Kids in Action - Bacalar Chico

On Thursday, July 17th, 2008, Belize Diving Adventures (BDA) generously donated a day trip to the Whale Sharks (7 – 9 year old group) from Kids in Action (KIA). KIA is a collaboration between CORAL, Green Reef and Hol Chan, plus dive shops and tour operators. The educational program aims to keep children informed on the value of the natural resources and our reserves. The Whale Sharks headed out at 10 am and enjoyed a scenic route on the lagoon side of the island. Surrounded by the lush mangrove forests, it seemed that we were in a completely different world.

Kids hop on to the waiting boat at the Belize Diving Adventures dock.

Curiosity has these young boys leaning over while the boat is at standstill - checking out the fish and turtle grass that grows underwater.

A quick visit to the San Juan Visitor Center showed several artifacts and models of the tools Mayan trade. Kids were excited to see the model of the canoe and seeds, as well as the full skeleton of a manatee. A quick tour of the grounds provided for some breathtaking views, and the Whale Sharks enjoyed scampering and scaling the large tree trunks.

A cool model of the Bacalar Chico area fascinates these young ladies.

After a tour of the center, it's snack time.

Climbing these giant trees was too tempting for these youngsters.

Afterwards, the boat ride took us out for a quick water tour of Chak Balaam, followed by a delicious lunch prepared by BDA. While we docked for lunch, we noticed the Coast Guard doing their patrolling in the area as well. Good job guys!

The Chak Balaam mound is visible from afar, and the boardwalk to the area is easily accessible.

Ahoy Coast Guards!

mmm...lunch!

After lunch, it was off to the seaside by Rocky Point for some swimming in the shallow waters, and a quick tour to check out an old turtle nesting site. The sight of all the fossilized coral and little eddies was unbelievable, and made for quite the photo opportunities! A special thanks to Belize Diving Adventures for their generosity, and kudos to KIA for enabling such a great day tour.