Hello- we are traveling to Ambergris Caye this coming January for our 3rd time, however this time we may be bringing our son who will be about 20 months old then. We were planning on the zoo on the mainland (provided he doesn't mind the boat rides!) and I just found out about the butterfly jungle in San Pedro. But what else could we do with him? Other activities or tours? Thanks for all your help in advance!

To be quite frank I have found that when the kids range from the age of 5 months to about 6 years old the best, most fun activity in the world is sitting at the shore line with a plastic cup. They use it to catch fish, pour water over themselves and others, it can be used as a shovel, as well as old party favourites- prancing around acting like it is a hat or a bullhorn.

I believe the butterfly farm would be fun for him, but the zoo is another matter. I guess you know how patient and/or adventurous he is. Many times when we went to the zoo it was hot and the animals were all sleeping and camouflaged which meant that the little ones just couldn't see them. You can't tell a toddler to look to the left of the 3 ft long elephant ear. I was always nervous about them sticking their hands in the cages too.

You might be best off considering this a relaxing vacation, hanging out by the pool and the sea, wandering the beach making friends with other families with toddlers. Or consider having a baby sitter for the times you want to go diving or visiting the Maya Ruins etc.

Enjoy.

How far or how long does it take (on the boat) to get to the zoo? My 6 yr. old is coming down in Feb. and she does appreciate a good zoo however, a long boat ride will not fly with her. :P

My 12 month old loves playing in the shallow water along the shore, loves the water.

Probably about an hour to the city, then an hour on the bus or car to get to the zoo.

Thx, Amanda!

Thanks everyone! Amanda, you're right, there's nothing like plying in the sand! I didn't know if there any particular tour geared toward small children. Bringing him is still up in the air, whether or not grandparents can watch him at home for our last 'hurrah' in a while before we have more kids!

TQ, The boat ride from San Pedro to Belize city is between 1 to 1 1/2 hours (each way). If it is a calm day it's a fun ride, (bring lots of sunscreen). If it's a little windy, Make sure you take the water taxi with the enclosed cabin.

There are usually a few kids at BC's on Sundays and they have a great time between the band and the sand.

On weekend nights in the park downtown they have some battery operated cars, some push ones for smaller kids, and a bouncy tent.

Thx 2miles & taco, good suggestions.