Machaca Hill - Rainforest Canopy Lodge

Perched in the verdant hills above the Caribbean coast of southern Belize, the lodge is a self-contained sanctuary from the everyday world. The Main Lodge is the communal heart of the resort, offering dining and lounging areas, our concierge and lobby lounge area, a finely edited gift shop, and observation decks giving onto grand vistas of the coast, Maya Mountains and an endless view of the untouched and pristine rainforest. Accommodations consist of 12 privately sited, individual suites with comfortable sleeping and relaxing spaces, screened fresh-air verandas, and luxurious tiled spa-style baths.

A pleasant garden path leads from the Main Lodge to our beautifully appointed spa, fronted by the stunning pool and sundeck. Beyond is a rolling sweep of lawn where High Tea is served-adjacent to our Ceremonial Fire Pit, the site for evening relaxation and socializing. Our 400' private tram whisks you down to our riverside deck, where you'll enjoy our waterfront dining area and riverside Maya bar, or embark on tranquil cruises on the jungle reaches of the Rio Grande with the Caribbean Ocean only minutes away.

Fishing

World-class sport fishing activities are offered to all Machaca Hill guests on a supplemental basis and require advance reservations.

Machaca Hill's prime location on the Rio Grande, just minutes by boat to the Caribbean Sea, provides limitless options for anglers. Machaca's highly trained guides specialize in the 'Big Three' - bonefish, tarpon and permit.

Most anglers visit for the world-class permit fishing; however the area around Machaca Hill is one of the few destinations on earth with large numbers of the 'Big Three.' Visiting anglers have the chance at a 'Grand Slam,' catching all three species - bonefish, tarpon and permit - on a single trip. Belize is working to protect and grow these fish stocks; in 2008 a law was passed making all three species available for catch-and-release fishing only.

Our fishing activities are usually fully inclusive of a qualified and extremely competent specialist guide, skiff, fishing equipment and all fuel for the entire day. Fishermen are encouraged to bring their own equipment if they choose; some equipment is available at the Lodge. Adequate rod holders and equipment stowage is available on board the skiff.

Machaca's most frequently sought-after species:

Permit: The flats, lagoons and river channels around Machaca are among the best permit fisheries in the world. The migration begins in February and ends in November; the largest fish are found between March and May.
Tarpon: Large tarpon are migratory, and found in the waters around Machaca from May through September. Smaller tarpon, under twenty pounds, can be found in the mangroves and brackish estuaries, creeks and lagoons year-round.
Bonefish: The local flats, lagoons and river mouths attract shrimp and, in turn, hungry bonefish from April to November. The largest migratory fish are generally found in October.
Snook: Coastal marine and brackish mangroves offer the best fishing from November through March when snook move into shallower water in search of warmer temperatures.
Jack Crevalle: Thriving in the area since the 1995 commercial net ban, large schools of jacks are found in the shallow flats and lagoons around Machaca from February through November.
Mutton Snapper: This coveted species is found year-round in the sandy areas around mangroves, lagoons and river basins.

A tailor-made picnic lunch is included in this activity; please discuss your preferences with your server or directly with the management or executive chef.

Birding and Wildlife

For the birder and jungle mammal enthusiast, animal photographer and tropical botany fan, this is paradise. Literally outside our door is an array of natural riches simply there for the seeing and appreciating. With a low human population density and focused preservation initiatives, the area's river lowlands, meadows, rainforests, cayes and marshes provide numerous habitats for the more than 618 recorded species of birds found in Belize. Adding to this bounty, the winter season brings an additional 200+ visiting migrants from North America; summertime sees an influx of South American migrant species. Impressively, a recent annual bird count logged in 276 species in a single day.

Jungle Excursions

On foot or our well maintained, name-brand mountain bikes, there's much to see and enjoy in the pristine Toledo rainforest: a limitless and varied tree canopy and the incredible stillness, punctuated only by the sounds of our forest denizens. On the verdant hillsides throughout our reserve, there's every opportunity to enjoy long vistas across the Maya Mountains and the Seven Hills and evenings surrounded by jungle sounds and the scent of rainforest greenery. As always, our trustworthy guides give perspective and knowledge to all you'll see and hear.

Caving Adventures lead guests on exciting subterranean treks to dramatic underground caverns. Frequently visited caves include Yok Balum, Santa Cruz and the impressive Hokeb Ha cavern, where stalactites loom overhead and stalagmites rise from the floor. The cavern at Blue Creek awaits those with a yen for cave swimming.

After dark jungle drives and hikes offer Machaca guests an opportunity to head out into the tropical night. Our guides equipped with high quality night-vision aids and low impact red filtered spotlights in search of the reserve's seldom-seen nocturnal animals, including; jaguar, ocelot, coati, peccary, kinkajou, tapir and fox. Night time in the rain forest presents an opportunity to explore our unique environment in a way experienced by relatively few travelers.

Full exposure to the many special attributes of the Machaca Hill environment is best achieved through the highly personalized, guided tour experiences offered within our Optional Collection. Available on a complimentary basis to our All-Inclusive Plan guests and on a supplementary basis to all Machaca guests, these activities are geared to smaller groups of 6 to 8 guests, insuring everyone has a window or waterside seats in our modern fleet of land vehicles and water craft.

Optional collection tours typically entail a full day of land and/or water-based activities, punctuated with a sumptuous and nutritious signature lunch in an adjacent, scenic location. Prior to the beginning of each tour, our guides will familiarize guests with pertinent details, promising a meaningful and fully enjoyable day; guests are encouraged to identify their preferences and interests at this time, to maximize their full engagement. In our fragile environment, we stress the importance of low-impact travel; our customized open-cab Land Cruisers, Polaris Rangers and motorized water craft possess the latest low-emission and noise pollutant technologies available.

River/Sea Adventures

Exploring the placid reaches of the Rio Grande, which winds through our reserve, is a high point of any visit to Machaca Hill. From the shy fresh-water crocodiles to surprising water-bird sightings, much can be seen as you drift, in your canoe or kayak, beneath the overarching canopy of jungle hardwoods and palms. The character of the river shifts subtly, from shadowy and sheltered upstream, to bright, breezy and briny as you approach the Caribbean with its sand bars and sea birds. An alternative for those seeking a bit more excitement? Fly-fishing for the tarpon and snook which congregate in the lower reaches of the river at different times of the year. Bring your gear and prepare to be challenged!

Guided Boat Adventures on the Rio Grande and Moho rivers feature sightings of a wide variety of southern Belize's diverse flora and fauna, including Howler Monkeys, numerous tropical birds, freshwater crocodiles, and green iguanas. The rivers, creeks and mangrove lagoons surrounding Machaca Hill are the preferred habitat for the shy West Indian Manatee. A second tour takes guests to the nearby Sapodilla and Port of Honduras Marine Reserves and Payne's Creek National Park.

to head out with guides, utilizing red low-impact spotlights, in search of the reserve's nocturnal creatures. Each night it is possible to spot a wide range of nocturnal animals along the way, and the tranquility of nighttime on the river is simply mesmerizing.

Our rainforest reserve overlooks the Caribbean Ocean and is just a short boat ride away. Many marine pursuits await your indulgence. From day trips to our private Nicholas Caye, to the world-class wonders of the Belize Barrier Reef, second largest on the planet, there's a different voice to the activities available on the open waters just off our shores.

Diving/Snorkelling

These activities are offered to all Machaca Hill guests on a supplementary basis and require advance reservations.

Machaca offers divers access to numerous sites, including the famed Belize Barrier Reef at the Sapodilla Cayes, the second largest barrier reef in the world. PADI certified instructors and dive masters provide exciting experiences suitable for everyone, from beginners to experts. Divers specifically looking for an encounter with whale sharks should plan to visit us between March to June when the gentle giants are just off of the coast near Machaca. A packed picnic lunch is included in this activity with consideration and diligence paid to your preferences and dive schedule.

Please enquire directly with the lodge regarding our state of the art equipment, services and dive sites.

Upcoming Trips

» April 30-May 6, 2011

» May 7-14, 2011

Rates

ALL INCLUSIVE RATES - per person sharing / night	Low Season	High Season
MACHACA HILL (12 rooms)	$460	$540
CHILDREN 6 YRS - 12 YRS (inclusive - sharing with adult)	$95	$110
CHILDREN 5 YRS OR YOUNGER (inclusive - sharing with adult)	$0	$0
ACCOMMODATION AND BREAKFAST - per room / night
MACHACA HILL RAINFOREST CANOPY SUITE (2 people)	$280	$400
THIRD ADULT 18 YRS AND OLDER (sharing with 2 adults)	$70	$100
FOURTH ADULT 18 YRS AND OLDER (sharing with 2 adults)	$35	$50
CHILDREN 6 YRS - 17 YRS (inclusive - sharing with adult)	$0	$25
CHILDREN 5 YRS OR YOUNGER (inclusive - sharing with adult)	$0	$0
NON INCLUSIVE ACTIVITIES - per person / day or activity
FULL DAY ACTIVITIES (1/2 Day Activities on Request)	$150	$150
CHILDREN 6 YRS - 12 YRS (inclusive - accompanied by adult)	$50	$50
CHILDREN 5 YRS OR YOUNGER (inclusive - accompanied by adult)	$0	$0
FISHING FULL DAY (per boat - 2 people maximum)	$325	$325
SCUBA DIVING 2 tank dive (minimum of 2 guests)	$500	$500
SCUBA DIVING 2 tank dive (3rd OR more guests)	$200	$200
SPA THERAPY TREATMENT - PER HOUR	$100	$100
LUNCH AND DINNER PACKAGE - per person / night
ADULTS 13 YRS AND OLDER	$80	$80
CHILDREN 6 YRS - 12 YRS (inclusive - accompanied by adult)	$25	$25
CHILDREN 5 YRS OR YOUNGER (inclusive - accompanied by adult)	$0	$0
TRANSFER FLIGHTS (Fixed Wing) - per person one way
BELIZE INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT / PUNTA GORDA	$135	$135
PUNTA GORDA / BELIZE INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT	$135	$135

LOW SEASON - 1 May to 14 December
HIGH SEASON - 15 December to 30 April

All rates are in US Dollars.
Rates are exclusive of G.S.T., service charge and hotel tax.
Accommodation and breakfast rates include; high-tea, pre-dinner snacks, unlimited guided walking trails, kayak and canoeing and use of our Gary Fisher moutain bikes on our exclusive 12,000 acre private reserve.

Please contact the shop at (403) 271-1016 for exact pricing.

Deposits
A non-refundable deposit of $2400 USD is necessary to hold space, with the balance being due 90 days prior to trip departure.

Special Notes
If you are interested in going to Machaca Hill at times other than the above listed weeks, let us know and we can put together a package for you.

For package pricing please fill out the form to the right or contact us by phone (403) 271-1016 or by e-mail.