Deep in southern Belize’s rainforest, Cotton Tree Lodge is an eco-resort spread across 100 acres along the Moho River at the foothills of the Maya Mountains. This authentic jungle retreat features 10 traditional Mayan-style cabanas crafted from natural hardwoods with thatched roofs, offering guests an immersive experience in Belize’s pristine wilderness.
The lodge combines adventure with cultural authenticity, allowing visitors to explore ancient ruins, swim in hidden waterfalls, make chocolate with local Maya farmers, and discover the region’s diverse wildlife. Powered by solar energy and featuring an organic farm-to-table restaurant, Cotton Tree Lodge exemplifies sustainable tourism while providing comfortable accommodations in one of Central America’s most untouched environments.
Their story
Cotton Tree Lodge was founded in 2006 by Chris Crowell and Jeff Pzena after Chris discovered Belize while traveling through Mexico and Guatemala. Captivated by a beautiful farm nestled on the bank of the Moho River beneath a towering Cotton Tree, Chris envisioned creating a place where visitors could appreciate local cultures while exploring their own spirit. After three years of planning with his business partner Jeff, they established the lodge, which opened its doors in December 2006.
The property changed hands in 2019 when Kasey and Adam Van Tassell purchased it, followed by current owners Andy and Kari Davis in 2022. Today, the lodge stands as a testament to sustainable tourism, offering an authentic jungle experience while supporting local communities and preserving the natural environment. Read more about them.
Sustainability actions
Lowest impact construction and operation
- The lodge features ten standalone cabanas constructed from local hardwoods with traditional Mayan-style thatched roofs, minimizing environmental impact.
- The property operates on solar power combined with diesel generators, implements rainwater collection systems for drinking water, and maintains an organic farm producing fruits, vegetables, and herbs.
- The lodge sources most food within a 10-mile radius, raises free-range animals, and practices sustainable farming methods.
Highest level of energy efficiency
- Cotton Tree Lodge demonstrates its environmental commitment through a hybrid power system combining solar energy and diesel generators. The eco-lodge is actively transitioning toward full solar power conversion to minimize its ecological footprint.
- They use filtered rainwater collection systems for drinking water. To conserve resources, they also pump river water for their organic garden in the early morning to minimize evaporation.
Pioneer in waste management
- Their on-site organic farm contributes to composting food waste, which enriches garden soil.
- The facility implements recycling programs for plastic, glass, and paper materials. Waste reduction strategies include composting toilets, biodegradable cleaning products, and minimal packaging.
Using organic and chemical-free products
- Cotton Tree Lodge operates a thriving organic farm, producing fresh fruits like mangoes, pineapples, star fruit, papaya, bananas, citrus, and various garden vegetables including salad greens, root crops, and tomatoes.
- They maintain chemical-free practices in raising free-range chickens, goats, and pigs for sustainable meat and dairy production.
Actively protects nature and community
- They support local villages through authentic cultural tours, employ Belizean staff, and purchase from regional farmers and vendors.
- The lodge protects the surrounding rainforest ecosystem, preserving habitats for howler monkeys, parrots, and native wildlife. It offers guests an immersive jungle experience that respects both nature and local traditions.
Most Popular Activities Near Cotton Tree Lodge
- Jungle survival tours and hiking through limestone caverns at Tiger Cave.
- Sunset river cruises spotting monkeys, parrots and toucans.
- Traditional Maya chocolate making with local cacao farmers.
- Swimming beneath Rio Blanco waterfall and exploring ancient ruins.
- Snorkeling at Snake Caye’s coral reefs.
- River tubing and kayaking adventures.
- Early morning guided birdwatching walks.
- Caribbean fishing for barracuda, mackerel, snapper and jacks.
- Traditional tortilla making classes with local Maya families.
- Spice farm tours featuring black pepper and vanilla cultivation.
- Cultural experiences in Maya villages.
- Organic garden and animal farm tours.
- Professional massage and spa treatments.
- Yoga sessions in custom-built gazebo overlooking gardens.
- Evening jungle treks to spot wildlife.
Best Time To Visit Cotton Tree Lodge
- The best time to visit Cotton Tree Lodge is during Belize’s dry season, from December to April, when the weather is generally sunny, and rainfall is at its lowest. This period offers ideal conditions for jungle activities, river cruises, and Mayan ruin explorations.
- While the lodge operates year-round, the wet season (June to November) brings occasional heavy rains that can affect road conditions to this remote location.
- March and April are particularly popular months, offering optimal conditions for both inland and river activities, though advance booking is recommended during this peak period.