It’s time to trade in your snow shoes for some hiking boots. After all, a long walk in a dense forest or jungle could be just what the doctor ordered this festive season after being pent up since COVID-19. Over half of Belize is covered with lush greenery with a vast diversity of forests from pine savanna to lowland rainforest. Enjoy the fresh air when you stay at one of Belize’s spectacular jungle lodges. Not to mention, the jungle lodges are surrounded by the best of Belize adventure. From birding, caving to visiting Ancient Maya Site and waterfalls – there is no shortage of joyous adventures. Here are some amazing lodges that place you in the heart of Belize’s jungle.
Gaia Riverlodge – Mountain Pine Ridge
Surrounded by towering pines in the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve, GAÏA Riverlodge is a stylish, open-air lodge beautifully perched above the Privassion Creek. The resort is just an hour’s jeep ride from the more populous San Ignacio area; guests can recharge inside the 15 private and spacious cabanas to the waterfall’s sounds. Enjoy the rainforest’s intimacy with its native birds, butterflies, and remarkable flora; that is, with a cocktail in hand set against the pink and orange glow of the setting sun.
Blancaneaux Lodge – Mountain Pine Ridge
Nestled in the heart of Mountain Pine Ridge lies Blancaneaux Lodge, a member of the Family Coppola Hideaways. This intimate inn features 20 boutique cabanas overlooking the reserve. The reserve itself is a playground for nature lovers with waterfalls, crystal clear creeks, and a plethora of hiking and biking trails. After all, being tucked away in the ethereal Mountain Pine Ridge Reserve makes it the perfect place to relax and rejuvenate as you take in the beautiful sounds of nature. A nearby waterfall from Privassion Creek tumbles into turquoise pools above the jungle canopy. Besides, you can enjoy Belize’s simple pleasures.
Ka’ana Resort
Deep in the heart of Belize’s jungle, Ka’ana marries bespoke excursions with boutique accommodations. After all, the resort’s name literally translates to ‘Heavenly Place’. Indeed, Ka’ana is just this. The property blends style, culture, personalized service and modern amenities. The villas and suites have been thoughtfully designed to provide the ultimate in luxury while integrating the property’s natural beauty. You’ll find clean lines and modern amenities paired harmoniously with sumptuous Belizean textures and textiles. Our recommendation is to stay in a villa for your own private pool.
Sweet Songs
Sweet Songs is a true nature lover’s paradise in Western Belize.
Based on the banks of the Macal River in San Ignacio, Sweet Songs Jungle Lodge is surrounded by 100 acres of lush tropical forest for a truly renewing resort experience. Above all, discover on-site wonders like incredible wildlife and birding alongside its Botanic Garden; some of the best culture and adventure experiences are just nearby. Altogether, this eco-lodge provides an intimate jungle setting for families, couples, and groups looking for an active vacation.
Kane Villas
As a self-catering vacation property located in the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve, guests can choose between three rentals with a feeling of space to themselves. Perfect for families, Kane Villa’s Mahalo House house can sleep 6 guests, Pua Villa can sleep 5 guests and Mango Villa can sleep 4 guests.
San Ignacio Resort Hotel
Offering exceptional service since 1976, San Ignacio Resort Hotel in Western Belize is the only full-service, luxury accommodation in the heart of town. Conveniently located just minutes away from the bustle of San Ignacio’s Burns Avenue and Farmers Market, escape urban hustle on their lush grounds, with plenty of on-site activities to discover! With only 27 rooms situated over the 17-acre estate, this is urban social distancing at its best.
Hidden Valley Inn
Hidden Valley Inn’s entire lodgings are comprised of six cottages split into two units creating a truly exclusive experience for every guest, with private fireplaces includes. Plus, some of the region’s biggest attractions are only a short ride away, which includes multiple (private access) waterfalls right on property of Hidden Valley Inn.
All images courtesy of the respective resort | Feature Image courtesy: GAIA
