Route 2-Second Cut Loop

Approximate Time: 2 hours

Difficulty: Medium

Guided?: A guide will help you access the route by skiff and navigate the mangroves

Things to Bring: Bug spray, shoes, water, sunscreen, camera, binoculars

Description: This route dives right into the narrow mangrove canals located in the eastern lowlands of the island. The name comes from the fact that the start and end of the loop are located just past the second cut or dredged canal used by locals to move up and down the island without having to go outside of the reef. The path follows a maze of channels where you will learn a new definition of the word "solitude." Wildlife is everywhere and the stealth of the kayaks allow guests to get up close to many animals without spooking them. Our knowledgeable guides will explain the complexities of the mangrove ecosystem by pointing out several different varieties of plants and describe how they work symbiotically to survive.

For this trip, your kayaks will be loaded into one of our skiffs at the lodge and you and your guide will head out on a ten minute ride east to the start of the route. After parking the skiff and unloading the kayaks, you'll immediately be led into the labyrinth of canals. Being so far away from any sign of civilization,  the absolute tranquility of this area is almost overwhelming. The only noises you'll hear might be the parrots and other birds calling from the trees and the sound of your paddle moving along the water.

This route is perfect for those looking to get away from the Lodge for half a day or for those who would like to learn about the mangrove eco-system. Though there is single canal that allows you to complete the entire loop, the route is intended to give you the freedom to adventure as deep as you'd like into the countless mangrove arms that branch off in all directions. In fact, one of the greatest advantages of this route is that, since it is enclosed in the calm water of the mangrove canals and is not particularly long, it isn't strenuous in the least. Thus, guests should take their time exploring all of the different species of plants and animals they find and ask lots of questions of their guide. Also, be sure to read the "Flora and Fauna" page found in the Eco-Adventures section of our website for information about the many life forms that live in the mangroves.