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Sitting area at the Lodge at Chaa Creek

Lodge at Chaa Creek

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As a private 365-acre nature reserve set along the banks of the Macal River in the foothills of the Maya Mountains, this Belize Resort has provided a unique adventure travel experience for thousands of people while maintaining an unspoiled ambiance. The lodge caters to the traveler looking for both physical and intellectual challenges, and our range of programs and activities have been designed to stimulate interest in the environment, culture and archaeology of Belize. 

Life at the Lodge at Chaa Creek Any rewarding adventure is enhanced by comfortable accommodations and excellent food. 23 palm-thatched cottage rooms ensure a good night's sleep and delightful mornings accompanied by the sing-song of a rainforest waking up, and guests can choose from a variety of accommodations such as the Complete Garden Suite, an Orchard and Spa Villa, Macal Cottage or Tree Top Suite, all equipped with a Jacuzzi for even extra comfort. 

Chaa Creek Dining At the Chaa Creek restaurant, modern and 'old-fashioned' cooking techniques are combined with a wide variety of fresh local produce to create innovative and original, mouthwatering meals. Most of the produce is produced at the lodge's organic Maya farm or is ‘hand picked' from local producers. Spoil your taste buds and enjoy delectable 'Jungle Cuisine' in the romantic al fresco dining room. Enjoy the sounds of birds quarreling in the surrounding trees in the daytime, and listen to the symphony of night sounds while dining under candlelight.

Accommodations This jungle lodge has 23 comfortable palm-thatched cottage rooms including two Garden Suites or a Complete Garden Suite with Jacuzzi, two Tree Top Jacuzzi Suites, an Orchard and Spa Villa and a Macal Cottage with Jacuzzi, all nestled along the riverside in a setting of unmatched beauty and tranquility. Accommodations 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. Each individually designed palm-thatched cottage is 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. 

Activities at Chaa Creek Chaa Creek Nature Reserve's miles of lush, well-maintained trails are perfect for horseback riding, mountain biking, and hiking, and licensed guides are here to help you explore Belize's natural history including the fascinating Maya civilization, which once thrived in this area. Canoe trips down the beautiful Macal River are a relaxing way to travel through the jungle, and with the Natural History Center, Butterfly Farm, Rainforest Medicine Trail and numerous activities, your days at Chaa Creek are wonderfully full. And for exquisite pampering, there's always the Hilltop Spa with stunning views and professional treatments guaranteed to soothe the spirit. The lodge also offers carefully designed tours that open up the fascinating world of Belize, from inland Maya archaeological treasures to the stunning Barrier Reef, beautiful cayes and coastal resorts and villages. Please explore the links above for more details about the numerous activities available at Chaa Creek.

Chaa Creek Cares Rest assured that a stay at Chaa Creek contributes towards sustainable and culturally responsible tourism with many award-winning approaches towards creating a green experience such as community outreach and educational programs, conservation stewardship, sustainable green developments and many environmental tourism projects. As one example, under the Chaa Creek Cares program, 10% of all accommodation revenue goes straight into environmental and social programs, and in supporting Green and community groups. You'll sleep better knowing that your stay at Chaa Creek has a positive effect on Belize from this very special pristine natural environment.
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Photo Gallery

A small casita at Lodge at Chaa Creek Relaxation awaits in the two bedroom Macal Cottage at the Lodge at Chaa Creek Relax in the pool at the Lodge at Chaa Creek Live music and a festive atmosphere to finish a day of adventure at the Lodge at Chaa Creek The master bedroom in one of the Lodge at Chaa Creek's private cottages A romantic moon-lit dinner for two at the Lodge at Chaa Creek Experience true relaxation in an outdoor massage at the Lodge at Chaa Creek Horseback riding through the jungle at the Lodge at Chaa Creek The master bedroom in Chaa Creek's Garden Jacuzzi Suite Welcome to your Treetop Suite at the Lodge at Chaa Creek Play around in the pool at the Lodge at Chaa Creek A romantic outdoor dinner for two at the Lodge at Chaa Creek Tour the Chaa Creek Nature Reserve from horseback Visitors learn about the local habitat from one of Chaa Creek's experienced guide Refreshing cocktails wait for you at the Lodge at Chaa Creek Relax in the main building at the Lodge at Chaa Creek Enjoy a meal nestled in the jungle at the Lodge at Chaa Creek Luxurious bedroom at the Lodge at Chaa Creek Family canoe trip through the rainforest Sitting area at the Lodge at Chaa Creek An evening drink at the Lodge at Chaa Creek Lounging poolside at the Lodge at Chaa Creek Dining room at Chaa Creek Horseback riding through the rainforest at Chaa Creek Evening cocktails and a game of Scrabble at Chaa Creek Rooms with a jungle view at the Lodge at Chaa Creek Scanning for tropical birds in the rainforest canopy

Itineraries

Horseback riding through the jungle at the Lodge at Chaa Creek
$1,981
EXPLORE

Chaa Creek Rainforest

5 Day Itinerary
  • Go cave tubing and explore ruins
  • Horseback ride jungle trails
  • Book a variety of spa services
Activities:
Horseback Riding, Spa Relaxation, Wildlife Viewing
Activity Level:
Relaxed
Tour Details
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Tikal Ruin in Guatemala
$3,218
EXPLORE

La Ruta Maya

11 Day Itinerary
  • Tour the city of Antigua
  • Visit a women's textile cooperative
  • Encounter the pyramids of Tikal
  • Journey into Actun Tunichil Muknal
Activities:
Archaeological Site Visits, Local Market Visits, Rainforest Exploration, Village Visits, Wildlife Viewing
Activity Level:
Relaxed
Tour Details
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Handling an urchin while snorkeling at Turneffe Flats
$2,403
EXPLORE

Belize Explorer

8 Day Itinerary
  • Canoe down the Rio Macal
  • Adventure through the ATM cave
  • Visit Tikal's towering pyramids
  • Snorkel in clear Caribbean waters
Activities:
Archaeological Site Visits, Fishing, Rainforest Exploration, Scuba Diving, Snorkeling, Wilderness Lodge Exploration, Wildlife Viewing
Activity Level:
Easy Active
Tour Details
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Kayak and snorkel in clear blue waters
$3,311
EXPLORE

Belize Adventure

9 Day Itinerary
  • Kayak Glover's Reef Atoll
  • Zip-line through the jungle
  • Float through a series of caves
  • Explore Actun Tunichil Muknal Cave
Activities:
Hiking, Kayaking, Rainforest Exploration, Scuba Diving, Snorkeling, Wilderness Lodge Exploration, Wildlife Viewing, Ziplining
Activity Level:
Moderate
Tour Details
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Xunantunich ruins in Belize
$3,051
EXPLORE

Beautiful Belize

9 Day Itinerary
  • Discover Mayan ruins
  • Canoe down the Rio Macal
  • Visit the village of Placencia
  • Relax on the beach
Activities:
Fishing, Rainforest Exploration, Scuba Diving, Snorkeling, Wilderness Lodge Exploration, Wildlife Viewing, Ziplining
Activity Level:
Easy Active
Tour Details
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Swimming with sharks
$2,272
EXPLORE

Belize Adventure - Ambergris

8 Day Itinerary
  • Zipline through rainforest canopy
  • Rappel into a collapsed cavern
  • Venture through the ATM cave
  • Snorkel Shark Ray Alley
Activities:
Fishing, Scuba Diving, Snorkeling, Wildlife Viewing, Ziplining
Activity Level:
Easy Active
Tour Details
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Activities

On-Site Activities at Chaa Creek

Chaa Creek’s nature reserve is an adventure in itself and offers a range of exciting, educational and healthy activities for adventurers of all ages and abilities. Chaa Creek Nature Reserve’s miles of lush, well-maintained trails are perfect for horseback riding, mountain biking, and hiking, and licensed guides are here to help you explore Belize’s natural history including the fascinating Maya civilization, which once thrived in this area. Canoe trips down the beautiful Macal River are a relaxing way to travel through the jungle, and with the Natural History Centre, Butterfly Farm, Rainforest Medicine Trail and numerous activities, your days at Chaa Creek are wonderfully full. And for exquisite pampering, there’s always the Hilltop Spa with stunning views and professional treatments guaranteed to soothe the spirit.

RAINFOREST MEDICINE TRAIL
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. See and learn about vines that store drinking water, plants that help abate malaria, aid diabetics, cleanse the blood, plus many more.

Departures: Every hour from 8:00am - 4:00pm
Duration: 1-1 1/2 hours
Fitness: Basic

BELIZE BIRD WATCHING
With 308 species of resident and migratory birds, the Chaa Creek Nature Reserve offers some of the best bird watching in Belize. Early Morning Bird Watching tours will take you around the 365 private acre nature reserve where professional naturalist guides, who are trained and knowledgeable birders, will assist you in spotting many of the tropical avian species that abound in western Belize. Daily guided birding tours are also offered to different nature reserves around the Cayo District.

Departures: Early Morning: 6:30 am
Duration: 2 hours
Fitness: Average to good


BUTTERFLY FARM TOURS 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.

Departures: Every hour from 8:00am - 4:00pm
Duration: 1/2 hour
Fitness: Basic

CANOEING
Rent a canoe for exploring the Macal River. Take a trip upstream, paddling up as far as you wish before leisurely drifting back to Chaa Creek. 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. Canoe tours to numerous sites on the Macal river can also be arranged.

Departures: Anytime before 2:00pm
Duration: 2-3 hours
Fitness: Moderate

HIKING
The Belize Eco Resort has a picturesque trail network that will take you to many different areas of the 365-acre forest reserve. All of the trails are numbered as shown on a comprehensive trail map. For your comfort, hiking boots or tennis shoes and sunscreen or a cap are suggested. Feel free to explore on your own and at your leisure or join a guided tour and interact with an exotic tropical environment.

Departures: Anytime
Duration: varies
Fitness: Moderate to Good

CREATURES OF THE NIGHT WALK Join the creatures of the night and experience the undiscovered side of the rainforest! 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 headlamp may capture a surprised inhabitant, while a special ultraviolet light illuminates phosphorescent insects busy at work!

Departures: 8:00pm
Duration: 1 1/2 - 2 hours
Fitness: Basic to Moderate

SAN IGNACIO MARKET TOUR
Local market days are great opportunities to experience Belizean life and color, and this is certainly true for Cayo where every Saturday the market area comes alive with its own multicultural blend of colors, sounds, flavors and foodstuffs. This is the day when farmers and almost everyone comes into San Ignacio town to buy, sell, trade, gossip and generally catch up. If you want to experience real Western Belize life, this is the place, and what a pleasant, heady experience it is. Vendors from nearby and remote communities contribute to the melodic mix of Maya, Creole, English and Spanish while Mennonite farmers can be heard conversing in German. Your market day experience begins with a picturesque, downstream canoe trip down the meandering Macal River where a variety of birds and exotic jungle life can be seen along the verdant banks. The market experience begins at the canoe landing adjacent to the marketplace where a tour will familiarize you with the area before allowing you to experience everything at your own pace. The day ends with a lovely ride back to Chaa Creek, but this unique experience is guaranteed to stay with you for a long time.

Departures: 8:00am
Duration: Full day
Fitness: Moderate

HORSEBACK RIDING TOUR
Chaa Creek maintains a stable of well-groomed riding horses that are suited for all levels of riding experience. 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 and Belize Botanic Gardens may also be arranged.

Departures: Daily tours at 9:00am and 1:30pm
Duration: 2 1/2 - 3 hours
Fitness: Moderate

MAYA FARM TOUR
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 nature's storehouse. As part of the many onsite activities offered guided horseback riding tours to the Maya Farm allow guests the opportunity to experience how the Maya farmed. They can see all the different fruits and vegetables that are grown and the different organic farming methods. Freshly harvested organic fruits and vegetables from our traditional Maya Farm are complemented by local dairy and meat products to create a distinct flavor of the Caribbean and Latin American region.

Departures: Varies, typically combined with horseback excursions
Duration: Half-day
Fitness: Moderate

MOUNTAIN BIKING A team of experienced and specially trained naturalist guides will lead the way and share their extensive knowledge of the local flora and fauna that you will encounter as you experience the sights and sounds of the tropical jungle. The trail system was designed to provide enjoyable cycling for riders of all experience levels. The designated routes will provide an exciting opportunity for beginners and adventurous thrills for the seasoned biker. In addition to the on-site trail system, guided tours are offered to many of the spectacular attractions of the Cayo District such as to the ancient Maya site of Xunantunich and then on to Clarissa Falls along the Mopan River.

Departures: 8:00am
Duration: Varies - 4 1/2 hours to full day
Fitness: Moderate to Good

NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM The Chaa Creek Natural History Centre, situated at the top of the hill behind the cottages, takes students and visitors along a fascinating timeline, 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. A comprehensive introduction to the history and geography of Belize is on display along with 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, offers an excellent opportunity to study medicinal and useful plants.

Departures: Guided tours at 8:00 am and 1:00 pm
Duration: Half-day
Fitness: Moderate

HILLTOP SPA AT CHAA CREEK
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. The 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 the gentle rustling of leaves. Professional therapists will help you select from a range of treatments to create a personalized Spa experience guaranteed to put you in harmony with the beautiful natural surroundings – and yourself. 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 onsite operations, the Spa lives in harmony with the natural surroundings with scrupulous attention paid to product selection and waste management. The 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.

SWIMMING POOL
The Lodge at Chaa Creek is making a splash with the latest addition to its 365-acre nature reserve. A new beautifully appointed, the freshwater swimming pool has been 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, sunbathing and relaxation.

Belize Tours from Chaa Creek

Carefully designed tours open up the fascinating world of Belize, from inland Maya archaeological treasures to the stunning Barrier Reef, beautiful cayes and coastal resorts and villages. As one of the largest and most experienced tour operators in Belize, the lodge can arrange an itinerary to any part of Belize, including the coast and cayes, as well as to Peten, Guatemala, to suit a wide variety of individual interests. The combination of on-site familiarization programs, activities and comprehensive knowledge of Belize makes Chaa Creek the perfect choice for experiencing this fascinating part of the world.

MOUNTAIN PINE RIDGE
Your full-day experience in one of Belize's nature reserves will amaze you when you see the drastic change from Broad-Leaf Forest to Pine Forest. The granite base and limestone overlay of the Maya Mountains from the oldest landmass in Central America and contain the cool pine forests (Pinus caribaea) of the Mountain Pine Ridge. Within this 300 square mile forest reserve, you will encounter an entirely different tropical ecosystem along with its unique flora and fauna. Your adventure starts from Chaa Creek at 8:00 a.m. and in only 90 minutes you will be admiring the 1000-ft. Waterfall. You will then drive down to the Rio Frio Cave where you can marvel at the awesome corrosive power that water has on Karst Limestone. However, this is not the only attraction at this cave; there is also evidence of Mayan visitation inside! At the end of the day's trek, refreshing swims in the cascading waters of the Rio On pools will soothe tired muscles and rejuvenate the spirit.

Departures: 8:00am
Duration: Full day
Fitness: Moderate

BELIZE SNORKELING
Many people enjoy the ease and freedom of snorkeling in the warm clear tropical waters of Belize’s Caribbean reef and seacoast, where some of the most beautiful underwater scenes are to be found in the better-lit and more abundant shallower waters. The world heritage listed the Belize barrier reef as one of the most diverse ecosystems in the world made up of over 100 coral species and home to some 500 species of fish and hundreds of invertebrates. As far back as 1842, Charles Darwin called it, "the most remarkable reef in the West Indies", and it is no less stunning today. This one-day snorkeling adventure takes visitors on a drive along the lovely Hummingbird Highway over the Maya Mountains and down to Belize's southern coast to the traditional Garifuna town of Dangriga, where a boat ferries guests to picturesque and unspoiled South Water Caye for a full day of snorkeling, swimming, beachcombing and delicious island food. Optional bottom fishing may also be added to this day tour.

Departures: 6:00am
Duration: Full day, return to the lodge approximately 7 pm
Fitness: Moderate

BELIZE ZOO
The Zoo began in 1983 when Sharon Matola started caring for animals that were left here after a movie and soon unwanted pets and injured animals were also donated to the Zoo. Many of the residents are endangered species such as the Jaribu Stork, Scarlet Macaw, Jaguar, Margay, and black Howler Monkey. Shortly after the “backyard zoo” began, it was quickly realized that Belizean visitors were unfamiliar with the different species of wildlife in their country. This very aspect enkindled the commitment to develop the little zoo into a dynamic wildlife education center. Today, the Belize Zoo has settled upon 29 acres of tropical savanna and exhibits over 125 animals all natives to Belize. A visit to the zoo is the best way to get an introduction to the animals of Belize and to understand why it is important to protect the habitats that sustain them.

Departures: Can be combined with transfers to or from Chaa Creek or several tours
Duration: 2 hours
Fitness: Basic

ACTUN TUNICHIL MUKNAL
Actun Tunichil Muknal is one of the most impressive and artifact-rich Maya ceremonial caves ever found, containing rare bloodletting altars used in sacrifices by Maya royalty and over 1400 cataloged artifacts as well sacrificial human remains. The ATM Cave is home to the famous “Crystal Maiden” the intact skeleton of a young female that, due to a covering of calcium carbonate, sparkles eerily in the lamplight. Actun Tunichil Muknal is one of Belize’s most impressive adventure experiences. After an hour and fifteen-minute drive from Chaa Creek Resort, there is a 45-minute hike that includes three stream crossings before you arrive at Actun Camp for lunch. Swim into the mouth and then wade through ankle to chest high water before climbing to a labyrinth of dry chambers which lead to the cathedral-like main hall, a towering chamber 350 meters in length and 50mteres wide and filled with artifacts and sacrificial remains. After this, another climb takes you to the stone sepulcher (after which the cave is named) where the Crystal Maiden lies. This is an extraordinary Belize adventure and a rare opportunity to see ancient Maya ceremonial sites and altars as they were and virtually untouched for centuries.

Departures: 8:00am
Duration: Full day
Fitness: Moderate to Good
Note: Children under 12 are not permitted to do this tour

BARTON CREEK CAVE TOUR
Glide through a remote underground water cave system in a canoe equipped with powerful spotlights. It is believed that the Maya once used this cave for ritual burials. Access to this cave is through a picturesque Mennonite farm community. While canoeing through the cave sees large and colorful formations, skeletal remains and other cultural artifacts left behind by the Maya centuries ago. Swim in its cool waters by a small waterfall inside the cave. From the cave's entrance, it's about a mile through the cave to the stopping point.

Departures: 8:00am and 1:00pm
Duration: Half-day
Fitness: Basic to Moderate

CAVES BRANCH RIVING TUBING TOUR
Caves tell the history of Belize, having been an intricate part of the Maya religion and culture. The Maya used caves as ceremonial sites and evidence of these activities can be found for substantial distances inside these caves. Relics, principally in the form of shards of pottery, are very common. Combine river cave tubing and cave exploration on this adventure where you explore spectacular crystal formations over 5,000,000 years old that cast eerie shadows into the black abyss as you explore and experience the most sacred area of the ancient Maya.

Departures: 7:30am
Duration: Full day
Fitness: Moderate

EL PILAR TOUR
El Pilar Archaeological Reserve for Maya Flora and Fauna is located north of Bullet Tree Falls in the Cayo District, about 16 kilometers (10 miles) from San Ignacio. El Pilar means, "pillara" in Spanish, and it was named after an army camp in the area. El Pilar lies in an area that had been cultivated for many years with numerous farms. The site is located on high terrain, giving the visitor a beautiful view across the Belize River Valley. El Pilar is the largest Classical Maya site in the Belize River Valley, with a well-defined ceremonial section, including both private and public areas. There are at least 15 courtyards or plazas covering an area of 50 acres. The center has one ball court in the south, a major palace in the north, and a sacbe (causeway) leading to Guatemala. Tikal in Guatemala is only 48 kilometers (32 miles) from El Pilar.

Departures: 8:00am and 1:00pm
Duration: Half day
Fitness: Moderate

TIKAL TOUR
Tikal, the crown jewel of Maya archaeological sites, has been fascinating visitors for over 100 years with its stunning beauty and sheer grandeur as it rises out of the lush jungle of Guatemala’s Petén district. Once the sprawling capital of one of the greatest empires of the ancient Maya, Tikal was established well before the time of Christ. It flourished during the Maya Classic period of 200 to 900 AD and was the most important city-state in the Maya region before suddenly falling into decline in the late 800s. Today, Tikal is a UNESCO world heritage area and national park, with 222 sq mi (576 sq km) area of unspoiled natural beauty and home to many exotic animals, including tapir, jaguar, crocodile, cougars, monkeys, coatimundi and other species as well as a colorful assortment of birds. It is the largest excavated site in the American continent, containing over 3000 structures and massive, beautiful temples rising 70 meters (230 feet) out of the dense jungle. Tikal presents a rare opportunity to explore one of the world’s most interesting ancient cities in a relaxed, breathtaking setting. Tours to Tikal from Chaa Creek include a lovely 2 ½ hour drive through rural Guatemala with knowledgeable guides on hand to point out interests and make history come alive. Full day and overnight tours are available to give visitors a well-rounded, in-depth experience of this fascinating, enigmatic culture.

Departures: 7:00am
Duration: Full day or overnight tours
Fitness: Moderate to Good

XUNANTUNICH TOUR
Xunantunich or Maiden of the Rock is situated on the Western Highway across the river from the village of San Jose Succotz. This major ceremonial center can be reached by ferry daily and it is only 1.5 Kilometer (one mile) from some lovely rapids of the Mopan River. This Classic Period site provides an impressive view of the entire river valley. El Castillo rises 40 meters above plaza level, making it one of the tallest buildings in Belize. On this structure, there are two temples. The lower temple is famous for its large stucco frieze. A mask with larger ears probably represents the sun god. Next to this mask, there is a moon sign with a border of signs representing Venus.

Departures: Anytime between 8:00 am and 3:00 pm
Duration: Half-day
Fitness: Moderate

CARACOL TEMPLES TOUR
Located deep within the Chiquibul Forest Reserve, Caracol is the largest known Maya site in Belize and one of the biggest in the Maya world. Caracol was a Classic Period urban center that spread out over 55 square miles with an estimated population of 180,000 people. Caracol's enormous central core area covered 15 square miles and was linked together by more than 20 miles of "sacbeobs" (causeways) that radiated outward from its epicenter. The temple "Caana" rises 42 meters above plaza level and to this day is the largest man-made structure in Belize. Over 70 formal tombs have been excavated and many hieroglyphic texts have been found on stelea, altars, and ball court markers, capstones and wall facades. Ocellated Turkeys are one of the many wildlife species that you will find in this area. This region is also known as an excellent location for birding.

Departures: 7:30 am
Duration: Full day (can be combined with Mountain Pine Ridge)
Fitness: Moderate

CAHAL PECH TEMPLES TOUR
The Cahal Pech Maya site and Visitor Center are located in the Cayo District on a hill overlooking the beautiful town of San Ignacio. Its closeness to town and the vast contrast from town life to a rich jungle environment make Cahal Pech a unique place to visit. The site center is made up of 34 structures located around several courtyards, including temple-pyramids and residential buildings. The tallest structure here is 23.5 meters (77 feet) high. There are also 2 ball courts, 8 stelae and 1 altar. Preliminary investigations carried out in 1988 revealed that Cahal Pech was settled by 1200 B.C. and abandoned around A.D. 850. This makes Cahal Pech one of the earliest Maya sites in the Belize region of the Maya lowlands, contemporaneous with Cuello in the north. A carved monument discovered at Cahal Pech is also the earliest carved stelae yet discovered in the eastern Maya lowlands.

Departures: 8:00am and 1:00pm
Duration: Half day (can be combined with Xunantunich)
Fitness: Moderate

BELIZE HELICOPTER TRANSFERS
What better way to get there to the lodge than by a thrilling sight-seeing helicopter excursion. There are two different routes to choose for the helicopter transfer from the Belize International Airport to the lodge. Option 1: Direct Route to Chaa Creek Your flight first takes you over Macklehanny and Cox Lagoons. Here you might find Black Howler Monkeys roaring from the trees and Jabiru Storks - the largest flying birds in the Americas - wading in the marshes. You then will find yourself gliding over the Belize River with its many twist and turns. As your journey in the sky continues allow your eyes to roam freely over the quaint villages, such as Camelote, Ontario and Cristo Rey, which dots the unspoiled mainland of the Cayo District. Your flight comes to end as you arrive at your final destination – The Lodge at Chaa Creek. Option 2: Transfer via the Maya Mountains and 1000 ft Falls Your flight first takes you over the winding Sibun River with its many twist and turns. Then it’s out to the green pastures of the beautiful forests of Belize. Fly over the small but famous bathing spots such as Freetown Sibun, Butcher Burns, Cedar Bank and Gracy Rock Bank. You then fly over Caves Branch, this area encompasses 58,000 acres that are situated beneath a 100 ft rainforest canopy and is bordered by the turquoise waters of Caves Branch River. Ahead of Caves Branch lays the deep forest of Mountain Pine Ridge. Not long after your eyes start to dazzle at the sparkling water that runs from the largest waterfall in Belize and Central America; called 1000 ft fall. Even though the name suggests otherwise, this waterfall is closer to 1600 feet. You will get a view of the entire falls, which is totally unlike the ground tour where you never get to see the falls in its entirety while floating from above. Your flight then heads west as it glides over the lush unspoiled Mountain Pine Ridge where you will see up to 6 additional waterfalls before arriving to your final destination – The Lodge at Chaa Creek.

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