In the middle of the jungle, this beautiful and authentic lodge in the ancient Maya city of Lamanai offers both adventure and peaceful nature.

Surrounded by lagoons and streams, the ancient Maya city of Lamanai has a fitting name: “Submerged crocodile.” Travelers to this special part of Belize’s Orange Walk District will have the chance to see some submerged crocodiles themselves. The New River, flowing through the region, is home to these legendary creatures, as well as colorful birds and hydrophilic iguanas—iguanas that emerge and then disappear into the mysterious waters. Guests can boat down these waterways to witness the ancient temples rising before their eyes, including Lamanai itself, where copper artifacts were uncovered, revealing new insights into the Maya people. Perhaps most impressive is the Jaguar Temple, adorned with 15-foot (5 m) stone masks, including that of a Mayan king.

The lodge’s extraordinary location puts guests in close proximity to adventure destinations. The excitement begins right away on the journey via car and boat to the lodge. Guests come here for sunrise canoe expeditions, fishing, crocodile encounters, and of course, exploring Lamanai’s ruins, starting right from the lodge’s grounds. In the early morning, eager visitors can embark on an airboat safari through the wetlands or hike through the jungle at dawn to witness the rainforest come alive.

Thatched-roof cabanas, with queen or double-sized beds and some designed to accommodate families, provide an authentic feel to the stay. The native materials used to construct these charming accommodations, along with their private verandas, blend seamlessly into the surrounding foliage. While only two cottages offer air conditioning, ventilation is ample thanks to the lagoon breeze and high-output ceiling fans. Unlike many remote lodges, guests can access the Internet from a communal computer or their own devices, and laundry service is available at an additional cost.

A coffee, tea, and cocoa bar serves Belizean-grown favorites, and a cocktail bar is available in the afternoons and evenings with happy hour-style snacks. The lodge provides all meals for guests, including options for vegan and vegetarian diets—just let the lodge know in advance. For a truly special start to the day, breakfast can be served on the airboat, sailing over Crab Lagoon while sipping mimosas and enjoying a full-service breakfast. Meals are scheduled, but there are plenty of snacks and drinks available in between, including those served by guests’ private bartender during the sunset cocktail cruise, offering a delightful way to see jungle wildlife from a 30-foot (9-m) pontoon boat with a tropical drink in hand.