Fresh Air & Open Skies: A Restorative Reef & Rainforest Break in Belize

by Vivian Roe

This year has kept us indoors for far too long. No doubt, we are yearning for fresh air and open skies. If you are craving a restorative break, nothing evokes a sense of wellbeing quite like the Caribbean. Indeed, Belize is an outdoor playground waiting to be explored. Besides, the Reef & Rainforest Package by Matachica and GAÏA Riverlodge offers a much needed restorative break – social distancing guaranteed.

Salty Air & Seaside Living at Matachica Resort

This adults-only resort on Ambergris Caye was recently ranked in the top 10 resorts in Central America by Condé Nast. Just a short taxi ride by speedboat from San Pedro’s bustling city life brings you to this secluded island paradise. Here, you can enjoy outdoor living and Mother Nature at its best. In fact, you may not wear shoes for your entire visit.

matachica resort beach san pedro

Beachfront pleasures of Matachica

Private thatched cottages are steps away from the glistening Caribbean Sea and the white sandy beach. In addition, the world’s second largest Barrier Reef is just on your doorstep. So you can spend your days on the sea snorkeling, diving and fishing. Or, simply just take in the fresh air from your beachside hammock.

matachica resort beach san pedro

Indeed, the whole resort is built around the natural elements. Sunbathe by the pool or take in the sunset at meditative dock. Alternatively, indulge in a beach massage al fresco from Jade Spa. Of course, even dining at Mambo Restaurant is al fresco. Here there is always fresh seafood from the local fishermen and other locally sourced specials.

Open Spaces & Rainforest Retreats at GAÏA Riverlodge

Perched atop the magnificent Five-Sisters Waterfalls is GAÏA Riverlodge. Without a doubt this property fulfills its promise to reconnect you to Mother Nature. Also just an hour away from San Ignacio, the lodge is surrounded by the wide expanse of the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest.

Only 15 private cabanas dot the property. Each boasts views of the waterfalls and river. The open-air restaurant focuses on farm to table dining. Even better, the swimming pool comes in the form of the waterfalls!

Photo courtesy Gaia Riverlodge

Also there is outdoor yoga and an abundance of hammocks and lounge chairs. Finally, the rainforest and its surrounds, including ancient Mayan Ruins, await to be explored.

Reef & Rainforest Package

The package is the ideal combination of reef and rainforest. Firstly, start with three nights at GAÏA Riverlodge.  Here you’ll take in the wide expanse of mountains and the exploding life from the jungle.

Following, you’ll head to the sea for four nights at Matachica Resort. Choose to spend your time relaxing on the beach. Or experience the diverse marine life of the barrier reef. Undoubtedly you are guaranteed to enjoy the intimate, secluded ambiance of this special resort.

This 7-night package includes:

GAÏA RIVERLODGE

    • Personal welcome at Belize City International Airport, with ground transportation to the lodge
    • 3 nights accommodation in one of our Mountain View Cabana with king bed
    • Daily full breakfast, lunch and dinner
    • Day trip to Caracol Maya site, with stops at Rio Frio Cave and the Rio On pools
    • Day trip to Barton Creek Cave, with an exhilarating zip-lining adventure OR a visit to Green Hill Butterfly Farm
    • Ground transportation to Maya Flats; flight from Maya Flats to San Pedro

MATACHICA RESORT & SPA

    • Personal welcome at San Pedro airstrip with boat transfer to
      Matachica
    • 4 nights at Matachica Resort in one of our Seabreeze Beach Casitas with king bed
    • Tropical welcome cocktails upon arrival
    • Daily breakfast, lunch and 3-course dinner
    • Snorkel excursion to Hol Chan and Shark Ray Alley Marine Reserves
    • 1-hour aromatherapy massage (per guest) at Jade Spa
    • Flight from San Pedro to Belize City International Airport

For more information or to book this package, visit either Matachica or GAÏA Riverlodge websites. Interested in escaping for the New Year? Matachica Resort also have a  Belizean Yearend Package. Or, support Matachica and GAÏA Riverlodge from afar by purchasing a #TheWorldCan T-shirt, with all proceed benefiting staff in Belize.  

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