Belize is a bird lover’s paradise—and some of the best birdwatching starts right outside your door!

For our 2-hour guided birding experience, the guide comes directly to the property, equipped with professional gear and an incredible knowledge of Belize’s birdlife. He’ll help you spot and identify the many species that visit the property and surrounding jungle. If there are a few species he’s hoping to find that morning, he may take you to his own property, just a 5-minute drive away, for even more opportunities.

For more enthusiastic birders, half-day and full-day private birding tours are also available. These longer excursions can take you to some of the area’s best birding destinations, including Mountain Pine Ridge, Laguna Aguacate, and El Pilar, with the location chosen according to the season and the species you’re hoping to see.

And of course, you can always skip the guide altogether, grab a cup of coffee, and settle into our screened lounge while the birds come to you. We like to call this “birdwatching for lazy people.” 😄

Imagine floating through the middle of the wild Belizean jungle, far from the crowds and completely surrounded by nature. A spacious flat pontoon carries you along the river from one beautiful waterfall to the next, with nothing around you but lush jungle, water, and the sounds of nature.

Spend the day exactly how you like—relax in the hammock, jump in for a swim, or get towed behind the pontoon on tubes for a little more adventure. The pontoon is equipped with a speaker, so bring your favorite playlist, as well as a BBQ where food can be prepared for you or you can enjoy cooking for yourself.

Bring your favorite drinks, put on some music, swim beneath waterfalls, eat, relax, and simply enjoy being in the middle of nowhere.

This one is especially close to our hearts. We celebrate all of our special occasions on the pontoon, and no matter how many times we go, it never gets old. It’s definitely off the beaten path and takes a little more effort to get there—but it is 100% worth it and, without a doubt, one of our favorite adventures in the area.

Experience the rich flavors and traditions of Maya cuisine in an immersive 3-hour cooking class. Get hands-on as you learn traditional techniques and prepare authentic dishes such as tamales, tostadas, handmade corn tortillas, and a flavorful chicken dish.

This is much more than simply learning a few recipes. It’s an opportunity to discover the ingredients, techniques, and traditions that have been passed down through generations, while hearing about the role food plays in Maya culture and everyday life. Along the way, enjoy fresh local juices and taste traditional Maya atole, a comforting corn-based drink with deep roots in Maya culture.

There are several wonderful local providers in our area offering Maya cooking experiences, each with their own recipes, traditions, and personal touch. Depending on where you are staying and the experience you’re looking for, we’ll be happy to help you find the right one.

Guests staying at Alma Del Rio can enjoy this experience without even leaving the property. A private Maya cooking class can be held right in Alma Del Rio’s outdoor kitchen, surrounded by the sights and sounds of the jungle. Your host comes to you, and together you’ll cook, learn, ask questions, and discover traditional Maya flavors in a relaxed, beautiful setting.

Once the cooking is done, sit down and enjoy everything you’ve prepared together.  It’s a personal, delicious, and memorable way to connect with Belize’s Maya heritage through its people, food, and traditions.

Explore the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve, where pristine waterfalls, refreshing natural pools, pine forests, and spectacular scenery make for a perfect day in nature. For those looking for a shorter adventure without the long drive to Caracol, Mountain Pine Ridge is a wonderful experience on its own.

For a full-day adventure, continue deep into the jungle to Caracol, Belize’s largest and most impressive Maya archaeological site. Discover towering pyramids, ancient plazas, and intricate carvings while learning about this once-powerful Maya city. Climb to the top of Caana, the tallest Maya structure in Belize, and take in breathtaking views over the rainforest.

On the way back, cool off in the beautiful waterfalls and natural pools of Mountain Pine Ridge—the perfect ending to a day of history, nature, and adventure.

If there’s one adventure you shouldn’t miss in Belize, it’s the ATM Cave! Many of our guests come back saying the same thing: “This is something you simply can’t experience anywhere else.”

Embark on an unforgettable journey into Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM), one of Belize’s most extraordinary archaeological sites. Hike through the jungle, cross rivers, swim and venture deep into the cave to discover ancient Maya artifacts, ceremonial sites, and the famous crystallized remains known as the “Crystal Maiden.”

Part archaeology, part adventure, and completely unique—ATM is a true must-do while visiting Belize.

Experience the colors, flavors, and local life of the San Ignacio Market! The market is open every day, with Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday being the busiest days—but Saturday definitely takes the lead, with more vendors, more food, and a lively crowd filling the market.

Wander through stalls overflowing with tropical fruits and vegetables, local products, handmade crafts, and street food while getting a real taste of everyday life in San Ignacio.

And don’t leave without trying the pupusas! Originally an El Salvadorian dish, pupusas have become a true market favorite in San Ignacio and are definitely worth a taste while you’re there.

Our favorite spot for a Saturday morning breakfast is El Fogón, a small local restaurant serving delicious homemade food made with love. It’s simple, authentic, and a wonderful way to start your morning before exploring the market.