Underwater marvels, rich biodiversity, and chock-full of historic wonders, Belize is full of surprises. With countless attributes at your disposal, it may seem like a hard task to experience all the country has to offer in one trip alone. The Belize Collection has placed the impossible within reach with a spectacular jungle-to-beach experience. You can bask in stunning mountains one day and sink your toes in soft sand the next. This is the beauty of the Belize Collection boasting sister properties that offer Belize’s best of both worlds. With the Rainforest Lodge at Sleeping Giant and the Lodge at Jaguar Reef in conjunction with Almond Beach Resort near the sea, a fully immersive Belize experience awaits.
Day 1: Jungle Experience with The Rainforest Lodge at Sleeping Giant
Early Morning
Begin the adventure of a lifetime by arriving bright and early at Sleeping Giant Lodge. Grab breakfast at the award-winning on-site restaurant the Grove House. For some reason, orange juice tastes better when handpicked from the property’s nearby orchards. Bite into incredibly fluffy fry jacks paired with locally sourced jams and jellies. Now you’re fueled up for a morning of remarkable hiking. Leave your bags in capable hands at the front desk and tighten your laces– it’s time to witness the Maya Mountains in all their glory.
Sleeping Giant’s nature hikes are unlike any other. Expect gurgling creeks, striking mountain vistas, and the occasional furry critter crossing your path. Speaking of critters, Sleeping Giant Lodge is home to cute animals on site. Strolling through the immaculate grounds, guests can say hello to ducks roaming freely, bunnies hopping about, and turtles lounging in the fishponds. It’s like a fairytale come to life.
Early Afternoon
If you’ve never had an authentic wood-fired pizza, you’re missing out. Grab a seat at one of the outdoor thatched palapas at Sleeping Giant Lodge’s Don Tonito’s. The historic pizzeria creates artistry in the fogón so each refined slice seeps quality and flavor. Admire the cocooning bamboo trees and babbling creek before heading to your suite. If you chose a Mountainview or Riverview Suite, take this downtime to relax in your own private plunge pool. If you went with Creekside Cottage, lounge in your own private hammock before wading in the main pool. For a more adventurous dip, make your way to the meandering Sibun River hugging the edge of the property. Haul a complimentary kayak on the crystal clear waters and paddle along the river, admiring the mountainous views on the horizon.
Late Evening
Catch the fiery sun rays lighting the hill across the river from atop Sleeping Giant Lodge’s treehouse endearingly known as The Nest. The netted area is what childlike wonders are made of since it is built into a tree on the banks of the river. For an even more romantic evening, have a private dinner atop the cliff, one of the highest points on the property. The area is ideal for picnics perfectly manicured for smitten couples looking for some alone time. After indulging in decadent dishes, feel free to rest in your jungle-shrouded room. When you wake to the sounds of the rainforest in the morning, pack your bags because the next half of the jungle-beach combo is about to begin.
For a taste of what this would look like, take a look at our Reef and Rainforest package available to curious travelers.
