Sitting in the northwestern corner of Belize, a sprawling swathe of lush green rainforest serves as an important puzzle piece in the fight to preserve biodiversity. La Selva Maya, or the Maya Forest, is the largest contiguous forest north of the Amazon. Stretching far beyond the borders of Belize, it also extends into parts of Mexico and Guatemala. And though most may not be aware of it, it is home to some of the world’s most beautiful creatures, including the elusive jaguar. If you’re a nature lover with a penchant for conservation, here’s what makes this Central American rainforest destination a must-visit.
A Landscape Worth Protecting
Home to ancient and towering trees, hundreds of species of birds, and majestic creatures like the puma and the howler monkey, the Maya Forest is the epitome of biodiversity in Central America. It plays a critical role in the health of our planet, especially as one of the last remaining strongholds for endangered species like jaguars and tapirs.
Despite its ecological importance, the Maya Forest is under threat. From illegal logging to agricultural expansion, human activity continues to chip away at this precious ecosystem. Fortunately, dedicated organizations and coalitions, like the Selva Maya Alliance and Wildlife Conservation Society, are working tirelessly to protect it through cross-border conservation efforts, scientific research, and community engagement.
In Belize, progressive policies and vast protected areas (including in the Orange Walk District, where Chan Chich Lodge is located) have made the country a leader in forest preservation. These efforts have helped to create safe corridors for wildlife and preserve the cultural and ecological heritage of the region.
Experience the Maya Forest at Chan Chich Lodge
For travelers seeking an authentic, immersive experience in the Maya Forest, Chan Chich Lodge offers a rare opportunity. Nestled within a 30,000-acre private reserve and surrounded by half a million acres of protected land, the lodge is a haven for eco-tourism and wildlife encounters. It’s not uncommon for guests to spot jaguar tracks along the trail, hear toucans calling overhead, or wake to the roar of howler monkeys echoing through the canopy.
Our Belize jungle lodge offers a low-key yet still luxurious rainforest retreat. But it also strives to support conservation through sustainable practices, local partnerships, and scientific collaboration. By staying here, you directly contribute to the protection of the forest and the species that call it home.
An Under-the-Radar Destination With Global Impact
La Selva Maya may still be under the radar for many travelers, but its significance cannot be overstated. It’s a place where ancient Maya archaeological sites lie hidden beneath the trees, where endangered species roam freely, and where guests can connect with nature in its most untouched form. For those drawn to the wild and committed to preserving it, there’s no better destination.
Plan your journey to Chan Chich Lodge, and become part of the story of The Maya Forest. It’s conservation meets adventure here in one of the world’s last great rainforests.