Experience the world in unforgettable ways.
Spend your summer immersed in a classroom with no walls! One where nature is at your finger tips and adventure is around every corner.
Expert guides take you far beyond the beaten path immersing you in the culture, traditions and natural environment of the exotic land.
Amazing destinations with incredible opportunity.
There is no better way to learn than through immersion. Adventures by Lincoln Children's Zoo transports you to global destinations where professional guides share their knowledge, animals are seen in their natural habitat, and adventure surrounds you. The moment your adventure begins you will experience nature firsthand. Prepare yourself for the future and take an expedition that transforms you. This summer embark on an Adventure by Lincoln Children's Zoo.
2025 Expeditions
Expedition: Belize
July 19-25, 2025
Spend your summer immersed in a classroom with no walls, where nature is at your fingertips and adventure is around every corner! Belize, an expedition through Adventures by Lincoln Children's Zoo, is a 7-day excursion assisting researchers at a coral reef, exploring ancient ruins, zip lining through a jungle, snorkeling, and rafting through caves!
This all-inclusive trip is led by professional guides alongside staff members of Lincoln Children's Zoo.
Itinerary
Day 1 – July 19 – Nebraska to St. George’s Caye
Depart from the Lincoln Children’s Zoo in the early morning, led by Zoo staff. We will fly out of Omaha and have a brief layover in Dallas before landing in beautiful Belize, where you will be transported to a world of Caribbean tranquility on the island of St. George’s Caye. Your tropical home for the next few days offers the incredible opportunity to snorkel one of the world’s best barrier reefs and participate in groundbreaking research in marine biology and conservation. Dormitory-style accommodation is provided at the ECOMAR Research Station and Field School where there is no air-conditioning or hot water, but plenty of adventure to be had!
Day 2 – July 20 – St. George’s Caye
Experience the wonders of the Caribbean Sea as you snorkel the Belize Barrier Reef, a particularly special World Heritage Site of profound ecological importance. You will be assisting researchers on St. George’s Caye by surveying populations of colorful coral, vibrant fish, and gorgeous sea turtles.
Day 3 – July 21 – St. George’s Caye
Continue your research on the reef through snorkeling surveys of queen conch, a large marine mollusk that inhabits enormous yet intricate shells. There may also be an opportunity to listen to a lecture on reef preservation and the local marine ecology from one of the resident professors of the ECOMAR Research Station and Field School.
Day 4 – July 22 – San Ignacio
Say goodbye to island life as you head west to mainland Belize, destined for the charming town of San Ignacio. With a rich Mayan heritage and access to more remote regions of the country, you will be staying at the gateway to the natural wonders of Belize. Travel back in time as you explore the ruins of Caracol, one of the most important regional political centers of the Maya people during the Classic Period. Summit the acropolis and enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding jungle, then continue on a guided nature hike to see if you can spot Belizean wildlife such as tapirs, coatis, and an array of tropical birds. Accommodation is provided at the Midas Resort in San Ignacio.
Day 5 – July 23 – San Ignacio
Adventure awaits you as you embark on the thrilling experience of “cave tubing” through the Nohoch Che’en Caves Branch Archaeological Reserve. Picture yourself floating down a gentle river that winds through the ancient underworld of Belize, meandering in a prehistoric cave adorned with crystal formations and relics of the Maya civilization. Your knowledgeable guide will share the fascinating geological and cultural history of the area. This exciting cave experience will be followed by a zipline adventure through the jungle canopy.
Day 6 – July 24 – La Democracia/Watter’s Bank
On our final day of excursions, we will visit The Belize Zoo & Tropical Education Center, which is the oldest wildlife rescue and rehabilitation facility in Belize. Animals here are rescued, confiscated from the illegal wildlife trade, or transferred from other rehab and zoological facilities. The Zoo cares for more than 150 animals representing 43 native species, which you will get to see firsthand as you explore the zoo’s grounds and nearby nature trails. If weather permits, we will have the opportunity to canoe down the Sibun River with a Belize Zoo guide. Launch off sandy riverbanks to navigate the riparian forest while learning about the cultural and ecological value of the river. This is also a great birding opportunity, and other wildlife such as iguanas, monkeys, hawks, and even crocodiles are sometimes spotted! End the day with a special nocturnal tour of the zoo at night, learning about these native species when they are at their most active and participating in memorable, interactive encounters guided by highly knowledgeable zookeepers. Accommodation is provided at Daphne’s Lagoon Lodge.
Day 7 – July 25 – Watter’s Bank to Nebraska
With all your new adventures fresh in your memory, say farewell to the country of Belize as you depart for home.
Cost
| Trip | Date | Ages | Cost | Deposit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Expedition: Belize | July 19 - July 25 | 13 - 19 | $4,650 | $465 |
Price includes the flight, baggage fees, all accommodations, ground transportation, 3 meals per day, group activity and entry fees, travel insurance, an Adventure Trip shirt, taxes, tips for local guides, and a donation to wildlife conservation projects in Belize. The price excludes souvenirs and other shopping. A 10% deposit of $465 is required upon registration, with the remaining balance due on June 19. Adventure Trips are for students entering 9th-12th grade in the 2025-2026 school year, and recent high school graduates of the class of 2025. Participants must be between 13 and 19 years of age.
Registration
To register, select the register button below and pay the 10% deposit. Or register in person by visiting our reception office (to the right of the front gates, door 4) or call 402-475-6741 and dial 0. Our Education staff is not able to accept payment over the phone and all calls must go to Reception.
Cancellation/Refund Policy
Once registered, the deposit is non-refundable. All subsequent payments made after May 19, 2025 are non-refundable. Final payment of the remaining balance is due June 19 (30 days prior to departure).
There will be an informational orientation meeting at Lincoln Children's Zoo in June. Please keep an eye on your e-mail for more information!
Questions?
If you have any questions, please contact jchestnut@lincolnzoo.org or call 402.475.6741 ext 137.
