Pooks Hill Lodge is at the foot of the Maya Mountains, not far from the Tapir Mountain Nature Reserve. It is in a jungle where the Maya used to live, located about an hour from San Ignacio.

The lodge sits on its own small nature preserve, with its very own Maya ruin on the property. These low, stepped structures are in the midst of the lodge’s cabins. This is a preview for some more of the stunning Maya ruins in the area. Take a day trip to the Tapir Mountain Nature Reserve to see the Aktun Tunichil Muknal cave, also called the ATM cave. On a tour of this cave you’ll see ceramics and the calcified bones of Mayan sacrifice victims. Staying at this lodge will put you just an hour away from Xunantunich, a Maya site that includes a large pyramid called El Castillo. Visitors are welcome to climb this stepped pyramid for an impressive view of the site. This is also a destination for bird watchers, who come to the jungles in this part of Belize to look for rare, tropical birds like resplendent quetzals, spectacled owls, and toady motmots.

If you want to cool off, visit the resort’s riverfront for some swimming in the Roaring River. You can also go tubing on this part of the river, or go for a hike to nearby jungle pools.

Cabins here are meant to blend in with their surroundings, with thatched roofs and a traditional design. On the inside, the cabins are richly decorated with bright textiles and colorful pieces of art. These cabins have electric power and ceiling fans. Windows and doors come with screens to help keep out pests. All of the cabins have private bathrooms that are equipped with hot water showers.

You can eat all of your meals at the lodge’s dining room, located in the main building of the lodge. Lit by lanterns, this dining room has a warm and cozy atmosphere. Guests can help themselves to a buffet that is laden with Belizean and European options. You’ll also have the opportunity to try lots of fresh, local fruit. The main lodge also has a bar that serves refreshing tropical drinks.