What to do at
BLACK ROCK LODGE
WE’RE NOT THE TYPICAL HOTEL EXPERIENCE
On-site Activities
Most hotels have one feature or offering that really makes them stand out, be it their cozy rooms, beautiful pool, or proximity to major attractions.
Black Rock Lodge is a wonderland of adventure, waiting to be discovered by you. Because of our unique off-the-grid setting, you won’t have to wander far to find something exciting to do. And while we hope you set out to explore all that Belize has to offer, we also won’t be surprised if you decide to hang out at Black Rock all day long. It’s quite easy to do so when you have a rushing river, a tropical rainforest, and a national park all in your backyard.
Guided Canoeing & Kayaking
Meander along six miles of the Macal River through moderate rapids and verdant rainforest. Our eagle-eyed naturalist guides will point out different species of wildlife that live in and along the river.
Note: All water/river activities are available depending on river levels.
For a more leisurely ride, enjoy a guided canoe ride! Let our guides do the paddling, while you sit back and soak in the scenery.
Kayaks are single seaters and great for active guests, who want to navigate the twists and turns of the river on their own. While you will be in the driver’s seat with this option, kayaking does also require a guide. There is also a stand-up paddleboard for guests use by the beach area.
We offer three fun canoeing/kayaking options for guests of different levels of adventure
Option 1: Dock at DuPlooy’s Lodge & visit the Belize Botanical gardens.
Option 2: Dock at Chaa Creek Lodge, have lunch and visit the Blue Morpho Butterfly Centre and Natural History Museum.
Extra fees apply.
Option 3: Canoe or kayak all the way to San Ignacio. 5-6 hour trip.
All water/river activities are available depending on water levels.
River Tubing
Need a rush? River tubing down the Macal as you whizz past the sights and sounds of the rainforest, should do the trick! Starting a mile up from the lodge, guests float through cascades and deep polls along the way back toward the lodge. You’ll tackle a few small rapids on your journey, but the real fun is at the end: the Black Rock Waterfall. If you are feeling brave, glide down and over the waterfall, an optional cascade for tubers. And there is a bonus -stay on your tube and enjoy a free rum punch!
Note: All water/river activities are available depending on river levels.
Tubing is complimentary for in-house guests but if you require a guide, a small fee will apply.
Without Black Rock Waterfall: Age restrictions apply based on safety concerns.
*All water/river activities are available depending on water levels.
Hiking
When nature calls, hit the trails! We have miles of hiking trails that start at our lodge and lead to some of the area’s most spectacular sites like, Flour Camp Cave, KeyHole Cave, and the Mountain Summit with Vista Loop and Vaca Falls. Seasoned pros to novice hikers will find a trail suited for their level and interest. Our tour desk is on hand to provide a trail map and give advice.
Wildside Hike
Take a walk on the wildside to the Don Elijio Panti National Park, which lies right across the river from our lodge. The biodiversity of this area is matched only by the unique history of the park itself. Elijio Panti, after whom the park is named, was widely revered as the last Maya master healer of Belize. On this hike, your guide will take you across the Macal River in a canoe to the start of the trailhead. As you zig-zag through the mountains, you will learn about many of the medicinal plants Dr. Panti once used to heal people and the history of the Itzamna society. Within this beautiful Belizean reserve, you may spot wildlife and a vast number of bird species. The hike highlight is reaching the grand overlook with spectacular views of the Black Rock valley and
mountains from the EP summit. This is a half-day hike and is highly recommended when visiting Black Rock Lodge.
Guided Night Hike
If you’re a night-owl, strap on your boots and head for the jungle. Our night hike is for you! An experienced guide will lead you through the rainforest and point out nocturnal creatures like tarantulas, snakes, the red-eyed tree frog and more. This family-friendly hike is a fun and educational way to experience a different side of Belize.
Alternatively, guests can opt for a night drive where our guides will point out our nocturnal guests. We’ll be on the lookout for owls, foxes, wild cats, and more! We are happy to accommodate families with small children on a shorter, earlier night hike so that our tiny guests can also experience the magic of the jungle at night.
Yoga
Imagine standing in tree pose, feeling powerful and connected, as you overlook the tall, lush trees of the rainforest. At Black Rock, your wellness routine is enhanced by the sacred setting of the Mayan jungle.
Our yoga palapa is the perfect place to enjoy your personal practice or join in with a group. Guests are also welcome to practice meditation on the palapa. We offer yoga mats for your practice, so feel free to stop by the office and borrow one for personal use.
Swimming
Cool off in our spring-fed relaxation pool. With views overlooking Black Rock Canyon and Macal River, you’ll find respite while taking a refreshing dip. The pool is suitable for guests of all ages. Guests can also enjoy swimming in our rive, our rope swing, and floating dock.
Flour Camp Cave
Combine your hiking adventure with some cave spelunking! Flour Camp Cave is full of Mayan artifacts, and geological formations that will delight explorers. The adventures continues after a tour of the cave, as we hike to an unexcavated Mayan temple and rainforest ruins.
Most of our on-site activities are complimentary but some do require a fee because they include one of our highly trained guides, equipment or return transfer by road. All require minimum two people and are available for all ages unless otherwise stated. If you have questions about any of the activities or would like tailor an experience based on your needs, our planning team would be happy to assist you.
Guided Birding (early morning)
Black Rock’s incredible location on the banks of the Macal River, lends itself to witnessing scores of tropical birds. During the winter months the population doubles as migratory birds fly South from Canada and the US. At Black Rock you’ll see hummingbirds, toucans, parrots, the rare and endangered Orange Breasted Falcon, woodpeckers… and the list goes on and on! We currently have recorded 320 different species on and near Black Rock Lodge. Enjoy a walk to our Bird Tower which boasts panoramic views of the area and the chance to spot these different birds.
Create unforgettable experiences at Black Rock Lodge!
Find the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation at our lodge.
Whether you want to head out into the wild and hike the mountains, or salute the sun on the yoga palapa, we’re certain you’ll find your groove here at Black Rock.