The land at Chan Chich follows sustainable forest management practices certified by the Rainforest Alliance and the Forest Stewardship Council, which allows native animal species like jaguar and tapir to flourish. The lodge itself is committed to sustainable, eco-friendly practices and all rooms include biodegradable products to protect our planet.

Dining at the lodge is a treat with 3,000 acres allotted to organic farming practices including coffee, raising pasture-fed meats and an array of vegetables that supports an exquisite farm-to-table experience at the lodge restaurant. Indulge in a variety of fresh, flavorful Belizean dishes served alongside refreshing fruit drinks in the lodge’s indoor/outdoor restaurant, surrounded by lush jungle and the soothing rhythm of the forest. If dining on the patio, you are close to a water feature that brings in birds; our photographers often linger here well into the afternoon. And if thirst calls, there is a fun, partly open-air bar.

Adventures abound at Chan Chich! Explore the lodge’s vast 9-mile maintained trail system which could reveal Great Tinamou, Red-capped Manakin, Royal Flycatcher, and Lovely Cotinga, along with a host of trogons, parrots, and toucans. The tracks, and possible sightings of this forest’s secretive cats adds to the excitement of your visit to this incredible wilderness area. Enjoy the trails on your own or join the lodge’s knowledgeable guides who can offer a deep insight into the hundreds of resident bird species, various migrant species, natural history and also Mayan architecture, culture and medicine.

What is there to do besides fabulous birding? Spend an afternoon visiting Maya burial chambers with painted friezes still intact, canoeing on Laguna Verde in search of Morelet’s crocodile, or swimming in a nearby stream, where you might also catch a glimpse a playful River Otter. Additionally, Chan Chich has a swimming pool and spa set in its exquisite jungle setting. Those hungry for more adventure might opt for a jungle horseback ride or perhaps a night walk to search for nocturnal life such as tarantulas, frogs, kinkajous, margays and ocelots. All of our tours and Independent Birding Ventures feature a night drive.

Chan Chich is accessed by road, but the most common way visitors get to the lodge is by small plane, with service to and from Belize International Airport. If combined with Lamanai Outpost Lodge, Caligo Ventures can arrange a shuttle between lodges for you.

Why we like it: Thanks to the lodge’s incredible location surrounded by nearly half a million acres of conservation land, Chan Chich is one of the world’s premier birding destinations and has allowed guests and guides alike to document 370+ species within 30,000 acres. In Central America we rate this as one of the top lodges due to its ambiance, biodiversity and location. The abundance of wildlife as well as the lodge’s commitment to conservation, sustainability and efforts to promote local economic development make Chan Chich a top choice. There is even the chance of seeing signs of Jaguar activity or even the majestic cat itself nearby.

Inside tip: Wifi is available in the bar and dining room.

Amenities: Ceiling fans, private bath, hair dryer, coffee maker, mini bar, pool.

Where? Orange Walk District

Meals are a highlight at Lamanai, with thoughtfully prepared home-cooked dishes and open-air dining that lets you be immersed in nature; local foods and tropical fruits abound.

The guide staff is highly trained and activities are plentiful and well-coordinated. At close range you should find views of Black Howler Monkey, Laughing Falcon and Keel-billed Toucan. Forest trails and Maya ruins at neighboring Lamanai Archaeological Reserve are easily accessed; birds and butterflies always seem to be at arm’s length. Lesson’s Motmot, Bat Falcon, and the tiny Tody Motmot all like this area.

Over 400 species have been counted here, including Thicket Tinamou, Bare-throated Tiger-Heron, Jabiru Stork, King Vulture, Zone-tailed Hawk, Ruddy Crake, White-fronted Parrot, Squirrel Cuckoo, and Northern Bentbill. Also seen are otters, manatees, monkeys, and crocodiles. Explore impressive 3,000 year-old jungle temples with knowledgeable local guides—Lamanai Archaeological Reserve has over 700 structures and a museum. It is just a short walk or boat ride away. Enjoy a sunset cocktail cruise around the lagoon watching Snail Kite feed at close range and scores of egrets come in to roost.

Why we like it: While its hotbed of buzzing wildlife cannot be beat, Lamanai is known for its knowledgeable, attentive and inviting staff. They genuinely care about every part of your experience. From delicious meals and clean rooms to scholarly nature walks and exciting wildlife views, the vigilant team at Lamanai will ensure all of your travel needs and dreams are met. The bar and dining area keep you close to nature, with hummingbirds feeding on blooming tropical shrubs and tall trees providing shade (and birds!) overhead. The water location and activities by boat are top rate and make this lodge a particularly nice one to combine with others in forest settings. You get to the lodge by boat—part of the fun!

Inside tip: Lamanai Outpost Lodge has a lot of steps between the river and the lodge. If you do not do steps well, let us know and we’ll ask for placement near the dining room. WiFi is available in the public areas. Seeing wildlife is easy from the rooms and the winding path between the cabins, from river to dining area. The village behind provides a level and bird-rich walk with ease.

Amenities: Lovely furnishings, ceiling fans with optional AC (additional cost), private bath, WiFi in public areas

Where? Orange Walk District

Dining at Hidden Valley is decadent. The kitchen adds lively authentic Maya and Mestizo flavors to its renowned signature style. With its home-grown and locally sourced ingredients, meals are a feast of flavor.

The reserve’s unique biodiversity is exceptional. The jungle, upland pine forest and rainforest host a great number of Belize’s endemic species. Researchers from across the globe visit to study the ecosystem and monitor rare birds. The reserve is home to the Hidden Valley “Big 5”: Orange Breasted Falcon, Stygian Owl, Solitary Eagle, Black-and-white Hawk-eagle and the King Vulture. With its Caribbean pine forest, deep ravines and lush jungle, conservationists believe that the reserve is home to at least half of Belize’s bird life.

Amongst the hundreds of vertebrate species found, at least seven globally threated or near threatened species can be found, like Yucatan Black Baird’s Tapir, Keel-billed Motmot, Morelet’s Treefrog, Sabrina’s Rain Frog and Cerulean Warbler. An abundance of raptors, Kinkajou, Great Curassow, Maya Mountain frog and all five of Belize’s wild cat species (Jaguar, Puma, Ocelot, Jaguarundi and Margay) while elusive, can be found.

The Hidden Valley staff work with their guests to customize daily expeditions with personal ability and comfort level in mind. Expert guides are full to the brim with insight into the native flora and fauna and are quick to point out impressive birds, reptiles and mammals. The miles of maintained trails are designed to take guests through prime areas of the reserve and self-guided excursions are a great way to experience the property and include maps and two-way radios to ease your mind as you explore.

The Inn also offers a wide variety of adventure excursions like caving and cave tubing, ziplining and horseback riding. Unwind in the afternoon with a dip in the pool, a massage at the Nikte’ Ha Spa, or canoeing down the gentle Macal River. Farther afield, Caracol is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the top Maya ruins in Central America. Only partially excavated, it’s very birdy.

Why we like it: Location—enjoy great access to pine woodland habitat type, to waterfall sites frequently used by Orange-breasted Falcon and King Vulture, and from this lodge you can get to Caracol, a premier Maya ruin site. For those seeking a more comfortable nature immersion, Hidden Valley is the perfect blend of luxury and adventure and its many upscale amenities will ensure that your standards are met with ease.

Amenities: In-room WiFi, fireplaces, ceiling fans, coffee valet, private bath, turn-down service, telephones, spa, pool.

Where? Cayo District

The food is wonderful with hearty, flavorful dishes and exotic Belizean offerings, while also accommodating special dietary requirements. The fish comes fresh from the Punta Gorda market and warm breads, sweet cinnamon rolls, yogurts and ice creams are all prepared in-house. Enjoy the sunset and a refreshing cocktail or fruit drink from the lodge’s main verandah.

The Lodge is a prime birding location with over 300 bird species and guests are invited to spend a day with a local birding expert whose impressive knowledge and guiding skills will take you through high forest, savannah grasslands, coastal forest and mangroves all teeming with life. Birders enjoy ultimate access to rich varied habitats and a wide range of resident and migratory species.

Additional guided tours introduce guests to local Maya people and culture, archaeology and the natural history of the area. Spend a day with the local Kek’chi Maya and Garifuna people learning the culture and cuisine or visit the Punta Gorda market to see local fishermen buy and trade fresh catch, and vendors selling brightly colored local produce or Maya handicrafts. Round out your tour with a visit to the Lubaantun Maya site—famous for the discovery of the Crystal Skull in 1924.

If you can tear yourself away from the great birding right on the lodge grounds, or just want more adventure, try an afternoon of ziplining, snorkeling turquoise waters, manatee watching or kayaking the Rio Grande.

Why we like it: The owner is top-rate, incredibly helpful and knowledgeable. Guide Steven Choco is a natural—a great spotter, teacher, and with so much knowledge. The Lodge at Big Falls is very inclusive of the local community, offering guests a wide range of opportunities to visit and learn the local cultures, support local businesses and explore resident tradition. Don’t miss the Toledo Cacao Fest—a celebration of Maya culture with delicious local foods, song and dance, and of course, genuine Maya chocolate!

Amenities: private bath, writing desks, air conditioning and kitchenette (hardwood cabanas), WiFi in lodge, library, pool.

Where? Toledo District, Southern Belize

Sitting atop the Macal River with views of the forested Don Elijio Panti National Park, the lodge restaurant is the perfect start and end to your day with food harvested by the lodge staff from the ground’s hundreds of fruit trees, dairy fresh from the resident goat herd, and golden-yolked eggs from free-range chickens. The farm-to-fork ethos invites guests to experience a rich organic dining experience steeped in tradition.

Black Rock’s commitment to birdwatching, conservation and research make it an excellent but less-well-known birding destination in Belize. Join the lodge’s birding guide for a morning bird tour where you might find Crimson-collared and Yellow-winged Tanager, Black-headed and Grayish Saltators, Red-legged Honeycreeper, Barred Antshrike and Spot-breasted Wren as Rufous-tailed Hummingbird flit among the flowers. Raptors soar the skies while flashy Keel-billed Toucan and Collared Aracari rule the rainforest. Explore the lodge’s extensive trail system to search for more elusive birds like Tody Motmot, White-necked Puffbird and Black-headed Trogon. The combination of the stunning rainforest setting and wonderful, well-versed guides deliver an unforgettable birding experience for each guest.

Birders enjoy a visit the Belize Botanical Garden—45 acres of tropical wonder with orchids, palms, exotic fruits and more. Opt for some more daring fun with a tube or canoe on the river en route to this site. Keep an eye out for Common Tody Flycatcher, Rose-throated Becard and Royal Flycatcher. Visit local butterfly farms, the San Ignacio Market, or partake in a chocolate tour and cooking class. Relax with a dip in the spring-fed relaxation pool, join a yoga or meditation class, or simply kick back in your cabin hammock, drinking in the natural wonders of the rainforest. Great for our independent travelers, Black Rock considers its style casual and the delightful staff will do everything they can to make you feel right at home.

Why we like it: At Black Rock Lodge, sustainability is the guiding principle of their operations. The lodge is deeply invested in the conservation of their natural surroundings as well as their ability to nourish it. The lodge pushes beyond basic sustainability steps and focuses on advanced systems for wastewater treatment, waste reduction, recycling, local organic food production and electricity generation. The vibe here is casual, comfortable for independent travelers.

Amenities: private bath, desk, eco-friendly toiletries, ceiling fan, spa, pool.

Where? Cayo District

Home-cooked meals are hearty, tasty, and eagerly awaited after a day in the forest. Dinner is served family style in the cozy kerosene-lit dining room where the vibe is casual and intimate as guests and staff become fast friends, spending the evening sharing stories about the day’s adventures.

Birding at Pook’s Hill is a treat. The lodge is a top destination for researchers thanks to its diverse habitat. Bird straight from the lodge to nearby meadows, through jungle trails, along the river or opt for some excellent off-site birding. With over 300 species recorded, the landscapes offer plenty of opportunity to spot endemic and migratory birds. Guides are fabulous and complimentary morning and night walks are available to guests where more elusive species like Spectacled Owl or Emerald Toucanet may be seen. The lodge has a great selection of field guides and identification books on hand and visiting researchers readily share insight with lodge staff and guests.

Tack on extra adventures with a swim or a tube in the Roaring River or join one of Pook’s Hill Lodge’s many nature and history tours. The lodge offers guided tours to Caracol, Tikal, Xunantunich and Cahal Pech Maya sites as well as the famous Actun Tunichil Muknal archeological site and cave. Butterfly farm tours, Baboon sanctuaries, ziplining and trips to the Belize Zoo are easily accommodated as well.

Why we like it: Pook’s Hill Lodge is a truly immersive nature experience without the bells and whistles, a more affordable option in an excellent location. The staff are attentive, guides are knowledgeable and enthusiastic, and you’ll leave the lodge feeling like part of the family.

Inside tip: The trip to the lodge is notoriously bumpy and may not be a fit for those with limited mobility. Amenities are limited and WiFi is not available in-room, but this only enhances the experience!

Amenities: private cabana, private bath, solar power, water, ceiling fan, WiFi in main dining area.

Where? Cayo District

Enjoy open-air dining on the deck with fresh seafood, tropical fruits and hearty Belizean-style dishes along with a fully stocked bar and refreshing juices. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are all provided at the lodge.

Mince your relaxation with the lodge’s superb snorkeling along the barrier reef, surround yourself underwater with a variety of brightly colored fish, lobster, nurse sharks, rays and abundance of coral. Our IBV guests all have a boat trip to visit Man O’War Caye to see nesting Magnificent Frigatebirds – up close and quite incredible! Scuba-diving and kayaking tours are also available. The staff at Pelican Beach Resort are committed to providing their guests with a wonderful stay and will work hard to make your experience unforgettable.

While not a luxury resort, the outstanding hospitality, crystal blue waters and white sandy beaches of this charming island eco-lodge offers a tranquil island paradise for nature enthusiasts. Some of our travelers return again and again!

“To us, SWC is the perfect tropical island paradise: laid back, coconut palms, clean and airy cabanas on stilts to catch the tradewinds, even solar-generated hot water showers! Delicious and simple Belizean food, plenty of fresh seafood (fish, conch, lobster — caught the same day as served), and wonderful friendly folks who take real pride in their lovely island. The snorkeling right off the beach and nearby is outstanding and easy — clear, calm turquoise and blue waters, colorful reef fish and corals abound. Are we back there yet?” —Holly and Gerold Greening

Amenities: AC, WiFi

Where? Belize District