its low crowding, permits are usually purchased on-site, but we recommend arriving earlier in the day to secure your entry and enjoy the trails before any potential afternoon closures.

Tipping

While not strictly mandatory, we always encourage tipping local guides and park staff as a gesture of appreciation for their knowledge and service. For a half-day guided hike, we suggest around $10-15 USD per person for your guide. There isn't a formal system for other staff, but a small contribution to a general park fund, if available, is a thoughtful gesture that supports conservation efforts.

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Belize

Travel advisory for Belize

Billy Barquedier National Park FAQs

When is the best time to visit Billy Barquedier National Park for optimal hiking and waterfall enjoyment?

The dry season, typically from November to May, offers the most favorable conditions for hiking the trails and enjoying the natural swimming pools and waterfall. During this period, rainfall is minimal, ensuring clearer paths and more comfortable exploration of the park's pristine environment.

What are the realistic chances of encountering elusive wildlife like jaguars or tapirs at Billy Barquedier National Park?

While the park is home to jaguars, pumas, and tapirs, sightings of these larger mammals are rare due to their nocturnal habits and the dense forest. Visitors have a much higher chance of spotting diverse bird species, howler monkeys, and smaller reptiles, especially during early morning or late afternoon guided walks.

Beyond general hiking, what specific activities can visitors engage in at Billy Barquedier National Park?

The park's main draw is its stunning waterfall, which cascades into refreshing natural swimming pools perfect for a dip after a hike. Birdwatching is also exceptional, with numerous species inhabiting the broadleaf forest, and guided tours often focus on identifying the rich avian diversity.

What health and safety precautions are recommended for visitors to Billy Barquedier National Park, especially regarding its moderate malaria risk?

Due to the moderate malaria risk, it's advisable to consult your doctor about antimalarial prophylaxis and always use insect repellent containing DEET. Additionally, wear sturdy closed-toe shoes for hiking the forest trails, and stay hydrated while exploring the park's terrain.

How accessible is Billy Barquedier National Park, and what should I expect regarding entry or tour arrangements?

The park is conveniently located just off the Hummingbird Highway in Belize, making it accessible by rental car or local taxi services from nearby towns like Dangriga or Belmopan. While entry fees are typically nominal, arranging a local guide is highly recommended for navigating trails and enhancing wildlife spotting opportunities.

Recommended Books

  • The Handbook of Bird Photography by Markus Varesvuo, Jari Peltomäki & Bence Máté - Excellent for birding photographers on safari - covers technique, equipment, fieldcraft, and post-processing with stunning example images.
  • Photographing Wildlife in Africa by Paolo Torchio - Practical guide specifically for African safari photography - camera settings, lens choices, composition techniques, and how to make the most of game drives.
  • Fodor's The Complete Guide to African Safaris by Fodor's Travel - Country-by-country planning guide with lodge reviews, practical logistics, packing lists, and insider tips. Often cited as the best all-in-one safari planning resource.
  • National Geographic Kids: Safari by National Geographic - Age-appropriate wildlife facts with stunning photographs. Great for getting children excited about the animals they'll see on safari.
  • The Last Elephants by Don Pinnock & Colin Bell - Conservation-focused book combining beautiful photography with urgent storytelling about the threats facing Africa's elephant populations.
  • Here Is the African Savanna by Madeleine Dunphy - Beautifully illustrated picture book about the savanna ecosystem. Teaches children about the interconnected web of life on an African plain.
  • Safari: A Photographic Journey by Art Wolfe - Large-format coffee-table book from one of the world's most celebrated nature photographers. Stunning images from across the African continent.
  • The Kingdon Field Guide to African Mammals by Jonathan Kingdon - The definitive mammal field guide for Africa covering over 1,150 species with detailed illustrations. Considered the gold standard for safari-goers and researchers alike.
  • The Behavior Guide to African Mammals by Richard Despard Estes - Goes beyond identification to explain why animals behave as they do. Essential reading for safari-goers who want to understand the wildlife they observe.
  • Remembering Lions by Various Photographers - Part of the acclaimed Remembering Wildlife conservation book series. Features contributions from world-class wildlife photographers, with proceeds supporting lion conservation.
  • African Animals ABC by Stella Blackstone & Petr Horacek - Simple alphabet book with bold, colourful animal illustrations. Perfect for toddlers and young children preparing for their first safari. Ages 2–5.
  • Beat About the Bush: Mammals by Trevor Carnaby - The single best book for understanding animal behaviour on safari. Explains why animals do what they do - feeding, mating, territory, predator-prey dynamics. Makes every game drive infinitely more rewarding.
  • Africa's Top Wildlife Countries by Mark W. Nolting - The most respected safari planning book in print. Detailed country-by-country guide covering parks, lodges, best times to visit, and what wildlife to expect. Updated regularly. The first book every safari planner should read.
  • The Safari Companion: A Guide to Watching African Mammals by Richard D. Estes - Part field guide, part planning tool. Explains mammal behaviour in a way that transforms game drives. Covers tracks, signs, social structures, and habitat preferences. A must-pack for serious safari-goers.
  • The Shadow of the Sun by Ryszard Kapuscinski - Widely considered the greatest book ever written about Africa. Kapuscinski spent 40 years reporting from across the continent. Vivid, poetic, and deeply insightful. Essential pre-safari reading for understanding the continent.
  • Elephant Company by Vicki Constantine Croke - The extraordinary true story of James Howard Williams and the elephants who helped him build bridges, extract teak, and ultimately rescue refugees across the Burmese jungle during WWII. Gripping and moving.
  • When the Last Lion Roars by Sara Evans - An urgent, accessible account of the African lion's decline from 200,000 to under 20,000 in a century. Covers the science, politics, and human stories behind lion conservation. Eye-opening pre-safari reading.
  • Ivory, Horn and Blood by Ronald Orenstein - The definitive book on the poaching crisis devastating African elephants and rhinos. Covers the criminal networks, the rangers fighting back, and what travellers can do. Important context for any safari visitor.
  • Last Chance to See by Douglas Adams & Mark Carwardine - Witty and heartbreaking tour of endangered species by the Hitchhiker's Guide author. Combines humour with urgent conservation messaging.
  • Owen and Mzee by Isabella Hatkoff, Craig Hatkoff & Paula Kahumbu - True story of an orphaned hippo befriending a 130-year-old tortoise in Kenya. A heartwarming tale of unlikely friendship that teaches empathy.
  • Remembering Elephants by Various Photographers - Stunning coffee-table book from the Remembering Wildlife series. All proceeds go to elephant conservation - beautiful photography with a purpose.
  • Whatever You Do, Don't Run by Peter Allison - Hilarious memoir from a Botswana safari guide - true stories from the bush that will have you laughing out loud. A favourite among safari enthusiasts.
  • Poached by Rachel Love Nuwer - Gripping investigation into the illegal wildlife trade - from African poaching networks to Asian markets. Essential reading for understanding the threats to safari wildlife.
  • Safari Nation by Jacob S. T. Dlamini - Fascinating history of South Africa's national parks and their complex colonial legacy. Academic but accessible - changes how you think about safari tourism.
  • Safari: A Photicular Book by Dan Kainen & Carol Kaufmann - Mesmerising book with moving photographic images of African animals. Kids and adults love the magical moving pictures - perfect pre-trip gift.