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Welcome to your program
During the two-week farm-based field course, students will work alongside veterinarians while learning about large animal medicine in the tropics. The program also offers behind-the-scenes experiences at the Belize Zoo. You'll spend a week learning about wildlife issues and conservation efforts in Belize and spend a day studying marine ecology through snorkeling. During your program, you'll have the chance to explore jungle waterfalls and caves, and discover Maya history at Xunantunich Temple!
This page will take you through everything you need to know about your program. You should READ every section. We've linked additional information under each topic as needed.
Housing
Rooms are dorm style with single beds. All rooms will be shared with Mississippi State students of the same gender.
Food
Daily breakfast can be dishes like omelets and pancakes, etc. Lunch and dinner are typically a mix of American and Belizean-style food.
There are opportunities to stop for snacks and drinks almost every day, but these would be on your own budget.
Flights
For summer travel:
At the start of your program, our group shuttle from the airport on arrival Saturday will leave the airport at 4:30pm. Therefore, you should plan to arrive on a flight that arrives at BZE by 3pm on SATURDAY. Staff will arrive at the airport by 11am. If you arrive prior to 11am, please wait in the arrival hall. There is only one airport transfer per arrival day. If you miss the group transport, there is a fee for solo transport.
At the end of your program, our group shuttle to the airport on departure Saturday will arrive at the airport at 9:30am. Therefore, you should plan to depart on a flight that departs BZE after 11:30am on SATURDAY.
Packing
The only items you are required to bring are those on the “required” lists. General required items (like your passport) are found on the ALL PROGRAMS packing list above. Program specific required items are found below under the REQUIRED section. For the rest of the items, you are welcome to use your discretion. There may be items missing from this list that you’d like to bring, and there may be items on this list that you don’t want to bring. If you have any questions, please feel free to ask!
Required for this program
Rugged clothes specifically for field work, including non-legging pants such as jeans / canvas work pants/hiking pants or similar (4-5 pairs)
Rubber boots or hiking boots and appropriate socks (try for a few days before bringing - be comfortable!) Sneakers and appropriate socks.
Scrubs- we recommend at least 4 pairs. You will be required to wear scrubs when working at the farms and in the animal clinic.
Stethoscope
Thermometer (for taking rectal temperatures of various animals)
Rain gear/Travel umbrella
Reef-safe Sunscreen (bring enough to apply multiple times a day)
Bathing suits (you will want at least 3 so they can dry. Something you can move comfortably in.)
Beach towel (we recommend a quick dry)
UV Protection clothing. We suggest rash guards for everyone and also highly recommend leggings or swim pants for those sensitive to sunburn. (Basic quick-dry workout leggings are just fine). (The Belize sun is extremely strong and snorkeling magnifies its effect - you will be very happy to have these!)
Suggested for this program
Shirts or tops (short sleeve, sleeveless, cool & easy to dry)
Thin, long-sleeve shirt (protection from sun and insects)
Shorts (for after work days)
Hat for sun protection
1 pair sandals/flip flops (waterproof is good, but not necessary)
Laundry bag (or garbage bag or pillowcase for laundry)
Small flashlight or headlamp (with extra bulbs and batteries)
Small packable towel, handkerchiefs, or bandana.
1 pair of sneakers or tennis shoes
Proper Snorkel equipment (recommended brands, Cressi or Mares) Snorkel gear is provided but students can bring their own!
FAQ
Belize is hot and humid with a chance of rain. Come prepared to deal with a variety of weather. It can be warm/hot and humid during the day, but it will cool down at night.
Epi Pens are not available in Belize. If you normally carry an Epi Pen in the United States, please bring one with you to Belize
WIFI: Students will have WiFi at both housing locations. If you are interested in a travel phone plan, please talk to your phone provider before your program starts.
Bedding: We will provide you with sheets, pillows, and blankets.
Towels: Towels are provided for showers. Students will need to bring their own wash rags. Students are required to bring at least one towel for days out on the water. We recommend a fast-drying towel or bringing two.
Laundry: May be available for a $10 - $15 USD fee per load, at your accommodation.
Outlets: Outlets are the same as the US.
Dress Code: For most of your program, the dress code is "smart casual." This means: long pants, closed-toed shoes (boots), and tops. When you are on the farm, you will be required to wear scrubs. Most days, you will get dirty, sweaty and gross. A few extra socks and T-shirts can make you much more comfortable. You will be working in your boots, so be sure to bring socks that are comfortable with your boots. During other times, you can wear what you like, including shorts, tank-tops, and flip-flops. You will go snorkelling 4-6 hours one day in the direct sunlight. Long sleeve rash guards/ a very light wetsuit / or swim pants are highly recommended for those sensitive to sunburn. Basic quick-dry workout leggings can also help protect your legs.
Money: USD is accepted in Belize at an exchange rate of 1USD:2BZD. There is no need to exchange your money at a bank or the airport. USD is accepted for all payments, and any change will be given in BZD. US coins are not accepted in Belize. Most places will not accept US bills larger than $20, so make sure to bring smaller bills with you. So, "cash is king" if looking to purchase souvenirs or personal items!
Students will have an optional excursion and go into town. Please bring extra cash if you wish to book additional excursions. Keep in mind that things are pricey on San Pedro.
Snacks, drinks, and souvenirs - $300 USD
Meals - (Lunches and Dinners) - $540 USD
Optional Excursions:
Beach Day/Town Activities - $125 USD
Xunantunich Tour - $30 USD
Barton Creek Tours/Canoeing (Optional) - $75 USD
Green Iguana Project- $12 USD
Ajaw Chocolate Making Tour- $14 USD
Cave Tubing- $55
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