Chan Chich Lodge

Chan Chich Lodge is a rainforest lodge located within a 30,000-acre private reserve in north-western Belize. The lodge sits on the site of an ancient Maya city and is surrounded by tropical forest, with opportunities to explore the reserve’s wildlife, archaeological remains and varied habitats. More than 370 bird species have been recorded on the property, and the reserve is home to all five of Belize’s wild cat species.

Accomodation

          • Chan Chich Lodge offers a range of cabanas, casitas and a two-bedroom jungle villa. Accommodation combines traditional lodge-style design with private verandas overlooking the surrounding rainforest. Some rooms use natural ventilation and fans, while others have air conditioning.

            Room Categories

            • Jungle Collection: Private, thatched-roof accommodation with air conditioning, located close to the rainforest trails.
            • Casitas and Family Cabanas: Spacious accommodation with wraparound verandas, including layouts suitable for families.
            • Two-Bedroom Jungle Villa: A larger, air-conditioned option for families or groups travelling together.

  • Facilities and Amenities:

    • Restaurant: Serves meals featuring produce from the nearby Gallon Jug farm, including coffee, fruit and vegetables.
    • Bar: Looter’s Trench Bar provides a place to relax with a drink after a day exploring the reserve.
    • Private Verandas: All accommodation includes a private veranda.
    • Swimming Pool: Guests can relax by the lodge’s swimming pool.
    • Guided Excursions: A range of guided activities is available within the reserve, including wildlife drives, birdwatching and rainforest walks.

Activities and Experiences:

  1. Chan Chich Lodge offers a variety of guided activities to explore the surrounding rainforest and Maya Forest.

    1. Wildlife Drives: Explore the reserve by vehicle in search of birds and other wildlife.
    2. Birdwatching: Look for some of the more than 370 bird species recorded on the property, with guidance from experienced local guides.
    3. Nature Walks and Hikes: Follow rainforest trails and join guided walks focused on local wildlife and medicinal plants.
    4. Night Tours: Explore the reserve after dark on guided walks and drives, with opportunities to look for nocturnal wildlife.
    5. Maya Archaeology: Visit the ancient Maya city on which the lodge is built and learn about the site’s history.
    6. Boat Tours: Explore Laguna Seca and Laguna Verde by canoe or boat, looking out for birds, crocodiles and other wildlife.
    7. Gallon Jug Farm: Visit the working farm, stables and coffee plantation at the nearby Gallon Jug Estate.

Dining at Chan Chich Lodge

Dining at Chan Chich Lodge includes food prepared using produce from the nearby Gallon Jug farm. Coffee, fruit and vegetables grown on the estate feature in the kitchen, with meals served at the lodge restaurant. Guests can also enjoy drinks at Looter’s Trench Bar.

Sustainability and Design:

  • Chan Chich Lodge was established on the site of an unexcavated Maya city in 1984 to help protect the archaeological remains from looting. The lodge opened in 1988, and the surrounding 30,000-acre private reserve has been maintained as a protected area within the wider Maya Forest.

    The lodge’s conservation work includes protecting rainforest habitat and monitoring wildlife, including jaguars and Belize’s other wild cat species. Staying at the lodge supports the continued protection of this area and its wildlife.

Nearby Attractions:

    • Ancient Maya City: Explore the archaeological remains located within the lodge grounds.
    • Belize Maya Forest: Discover a large area of rainforest habitat supporting a wide range of wildlife and birdlife.
    • Gallon Jug Estate: Visit the nearby working farm, coffee plantation and stables.
    • Maya Sites and Caves: Guided excursions can be arranged to archaeological sites and caves beyond the reserve.