Belize in €580s-€590s rtn

You’re walking through the jungle, birds chirping, the sun peeking through the trees, when suddenly… you hear a bizarre giggle behind you.

You turn around — there's nobody there… or is there?

Deeply rooted in Yucatec Maya folklore, this old, mischievous forest spirit is known to be the protector of the country's forests. You may recognise him from his twisted feet, pointy hat, or from his thumbless hands.

Tata Duende gets really cranky when people mess with his lush rainforest, so you better behave while zip lining through the trees, or he might braid your horse's mane, steal your tools, or play pranks that leave you running in circles…

But don’t worry — if you ever feel like you’re being watched while deep in the jungle, here's one very Belizean life hack: hide your thumbs (tuck them into your fists, he might try to take them!), tip your imaginary hat, and whisper “Buenos días, Tata Duende!”