Nestled in the heart of the Belizean jungle, Black Rock Lodge is a stunning 20-cabin eco-resort set on 250 acres along the Macal River. Bordering the Don Elijio Panti Nature Reserve, this sustainable wilderness retreat offers an enchanting escape where luxury meets adventure. The individual cabins showcase indigenous Belizean architecture while providing modern comforts, complete with hammocks and Wi-Fi. With its own organic farm, spring-fed pool, and yoga palapa, the lodge delivers an authentic rainforest experience while maintaining its commitment to environmental conservation through solar and hydro power.
Their story
Black Rock Lodge’s story began in the early 1970s when Caesar Sherrard and his son Julian discovered the magical Black Rock Falls while exploring the Macal River Valley. Falling in love with the location, they leased the land from the Belize government. In 2007, the property was transformed into what it is today – a 20-cabin eco-resort. Adjacent to the Don Elijio Panti Nature Reserve, the lodge has become a sanctuary where adventure meets conservation, offering guests an authentic jungle experience while preserving Belize’s natural heritage. Read more about them.
Sustainability actions
Lowest impact construction and operation
- The lodge runs fully off-grid with solar and hydro power, treats wastewater naturally to support wildlife, and uses spring water with conservation-friendly fixtures.
- Their organic farm provides fresh ingredients for the restaurant, with over 100 fruit trees and various crops.
- The property practices extensive composting and has successfully reforested 30 acres of former pastureland.
- All cabins are constructed to maximize natural ventilation and integrate with the surrounding jungle environment, minimizing energy needs while preserving the ecosystem.
Highest level of energy efficiency
- Black Rock Lodge operates entirely off-grid, generating power through an innovative combination of solar (30%) and hydroelectric (70%) energy systems since 1989.
- The property features Belize’s most advanced wastewater treatment system – a “constructed wetland” installed in 2007 that naturally filters waste without chemicals or energy input.
Pioneer in waste management
- The facility processes all wastewater naturally and biologically, creating an ecosystem that becomes more effective over time without requiring chemicals or energy input.
- The lodge maintains rigorous composting practices, converting kitchen waste, leaves, and goat manure into organic fertilizer for their farm.
- They minimize waste through recycling programs while focusing on reducing single-use items.
- The kitchen’s farm-to-table approach helps limit packaging waste, with most ingredients sourced directly from their organic gardens and local vendors.
Using organic and chemical-free products
- The property features over 100 banana and plantain trees, diverse fruit orchards, and a coffee plantation – all grown without pesticides or artificial fertilizers.
- The farm includes free-range chickens providing fresh eggs and goats producing milk for homemade cheese and yogurt.
Actively protects nature and community
- The lodge actively supports wildlife conservation and partners with local organizations to empower communities. Staff and guests work together to preserve the pristine rainforest setting along the Macal River, ensuring responsible tourism that protects both nature and culture for future generations.
Most Popular Activities Near Black Rock Lodge
- Guided canoeing and kayaking through 6 miles of Macal River rapids.
- River tubing adventures with waterfall cascades.
- Extensive hiking trails to Flour Camp Cave, KeyHole Cave and Mountain Summit.
- Night hiking and wildlife spotting with expert guides.
- Yoga and meditation in open-air jungle palapa.
- Swimming in spring-fed pool overlooking Black Rock Canyon.
- Bird watching with over 320 recorded species.
- Mountain biking on surrounding jungle trails.
- Organic farm tours with animal interactions.
- Sustainable living and conservation education tours.
- Cave exploration with Mayan artifacts.
- River swimming with rope swing and floating dock.
- Early morning guided bird watching at Bird Tower.
- Family-friendly nature activities and night walks.
- Traditional Mayan massage treatments.
- Visiting Black Rock Falls and other nearby waterfalls.
Best Time To Visit Black Rock Lodge
- The best time to visit Black Rock Lodge is during Belize’s dry season from December to April, when the weather is warm, comfortable, and typically free of heavy rainfall. This period offers optimal conditions for outdoor activities like hiking, caving, and river excursions.
- The shoulder seasons (November and May) provide good value with fewer crowds, though occasional rain showers occur.
- The wet season (June-October) brings regular afternoon showers but also lush jungle landscapes and active wildlife.
- December through February are peak months with perfect weather but require advance booking due to high occupancy.