Dense jungles and stalactite caves

This region in the west of the country and on the border of Guatemala has a few beautiful landscapes, from wild rainforest to rolling hills of farmland with plantations, surrounded by many rivers and caves. For the nature lovers amongst us, the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest is highly recommended. Here, you can enjoy the wonderful pine forest, waterfalls, caves and natural pools.

You can participate in multiple activities in the Cayo District. Go horseback riding, canoeing, or mountain biking. You can also visit the beautiful caves and make hikes in this beautiful area.

Belize is rich in caves that were used by the Mayas for different rituals and ceremonies in the early days. One of the most spectacular is the Actun Tunichil Muknal, also known as ‘Cave of the Stone Tomb’. It is a true adventure to visit this cave system. To reach the underground 300 metres by 50 metres cathedral, where sacrificing ceremonies used to occur, you have to be able to swim, climb and scamble.

Caracol, one of the best ancient Maya temples in Belize, is located deep in the heart of the Cayo District. This site covers a surface area of 25,000 hectares. It is not only impressive because of its size, but also because of the immense agricultural fields and the expansive city plan. Caracol is one of the most pristine and well-preserved Maya locations in Belize. Tip: the view from the Canaã temple is amazing!

This lodge has a unique location; right in the middle of the Mountain Pine Ridge National Park, on the banks of the river. It is also the place where beautiful waterfalls tumble into turquoise lakes. The villas have been built with local wood and decorated with Guatemalan textile. The lodge also has a nice spa, to make sure you can enjoy a hot pool or massage in the middle of the rainforest.

If you travel further to the north, you will find yourself in another special region: Orange walk. An imposing jungle area with lagoons, rivers and a very diverse flora and fauna. One of the highlights of this region are the Lamanai temples, which means ‘flooded crocodile’. Only the biggest temples can be admired these days, the rest of the city is still hidden in the jungle. The view from the high temples is absolutely amazing!

We believe that one of the best places to stay at in this region, is the Lamanai Outpost. Every day, the lodge offers several excursions wildlife spotting and the discovery of the jungle. You have your own cabin at your disposal, which have been built with local wood and have palm leaves as a roof. You will certainly feel in touch with nature here.

If you are staying at the Lamanai Outpost, do not forget to admire the sunset. This one is breathtakingly beautiful!