My visit to Ian Anderson’s Caves Branch Jungle Lodge was a once in a lifetime experience. Imaging being lulled to sleep by the call of macaws chatting in the distance and a lone gecko chirping somewhere in the dark above your bed. The breeze is blowing through the vast screened windows, keeping the critters at bay.

The melodies of the rainforest flow in and out, soothing you into a blissful dream state.

Ian Anderson’s Caves Branch Jungle Lodge

You awaken early the next morning to a sound you’ve never heard before…the roaring of a howler monkey, one of the loudest animals on the planet. He’s greeting the day and warning the other troops that he and his family are nearby.

This is Ian Anderson’s Caves Branch Jungle Lodge, a unique resort tucked into the jungles of Belize. It’s only an hour and a half from the Philip Goldson International Airport (BZE), with plenty to see along the way.

Better than Summer Camp

Dubbed “summer camp for the entire family” by a fellow traveler, the lodge will take you back to memories of a simpler, more playful time. But it’s much better than summer camp! You are here to experience the very best of Belize, including stunning accommodations, fun activities, and tasty local fare.

This stylish property has received a TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence along with several National Tourism awards, primarily for their tours. Caves Branch offers a wide variety of all-inclusive vacation packages, including something for every budget and adventure level.

When you arrive at the lush welcome center, your luggage will be whisked away to your room while you fill out a brief release form (this is an adventure lodge after all). A guest services representative will then give you a brief orientation while you pat your brow with a cool cloth and enjoy a signature drink.

A Range of Accommodations

Ian Anderson’s Caves Branch Jungle Lodge accommodations at Caves Branch range from simple but comfortable cabanas to luxurious tree houses overlooking the roaring river or expansive jungle canopy.

For the budget-minded, you’ll find the cabanas and bungalows charmingly rustic. Each stand-alone unit is outfitted with a double or queen-sized bed and either a futon or set of bunk beds.

In addition to indoor showers in the well-appointed bathrooms, the cabanas allow access to private outdoor showers just down the jungle path. For a truly unique experience, the bungalows include an outdoor shower in your own private garden.

The jungle suites are similar to the cabanas but include a separate sitting room for added privacy. These units are perfect for families traveling with children. There’s even a furnished front patio where you can relax after your adventures of the day.

High Above the Jungle

If you want a luxurious 5-star experience, opt for a Riverview or Canopy view Tree House. These units sleep 5-6 people and offer a view of the rainforest for miles in every direction. Situated 75-200 feet above the jungle floor, you’ll need to be able to navigate lots of stairs. There are no elevators so these rooms are not handicap accessible.

The 2-bedroom Riverview and the Canopy View Treehouses both have a private rooftop deck with 2-person tub. Imagine soaking in the tub at night while marveling at the starlit sky. It’s an experience you won’t soon forget!

The locally-made, hardwood furnishings blend nicely with the surroundings. The beds are incredibly comfortable, so it’ll be easy to get a good night’s sleep. The kids will enjoy the menagerie of towel animals that the staff creates on a daily basis.

A Bounty of Good Eats

There’s no shortage of food at Ian Anderson’s Caves Branch Jungle Lodge. Delicious breakfast and dinner buffets are served at the resort’s open-air restaurant. Offerings include both American and local favorites. Don’t miss the popular “squeeze-your-own” orange juice station at breakfast.

If you are off for a day of adventure, your buffet lunch will be laid out picnic-style by your guides. Make sure to tell the chef if you are a vegetarian or have food sensitivities. He’ll be happy to accommodate you.

There’s a well-stocked bar with a separate menu for a-la-carte dining by the pool. The lounge area in the dining hall is a great place to socialize with fellow travelers. To help you truly escape the outside world, complimentary wi-fi can only be accessed in the main lodge and is turned off during meals.

Relaxing Onsite Activities

The swimming pool at Caves Branch Jungle Lodge is surrounded by lush plants and colorful flowers with a swim-under bridge and waterfall. You’ll love hopping into the bubbling hot tub after a full day of touring.

The massage pagoda sits right above the river and can accommodate two guests side-by-side. If you prefer privacy, a curtain can be drawn to separate the sides or simply request to be booked solo. The skilled therapists will knead out any sore muscles and restore you to a state of blissful relaxation.

After your massage, continue down the path to the 15-acre botanic gardens. As you meander through exotic orchids and bromeliads, you’ll have the opportunity to taste and smell a variety of plants along the path. Interesting stations are set up every few yards to educate you on the importance of Belizean flora and fauna.

Exciting Adventures Ahead

The resort is famous for their adventure tours. While the concierge at Caves Branch will be happy to arrange horseback riding or a snorkeling trip on the coast, the true magic lies in their signature tours!

For 18 years, Caves Branch has been offering amazing on-property adventures for every age and skill level. Each tour is rated by “sweat drops.” The after-dark jungle safari is rated a kid-friendly 2 sweat drops, while the Black Hole Drop and Waterfall Cave Expedition are rated a heart-pumping 5 sweat drops.

There are also cave tubing and zipline trips available. Of course, the guides are incredibly knowledgeable and they take all the appropriate precautions to make sure you have a safe and enjoyable vacation.

Travelers with young kids will be happy to learn that there are plenty of activities for them as well. If you need a little “grown-up time,” the resort does offer babysitting services. In fact, you won’t have to miss out on a thing while you’re here.

On your next trip to Belize, make time for Ian Anderson’s Caves Branch Jungle Lodge. Their experienced Adventure Team will work with you to craft the perfect hassle-free vacation to match your schedule, budget, and desires. There is truly something for everyone at this unique resort!

 

Disclosure of Material Connection: This is a “sponsored post.” The company who sponsored it compensated me via a cash payment, gift, or something else of value to write it. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”