Located at the foothills of the Maya Mountains in Belize's Cayo District, Jade Jungle Resort borders the Roaring River and Tapir Mountain Nature Reserve. Situated within a 300-acre Private Reserve, it boasts an ancient Maya Plazeula Group. Perfectly positioned at the heart of the country, it serves as an ideal base for exploring Belize's wonders.
Jade Jungle Resort caters to adventurers, researchers, birders, families, and anyone eager to experience Belize's offerings. The adventure begins with a 3/4 mile access road winding through the rainforest, leading to private nature trails adorned with towering Mahogany, Cedar, Strangling Fig, and Ceiba trees. Home to Belizean wildlife like tapirs, jaguars, coatis, and gibnuts, the forest invites exploration and discovery.
Accommodations
The lodge surrounds a small Maya plaza with rolling lawns, leading to a river and jungle. Each of the 11 cabanas has a private bathroom, 24-hour electricity, and a fan. Enjoy a cool drink in the open bar and delicious Caribbean-style cuisine in the lantern-lit dining room.
The thatched cabanas surround a Maya site and overlook the forest canopy and creek below. The bar/veranda is ideal for birding or just relaxing in the tranquil setting.
On-site Activities
Activities at the lodge include birding, hiking, river tubing, and swimming. The lodge is within walking distance from the cave, Actun Tunichil Mucnal, the most adventurous caving expedition in Belize. Cave tubing or canoe tours on the Belize and Macal rivers or tours to Caracol, Tikal, and Xunantunich are also offered.
- Birding
Experience premier birding at Jade Jungle Resort, attracting enthusiasts worldwide. Our expert guides have identified 276 bird species, including rarities and migrants. Immerse yourself in the dawn chorus, traverse swing bridges for bird-level views, and explore trails teeming with avian life.
- Maya Plaza Tour
The Mayans used to inhabit the valley that is now occupied by Jade. The housing units were constructed in the vicinity of a family residential complex known as Plaza or Plazuela. During the tour, our guides will narrate the stories related to the site's restoration and enlighten us about the customs and traditions of these ancient people.
- Hiking
Explore the beautiful trails at your own pace. The lower trails showcase sights of the meadow, tree swings, Bay Palm Loop, Secret Garden, a giant Ceiba tree, and three swimming holes. The upper trails, nestled under the canopy, offer stunning views of towering hardwood trees with various elevations. For safety, remain on designated trails, hydrate adequately, and return before sunset.
- Guided Hiking
For those not confident about exploring the wilderness alone or desiring insights into local flora and fauna, guided hikes with our knowledgeable local guides are available. Despite their modest stature, they possess unparalleled knowledge of the jungle and wildlife.
Join complimentary weekly tours or opt for a private half-day or full-day tour. Tours prioritize simplicity, clarity, and informative content, devoid of unnecessary jargon or legal language. Accessibility for all is ensured by employing everyday language.
- Yoga
Begin your day with a rejuvenating morning yoga session aimed at enhancing physical and mental well-being
- Tower Farms
The farm boasts 50 aeroponic garden towers and garden boxes, totaling 2,200 growing ports, enabling diverse produce cultivation. Visitors can independently explore the farm, join the weekly complimentary tour for harvesting, or schedule a private tour to learn about our cultivation methods at Jade Jungle Resort.
- Secret Garden
Explore the Bay Palm Loop to uncover The Secret Garden, teeming with a variety of vegetables, herbs, and fruits. You can independently explore The Secret Garden anytime or join our weekly complimentary tour for insights and optional harvesting. For a personalized experience, schedule a private tour.
- Massage
Get a massage in a serene jungle setting. Our local therapists offer customized massages in a thatched-roof palapa. Schedule an appointment before your vacation. On-site services are available only by appointment.
- Mayan Cooking Class
Experience the traditional art of handcrafting tamales and tortillas, as practiced by the Mayans. Engage in this hands-on activity, where you'll have the opportunity to make your tortillas and tamales over our traditional fire hearth. Consult the office for the weekly schedule.
- Water Heater Lighting
Discover the water heating process by signing up to assist our maintenance team for a day. Burn Cohune Nuts in the water heaters daily to maintain warm water temperatures. Check the office for the schedule.
Operated by
Jade Jungle Resort (Formerly Pook's Hill)