Relax in the Belize Rainforest at the Sleeping Giant Rainforest Lodge

Experience luxury nestled in the middle of nature.

SI SWIMSUIT 2022 HOTELS: Naïa Resort & Spa | The Buccaneer Hotel | The Ritz-Carlton St. Thomas | O2 Beach Club & Spa | Fairmont Royal Pavilion Barbados | Maestral Resort & Casino | Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta Cana | The Westin Puntacana Resort & Club

Belize was the third stop of the year for the SI Swimsuit team. We worked with photographer Yu Tsai and photographed models Kate Bock, Jasmine Sanders, Leyna Bloom and Natalie Mariduena. During the photo shoot, the team stayed at the Rainforest Lodge at Sleeping Giant, which was a treat beyond our wildest dreams.

The Rainforest Lodge at Sleeping Giant offers a bit of everything for all walks of travelers. The property is nestled into the foothills of the Maya Mountains and spreads over 600 acres of land. Its is located just a 30-minute drive out of Belmopan City and 45 minutes away from pristine beaches. The hotel is located within dense rain forest, with mindfulness to preserve the integrity of the forest.

Mountain View from afar Penthouse Suite

Rainforest Lodge at Sleeping Giant is nestled at the foothills of the Maya Mountains

FAQ

Where is Sleeping Giant Rainforest Lodge?

Located in the Cayo District of Belize, the Rainforest Lodge at Sleeping Giant is nestled at the foothills of the Maya Mountains alongside the Sibun River and surrounded by the 10,000-acre Sibun Nature Reserve.

In the Rainforest Belize Sleeping Giant

The hotel is surrounded by the 10,000-acre Sibun Nature Reserve.

How do I get to Sleeping Giant Rainforest Lodge?

Via road transfer from the Belize International Airport (BZE). The hotel is just one hour and 20 minutes from the airport: an hour on the George Price Highway and 20 minutes on the Hummingbird Highway.

Any interesting historic notes about the property?

The hotel is surrounded by the 10,000-acre Sibun Nature Reserve. On site there is a ceremonial cave called the Sleeping Giant Cave that features spectacular geological formations, rimstone dams, stalactites, stalagmites, crystal curtains and columns. The cave was also used by the ancient Maya for religious ceremonies. There are hundreds of artifacts left behind in the cave which makes it feel like a natural museum. The hotel also offers views of the Sibun River, the headwaters of which are located within the Maya Mountains.

Sleeping Giant Living

Comfort and coziness in the rainforest.

Which types of accommodations are offered at the property?

The hotel offers several different categories of rooms, including rooms with views of the river, the creekside, and mountain views. There are suites, cottages, houses and penthouses for you to choose from.

Aerial view of outdoor pool sleeping giant belize

Outdoor pool at the Sleeping Giant Rainforest Lodge.

What activities are provided through the property?

Through the property you can experience many activities to enjoy the surrounding areas, including horseback riding, biking, kayaking and a exploring a jungle ropes course. From the property you can also access the river, enjoy a gazebo hike or explore the famous Sleeping Giant Cave.

  • Horse buggy tour
  • Gazebo hike
  • Onsite ceremonial cave
  • Jungle rope bridges
  • The Nest
  • Biking
  • Kayaking
  • Birding
  • River access
  • Maya cooking class
Sleeping Giant from above belize

Sleeping Giant Rainforest Lodge from above.

What are some of the most popular activities booked by hotel guests?

  • Ceremonial cave
  • St. Herman’s Cave
  • Private dinner at the cliff

What is included in my hotel rate at the property?

  • Continental breakfast
  • Welcome drink on arrival
  • Coffee and tea (in room)
  • Bikes and kayaks
  • Onsite parking
  • Outdoor pool
  • Main attractions and sites nearby
  • Mini refrigerator (in room)
  • Yoga mats (in room)
treehouse sleeping giant

The treehouse you always wanted as a kid is the one you didn't know you needed as an adult.

What restaurants are on the property?

  • The Grove House (a farm-to-table eatery)
  • Don Tonito’s (wood-fired pizza)

Is there a signature dish/drink at the properties restaurants?

  • Signature Dish: BBQ pigtail and Belizean stuffed jack
  • Signature Drink: Lemongrass iced tea

Why should travelers stay at the hotel? Tell us why you are special!

The Rainforest Lodge at Sleeping Giant offers a bit of everything for all walks of travelers. The property is nestled into the foothills of the Maya Mountains and spreads over 600 acres of land. Its location is unique with a 30-minute drive out of Belmopan City and 45 minutes away from pristine beaches. Structures are built within the dense tropical rain forest to maintain the integrity of its natural state and allow for utter privacy for guests. From gazebo hikes offering panoramic views of the valley or epiphanic ceremonial cave tours to intimate private dinners atop a cliff at sunset, there are memories waiting to be made for everyone. Authenticity is at the core of the lodge and is showcased in every detail—the local craftsmanship, our team being 99% Belizean operated, the tours highlighting history as well as diversity, and culturally inspired cuisine. Freshly squeezed oranges from our orchards, the chef’s herb garden and organic farm raised eggs are used in every dish prepared at The Grove House for a true farm-to-table experience. The carefully curated menus by our resident chef are inspired by the rich and diverse Mestizo and Maya culture found throughout Belize. These are just a few of the reasons why the Rainforest Lodge at Sleeping Giant is so special and cherished by all its visitors.

Sleeping Giant from afar

Privacy and solitude are a given at the Sleeping Giant Rainforest Lodge.


Published
Mara Milam
MARA MILAM

Mara Milam is the deputy digital editor at SI Swimsuit. The California based multimedia content producer and editor joined the “swim team” in March of 2020. Mara is a lover of all things travel and wellness and is passionate about elevating the voices and stories of people often not heard.