WELCOME TO GAIA RIVERLODGE
Tucked away in Belize’s Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve, Gaïa Riverlodge is an off-grid jungle escape perched above the Five Sisters Waterfalls. Expect open-air cabanas, homegrown produce, and electric trams to the river below.
An hour’s jeep ride from San Ignacio, Gaïa feels like you’ve dropped off the map in the best possible way. Days move between waterfall swims, forest hikes, and lazy hammock hours under a canopy of toucans and howlers. There’s no background noise here beyond the rush of the river and the occasional cocktail being shaken. The small details set Gaïa apart: the Mayan kitchen garden, the local guides who know every cave and trail, the sense of being just you and the jungle.
What we love about Gaia Riverlodge
- Its prime location perched directly above the Five Sisters Waterfalls, with uninterrupted views and private river access.
- The fully off-grid setup, powered by hydroelectricity, making it one of Belize’s most sustainable stays.
- The electric tram that takes guests from the main lodge down to the river and swimming decks.
- Seasonal menus built around produce from the on-site Mayan organic garden, grown and prepared by local staff.
- Easy access to some of Belize’s most iconic sites, including ancient Maya caves and jungle trails, with expert local guides.
What to do at Gaia Riverlodge
Days at Gaïa Riverlodge are made for exploring Belize’s wild side.
Start with a morning swim beneath the Five Sisters Waterfalls, just a short electric tram ride from your cabana. Head out on a guided hike through the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve, spotting toucans, howler monkeys, and rare orchids along the way.
For something more adventurous, take a day trip to nearby Maya sites like Caracol or venture into Rio Frio Cave. Back at the lodge, slow things down with sunset drinks overlooking the valley before dinner made with ingredients straight from the garden.
Gaïa Riverlodge is location around an hour south of San Ignacio. To get here, you’ll fly into Belize City, then travel approximately 2.5 hours by road into the mountains. The final stretch is a scenic drive through forest and farmland, with the last part of the journey on rugged, unpaved roads.
When To Travel
November to May
Gaïa Riverlodge is open year-round, but the best time to visit is during Belize’s dry season from November to May, when temperatures sit between 24–28°C and skies stay clear, perfect for hiking, swimming, and exploring nearby Maya ruins. The rainy season runs from June to October, bringing heavier showers, particularly in the afternoons, though the forest is at its most lush and the waterfalls are at full power. While travel is still possible during these months, some activities may be weather-dependent. Wildlife sightings, especially birdwatching, are excellent year-round.
Looking for more inspiration? Learn more about our bespoke holidays and adventures in Belize, or discover our other luxury properties.
