West Belize
Hidden Valley Wilderness Lodge
Located in the remote Maya Mountains of western Belize, Hidden Valley Wilderness Lodge protects a 7200-acre private forest reserve offering exclusive access to over 90 miles of hiking and mountain biking trails through a mixture of pine forest and tropical broadleaf jungle to secluded pools and waterfalls.
The reserve forms part of the vast 100,000 acre Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve and is home to a wide variety of wildlife including over 200 species of bird (including many rarities) plus a host of mammals and other wildlife.
There are 12 cottages set within beautiful gardens, each with mahogany furnishings, ceiling fans, screened windows, en-suite bathrooms with hot water, and a brick fireplace for cool evenings. In the main building are lounge, bar and swimming pool with Jacuzzi. Hummingbird feeders attract many species to the gardens, where plenty of other birds can also be seen.
Facilities
90 miles of private forest reserve trails, walked only by the lodge guests; bar; restaurant; yoga platform; lookout decks; lounge area; pleasant pool area.
There are Garden and Estate cottages, as well as Valley View Villas. There is even the option of staying up in the Fire Tower for a novel, yet luxury, experience.
Local Wildlife
The lodge is very proud of its “Big Five” resident birds: king vulture, stygian owl, black and white eagle hawk, orange-breasted falcon and solitary eagle. All can be seen on the property, some more easily than others. Other wildlife includes peccary, coati, tapir, grey fox, white tailed deer, ocelot, margay, puma and jaguar – the cats have been seen, but rarely. Note: the pine forest has been badly affected by the parasitic bark beetle and numerous forest fires and is in the process of regeneration. The lower altitude broad leaf jungle, however, is in perfect condition, offering a distinct contrast.
Optional Activities
Birdwatching, hiking, swimming, night walks, horse riding, river canoe trips, cave visits, Maya ruin sites, yoga (at three platforms in the forest).
Jonathan Morris
Area Specialist
The fireplace in your room provides lovely warmth on what can often be cool evenings – just ask the reception for more wood if you run out. It is possible to be provided with a picnic lunch and walkie talkies when you go out on a long walk in the private reserve, so you can have a whole day out. When it’s time to return, just call the lodge and they will come to collect you.
If you have any questions regarding our Belize tours, please feel free to contact me on +44 (0)1803 866965
The undoubted highlight of Hidden Valley for us were the trails - beautifully maintained, through stunning countryside and often ending with natural pools perfect for swimming. The staff will transfer you to the trails, and pick you up when required (communication via the two way radio system being extremely helpful). Accommodation was first class, and birding also excellent.
