Banana Bank Lodge - Nohoch Che'en Archaeological Reserve
Set on a sprawling 400-acre working horse ranch along the Belize River, Banana Bank Lodge offers a unique blend of equestrian adventure and jungle exploration. Guests can enjoy horseback riding, birdwatching, and river tours, with comfortable cabana-style accommodations. It serves as a rustic yet charming base for exploring the Cayo District, including day trips to the Nohoch Che'en Reserve.
- Location
- Nohoch Che'en Archaeological Reserve, Cayo & Western Maya Mountains, Belize, Central & South America
- Type
- hotel
- Coordinates
- 17.270000, -88.760000
- Price range
- mid-range
- Phone
- 501-673-2020
- [email protected]
- Website
- https://www.bananabank.com
- Activities
- Birding, Spa
- Amenities
- Swimming Pool, Pool, Spa, Bar, Library, Conference
- Capacity
- 30 guests
- Rooms
- 15
- Dietary options
- Vegetarian options available
- Night drives
- Available
- Child-friendly
- Yes
- Pool/Spa
- Available
PlnrScore: 51/100
Community
clinic
Best Time to Visit Banana Bank Lodge
The best months to visit Banana Bank Lodge are March, April, May, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Month-by-Month Safari Conditions
- January: Good, temperature 23.1°C, rainfall 147.5mm, sunshine 9.1 hrs, humidity 86.6%
- February: Good, temperature 23.41°C, rainfall 89.3mm, sunshine 9.9 hrs, humidity 82.7%
- March: Great, temperature 25.17°C, rainfall 84.2mm, sunshine 11 hrs, humidity 80.4%
- April: Great, temperature 26.8°C, rainfall 53.9mm, sunshine 11.3 hrs, humidity 77.3%
- May: Great, temperature 27.49°C, rainfall 108mm, sunshine 10.7 hrs, humidity 79.9%
- June: Good, temperature 26.92°C, rainfall 208.2mm, sunshine 9.1 hrs, humidity 84.3%
- July: Good, temperature 26.37°C, rainfall 213mm, sunshine 10.1 hrs, humidity 86.1%
- August: Good, temperature 26.45°C, rainfall 227.1mm, sunshine 10.2 hrs, humidity 86.5%
- September: Good, temperature 26.49°C, rainfall 209.8mm, sunshine 10.1 hrs, humidity 86.4%
- October: Good, temperature 25.79°C, rainfall 245mm, sunshine 9 hrs, humidity 85%
- November: Good, temperature 24.04°C, rainfall 359.1mm, sunshine 8.1 hrs, humidity 87.6%
- December: Good, temperature 22.9°C, rainfall 213.1mm, sunshine 8.1 hrs, humidity 88.1%
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the real draw at Banana Bank Lodge beyond just the horses?
While the horseback riding is undeniably a highlight, we love that Banana Bank Lodge truly immerses you in the Belizean jungle. The guided river tours along the Belize River are fantastic for spotting wildlife like howler monkeys and numerous bird species, and the lodge's proximity to the Nohoch Che'en Archaeological Reserve means ancient Mayan history is just a short trip away.
We're considering Banana Bank Lodge for our family. Is it genuinely child friendly?
Absolutely. We found Banana Bank Lodge to be wonderfully welcoming for families. The cabana-style accommodations are comfortable and spacious enough for kids, and the staff are excellent at arranging activities suitable for younger guests, from gentle horseback rides to exploring the ranch grounds safely.
What kind of wildlife can we realistically expect to see right at the lodge or on nearby excursions?
Beyond the horses, we consistently spotted vibrant tropical birds right on the property, and the Belize River is a highway for wildlife. Expect to see howler monkeys, iguanas, and a dazzling array of birdlife during river tours. While not guaranteed, keep an eye out for manatees in the river during certain times of the year.
What's the best time of year to visit Banana Bank Lodge for optimal weather and activities?
We recommend visiting during the dry season, from November to May. The weather is generally sunny and pleasant, perfect for horseback riding and exploring the jungle without too much humidity. You'll find the birdwatching particularly rewarding during these months.
Given it's a working ranch, what's the overall vibe and accommodation style like?
The lodge strikes a perfect balance between rustic charm and comfort. The cabanas are well appointed and feel private, offering a cozy retreat after a day of adventure. It's not overly polished, but that's part of its appeal; the focus is on the natural surroundings and the equestrian experience, which we find incredibly authentic.
Other Safari Lodges in Nohoch Che'en Archaeological Reserve
Parks in Cayo & Western Maya Mountains
- Actun Tunichil Muknal Natural Monument
- Aguacate Lagoon Private Reserve
- Belize Maya Forest
- Caracol Archaeological Reserve
- Chiquibul Forest Reserve
- Chiquibul National Park
- El Pilar Archaelogical Reserve
- Guanacaste National Park
- Labouring Creek Jaguar Corridor Wildlife Sanctuary
- Lagoon Bank Reserve
- Mischner & Bowen Reserve
- Monkey Bay Private Reserve
- Monkey Bay Wildlife Sanctuary
- Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve
- Nohoch Che'en Caves Branch Archaeological Reserve