Home › Destinations › Banana Bank Lodge
Banana Bank Lodge, Belize - Things to Do in Banana Bank Lodge

Banana Bank Lodge

Banana Bank Lodge, Belize - Complete Travel Guide

Banana Bank Lodge is a unique eco-adventure destination located along the Belize River in the Cayo District of western Belize. This working ranch and lodge sits on 4,000 acres of pristine tropical landscape, offering guests an authentic Belizean experience that combines wildlife encounters, horseback riding, and jungle adventures. The property is renowned for its rescued jaguar sanctuary, extensive horse program, and commitment to conservation and sustainable tourism. Founded by John and Carolyn Carr, Banana Bank Lodge has become a premier destination for travelers seeking an immersive experience in Belize's natural beauty. The lodge serves as an excellent base for exploring the region's Maya ruins, cave systems, and diverse ecosystems while providing comfortable accommodations and genuine Belizean hospitality. Guests can enjoy everything from river activities to cultural experiences, all while staying at one of Belize's most established and respected eco-lodges.

Top Banana Bank Lodge

Horseback Riding Adventures

Experience the Belizean countryside on horseback with guided rides through tropical forests, along riverbanks, and across open savannas. The lodge maintains a herd of well-trained horses suitable for all skill levels, from beginners to experienced riders. These rides offer excellent opportunities for wildlife spotting and provide a unique perspective on the diverse landscapes of the Belize River valley.

Booking Tip: Rides are typically included in lodge packages or available for $40-60 per person for day trips. Book morning rides for cooler temperatures and better wildlife viewing. Wear long pants and closed-toe shoes, and inform guides of your riding experience level.

Jaguar Sanctuary Visit

Meet the lodge's rescued jaguars in their specially designed sanctuary, where these magnificent cats live in spacious enclosures within their natural habitat. The sanctuary houses jaguars that were orphaned or injured and couldn't be released back into the wild. Knowledgeable guides share fascinating insights about jaguar behavior, conservation efforts, and the important role these apex predators play in Belize's ecosystem.

Booking Tip: Sanctuary visits are usually included for lodge guests and cost around $25-35 for day visitors. Best viewing times are early morning or late afternoon when jaguars are most active. Photography is encouraged but flash is prohibited.

Belize River Canoeing

Paddle down the historic Belize River in traditional canoes, following routes once used by ancient Maya traders and British loggers. The gentle river offers excellent opportunities to spot iguanas, crocodiles, tropical birds, and howler monkeys along the forested banks. These peaceful excursions provide insight into Belize's colonial history while showcasing the country's incredible biodiversity.

Booking Tip: Half-day trips cost $45-65 per person including equipment and guide. Morning departures offer the best wildlife viewing and cooler temperatures. Bring sun protection, water, and waterproof bags for cameras and electronics.

Maya Ruins Exploration

Explore nearby ancient Maya archaeological sites including Xunantunich and Cahal Pech, learning about the sophisticated civilization that once flourished in this region. These excursions combine history, archaeology, and jungle trekking as you climb pyramid temples and discover intricate stone carvings. The lodge's location provides easy access to multiple significant Maya sites within the Cayo District.

Booking Tip: Full-day tours to major sites cost $80-120 per person including transportation and guide. Combine multiple sites for better value, and bring comfortable walking shoes, water, and sun protection. Early starts help avoid crowds and heat.

Cave Exploration Adventures

Discover Belize's extensive underground cave systems, including the famous Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM) cave or river cave tubing experiences. These geological wonders were considered sacred by the ancient Maya and contain impressive formations of stalactites, stalagmites, and underground rivers. Some caves require swimming and hiking, while others offer more relaxed floating experiences through underground passages.

Booking Tip: ATM cave tours cost $95-130 per person and require good physical fitness. River cave tubing is more accessible at $65-85 per person. Book through reputable operators with proper safety equipment and experienced guides. Waterproof cameras are essential.

Getting There

Banana Bank Lodge is located approximately 47 miles west of Belize City and about 3 miles southeast of Belmopan, Belize's capital. Most guests fly into Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport in Belize City and arrange ground transportation through the lodge, which takes about 1.5 hours by road. The lodge can arrange private transfers for around $150-200 each way, or guests can rent a car and drive themselves along the well-maintained Western Highway. Some visitors also arrive via domestic flights to nearby airstrips or by crossing the border from Guatemala through Benque Viejo del Carmen.

Getting Around

The lodge provides transportation for most activities and excursions as part of their packages or day trip offerings. For independent exploration, rental cars are available in Belize City or Belmopan, and the lodge can assist with arrangements. Local taxis and buses serve the Western Highway corridor, though having arranged transportation through the lodge is most convenient for accessing remote attractions. The property itself is best explored on foot or horseback, with well-maintained trails connecting various areas of the ranch.

Where to Stay

Banana Bank Lodge Main Property
San Ignacio Town
Belmopan City Center
Cahal Pech Area
Cristo Rey Village
Teakettle Village

Food & Dining

Banana Bank Lodge features an on-site restaurant serving hearty Belizean and international cuisine made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients including produce from their own gardens and ranch. Meals often feature grilled meats, fresh river fish, tropical fruits, and traditional dishes like rice and beans with stew chicken. The nearby town of San Ignacio offers additional dining options ranging from local comedors serving authentic Belizean fare to international restaurants catering to tourists. Many guests enjoy the communal dining experience at the lodge, where meals become social occasions for sharing the day's adventures with fellow travelers and learning about local culture from the friendly staff.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Belmopan

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

View all food guides →

Wings and Feathers Café

4.7 /5
(480 reviews) 2
cafe clothing_store store

Everest Nepalese and Indian Restaurant

4.8 /5
(304 reviews)

Simple Life Restaurant

4.6 /5
(249 reviews) 2
store

Trey's Barn & Grill

4.8 /5
(222 reviews)

Cocogardens

4.6 /5
(230 reviews)

Casa Café

4.5 /5
(229 reviews) 2
cafe store

Looking for specific cuisines?

Local Cuisine Italian Japanese Fine Dining

When to Visit

The best time to visit Banana Bank Lodge is during the dry season from December through April, when rainfall is minimal and temperatures are more comfortable for outdoor activities. This period offers the most reliable weather for horseback riding, cave exploration, and Maya ruins visits. The wet season from May through November brings afternoon showers and higher humidity but also lush green landscapes, fewer crowds, and lower accommodation rates. Wildlife viewing can actually be excellent during the early wet season when animals are more active, though some activities may be weather-dependent.

Insider Tips

Book accommodations well in advance during peak season (December-April) as the lodge has limited rooms and is popular with repeat visitors
Bring insect repellent and long-sleeved clothing for evening activities, as mosquitoes and other insects are common near the river
The lodge's all-inclusive packages often provide better value than paying for individual activities, especially for stays of three or more nights

Activities in Banana Bank Lodge