The Belize Zoo and Tropical Education Center is a unique wildlife conservation and education center located around 40 minutes from Belize City. The zoo was founded in 1983 as a last resort for animals rescued or donated from various sources, such as the film industry, government agencies, and private individuals. Today, it serves as a sanctuary for over 170 animals, including jaguars, tapirs, howler monkeys, and scarlet macaws, all of which are native to Belize. The Belize Zoo is also an important educational institution, dedicated to promoting wildlife conservation and sustainable living practices in the region. The Tropical Education Center offers visitors a chance to learn more about Belize's diverse flora and fauna through interactive exhibits, guided tours, and educational programs for children and adults alike.

Just a 15 minute plane ride from Panama City, Contadora Island is a great escape with white sand beaches and calm blue waters. Contadora is also a good base for exploring the neighboring islands. Some of the activities include whale watching, snorkeling, kayaking and touring around the island by scooter. Contadora has an interesting history. In the days of the pirates, the island was used to store and count gold (hence the name) and later, in the 1960s, it became the place for Panamanian and international holiday homes, which can still be seen today lining the shore of the island.

One of the largest Ocean Discovery Parks in Europe, the Océanopolis has four pavilions — polar, temperate, tropical and biodiversity — that tell the story of the sea and marine life in different world climates. The park contains an impressive 7 shark species.