In the foothills of the Maya Mountains in western Belize lies a hidden gem—a private nature reserve that was once home to what was formerly known as the Pook’s Hill Lodge. It is famous for its immersive jungle experience and archaeological significance. This property has been a favorite among travelers visiting Mayan ruins in Belize. As of 2023, the original Pook’s Hill Lodge has been sold and is now operating under new management. Now it is the Belize Jade Jungle Resort and it still offers the same connection to nature and history that made Pook’s Hill so special.
The grounds and cabanas at Pook's Hill (LAURIE ENGLEKING)
Nature and Location
In the Mayan mountain foothills of western Belize, there lies a 300-acre private nature reserve of prime broadleaf forest that serves as home for the Pook’s Hill nature lodge. This Belize lodge itself is a real jungle experience, ideally situated by Five Blues Lake, The Blue Hole, Mountain Pine Ridge, Caracol, and Xunantunich. The lodge has two miles of frontage on the Roaring River, plus it borders the Tapir Mountain Nature Reserve, a 6,800-acre rainforest sanctuary inhabited by colorful toucans, hummingbirds, jaguar,s and howler monkeys. The 1,000 foot falls (Kate Boyd)
The Mayan Plaza: A Living Museum
Jade Jungle Resort is located at the site of a Mayan "plazuela" or "little plaza". This plazuela was an extended family homestead with a temple, feasting hall, burial grounds, and several masonry platforms that once supported pole and thatch buildings. Cultivated fields and stone dwellings surrounded the plaza. Cabanas at Pooks Hill (Katie Thies)
Traditional Mayan-Style Accommodations
Nowadays, travelers partaking on Belize tours to Pook’s Hill can rent a traditional Mayan-style white-washed cabana that is spacious and cool. All cabanas are built with high thatched roofs, full screens, electricity, and roomy bathrooms with hot water showers. The cabanas form a circle around the ruins of the Mayan plaza.
Nestled in the hillside, the lodge’s main building is designed using traditional Mayan architecture and provides views of the lawn, creek, and dense forest below. Lantern-lit evening meals of European and Caribbean dishes are served here, typically buffet style. There is the Verandah Bar and Lounge too, which is a large thatched open space that is comfortably furnished, providing a tranquil environment that is ideal for relaxing. Additionally, the lodge has a small but interesting library. Cooling off in a swimming hole on the Roaring River (David Vincent)
Mayan Sweat Bath Discovery
During your Belize tour, Jade Jungle Resort is among one of the best places in all of Central America to see firsthand the archaeological explorations that are unearthing the secrets of the Mayan heartland. One historic site of major importance is located right on the grounds of the lodge itself, where a team of archaeologists recently uncovered an ancient Mayan sweat bath - the first of its kind in Belize. The Mayan sweat bath was discovered in the northwest corner of the plaza by the Belize Valley Archaeological Reconnaissance Project under the direction of Dr. Jaime Awe, Belizean archaeologist with 22 years of field experience in Maya archaeology.
According to their research, the sweat bath was located near the primary residence of the plaza, and was probably used by the most exalted members of the community. The sweat bath was a common practice among the ancient Maya, as it still is among many modern Amerindians. It is suggested that male and female recreational bathing was commonplace and that the sweat baths were also used for discreet romantic encounters. It was associated with medicinal purposes too, and was thought to be of particular importance to pregnant women.
Architecture and artifacts from Jade Jungle Resort show signs of long-distance contact with central Mexico and with the Caribbean coast of Belize. It is found that Pook's Hill continued to flourish during the entire Terminal Classic period, 830-950 AD, when many other sites had been abandoned. Feasts of parrotfish, venison, and beverages served in molded-carved vessels were held during this time. Shortly later, though, Pook's, like many other sites, was abandoned.
The investigations in the area are still ongoing, and future analyses of recovered artifacts should provide further insight into ancient Mayan culture. Visitors to Belize and the Pook's Hill Lodge are welcome to tour the archaeological site and talk to the people involved in the excavations.
Jade Jungle Resort Activities
In addition to archaeological site tours, there are also guided day trips to the caves of the Roaring River Valley where archaeologists have discovered the remains of Mayan rituals, humans, jewelry, pottery, and snail shells. The lodge also provides day trips to Caracol and Tikal, Guatemala, two other significant Mayan population centers. Outdoor Adventures in the Jungle
Additional activities in Belize jungle tours include:
Birding tours in Belize - Pook's Hill Reserve is said by ornithologists to be in a league of its own for birding. Many birds nest in the area, including toucans, jacamars, spectacled owls, ferruginous pygmy owl, and, of course, various types of hummingbirds.
Swimming – Visitors can "tube float" along the two-mile stretch of river adjacent to Pook's Hill Reserve, or they can take a dive into the crystal clear jungle pools of the Roaring River. A refreshing addition to any Belize tour.
Belize Horseback riding - Riders can set out on an adventurous trail outing under the jungle canopy, through the river, and into the Roaring River Valley. One can experience an interesting and exciting ride, suitable for both beginner and advanced riders.
Hiking - There are several well-marked paths and trails for a visitor to experience. There is an information sheet about the plants and trees, and a guide is readily available to accompany visitors.
River trail – An easy walk through prime jungle and riverside, past the giant Strangler Fig, the Cortez, Ironwood, and Mahogany. Typically takes about 1/2 to 3/4 hour to complete.
Belize Jungle Trails – Hike under the jungle canopy, between the hills, and through hidden plazas. This trail is marked with tape, and we recommend a compass or guide to avoid disorientation. Approximately a 1 to 2 hour hike.
Caving in Belize - One of the most exciting adventures in Belize is right near Pook’s, the Actun Tunichil Muknal, or Mayan for Stone Sepulchre Cave. Visitors can take an expedition to the ancient Maya underworld and discover what gave the cave its name. Experience exceptional natural formations and the untouched remnants of ancient Maya rituals.
Limestone formations inside the cathedral of the ATM cave (Lynessa Nelson)
Staying in a jungle lodge during your Belize tour is about more than just accommodation—it’s a unique immersion into the natural and cultural riches of Belize. You can be surrounded by Mayan ruins and also enjoy a walk through the Belize rainforests. Jade Jungle Resort offers this.
Be surrounded by pristine rainforest and abundant wildlife.
Access world-class Mayan ruins just steps from your room.
Support conservation and local communities.
Enjoy outdoor adventure, archaeology, and relaxation—all in one place.
Whether you're here to explore Mayan ruins in Belize, go birding, or simply relax under the canopy, staying in a jungle lodge offers a rare blend of nature and heritage. Book Your Jungle Stay with Our Trip Planners Planning your Belize trip? Our expert Trip Planners can help you organize a personalized journey that includes Belize Jungle Lodge Resort stays, Mayan site visits, and unforgettable eco-adventures. Talk to a Trip Planner to get started on your Belize jungle experience.
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