Enter Belize

In each interview, we ask the same 10 questions of a local Belizean person.

What is your name?  Mark McNab

Where are you from?  San Ignacio, Belize

What’s your age? 36 years old

What do you do for work? I am a certified Belize tour guide and a professional laboratory technician with experience in environmental research, marine management, and field operations. In tourism, I provide guided tours, travel coordination, and authentic guest experiences across Belize. My scientific background strengthened my passion for plants, wildlife, and natural ecosystems. Through independent research and fieldwork with the Smithsonian and Lamar University, I have studied coral microbiomes, macro algae interactions, cassava plant genetics, and environmental samples. This experience helps me bring a unique nature-focused perspective to my tours, explaining local ecology, plant life, marine species, and the environmental importance of the sites we visit. Guiding allows me to share my love for Belize’s biodiversity both on land and in the sea.

What’s your favorite thing about Belize? Its diversity, including our cultures, wildlife, languages, food, and the natural beauty of our rainforest, rivers, and the Belize Barrier Reef. Every region has something unique to offer.

What are the biggest changes you’ve seen? Improvement in tourism growth, better roads and infrastructure, more environmental awareness and conservation efforts, more opportunities for local businesses and community tourism.

What do you hope/wish for Belize?  I hope for a Belize that continues to develop while protecting what makes it special. I wish to see more opportunities for Belizeans, stronger conservation of our natural resources, and sustainable tourism that benefits communities and preserves the environment.

How has tourism impacted your life?  Tourism has allowed me to meet people from around the world and share the beauty of Belize. It has helped me combine my love for nature, science, and culture into meaningful experiences for visitors. Tourism has also provided personal growth, stability, and the ability to support my family while doing something I enjoy.

What do you look forward to?  I look forward to growing further in the tourism industry, building new skills, and offering meaningful and educational experiences for visitors. I also look forward to contributing to conservation efforts and supporting my community.

What are 3 words to describe Belize?  Diverse, adventurous, welcoming.

Mark McNab is based in San Ignacio and offers tours throughout Belize and Guatemala. He can be reached through his company Lion Adventure Tours.