
The Lodge at Chaa Creek started in 1981 by providing a hammock and a meal for $4 and since then has grown to become one of Belize’s premier resorts, setting standards for eco-tourism in the country. Located close to San Ignacio in the west of the country in the heart of the Maya civilization, the lodge provides a natural jungle experience whilst still being able to provide man- made comforts, all in a manner that is eco-friendly.
Cost
There are a wide variety of accommodations to choose between at this resort, from Casitas in a camp site located above the Macal River for $65, to Spa Villas that can accommodate 6 with a private veranda and Jacuzzi for $680 but the variety of packages offered are popular, like the all-inclusive 7 night Caribbean Reef & Maya Rainforest Package that combines a stay in the Chaa Creek resort with a stay in one of the premier resorts on Ambergris Caye starting at Starting at $3,511.
Location
Located in a 365 private nature reserve along the banks of the Macal River, the Chaa Creek eco-lodge provides what has been called Belize at its wildly civilized best. As the River Macal and the resort are located within the Maya Mountains of Belize, the rugged diversity of the area can be experienced whilst at the same time being ideally located to visit some of the many Mayan ruins.
Rooms
The different choice of accommodations includes the Spa Villa, Tree Top Jacuzzi Suites, Treetop Suites, Macal Cottage and the Casitas located at a nearby camp site.
Food & Dinning
Chaa Creek’s Mariposa Restaurant offers a variety of “jungle Cuisine” combining both old fashioned tradition cooking styles with modern techniques to present a variety from a ‘back-a-bush’ lunch menu to a four-course connoisseur menu for dinner. The fully stocked bar is open from 6 AM until the last guest leaves in the evening and can provide local delights as well international favorites.
Amenities
Apart from the private Jacuzzis in some of the suites, there is also an infinity pool that can be enjoyed by all the guests. The resort also has a hill top spa where a variety of massages and treatments can be obtained whilst overlooking panoramic views of the lush rainforests and winding Macal River.
Staff & Service
The 365 staff is well experienced in catering to the whims of international visitors that have even included some of the British Royal Family.
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Local Attractions
Although the mountainous rainforest and rivers provide the main attractions in the area with opportunities to zip line through the canopy or explore caves or trek jungle trails, perhaps even canoeing some of the majestic rivers, the ancient Maya provided others with Mayan ruins like Xunantunich to explore.
One of the more famous of the Mayan ruins is Tikal which is just across the nearby border in Guatemala. Where ever you choose to go though, you are bound to see a delightful mix of wildlife.
Insider Tips
There are very few places in the world like Chaa Creek that offer the opportunity to experience the mountainous rainforests up close and yet still be able to return to the air conditioned comforts we have become accustomed to, in the evenings.
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