Chan Chich Lodge, Belize's premier jungle lodge, is located on a 130,000 acre private nature reserve in northwestern Belize at the heart of "La Selva Maya". 'Chan Chich' is Mayan for 'little bird' - and it is certainly a birders paradise. The site of an ancient Maya city had long been lost under the cover of the forest until it was rediscovered in 1985, when the Gallon Jug Estate was bought by the current owner. With the permission of the Belizean park authorities this remote yet exquisitely luxurious eco-lodge has been constructed in the plaza of the ancient Maya city, amidst pristine forest and ancient ruins. The lodge consists of 12 individual thatched-roof cabañas and one beautifully appointed 2-bedroom Villa. With a screened-in pool and jacuzzi, fully stocked bar and excellent cuisine, your every desire will be fulfilled by the exceptional facilities and outstanding service we provide.

Retrace the footsteps of the Maya, wander the extensive trail system and discover the unforgettable flora, fauna and Maya history unique to this tropical paradise. With an unparalleled abundance of wildlife (and the best chance to see the elusive jaguar in its natural habitat) Chan Chich is an extraordinary destination for naturalists, birders and for those seeking an authentic retreat to the jungle.

The 12 thatched-roof cabañas surround two central buildings that contain the reception desk, restaurant, bar, gift shop and reading room. Each cabaña, beautifully finished with local hardwoods, is fully screened with ceiling fans, private bath, hot & cold water, 24 hour electricity and a wrap-around verandah with hammocks. Standard cabañas have two queen beds; the deluxe cabañas (recently renovated) comprise of one king bed with a spacious luxury bathroom, walk-in closet and mini-bar.

The Villa, situated at the south-east corner of the plaza bordering the jungle, comprises of 2 bedrooms, both with king beds; A/C; 2 outdoor living areas - one screened with a private Jacuzzi and outdoor shower; and a large living room complete with bar. This is truly magnificent accommodation - perfect for a family, or friends traveling, and comes with a golf cart for your personal use.

After an exciting day of discovery and exploration, you can relax at the Lodge with an ice-cold Belikin beer at our well-stocked bar, take a refreshing dip in the pool watching the monkeys swing by, watch the sun go down in the Jacuzzi, or just lay in your hammock, margarita in-hand.

The kitchen produces some of the finest meals in Belize and you will not find friendlier waitresses across the globe. Using fresh produce grown locally (seasonally dependent), Chan Chich offers a balance of both traditional Belizean meals and exceptional international cuisine.

Things to do

Walking

Chan Chich Lodge has an extensive trail system of over nine miles of well-maintained trails for hiking and exploring. Directional signs are numerous and trail maps can be provided allowing you to wander the trails unaccompanied if you wish, or you may sign up for a guided tour with our knowledgeable local guides.

Bird-watching

Many of the visitors to Chan Chich come specifically for this activity. The Lodge boasts an enviable avifauna with specialties such as the Lovely Cotinga, Ornate Hawk Eagle and Rose Throated Tanager, as well as a host of colorful toucans, parrots and hummingbirds in its species list of over 350.

Vehicle tours

Vehicle tours are offered to various locations throughout the Chan Chich/Gallon Jug area (day and night). These include the wetland habitat at Laguna Seca, Laguna Verde, the upper Escarpment, Sylvester Village, and tours of the Gallon Jug farm, in particular the coffee plantation and production processes. We also offer day-trips to La Milpa, a Mayan site located in the Rio Bravo Conservation Area run by Programme for Belize, and to the significant ruins at Lamanai, the second largest Mayan site in Belize. The Lamanai transfer may be done entirely by road, or in conjunction with a spectacular one hour boat ride down the New River from Orange Walk to the site. We highly recommend the road/river option - this is our most popular external trip.

Horseback-riding

We have a stable of beautiful horses at the Gallon Jug farm. We offer 1, 2 or 3 hour guided rides along jungle trails and/or to remote Mayan sites, such as Punta de Cacao, hidden deep within the jungle of Gallon Jug.

Canoeing

Canoeing is offered on Laguna Verde, a small natural spring-fed lake approximately four miles north of the Gallon Jug farm. While canoeing around the lake it is not uncommon to come face to face with turtles, birds or even crocodiles!

Getting There

With its remote position in the middle of the jungle, Chan Chich lodge is not the easiest place to get to. It is possible to get there by road, however, it is a long journey from Belize City - approximately 150 miles which will take about 4 hours. The lodge is happy to arrange transport, however, this is not included in the package and will be charged extra.

Or, you can rent a vehicle in Belize City and get there on your own - make sure to ask us for directions as there are several possible ways, but not all of them will get you there - some of them are private roads. Private transport has the advantage of providing you with independent wheels to explore the surrounding area.

Alternatively you can fly - which is what most people do. An easy ½ flight from Belize City will get you there quickly and conveniently. However, on ecological grounds unnecessary flights should be avoided.

Please inquire for transportation charges and air fares charges. These may change in accordance with current fuel prices.

DISCOVERY PACKAGE

Includes: room, meals, all taxes, unlimited daytime walks and vehicle tours, complimentary Belikin beer, Crystal water, juices, and soft drinks. Excludes: night activities, horseback riding and canoeing and day trips to La Milpa and Lamanai.) Does not include gratuities.

Rates for 2010/2011

Rates may vary due to currency exchange rate fluctuations.

LOW SEASON SPECIAL - May through Oct. - Stay 4 nights & get room free the 4th night

For room only rates please inquire

ACTIVITY RATES AND SCHEDULE:

Please note that a 10% Tax will be charged on all activities.

Daytime Guide Service - 6am, 8:30am and 3pm:
Free with Discovery package

• Birdwatching,
• Nature Observation,
• Rainforest Ecology,
• Medicinal Plants
• Archaeology Tours of the Chan Chich Area.

Vehicle Tours: 8:30am and 1:30pm - 2 person minimum; most of these are free with the Discovery package or $15 per person/hour with room only rates.

• Gallon Jug Farm Tour, Punta de Cacao (Maya ruins),
• Laguna Seca (birding habitat),
• Zibal/Gallon Jug (bird watching/nature observation area),
• Escarpment Drive
• Night Drive at 8pm (occasionally - 6 person minimum - not included in Discovery package)

Golf Cart Rental is also available

Daytrips can be taken to:
Lamanai Ruins - US$150 per person - subject to change
or to La Milpa Archaeological Dig - US$135 for 1-4 people.
These trips not included in the Discovery package.