Chaa Creek Lodge is in an untamed corner of Belize’s rainforest, near the misty foothills of the Maya Mountains. This resort has an impressive amount of activities on its grounds, and will pack your vacation full of the sites and sounds of the erstwhile kingdom of the Maya.

While you’re staying at Chaa Creek Lodge you can arrange day trips to Maya ruins like Xunantunich and Caracol. These once great Maya cities have impressive temples with stepped walls that you can climb. On the grounds of the lodge you can visit a butterfly farm, and hike on the lodge’s Rainforest Medicine Trail. Chaa Creek even has its own Natural History Museum where guests can learn about the civilizations that have made their home in this part of Belize. This resort has its own horse stables, and you are invited to explore the grounds of Chaa Creek on horseback. Visitors can take to the nearby Macal River for an inner-tubing or canoeing trip. Book a guided hike on one of the many trails through the surrounding rainforest, and keep your eyes out for the many rare birds and insects that live in this delicate ecosystem.

Chaa Creek Lodge has a selection of different accommodations, for a wide range of travel needs. Each of these guest spaces has handcrafted furniture and cozy decorations. They are also designed to stay cool without the use of air conditioning. Travelers who want luxury should book one of the villas or suites – check out the local birdlife in the treetop suite, or indulge in the polished luxury of the Macal Cottage. There are sizeable villas for large groups who want their own space. You can also book one of the lodge’s 23 cottages – they come complete with thatched roofs. Each of these cottages has large living rooms, a private veranda, and lots of natural light.

For travelers who want more of a rural experience the lodge offers small cabins with basic amenities. These cabins do not have electricity, but do provide guests with private bathrooms and showers. Your breakfast and dinner at the campsite are included.

When you want to unwind, visit the lodge’s eco infinity pool. Just like the rest of the lodge, the pool was designed to be as environmentally friendly as possible. It is large enough for swimming laps, and has a shallow end for children.

Chaa Creek Restaurant has something for everyone – from foodies to pizza-lovers. The restaurant grows as much of its ingredients as possible in its own organic garden, and sources the rest from local farms. In addition to local flavors, the restaurant also makes a hearty selection of international fare. Diners get to eat under thatch umbrellas on the restaurant’s outdoor dining patio.

Visit the Chaa Creek spa for one of the best views of the surrounding forest. It overlooks the Macaw River and the tangled rainforest. You can have a massage, a facial, or a beauty treatment in an open-air setting, while surrounded by the sounds of the jungle.