The Lodge at ChaaCreek

Welcome to Chaa Creek, rated one of the world’s best Eco Lodges & a pioneer in adventure travel to Belize since 1981. Wildly civilized sums up the philosophy of our award-winning Belize Jungle Resort, located in the heart of Maya civilization.

When they began farming on the banks of the Macal River in western Belize, Mick and Lucy Fleming always strove to coexist with nature, and as Chaa Creek grew, so did their appreciation and respect for Belize’s diverse ecology and rich culture.

It was only natural that when the Flemings began taking in guests to create one of Belize’s first eco-resorts in 1981, they combined their love of nature with a desire to give visitors an authentic jungle experience that offers a unique blend of natural beauty and built comforts.

Our commitment to responsible travel has resonated with guests from around the world, and we are proud that Chaa Creek continues to win recognition as a model of sustainable, Green tourism.

Our 400-acre private nature reserve is one of the most awarded Belize Eco Lodges, and in 2017 took first place honours in its category at National Geographic’s World Legacy Awards presented in Berlin.

Chaa Creek’s Location
Set along the banks of the Macal River and stretching towards the foothills of the Maya Mountains, Chaa Creek continues to provide unique adventure travel experiences for thousands of visitors looking for an in-depth yet civilized Belizean vacation, with a focus on Belize’s ecology, natural history and vibrant multicultural society.

Our location in the “Heartland of the Maya” gives us a special interest and expertise in helping visitors explore the many ancient cities, temples, ceremonial caves and archaeological sites of this fascinating ancient civilisation, and we offer cultural tours that give visitors an insight into today’s Maya, Mestizo, Garifuna, Creole and German Mennonite cultures.

Belize is a place of spectacular beauty, and when sharing our home and our love for what makes it so special, we also wish to share a sense of responsibility towards protecting the country’s vibrant yet fragile ecosystem.

Sustainable Practices at Chaa Creek
Sensitive construction, creative recycling and other green practices have always been part and parcel to our development, and while we are honoured to have been so widely recognized for doing what, to us, comes naturally, we take even greater pride in the overwhelmingly positive comments we receive from visitors.

Our guests say they appreciate Chaa Creek’s eco-friendly blend of pristine nature and a casually luxurious built environment, and enjoy the flexibility and choice we offer in accommodations, amenities, meals, tours and expeditions.

Our wide range of accommodations allow guests to select lodgings that range from the rustic charm of the Belize Rainforest Retreat at Chaa Creek (formerly Macal River Camp) to the unparalleled luxury of the new Ix Chel Luxury Rainforest Villas, whose stunning views, private Jacuzzis, plunge pools and amenities such as the attention of a personal butler have set new standards for excellence in a pristine natural environment.

In addition, our infrastructure and nationwide network of colleagues enable us to offer a range of comprehensive, hassle-free tours and all-inclusive Belize vacation packages that cater to all ages, interests and levels of fitness.

For example, our close relationships with premier Belizean reef and island resorts at Ambergris Caye, Placencia and other Caribbean vacation spots allow us to offer comprehensive, seamless, and surprisingly affordable Belize beach and rainforest vacation packages that combine the best of Belize’s inland and Caribbean attractions.

Our colleagues share our respect for Belize’s environment and communities, so wherever you go on a Chaa Creek package tour, you can be sure that you are doing the right thing and participating in sustainable, responsible tourism.

We hope you’ll sleep better knowing that ten percent of your room revenue at Chaa Creek goes directly into environmental and community projects under our Chaa Creek Cares initiative. and programs such as “Pack-a-Pound”, that provides disadvantaged Belizean school children with personal school supplies and other projects help build bridges between our guests and local communities that leave everyone feeling good.

The Chaa Creek Experience
For anyone looking for physically and intellectually stimulating expeditions, as well as affordable all inclusive family vacations, Belizean destination wedding, honeymoon or Maya adventure vacation packages and cultural tours, or for visitors just wishing to relax in comfort while experiencing one of the world’s most vibrant rainforest environments, The Lodge at Chaa Creek, as Belize’s “Destination Within a Destination”, remains the perfect choice to discover all those things that makes Belize truly special.

We invite you to navigate around our website to learn more – we hope your virtual visit will result in the real thing, and look forward to welcoming you into our extended family in the near future.

BELIZE ACCOMMODATIONS
Our wide range of accommodations ensure that guests can choose lodgings best suited to their lifestyle and needs. Twenty-three cottage style rooms nestled amid tropical gardens feature tastefully appointed interiors and airy palm thatched roofs.

We also offer the Garden Suite and Garden Jacuzzi Suite, which, when rented separately or together as the Complete Garden Suite, offer a high degree of flexibility and comfort.

In addition, the Spa Villa, Macal Cottage and Tree Top Villas all have their own style and feature amenities such as private Jacuzzis or infinity plunge pool and stunning garden views.

New for 2017, the Ix Chel Luxury Rainforest Villas blend our environmentally friendly philosophy with clean, elegant design and furnishings, stunning views and expansive, private verandas enclosing personal plunge pools, Jacuzzis, al fresco showers and the services of a personal butler.

The Ix Chel Villas are also designed to be let together or individually to suit families, couples, groups or individuals seeking the highest degree of luxury in a pristine rainforest setting.

Regardless of which option you choose, we hope you’ll sleep better knowing that 10% of all room revenue goes directly towards environmental and community projects under our Chaa Creek Cares initiative.

BELIZE IX CHEL VILLAS
Representing an exciting new stage in over thirty-five years of evolution, and catering to those discerning travellers looking for the highest level of comfort in an unspoiled natural setting, The Lodge at Chaa Creek is now offering a luxurious new addition to our range of accommodations – the Ix Chel Villas.

After selecting a location offering tranquillity, privacy and convenient access to our onsite amenities and activities, we worked with our team of Belizean designers, green consultants, artists and builders to create a collection of air-conditioned villas with gorgeous 180° views, luxuriously comfortable interiors and amenities not usually found in such an idyllic setting.

Ix Chel guests also enjoy the unobtrusive yet attentive service of a personal butler who will coordinate room service, housekeeping, food, beverage and laundry services, assist with booking your Belize tours and activities, and look after each visitor’s every requirement.

In-room massages and treatments from the Hilltop Spa are also available, and experienced babysitters are on hand to provide responsible child minding.

Situated on a forested bank overlooking the Macal River Valley, the Villas’ floor-to-ceiling glass walls and doors offer spectacular yet private 180° views of the surrounding jungle habitat.

The two Villa plazas contain two suites each – a master bedroom suite that includes a sitting room lounge with convertible furniture to accommodate two extra sleepers, and a junior bedroom suite with a king-sized bed.

An expansive veranda with al fresco shower, private pool and Jacuzzi affords beautiful views during the day and a lovely candlelit ambience accented by the gentle natural music of the river and surrounding jungle during the evening.

The unique Plaza layout allows the suites to be offered as combined or stand-alone bookings ideal for accommodating a range of guests from couples to larger groups and families.

Ix Chel, the Maya moon goddess, was one of the most highly revered deities in the ancient Maya pantheon, and our respectful homage to the local ancient Maya culture extends to the suites, where the celestial hero Kukulcan, the sun king Kinich Ahau, Bacab, the deity of the four winds, and Yaxche, the Maya Tree of Paradise are all represented.

BELIZE TREE TOP VILLAS
Belize’s original Tree Top Villas have been extensively refurbished, and the results are as spectacular as the views.

Sharing the forest canopy with toucans, parrots and other colourful tropical birds, looking down upon the Macal River and tranquil jungle setting, the Villas expanded patios now include al fresco showers, private plunge pools and sundecks to create your own personal tree-top Eden.

Stunning views, luxurious amenities and flexible sleeping arrangements ensure that your rainforest idyll – whether a honeymoon, couple’s romantic getaway or family vacation, will be nothing short of magic.

And, after lounging, soaking or stargazing following a day of tours and activities, you’ll sleep better knowing your visit actually benefits Belize’s environment and communities, with one out of every ten dollars spent on accommodation going towards our Chaa Creek Cares initiatives.

BELIZE SPA VILLA
The spacious three-bedroom Spa Villa is set within a tropical hillside garden and features a master bedroom with a king size bed and en suite bathroom. A second bedroom containing a queen and single bed and a third bedroom with a queen canopy bed share a full sized bathroom.

Guests can enjoy a panoramic view of the lush jungle surrounds of the Macal River Basin from the generous glass-walled living room and large wrap-around veranda with outdoor Jacuzzi. Professional massage treatments are also on offer in the comfort and privacy of the Spa Villa lodging.

The air-conditioned Villa contains a full kitchen and guests also have the choice of ordering a variety of delicious meals prepared by the lodge’s resident chef at the Chaa Creek restaurant.

Cocktails are offered all day long at Chaa Creek’s verandah bar while guests can also enjoy beverages available in the villa’s own stocked bar.

With other amenities including fresh flowers and tasteful art, the luxurious Spa Villa raises Chaa Creek’s international reputation for jungle luxury to a new level. The Spa Villa is a short walk away from the main cottage plaza, dining room and bar.

MACAL RIVER VIEW SUITE
The Macal Cottage is a starring attraction in Chaa Creek’s award winning cottage colony. Perched on the edge of a grassy knoll overlooking the sleepy Macal River, the cottage blends stylish simplicity and elegant furnishings to create a romantic ambiance in a stunning rainforest backdrop.

Nestled amidst tropical gardens, the spacious accommodation with its king-sized bed, oversized day bed and leisure furniture also includes two private terraces for relaxing in hammocks or enjoying the outdoor Jacuzzi al fresco. Naturally perfect for families this charming cottage colony is just as popular with couples.

THE COTTAGE COLLECTION
The Collection has grown to include something for everyone, from that long awaited family adventure vacation to couples and honeymooners looking for something special, singles seeking new experiences, or friends sharing an adventure.

Our individually designed palm thatched cottages are furnished with a tasteful, casually elegant mix of hand crafted furniture, fine fabrics and local and international art, all designed to blend in with the exquisite rainforest surroundings and local culture.

We strive to have our cottage interiors compliment the natural beauty of the jungle surroundings. The spacious cottage rooms all feature private sundeck verandas from which to enjoy the soothing sights and sounds of the rainforest, and dazzling hummingbirds are frequent visitors.

With only twenty-three cottage accommodations, our staff can show that they value your stay as much as you do, and friendly service is always available without being obtrusive.

And at Chaa Creek, you’ll discover how we practice green sustainable practices while still offering full amenities and wildly civilised, rustic elegance.

BELIZE ON A BUDGET – ECO PODS
Groups with an affinity for natural surroundings now have a new rainforest venue in which to meet, teach, learn, socialise, or just relax in a pristine jungle environment. Welcome to the Belize Rainforest Retreat at Chaa Creek.

For nearly forty years, Chaa Creek’s Macal River Camp has accommodated a variety of groups, organisations, family get-togethers and other gatherings.

This nature-based venue has been refreshed as the Belize Rainforest Retreat at Chaa Creek, focused on providing group accommodations and activities that combine back-to-nature simplicity, excellent service and access to casually luxurious amenities.

DINING IN BELIZE – MARIPOSA RESTAURANT
Spoil your taste buds and enjoy delectable ‘Jungle Cuisine’ in our romantic al fresco dining room. Enjoy the sounds of birds singing in the surrounding trees in the daytime, and listen to the symphony of night sounds while you dine under candlelight.

At the Chaa Creek restaurant, we combine modern and ‘old fashioned’ cooking techniques with a wide variety of fresh local produce to create innovative and original, mouthwatering meals.

Start your day light with a selection of tropical fruits and homemade yogurt, or go local and try a more substantial breakfast of refried beans, eggs, and freshly prepared corn tortillas.

For lunch, you can choose from our Mariposa Menu with a choice of international dishes like pizzas and pasta accompanied by some regional favorites like quesadillas and ceviche.

Apart from the a la carte menu at dinner time we highly recommend our Chef’s daily four-course connoisseur menu, which for many of our guests is one of the highlights of the day.

Innovative dishes like carrot and ginger soup flavored with orange peel and lemon grass, Cho Cho and cantaloupe salad with mango and balsamic dressing, or fresh fish fillet wrapped in ‘Santa Maria’ leaves sprinkled with lime butter are just a few examples of what you can expect to find in this menu.

We grow most of our produce at our organic Maya farm and what we cannot grow is ‘hand-picked’ from local producers. Only this way can we guarantee fresh products, the taste of our surroundings, and at the same time support the small farmers in our region.

At the end of your day you may want to try a refreshing Sorrel Flower ice tea, our non-alcoholic signature drink, or any of our wide selection of delicious cocktails at our verandah bar where you can gaze at the stars and share stories with other guests.

Our colorful bartenders will happily entertain you with tales of their beloved country, Belize. Our bar has in stock the best selection of spirits in the country and is open from six in the morning until the last guest leaves at night.

BELIZE SPA RESORT
To truly immerse yourself in the Belizean rainforest experience, take time out to enjoy the benefits of professional spa treatments in one of the most stunning, relaxing settings imaginable.

Our Hilltop Spa at Chaa Creek is set above the winding Macal River with a panoramic view of the Maya Mountains and lush Caribbean Rainforest – an extraordinary, peaceful setting enhanced by the background music of tropical birds and gentle rustling of leaves.

Our professional therapists will help you select from a range of treatments to create a personalised Spa experience guaranteed to put you in harmony with the beautiful natural surroundings – and yourself.

Imagine an al fresco massage as you breathe in deliciously fresh, clean air produced by the vast surrounding rainforest. You’ll find cares and worries slip away into the peace and tranquillity of this timeless environment as our dedicated professionals work their quiet magic.

Over the years, Chaa Creek’s Spa managers have developed a regimen of professional treatments to satisfy anyone, and our therapists will work with you to ensure the most personalised, rewarding experience possible.

You’ll also be happy to know that your Chaa Creek Spa treatments don’t come at a cost to the natural environment. As with all our operations, the Spa lives in harmony with our natural surroundings with scrupulous attention paid to product selection and waste management.

Our natural, herbal based approach sets an example for sustainable, environmentally friendly spas. Naturally mineral rich mud treatments, herbal wraps and carefully chosen botanicals, sourced as locally as possible, enrich you without depleting the earth.

Pamper yourself with a Chaa Creek Spa experience and see what jungle luxury really feels like – it will be another once-in-a-lifetime Belizean experience.

INFINITY SWIMMING POOL
The Lodge at Chaa Creek is making a splash with our beautifully appointed, fresh water swimming pool which is added to the numerous onsite activities that Chaa Creek offers, and combines to make Chaa Creek an extra special holiday destination.

The eco-friendly swimming pool was built with both adults and children in mind. Its bi-level configuration allows for swimming and paddling pools, as well as generous lounging space for dining, sun bathing and relaxation.

The total capacity of the pool is a whopping 46,000 gallons, 45,000 gallons in the main pool area and 1,000 gallons in children’s paddling pool. The size is 60ft long and 20ft wide with a depth of 4.7 ft. The pool’s Green credential is facilitated by the IntelliChlor Electronic Chlorine Generator (IECG).

This sanitation system uses a salt chlorinator to create a process known as electrolysis which produces a chlorine gas that immediately dissolves into a solution creating Hypochlorite, a pool and spa water sanitizer.

Hypochlorite kills bacteria, oxidizes organic material, and kills algae, then reverts back to salt. A low concentration of salt added to the pool water is the only sanitizer used. The IECG then reuses the salt and the process starts over again.

BLUE MORPHO BUTTERFLY EXHIBIT
The Blue Morpho Butterfly Farm continues to be a major attraction as people marvel at the splendid iridescent wings of these magnificent butterflies. The “Belizean Blue” can be observed during every stage of their life cycle.

It begins its cycle as a pale green egg, which looks like a dewdrop, soon after it changes into a voraciously hungry caterpillar, then into the bizarre form of a dormant pupa, and finally into a dazzling beauty that delights the public in butterfly houses throughout the world.

At Chaa Creek, our objective is to encourage learning about our environment and to have fun at the same time. What better way than by illustrating the fascinating sights of an insect’s life cycle to help us appreciate the rich diversity of our natural environment that makes Belize one of the world’s best, and most interesting, destinations.

NATURAL HISTORY CENTER
Situated at the top of the hill behind the cottages, the Chaa Creek Natural History Center takes students and visitors along a fascinating time line, which begins with prehistoric land formation through to the shifting of the continents.

Visitors are able to see the movement of life in Belize through the ages; from Mayan temples in the steaming jungle to modern day traditional healers.

On one hand we provide a comprehensive introduction to the history and geography of Belize while on the other we provide visual displays of archaeological artifacts, butterflies, moths, insects and amphibians that capture the curiosity of young children, students and scientists alike.

The forested area surrounding the Centre has become an educational destination which, combined with the Rainforest Medicine Trail, this offers an excellent opportunity to study medicinal and useful plants.

CONFERENCE CENTER
The right setting can make every meeting more productive and more memorable. The Lodge at Chaa Creek offers a beautiful location with elegant and well-appointed meeting facilities.

The Conference Center at Chaa Creek is the perfect place for a business meeting, group retreat, workshop, wedding or private function. Our newly air-conditioned Conference Center can accommodate up to 100 people auditorium style and 50 people classroom style.

It is equipped with current audio/visual equipment. The light and airy building has highly flexible furniture and comfortable chairs with superior lumbar support. The conference tables can be used to create a variety of configurations within minutes to accommodate the needs of your presentation style.

The podium has a public address system with cordless microphones. A television with VCR over-head, slide and multi-media projectors are available for business meetings.

Our staff are knowledgeable and experts in providing all the planning and services to make any meeting or family function run smoothly. Our reservations office in San Ignacio will be happy to provide a customized quote to suite your specific needs.

Chaa Creek is cradled between the steep forested slopes of the Macal River Valley. Close to the rainforest of the Maya Mountains and granite uplands of central Belize, it is strategically placed within easy driving distance of the Mountain Pine Ridge, Caracol, Xunantunich, Cahal Pech and El Pilar Maya Temples, the Chumpiate Cave, Vaca Falls and the 220 square mile Tikal National Park.

BELIZE NATURE RESERVE
Our Belize Eco Resort has a picturesque trail network that will take you to many different areas of our 400-acre nature reserve. All of the trails are numbered as shown on our comprehensive trail map that can be requested from our concierge office or with any of our friendly members of staff.

For your comfort, we suggest hiking boots or tennis shoes and sunscreen or a cap. Feel free to explore on your own and at your leisure or join a guided tour and interact with an exotic tropical environment. If you wish to venture out on your own we request that you inform our front desk before doing so.

MAYA ORGANIC FARM
The 33 acre Maya Organic Farm is an integral part of the Chaa Creek Reserve; It provides freshly harvested produce for The Lodge at Chaa Creek and the Macal River Camp.

The farm integrates traditional Maya farming with more advanced systems of irrigated raised beds of composted soil fed with nutrients derived from natures store house. Few people, including our native Belizeans, understand the complexity of the Mayas organic farming techniques.

The indigenous Maya have survived for over 2000 years on subsistence farming for home use, barter, and sale as the backbone of their existence. They have used resources supplied by nature to nourish the soil and protect their crops from insect devastation.

Costly chemicals were simply not an option and their continuing methodology has clearly stood the test of time. As part of our many onsite activities we offer guided horseback riding tours to the Maya Farm where our guests get the opportunity to experience how the Maya farmed.

You get to see all the different fruits and vegetables that are grown and the different organic farming methods with soil enrichment that are used based on a five-year rotation plan using Makuna beans and Lucina as nitrogen fixers.

Cacao, root crops, and vegetables planted on the farm oftentimes can only be found in the older Mayan settlements. Freshly harvested organic fruits and vegetables from our traditional Maya Farm are complimented by local dairy and meat products to create a distinct flavor of the Caribbean and Latin American region.

HORSE STABLES
Chaa Creek maintains a stable of well-groomed riding horses that are suited for all levels of riding experience. Our guided rides traverse the trails of the Chaa Creek Nature Reserve through sub-tropical broadleaf forest past ancient Maya sites.

As you ride along, your naturalist guide will highlight the various unique plant and wildlife species native to the reserve. Optional rides to the MAYA ORGANIC FARM may also be arranged. Horseback riding tours are now offered twice a day; the first at 9:00am and the other at 1:00pm.

Whether you’re just out for an afternoon hike or planning a more extensive exploration, our licensed naturalist guides are always ready to make your experience both intellectually and physically challenging.

WOODWORKING SHOP AT BELIZE
The Shop is tucked away along the edge of a copse which gives shade to an old Mayan dwelling area where ancient terraced food gardens can still be seen. Guests are always welcome to drop by and talk with the carpenters and craftsman who are happy to discuss the particular project they happen to be working on.

There are always pieces of exotic wood scraps available for the avid whittler to put in the bottom of their bag to take home for future enjoyment. The wood shop is committed to producing high quality furniture by local craftsmen with an attention to finish and detail for all our guests to enjoy.

ORGANIZED ADVENTURE TOURS IN BELIZE
We also offer carefully crafted Belize adventure tours, including popular Rainforest to Reef surf and turf packages which offer exceptional value for money and a hassle free way to experience Belize from the inland borders to the coast and cayes.

Explore ancient Belize Mayan Ruins in the jungle in the morning, and be snorkeling the great Belize Barrier Reef that afternoon. Whether within our reserve or enjoying a tour or adventure vacation package, you can also rest assured that you are contributing to the sustainability of Belize’s natural resources and unique culture.

If traveling sustainably is a preference of yours as it is for us, you’ll be happy to know that Chaa Creek was known as an eco resort before the term became popular, and we continue to promote green tourism through our own efforts and public initiatives.

Check with our concierge for specific Go-Green activities you and your family can become involved with. Whether you’re looking for challenging adventures, exclusive experiences, or quiet relaxation among the sights and sounds of the beautiful Belizean rainforest, we are dedicating to working with you to ensure that your Belize vacation is everything you hope for.

We love Belize – let us show you why, and be prepared for one of the most rewarding experiences imaginable.

LEARN ABOUT THE BIRDS OF BELIZE AT CHAA CREEK
With over 350 species of resident and migratory birds, the Chaa Creek Nature Reserve features some of the best birds of Belize.

Our early morning Bird Watching tour will take you around our common grounds at the lodge where our professional naturalist guides, who are highly trained and knowledgeable birders, will assist you in spotting many of the tropical avian species that abound in western Belize.

The varied topography and vegetation of her Central American home makes Belize abundantly rich in a variety of ecosystems that provide sustainable habitats for an enormous number of local and migratory bird species.

BELIZEAN RAINFOREST RTV SAFARI!
We are happy to report that new & exciting Rainforest RTV Safaris have been added to our list of jungle exploits.

Just the very word Safari evokes adventure and romance, and while things have changed since the early days of big game hunters, with images of Ernest Hemingway traipsing around the African bush, there’s still something about the notion of setting off to explore the wilderness in a rugged four wheel drive vehicle with a local guide that captivates the imagination.

And for us, the beauty of Chaa Creek’s Rainforest Safari is the convenience and affordability of this rather awesome motorised trek into Belizean landscapes not often visited by the casual traveller.

This is a jungle experience not to be missed, with an RTV carrying guests along rainforest trails to a cohune ridge and through broadleaf forests that support a wide variety of wild and bird life.

We remember seeing a tapir near there years ago, and you’ll definitely want to pack a camera and binoculars, as Chaa Creek’s guides have an uncanny knack for spotting things most people would miss.

BELIZE BOTANIC GARDENS
Guided and self-guided tours wind gently above the bank of the Macal River past medicinal plants and introduce visitors to many of the plants and herbs used in traditional Maya medicine. The Maya were masters at utilizing the jungle’s natural resources for their practical and medicinal needs.

Here you will see and learn about vines that store drinking water, plants that helps abate malaria, aid diabetics, cleanse the blood, plus many more. The trail’s most remarkable feature is that all the plants and trees were already there.

The fact that none were planted is a testament to the natural diversity found in the rainforest. Whether you’re just out for an afternoon hike or planning a more extensive exploration, our licensed naturalist guides can show you the jungle in a way you’d never see by yourself.

HIKING IN BELIZE
Our Belize Eco Resort has a picturesque trail network that will take you to many different areas of our 365-acre forest reserve. All of the trails are numbered as shown on our comprehensive trail map. For your comfort, we suggest hiking boots or tennis shoes and sunscreen or a cap.

Feel free to explore on your own and at your leisure or join a guided tour and interact with an exotic tropical environment. If you wish to venture out on your own we request that you inform our front desk before doing so.

CANOEING IN BELIZE
You may rent a canoe for exploring the Belize Macal River. Take a trip upstream, paddling up as far as you wish before leisurely drifting back to Chaa Creek.

Then there’s the downstream option of paddling and floating to San Ignacio for approximately two hours. Tie up near the historic Hawkesworth Bridge where we’ll pick you up for the drive back to the lodge. Our concierge will advise you on what to bring, best times to leave and sights along the way.

Head downstream on the pristine Macal River as it flows from its headwaters in the Maya Mountains on its endless journey to the Caribbean Sea. Paddle and explore on your own or relax and enjoy the wonders of nature with a professional naturalist guide.

The verdant banks of the Macal River are home to numerous species of tropical birds as well as giant Green Iguanas . . . and don’t forget to take a refreshing swim along the way. Hungry? Stop for lunch at “Faldy’s” in the village of Cristo Rey. Ask the Concierge to call in advance.

We also offer optional tours upstream to the Belize Botanic Gardens, Black Rock Canyon down to Chaa Creek, Clarissa Falls to Branch Mouth on the Mopan River, Iguana Creek to Banana Bank on the Belize River and multi-day expeditions on the Belize River. Kindly get in touch with our concierge for details.

BELIZE JUNGLE TOURS IN THE DARK!
Join the creatures of the night tour and experience the undiscovered side of the rainforest! Our experienced and knowledgeable naturalist guides will take you through trails populated by Ocelots, Howler Monkeys, Tarantulas, Patoos, Jaguarundis and many more intriguing rainforest residents.

The exotic beauty of the tropical night comes alive with troops of fireflies dancing through the trees, decorating the river valley below. The light from your head lamp may capture a surprised inhabitant, while a special ultraviolet light illuminates phosphorescent insects busy at work!

Nature’s orchestra performs a live concert that promises to heighten your senses. When the lights go off the night comes to life.  Look out for Armadillos scampering through the bushes searching for food.

Listen up for the chirping of Crickets, the hooting of the Owls in the distance, toads croaking nearby, and the distant barking of the Kinkajous. Go ahead and dare to take a night walk on the wild side – it’s a jungle experience you’ll never forget!

BELIZE RIVER TUBING ADVENTURE
Your Macal River Tubing adventure begins with a short scenic drive from Chaa Creek to duPlooys where a tour of the Botanical Gardens will educate you on the diverse cornucopia of Belize’s rich botanical world.

Put on your life jacket and head down to the refreshing waters where you will then board your inner tubes for a self-guided float down the meandering Macal River where you will meet a fascinating assemblage of riverine creatures and beautifully adorned fine-feathered friends!

THE ACTUN TUNICHIL MUKNAL CAVE
Actun Tunichil Muknal Cave, also known as the ATM, is an ancient Maya ceremonial Belize cave rich in both history and artefacts. One of Belize’s most impressive attractions, it is also one of the newest, having only been open to the public since the late 1990s.

Although featured in National Geographic, History Channel, Lonely Planet and other documentaries, magazines and guidebooks, a visit to this spectacular Belize cave is still an off-the-beaten track adventure that even Indiana Jones would appreciate.

After an hour and half drive from Chaa Creek and a 45-minute walk along a jungle trail fording three river crossings, guests arrive at the ATM camp to rest and enjoy lunch.

The real adventure begins with a swim into the cave’s mouth, still partially concealed by the overhanging jungle plants that kept it hidden for so many years.

Actun Tunichil Muknal was perhaps the most important of sacred Belize caves, one in which the ancient Maya conducted elaborate ceremonies to appease their gods, and once inside, visitors wade along a shallow underground river before scaling ladders that lead to sacrificial altars still surrounded by jade axe heads, pottery, blood letting implements and other artefacts.

As you venture deeper, the skulls and skeletons of sacrificial victims compete for space with more artefacts and stalagmites while beautiful, multi hued stalactites adorn cathedral like ceilings.

The highlight of the tour is the famous Crystal Maiden, from which this Belize cave gets one of its nicknames. The intact skeleton of a young sacrificial victim has over the years been coated with a sparkling crystal carbonate, giving her an eerie sparkle that shimmers in the torchlight.

With its combination of natural beauty and the wealth of relics left behind from mysterious Maya ceremonies, a visit to Actun Tunichil Muknal is an experience guaranteed to leave you with unforgettable memories and a rare, in-depth look into the life of Belize’s ancient Maya.

Chaa Creek has been helping visitors discover Actun Tunichil Muknal since it was first opened to the public, and we are committed to ensuring that it remains preserved in its pristine state for the enjoyment of future guests.

The Actun Tunichil Muknal tour requires a reasonable level of fitness, and you will be given headlamps and necessary equipment as well as the help of licenced naturalist guides who will assist you throughout this amazing journey into the fascinating underworld of the ancient Maya.

BELIZE PONTOON TOUR
The Vaca Lake is a man-made reservoir in the upper Macal River Valley a few miles upstream from our Lodge. When the lake swelled into a 6 mile long waterhole, Lazaro Martinez who grew up in the area decided it was time to invite adventurers to his childhood backyard.

Join him on a hilly jungle trek to his pontoon, La Capitana for a tamed loop around the lake. The gentle drift offers a unique opportunity to spot myriad creatures including, Tapirs, Spider Monkeys, Ocelots and a plethora of Birds conveying at this biospheric junction.

La Capitana docks at one of three pristine waterfalls for an exploratory hike and optional swimming. Relax at the water’s edge and enjoy your picnic lunch.

Website: www.chaacreek.com

Rooms: 23

Price: from 375 EUR per night