Sleeping Giant Rainforest Lodge, centrally located in Belize, is a standout addition to any itinerary, and a place I recommend to anyone if staying a few days in Belize. When I visited, I was coming from the beaches of Placencia in search of a jungle retreat—and this lodge delivered in every way. Spanning a sprawling property that includes a lush rainforest, an old fruit orchard, and a winding river, the lodge offers an immersive rainforest experience that uniquely combines high-end luxury with thrilling adventure, all amidst stunning natural beauty.
The property includes all the amenities you'd expect from a high-end lodge: multiple dining options, a pool with a stylish lounge area, and charming water features. What truly sets it apart, however, are its unique offerings. Guests can paddleboard or kayak along the river, hike to a scenic lookout point, or explore The Nest, a towering treehouse platform with breathtaking views of the river and surrounding jungle and rope bridges that add a touch of adventure.
First Impressions and Evening at Sleeping Giant Rainforest Lodge
We arrived at the lodge mid-afternoon, and during check-in, the staff informed us that darkness would settle by 5 PM, making it unsafe to venture too far. With limited daylight, we spent the rest of the afternoon exploring the lodge's expansive property.
We began with some downtime at the pool but soon decided to stretch our legs. Unfortunately, all three adult-sized bikes available at the hotel were in use, so we pivoted to a walk along the river. This detour led us to The Nest, a treetop platform featuring a rope net where you can lounge and soak in the view. While the height was a little intimidating, it was still an unforgettable experience.
Next, we explored the trail leading to the lodge's rope bridge. With the thick forest canopy darkening quickly, we veered off toward the orchard for a brief look around before heading back. Though short, it was a great introduction to the lodge's unique features.
We opted to stay on-site for dinner, as driving after dark and finding appealing restaurant options nearby didn't seem practical. The main restaurant and bar offered a stylish seating area with a lovely view of the forest. However, after glancing at the menu, we chose the simpler wood-fired pizza option downstairs. While definitely overpriced, the pizza turned out to be surprisingly good and hit the spot for a relaxed evening.
We didn't want to end the night and our room was spacious with a cool outdoor balcony , so we picked up a couple of Cokes from the bar and brought them back to mix with some local rum we had purchased the day before. With drinks in hand, we spent the evening playing cards and relaxing on the balcony, which overlooked a bubbling creek. Before calling it a night, we indulged in the large outdoor bathtub.
A Morning of Exploration
The next day, we had planned to visit St. Herman's Blue Hole National Park, but since it didn't open until 9 AM, we decided to explore more of the lodge's property by bike. Riding to the far end of the orchard, where the walking path meets the road, we then looped back along the scenic trail.
It's worth noting that the bikes were in rough shape, making them challenging to use. However, our ride turned magical when we stumbled upon about 10 free-roaming horses grazing in the orchard. A few were curious and friendly, approaching us for a quick hello and even letting us pet them. This unexpected encounter was one of the trip's most heartwarming and delightful highlights.
Exploring St. Herman's Blue Hole National Park
After packing up and checking out, we made our way to St. Herman's Blue Hole National Park, arriving just as it opened. With no other visitors in sight, we had the park to ourselves.
Our first stop was St. Herman's Cave, a short walk from the parking lot. While the cave entrance was fascinating, we quickly realized we weren't equipped for proper exploration—we lacked flashlights and any other necessary gear. Park rules also limit unguided exploration to 100 meters, so our time there was brief.
Next, we drove a minute down the road to the Blue Hole, a deep natural swimming spot formed by the river. The setting was serene and inviting, but the early hour and cool morning air made swimming less appealing. Instead, we took in the tranquil surroundings before continuing our journey to San Ignacio.
Conclusion: A Great Place to Stay if Going to Belize
Sleeping Giant Rainforest Lodge offers an enchanting escape into the heart of Belize's jungle. Its luxurious amenities, unique activities, and stunning natural surroundings create a truly memorable experience. Whether you're lounging by the pool, kayaking along the river, or stumbling upon free-roaming horses, the lodge offers moments that linger long after you've left.
For travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation, this lodge is a must-visit. It's a place where nature and comfort coexist harmoniously, making it an unforgettable highlight of any trip to Belize.
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