Sarstoon-Temash National Park

Located in the remote southern part of Belize, this park is a mosaic of lowland rainforest, mangrove forests, and wetlands. It's a critical habitat for...

Sarstoon-Temash National Park at a Glance

Location
Southern Belize & Toledo, Belize, Central & South America
Coordinates
15.967896, -89.002785
IUCN Category
II
Crowds
Very Quiet
Malaria Risk
Moderate
Best Time to Visit
February to May (dry season) for wildlife and marine reserves.

Getting to Sarstoon-Temash National Park

Nearest airport: Aeropuerto Internacional de Mérida "Lic. Manuel Crescencio Rejón" (MID), 555 km away.

Weather & Climate in Sarstoon-Temash National Park

The warmest temperatures in Sarstoon-Temash National Park occur in May, averaging 27.3°C (up to 31.2°C). The coolest conditions are in December at 23.1°C.

The driest weather conditions are typically in April with average rainfall of 111.5mm. Average humidity: 83.5%.

Monthly Temperatures

  • January: 23.3°C (rainfall: 192.0mm)
  • February: 23.5°C (rainfall: 148.3mm)
  • March: 25.1°C (rainfall: 133.1mm)
  • April: 26.4°C (rainfall: 111.5mm)
  • May: 27.3°C (rainfall: 187.8mm)
  • June: 26.6°C (rainfall: 385.7mm)
  • July: 25.9°C (rainfall: 459.6mm)
  • August: 26.1°C (rainfall: 396.4mm)
  • September: 26.3°C (rainfall: 415.4mm)
  • October: 25.6°C (rainfall: 384.8mm)
  • November: 24.2°C (rainfall: 434.7mm)
  • December: 23.1°C (rainfall: 303.6mm)

Best Time to Visit Sarstoon-Temash National Park

The best months to visit Sarstoon-Temash National Park are March, April, January, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Good, temperature 23.29°C, rainfall 192mm, sunshine 9.3 hrs, humidity 88.6%
  • February: Good, temperature 23.51°C, rainfall 148.3mm, sunshine 9.9 hrs, humidity 85.5%
  • March: Great, temperature 25.1°C, rainfall 133.1mm, sunshine 10.9 hrs, humidity 84.5%
  • April: Great, temperature 26.44°C, rainfall 111.5mm, sunshine 10.9 hrs, humidity 83.5%
  • May: Good, temperature 27.28°C, rainfall 187.8mm, sunshine 10.5 hrs, humidity 84.3%
  • June: Good, temperature 26.61°C, rainfall 385.7mm, sunshine 9.2 hrs, humidity 87.9%
  • July: Good, temperature 25.9°C, rainfall 459.6mm, sunshine 9.1 hrs, humidity 89.8%
  • August: Good, temperature 26.11°C, rainfall 396.4mm, sunshine 9.7 hrs, humidity 89.1%
  • September: Good, temperature 26.25°C, rainfall 415.4mm, sunshine 10.1 hrs, humidity 88.8%
  • October: Good, temperature 25.59°C, rainfall 384.8mm, sunshine 9.5 hrs, humidity 88.2%
  • November: Good, temperature 24.21°C, rainfall 434.7mm, sunshine 8.6 hrs, humidity 89.6%
  • December: Good, temperature 23.09°C, rainfall 303.6mm, sunshine 8.1 hrs, humidity 89.6%

Wildlife in Sarstoon-Temash National Park

Home to 59 recorded species including 23 waterbirds, 22 birds of prey, 10 iconic birds, 3 tropical birds, 1 reptiles.

Recommended Packing List for Sarstoon-Temash National Park

Based on average temperature of 25.3°C, typical conditions, humidity 87%.

  • Lightweight breathable clothing - warm 25°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 Sarstoon-Temash National Park

1 safari lodges available.

Other

Similar Parks in Southern Belize & Toledo

Visitor Tips - Sarstoon-Temash National Park

We love Sarstoon-Temash for its raw, untamed beauty and the profound sense of discovery it offers. It's a place where the jungle truly comes alive, and the opportunity to engage with the resilient Q'eqchi' Maya and Garifuna communities provides an unparalleled cultural immersion. This is not a luxury safari, but an authentic expedition into one of Belize's most vital and least-visited ecosystems.

Gate Times

Sarstoon-Temash is not a park with traditional gate times; access is strictly by permit, usually arranged through authorized tour operators or the Sarstoon-Temash Institute for Indigenous Management (SATIM). We recommend booking well in advance, especially during the dry season (February-May) when river travel is generally smoother, though the park is accessible year-round with proper planning. Expect to coordinate your entry and exit with your chosen operator.

Tipping

Tipping is customary and greatly appreciated for the dedicated individuals who make your visit possible. For guides and boat captains, we recommend US$15-20 per person per day. If you have camp staff, US$5-10 per person per day is appropriate. We always carry small denominations of US dollars or Belizean dollars for this purpose, as ATMs are non-existent in this remote area.

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Belize

Travel advisory for Belize

Sarstoon-Temash National Park FAQs

What is the best time of year to visit Sarstoon-Temash National Park for optimal wildlife viewing and weather conditions?

The dry season, typically from November to May, offers the most favorable conditions for exploring Sarstoon-Temash. During this period, rainfall is lower, making trails more accessible and increasing the chances of spotting wildlife along rivers and in the forest.

Given its remote location, how challenging is it to access Sarstoon-Temash National Park, and what transportation methods are typically involved?

Accessing Sarstoon-Temash is part of its adventurous appeal, often requiring a combination of road travel to Punta Gorda, followed by a boat journey down the Sarstoon River. Due to its untouched nature, visitors should expect basic facilities and rely on experienced local guides for navigation and safety.

What are the chances of encountering iconic species like jaguars or manatees in Sarstoon-Temash, and what unique viewing opportunities does the park offer?

While jaguars are elusive, patient visitors might spot their tracks or catch a rare glimpse, especially during night excursions with a guide. The park's extensive mangrove and river systems provide excellent opportunities for observing West Indian manatees, particularly in the calmer estuaries, and a diverse array of migratory and resident birds.

Beyond the moderate malaria risk, what specific safety precautions and preparations should I consider for a rugged trip to Sarstoon-Temash National Park?

Due to the park's wild and remote nature, it's crucial to travel with an experienced local guide who understands the terrain and wildlife. Visitors should be prepared for humid conditions, bring insect repellent, sturdy waterproof footwear, and ensure they have adequate hydration and first-aid supplies for an off-grid experience.

What kind of tour packages and associated costs can I expect for an authentic, rugged experience in Sarstoon-Temash National Park?

As an untouched wilderness, organized tours to Sarstoon-Temash are typically specialized and often involve multi-day expeditions led by local operators from Punta Gorda. Costs can vary significantly based on duration, included activities like river safaris or jungle treks, and the level of guide expertise, reflecting the unique logistical challenges of operating in such a remote area.

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.