Time Zone |
America/Belize |
Standard Time GMT / UTC |
UTC-6 |
Daylight Saving Time |
Daylight saving time is not observed in the current region. |
Time Zone |
Africa/Juba |
Standard Time GMT / UTC |
UTC+2 |
Daylight Saving Time |
Daylight saving time is not observed in the current region. |
Monkey River, Belize is a tranquil village on the Caribbean coast of southern Belize, located about 100 kilometers south of Belize City, nestled at the mouth of the river of the same name. Known for its pristine ecology and wildlife experience, this place is a hidden gem of Belize ecotourism. Visitors can take a boat ride up the Monkey River to get a close-up view of black mamba monkeys inhabiting the mangrove forests, a variety of tropical birds such as hummingbirds and toucans, and even have a chance to catch a glimpse of caimans and American crocodiles. The banks of the river are covered in dense rainforest, and exploring on foot reveals a wealth of plant species and exotic insects. Although small, the village retains traditional Belizean Caribbean culture, with friendly locals sharing stories of fishing village life and crafts. Monkey River is also surrounded by coral reefs and islands that are ideal for combining with snorkeling or sea fishing trips, making it an ideal destination for getting closer to nature and experiencing the slow life.
Wau is an important city in the northwestern part of South Sudan, located in the Bahr el Ghazal region, about 650 kilometers from the capital city of Juba. As the capital of Western Bahr el Ghazal, Wau is the second largest city in South Sudan, with a population of about 160,000 (2023 estimate), predominantly Dinka.
Wau was an important strategic location during the Sudanese Civil War and is now the economic and transportation hub of northwestern South Sudan. The city has Wau Airport and a road network connecting it to Juba, and is a key location for the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS).
The local economy is predominantly agricultural, producing cotton, groundnuts and food crops, and the surrounding area contains oil resources. Wau University (established in 1977) is one of the main institutions of higher education in South Sudan, and the remains of a colonial-era church and railroad remain in the city.
Wau has faced infrastructure shortfalls and humanitarian challenges in recent years, but remains a regional trade center. As the peace process in South Sudan advances, the city continues to play a key role in food transportation, educational services and international aid distribution.