Plizio Visual Lab

Green Iguana Conservation Project

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Animal habitat

Green Iguana Conservation Project (Belize)

Weather…

The Green Iguana Conservation Project is located at the San Ignacio Resort Hotel and is a leading educational and conservation initiative in Belize. Since its inception in 1996, the project has been dedicated to protecting the Green Iguana, a species threatened by overhunting and habitat loss. Visitors have the opportunity to learn more about the life cycle of these reptiles, from egg-laying to adulthood. The program includes a controlled breeding system where hatchlings are raised and later released into the wild to bolster local populations. In addition to direct animal care, there is a strong emphasis on raising public awareness about the importance of ecological balance. The project is recognized as one of the most successful interactive educational programs in San Ignacio, attracting biologists and tourists alike. The initiative contributes significantly to reptile conservation awareness in Central America and showcases the synergy between tourism and wildlife preservation.

Location: Belize
Nearby: Barranco (4 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan–Mar.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	21	22	24	26	26	25	25	25	25	24	22	22
Rain mm	110	66	58	40	127	240	175	197	225	251	200	137

📋 Practical info

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Best season

The project is open year-round, but the best time to observe green iguanas is the dry season from February to May. Then animals are more active and often bask on trees.

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Best time of day

In the morning, iguanas are most active when they bask on branches. Early afternoon they retreat to shade - so plan a morning visit.

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Etiquette

In the conservation project, animals must not be touched or fed - you will get the necessary information on guided tours. Keep distance from the iguanas and follow staff instructions.

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What to bring

Take a camera for close-ups of the iguanas, but without flash. Light clothing and sturdy footwear are recommended for walking on tropical terrain.

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Getting there

The Green Iguana Conservation Project is in San Ignacio, Belize. It is easily reachable on foot from the city centre or by taxi; signs show the way.

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What to expect

Iguanas are often motionless in trees - patience is needed to observe natural behaviours like eating or climbing. Guided tours last about an hour and provide a lot of information.