Big Falls / St. Paul’s Bank

These villages lie along a road ending at the Belize River, and are well known for the “big falls” on the river. In the dry season these “falls” are large rock outcroppings, creating the largest rapids on the Belize River. If your visit corresponds with La Ruta Maya, a 4-day canoe race on the Belize River, watching the boats at Big Falls is an excellent way to spend the afternoon.

It is possible to go to the rocks to sunbathe and relax and watch birds and howler monkeys during the months of March to May. This is also a frequent starting point for canoe trips through the Sanctuary.

Willow’s Bank

Downstream from St. Paul’s along the river is Willow’s Bank. The first ever fire hearth fest is held annually in the month of August where the best and delicious Creole food is cooked and served while tapping you feet to local Creole bruck down music . You can also participate in “Tug o War, Lime and Spoon, Sack race, and much more. On a normal day this village is a very peaceful and quiet place. A side road wanders down to the banks of the Belize River where howler monkeys can be seen.

Double Head Cabbage

This is the largest of the CBS villages and houses the Health Care Center, Belize Rural High School and a horse racing track. The river twists and turns around Double Head Cabbage farms. Take a nature walk down the road and stop in at “Uncle Charlie’s Winery” for the best tasting local wine made with the fruit from the cashew tree. Enjoy a nice cold Belikin beer at the Paradise Bar just down the road from Charlie’s. You can stop in at the Dauntless Designers Women’s Group shop and get the best handmade embroidery bed spreads with a bird or wildlife of your choice, otherwise have a taste of homemade jams and jellies made by the women.

Bermudian Landing

This is the central village of the CBS, housing the CBS Museum and Visitor’s Center, and the Environmental Education Center. The old ferry site is a favorite swimming spot in the dry season for locals and visitors. There are several walking trails for wildlife viewing. A guide can be arranged at the CBS Museum and Visitor’s Center. The National Cricket Field is located opposite the visitor’s center so perhaps you get lucky to what a game of cricket played.

Isabella Bank

This is a pastoral community, largely influenced by Mennonites. The river appears at the end of the road. Villagers here make delicious jams, jellies and juices from local produce. It is also a stopping point for the river canoe tours.

Scotland Half-Moon

This village lies between the Belize River and Mussel Creek on the main road from Burrell Boom. This area is home to an abundance of wildlife and medicinal plants. At night you can canoe down the creek on a Crocodile Tour or spotlighting.

Flowers Bank

This beautiful village lies three miles north of the main road and is situated along the bank of the Belize River with its Community Center at the water’s edge. Dories (wooden canoes) and horses are still important forms of transportation. This village holds the history of the battle of St. George’s Caye. The northern section of the beautiful and biologically diverse Mussel Creek lies about a half mile away. While visiting this village why not stay a night at the “Flower’s Bank Cabanas?” visit the Cohune Oil processing plant that is operated by the community. The oil is very delicious you won’t be able to leave without a bottle.