Green Iguana Conservation Project

Belize Iguana Project

Over the past few years, we at the San Ignacio Resort Hotel have been at the forefront of conservation for the threatened Green Iguana. A highly interpretive and educational exhibit has been designed within the Resort's property in order to create a closer look at this amazing reptile, and to learn how vital they could be to the ecological balance of the river habitat.

The Green Iguana Conservation Project is a continuous effort that aims to conserve and look after the endangered Green Iguana species in Belize. The Project uses interactive exhibits and programs to help educate visitors and create awareness among the general public. Here, visitors are given the opportunity mingle with these wonderful reptiles and also, learn the about the incubation, hatching, rearing, and releasing process.

The Green Iguana Conservation Project offers the Adopt an Iguana Program and the Iguana Kids Club both of which raise funds to sustain the Project and fund scholarships.

The Project has received much attention locally and internationally and is ranked as the Number 1 Activity in the San Ignacio area by TripAdvisor.

History

The Green Iguana Conservation Project was created in 1996 by Mrs. Mariam Roberson and Daniel Velasquez due to the decreasing survival rate of Green Iguanas in Belize caused by overhunting.  Mrs. Roberson and Mr. Velasquez decided to embark in a program that would protect the species and educate individuals about these amazing reptiles.

This effort, in collaboration with Belizean primary and secondary schools, Galen University, and foreign affiliates, commenced the initiative to foster and protect the Green Iguana species in Belize. The Project is entirely self-sustained and relies on contributions and donations of interested patrons and visitors. The program offers a great field of research and education to the people of Belize and around the world by allowing individuals to interact with the Green Iguanas. 
 
The Green Iguana Conservation Project follows a continuous, cyclical course of rearing the Iguanas from the egg to juvenile stage. It later sets them free by releasing them into their natural habitat.  Much of the program’s success relies on the Green Iguana Adoption Program; this program allows guests adopt an Iguana prior their release and contribute to the survival of these wonderful species.

During the past 17 years, the Green Iguana Conservation Project has become one of the most endearing adventures in San Ignacio. The Project, located on-site, has been ranked as the Number 1 Activity in San Ignacio.