No real baboons inhabit Belize; but Belizeans use that name for the Yucatán black howler monkey (Alouatta pigra), an endangered species that exists only in Belize, northern Guatemala and southern Mexico and is one of the largest monkeys in the Americas.

We visited the sanctuary and were led on a guided hike through the jungle. Our guide pointed out black orchids, Gibnuts, holistic plants that bleed red and cure ring worm called Vismia macrophylla. We were also treated to Guarumo that can be smoked like a cigarette or used as incense.

We found a termite nest and a line of leaf cutter ants doing their thing.

We were able to spot a howler monkey family. Momma came down first to greet us followed by her baby. Daddy, however did not come down but instead howled at us to let us know he was watching.

Watching my daughters face while listening to a Howler Monkey for the first time was worth the trip in itself. There is something about the jungle that draws me in. It is no secret that I love hiking just about any environment, but the jungles of Central America call to me in a way I can't quite describe.