Banana Bank Lodge

Location: Banana Bank - Mile 49 Western Hwy, Belmopan, Belmopan, BZ

Star Rating: 2 Stars

Property Type: Lodges

About this Property

Important Information

Policies

Check-in: 01:00 PM - 08:00 PM

Check-out: 11:00 AM

Instructions: This property offers transfers from the airport (surcharges may apply). Guests must contact the property with arrival details before travel, using the contact information on the booking confirmation. The front desk is open daily from 7:00 AM - 8:00 PM. To make arrangements for check-in please contact the property at least 24 hours before arrival using the information on the booking confirmation. If you are planning to arrive after 8 PM please contact the property in advance using the information on the booking confirmation. Guests must contact the property in advance for check-in instructions. The front desk is staffed during limited hours. If driving, please contact this property in advance for more information (e.g., directions). For any questions, please contact the property using the information on the booking confirmation.

Amenities & Facilities

• Free WiFi
• Garden
• Luggage storage
• Breakfast available (surcharge)
• Front desk (limited hours)
• Tours/ticket assistance
• Wheelchair accessible parking
• Ecotours on site
• Free self parking
• Airport transportation - pickup (surcharge)
• Banquet hall
• Horse riding nearby
• Wheelchair-accessible van parking

Rooms Available

• Standard Studio Suite

  1 King Bed and 1 Twin Bed

  399-sq-foot room with garden views

  
  

  Layout - Separate sitting area

  Food & Drink - Refrigerator, room service (limited hours), and local meal delivery service

  Sleep - Bed sheets

  Bathroom - Bathtub, free toiletries, and towels

  Practical - Day bed, desk, and local maps; rollaway beds (surcharge) available on request

  Comfort - Air conditioning and daily housekeeping

  Accessibility - Accessible bathtub

  Non-Smoking

  Max Occupancy: 4 (4 Adults)

  • Air conditioning
  • Refrigerator
  • Desk
  • Room service (limited hours)
  • Daily housekeeping
  • Ceiling fan
  • Separate sitting area
  • Day bed
  • Bedsheets provided
  • Local maps
  • Accessible bathtub
  • Meal delivery service available

• Economy Cabin, 2 Bedrooms, Non Smoking, Garden View

  2 Queen Beds and 2 Twin Beds

  495 sq feet, located on the ground floor

  
  

  Layout - Separate sitting area

  Food & Drink - Room service (limited) and local meal delivery service

  Sleep - Bed sheets

  Bathroom - Private bathroom, bathtub, free toiletries, and towels

  Practical - Desk and local maps; rollaway beds (surcharge) available on request

  Comfort - Daily housekeeping and ceiling fan

  Accessibility - Accessible bathtub

  Non-Smoking

  Max Occupancy: 4 (4 Adults)

  • Desk
  • Private bathroom
  • Room service (limited hours)
  • Daily housekeeping
  • Ceiling fan
  • Separate sitting area
  • Bedsheets provided
  • Local maps
  • Accessible bathtub
  • Location - ground floor
  • Meal delivery service available

• Traditional Cabin, 2 Bedrooms, Non Smoking, Garden View

  2 Queen Beds and 2 Twin Beds

  495-sq-foot room, located on the ground floor, garden views

  
  

  Layout - Separate sitting area

  Food & Drink - Room service (limited) and local meal delivery service

  Sleep - Bed sheets

  Bathroom - Bathtub, free toiletries, and towels

  Practical - Desk and local maps; rollaway beds (surcharge) available on request

  Comfort - Air conditioning and daily housekeeping

  Accessibility - Accessible bathtub

  Non-Smoking

  Max Occupancy: 4 (4 Adults)

  • Air conditioning
  • Desk
  • Room service (limited hours)
  • Daily housekeeping
  • Ceiling fan
  • Separate sitting area
  • Bedsheets provided
  • Local maps
  • Accessible bathtub
  • Location - ground floor
  • Meal delivery service available

• Standard Double Room, 1 Bedroom, Non Smoking, Garden View

  1 Queen Bed and 1 Twin Bed

  301-sq-foot room with garden views

  
  

  Layout - Separate sitting area

  Food & Drink - Room service (limited) and local meal delivery service

  Sleep - Bed sheets

  Bathroom - Bathtub, free toiletries, and towels

  Practical - Desk and local maps; rollaway beds (surcharge) available on request

  Comfort - Air conditioning and daily housekeeping

  Accessibility - Accessible bathtub

  Non-Smoking

  Max Occupancy: 4 (4 Adults)

  • Air conditioning
  • Desk
  • Room service (limited hours)
  • Daily housekeeping
  • Ceiling fan
  • Separate sitting area
  • Bedsheets provided
  • Local maps
  • Accessible bathtub
  • Meal delivery service available

Guest Reviews

• Aveline (7/5): -
• LieLing (7/5): - The kitchen staff are great; the front desk is not welcoming Internet at individual room / cabin needs improvement
• James (5/5): Beautiful retreat. Go and enjoy. - The meals were all very good but a bit overpriced. Horses are in excellent condition. Owners are amazing hosts One of the best swimming pools ever! Rooms dated and lighting in bathroom too dim for shaving or makeup.
• Stephanie (6/5): Very nice people but property and facilities need owner to put some money to update and more grounds people - Belize is a beautiful country. This property is away from all traffic and noise This is still a unique place but there has been no updates in at least 30 years. Overgrown trees and plants. No hot water and mattress 30 years old or more.
• Robert (7/5): Toucan ,Jaguar made the trip. - Liked being immersed in nature. Speaking to nature is an undiscribable experience to remember.
• Julie (10/5): Magical! Lovely landscape, tropical wildlife, exquisite pool, unique and comfy rooms, gracious staff - This was one of the most magical places I've ever been! From the acres of vibrant landscape to the herds of beautiful horses the kind and fascinating staff. Our room was quaint yet elegant, quite yet alive surrounded by the sacred sounds of the jungle. The pool is unique and refreshing, the food was simple yet delicious and the owners gave us a tour of their art gallery and cultural center. Last but not least, the horseback riding was AMAZING! My husband and I are experienced riders and our guide made sure we got to REALLY ride. My favorite part was picking guava and riding into the river. We'll definitely be back ASAP:) Nothing. This is a true blue Belize experience. If you want super fancy dancy, move on. This is the real deal. Loved it!
• Reifenstuhl (7/5): Bare bones & beautiful! - Incredible location, parrots singing in the morning, fireflies and howler monkeys in the night. Can't say enough good things about the jungle/ranch environment there! The pool was lovely, although the pool furniture could use updating. The animals were friendly and fun, the horses grazed right outside our cabana! It was kind of like a farm stay with all the animals and the family style dinners. The cabana was cute but rustic. It was bare bones, no hooks to dry clothes, no glasses or cups, minimal furniture and the fans were wobbly and loud. No outside food and drink was a bummer, we would have liked a small fridge for essentials and drinks. We didn't use the A/C because it was so loud and beeped constantly.We didn't have hot water until the last day when we asked about it, then it was fixed. The cafe was a family style meal at dinner which meant you didn't get to choose what to eat. We would have enjoyed more flexibility with the menu.
• Scott (7/5): Great time, great staff and wonderful location. - Great time, staff was great and the location also. We liked the rooms, but might be a bit rustic for some.
• Annie (10/5): Most hospital staff, made me feel like family. - 1,000 acres, from manicured lawns to jungle. WiFi in limited spaces.
• Samia (9/5): -
• Rachael (10/5): -
• Justyn (10/5): Paradise - Favorite place we stayed at! The property is gorgeous- horses grazing in front of our cute, grass roof hut. A variety of Birds singing (and screaming) all around and beautiful landscapes. The pool was clean and the perfect temp, surrounded by flowering trees. Breakfast and dinner were delicious and our waiter was very friendly and attentive. This is a place for people who prefer experiences over perfection, as is a little aged, but, to me that just adds to the charm. The hut was half air conditioned and half open air with a screen. There at the beginning of June- bugs were not a problem at all. It was a perfect escape Nothing
• Terrissa (7/5): An experience I enjoyed. - This is about as authentic as it gets nowadays. A beautiful architectural style reminiscent of years gone. Elaborate staircases, buildings and pathways that made it unique. Plus free range horses that walk around you. Peacocks (my fave), parrots, cockatoo and lovely foliage, flowers and landscaping. Oh and the breakfast was delicious! Very tasty. And coffee was so good. Staff were super friendly and welcoming. There’s a little resident dog named Tom who loves belly rubs and he’s a sweetie. It is dated but also its part of the nostalgia. The shower was hilarious with water shooting in every direction but on me. No TV which was actually fine with me. The WiFi is basically non existent because it’s in the middle of nowhere but I brought a book and, you will have to drive a dirt/gravel road for about 10 minutes - longer if you stop to feed the horses apples like I did. If I ever go again I will take plenty of carrots, apples and bananas for the horses. I learned from the lovely hostess that the horses like bananas too. Also, make sure you book a room with AC if it’s hot and humid when you go. They have both with and without AC.
• Meera (10/5): Bonito Banana Bank - Picturesque location by the Belize River but somewhat difficult to get to as it's a good 10 min drive. That's more than compensated for by the friendly staff who are willing to come and pick you up. Staff is amazingly friendly as are the owners and even the animals on site :) Nothing, really! Yes a little tricky to get to and you have to pay to get there but that's true of almost anywhere in Belize if you're on a short weeklong trip.
• Micheal (10/5): Exceptional - Here’s a polished and engaging travel review for Banana Bank Lodge: A True Gem of Hospitality and Community My stay at Banana Bank Lodge was nothing short of exceptional. From the moment I arrived, I was welcomed with warmth and genuine care. The staff couldn’t do enough for me—attentive, kind, and always ready to assist. Their dedication to guest satisfaction truly sets this place apart. What makes Banana Bank Lodge extraordinary isn’t just its breathtaking surroundings or the comfort it offers, but the passion and heart that go into every aspect of it. The owner is a true gentleman, going above and beyond to share the incredible history of the lodge and the meaningful work he and his wife have dedicated themselves to. This is far more than just a lodge or farm; it’s a living testament to their deep-rooted commitment to the land, the people, and the culture. Their philosophy is evident in every detail—from their respect for nature to their efforts in uplifting the local community. They don’t just run a business; they are actively making a positive impact wherever possible. It’s a shining example of how tourism can be a force for good, blending sustainability, hospitality, and cultural enrichment. Thank you, Banana Bank Lodge, for an unforgettable experience. I left not just with wonderful memories but with deep admiration for what you stand for. If you’re looking for a stay that’s more than just a vacation—a place that truly touches the heart—this is it. Highly recommended! Micheal 🇮🇪
• Barthelemy (9/5): A place like no other ! - This property is amazing. It is managed by a beautiful family who is doing its best to make this world a better place. Truly inspiring. The horses, the cowboys, the jungle, the fire flies at night, the rescued jaguar, the beautiful parrots… everything was fantastic. When we travel we look for unique places like this. This estate has no equivalent. The art of the owner is also fantastic. The art is not even sold. It’s art and beauty for the sake of it. Kids also loved the pool. We slept in an open bungalow (very big) and you fall asleep and wake up as if you were in the jungle, surrounded by very loud howler monkeys and many birds. Magical. The food at the restaurant was simple (no sophisticated menu) but homemade and very good. The deserts were the best we had in Belize. The staff was very kind. From the kitchen to the stables. The horseback riding was also a real cowboy adventure in the jungle and my little one got to ride with a guide. He had a blast. The place is getting old and could be renovated. Location is close to Belmopan but still 20 minutes away. We stayed in a bungalow and loved it. But the authenticity of the jungle comes with its realities as well: loud howler monkeys at sunset and visiting spiders during the day. We still loved it but I would recommend sleeping in the main building if you are arachnophobic.
• J (8/5): Delightful jungle ranch experience would definitely return. - Gorgeous location and grounds, unique wildlife including jaguar and Macaws, great horse riding, fabulous art display (like WOW) and mayan artifacts collection and really really lovely staff and onsite owners. Pool was refreshing, beautiful and clean. Enjoyable meals. Great hot water pressure. Wonderful experience. Rooms would benefit with some drinking water, plus a shampoo or wash for in shower. Magnificent older buildings need some refreshing.
• Lisa (10/5): A time travel experience back to the early 20th century Belize - If you are ready to be transported to another era, this place is for you! The art deco buildings immediately brought us to the early 20th century. We only wish it had been warm enough for us to swim in the pool - it was easy to imagine a 40's movie star lounging poolside. The staff was amazing, and the cowboys were a lot of fun! We went for a morning horseback ride and saw monkeys running along the tree branches watching us. Highly recommend!
• Eric (8/5): - Beautiful property, lovely experience but also not what we expected. I would consider this more of a working ranch than a resort, as we felt like it's more setup for locals to Belmopan and cowboys than it is to the average traveler. Nice food, good overall value. Kind of a strange cowboy guy who apparently owns the property who was a little overly friendly to my girlfriend out of the blue. However seems that locals love him and have good things to say. If you're up for something a bit different would recommend this place, we picked it because it's much closer to the ATM cave hike than San Ignacio and also closer to Belize City. They have a caged jaguar on the premise which is cool and tons of horses. Although, even this we asked to reserve a ride, weeks in advance, we had to push to keep that reservation as they seemed to have forgotten about it. Also had a tarantula in our room which Carlos removed for us. Fun!
• Chris (10/5): Great value, on the river with horses - Very cool location and grounds. Art gallery / and a jaguar.
• Karel (10/5): - The property was beautiful. The rooms were huge and so unique. The staff were wonderful. We met the owner and that was indeed very special. We would definitely stay there again.
• Timothy (4/5): Poor - Room booked was not available. No information was given. Had to move rooms but with hotel help. Friendly staff. Property itself was run down but grounds were fabulous. Wild animals in captivity including a ‘rescued’ jaguar. Does not impress. Conflicted morality. One thing for sure. Would not recommend and would never go back
• Stacy (10/5): - This was my favorite stay in Belize. Mr. Johns hospitality made this stay. I Will recommend this hidden gem to everyone that will visit Belize.
• Kline (8/5): Different and fun. - Hospitality and family style eating. The tour of Carolyn's gallery and the museum. The pet Jaguar. The pool. Ants/mosquitoes everywhere. Need to bring bug spray for sure. Need hair dryers in the rooms.
• Marcia (10/5): - Beautiful grounds and nice clean rooms. Very interesting history. The dining service was good but rather expensive. Able to provide a shuttle to the airport
• Kay (10/5): - Lovely couple created a beautiful area for people to relax and enjoy family time along with nature. Not far from Belmopan if you need anything from the city.
• Sara (10/5): I loved it so much, I want to return with others. John and Caroline are amazing! - The food was exceptional! Fresh made local cuisine, and different every day. The
• Jose (9/5): Refreshing - Different place with lots of horses. You wouldn’t expect to find this amazing estate in the middle of nowhere. It’s not new but it has charm and it’s actually quite amazing It needs some works
• Paula (10/5): Relaxed atmosphere with friendly staff and nearby attractions and - Quiet and peaceful setting in the jungle with artistic expression. We enjoyed the ambiance- great pool- horseback riding- the animals-(Thomas), the staff were attentive and friendly, the food was amazing and filling. So much to do nearby! We hope to come back. The river right on property easy to get to. May need a little updating but overall it’s so charming
• Alberto (10/5): Thanks to the Carr’s for a beautiful experience. Mr. John was very knowledgeable and shared nice experiences. - Very quiet and beautiful. Nothing
• Arecele (9/5): Superb -
• Lynne (10/5): - This beautifully designed lodge, on 4000 acres, is a unique experience. 107 free range horses, parrots, monkeys add to the ambience. Large , comfortable a/c rooms, friendly staff, good restaurant ,and lovely pool, make for a memorable stay. Convenient to many sites. Owner’s wife is an excellent artist and has a gallery there. We loved it!
• Ohagan (10/5): Exceptional -
• Geneviève (9/5): If you like wilderness and horses : this is the perfect spot - Wonderfully located. Warm hospitality.
• Stephanie (7/5): Good - This place is magical. Yes, it is older and it most certainly needs some tlc and updates but it is such a unique place. The owners and the staff were great. We especially liked the horseback trip with Henry.
• Jeannette (9/5): Superb - wonderful hosts and beautiful grounds and the horseback riding was amazing way out of town
• Julie (10/5): It was a great way to experience true Belize. - It’s very unique!! Carolyn (owner) is very knowledgeable and wonderful to talk with. Everyone is so friendly! The driveway! Ugh!
• Corrie (6/5): - Difficult road to get to resort. Not for cars. Horse rides are nice, the young guy ranch hands will hit on a daughter.
• Coore (7/5): Good, rustic ambience tucked away in nature - The food was amazing! The chef was amazing and very accommodating! We really appreciated all the meals, a great introduction to local food. This place was the epitome of ecotourism. It was also a good experience to be in close proximity to horses, birds, a Jaguar, the river and nature. The aesthetics of the room was a continuation of the outdoorsy vibe of the property, quite rustic. I stayed in a suite which had a good size bathroom and microwave and fridge plus an additional twin bed. It was quite spacious. The staff was friendly and took good care of us. Unfortunately we didn't get to use the pool because it was raining. Also liked that they have staff that can provide transport to the town as needed. This is not the fault of the property owners but it's useful to know that the road to the property was under renovation at the time of my visit. It also rained for a few days before and while we were there. This combination made the roads very slippery and hard to drive on especially if you only rented a car rather than a SUV/4×4. I recommend checking in on that before booking and prepare accordingly if you decide to book here. The property itself has much smoother and stable off roads though.
• Aline (10/5): Exceptional - It's a beautiful area decorated and planed with love. It's green and a beautiful pool is in the garden Sometimes a horse.
• Karen (8/5): Very good - Layed back vibe. Owners took time to chat. Beautiful property. Off the beaten path and quiet.
• Lara (9/5): Superb - Very kind staff, helping us with a late arrival and dinner. Nice and clean room, equipped with particular furniture. Garden around. Location not easy to reach, I would suggest avoid going in the dark as you might get lost. Price is high compared to similar alternatives. There are many beautiful animals but in cages, which is a bit sad.
• Luis (9/5): It is a good place to visit - Good No cleaning in my room
• Christine (10/5): the homey atmosphere and Midwestern charm of the owners make this a place to which you will want to return - the charming setting, helpful staff and wonderful food made our stay an exceptional one bumpy entrance toad
• Bianca (8/5): Very good - We had a wonderful stay at banana bank lodge. Our girls loved the horse riding, we all loved the surroundings and the pool. At night we heard the monkeys scream and we have seen many beautiful birds on the large terrain. The only thing I can think of is the distance of the hotel to the highway. Its around 10-15 minutes drive on a sand road with many potholes. There used to be a short cut (over the river and park your car at the other side) but that wasnt' there anymore. Who knows it comes back?
• Jan (8/5): Very good -
• Bill (8/5): A quiet retreat in the jungle with birdlife and the chance to ride horses with excellent staff. - Staff and the owners are fabulous people. We enjoyed out stay and we particularly enjoyed birdwatching and horseback riding. Carolyn Carr, one of the owners, is an artist who has a wonderful gallery of original paintings and other art and memorabilia. That alone is worth a nights stay. Accommodations are eclectic and typically Belizean, but comfortable. We opted for an air conditioned room although the cabanas are more spacious. At present the meals are limited to one choice for dinners although the staff is very responsive to accommodating dietary needs. For some that might be a problem. Breakfasts are good and I highly recommend the wings for lunch.
• Szan (10/5): Great time - Everything was excellent
• Mitchell (9/5): A ranch experience like none other. - the staff was very accommodating and helpful. we enjoyed a night horseback ride which was epic! the guides were a hoot. the food was outstanding. it’s family style and GREAT! great location. very close to ATM tour.
• Elizabeth (9/5): fabulous location as always - swimming pool, horses, hospitality, wildlife nothing
• Katherine (8/5): magical! -
• Melodie (7/5): Good -
• Brian (8/5): Very good -
• Sharon (9/5): Really fun family jungle experience - it was a really fun jungle experience. The staff there were hard workers and did all they could to make our stay comfortable. The jungle horseride trek was the highlight of our trip. Highly recommended. I felt like the staff weren’t treated with the respect and consideration they really deserved. The staff there made our visit and they work hard for long hours. They didn’t complain but I picked up on things.
• Ethan (10/5): - Loved our time here. Fabulous pool, beautiful grounds and friendly staff. Would highly recommend!
• Jim (10/5): - Incredibly beatiful grounds and gardens, enormous, well-kept swimming pool, gracious propriators
• Claudia (10/5): Great place to stay in the Belize jungle! - It was beautiful and we enjoyed the food for dinner & in the morning! My girls loved the jaguar on property, birds and the pool.
• Rhonda (10/5): - This place is so very charming. There are horses wandering around the property, they have birds and a jaguar to visit, the swimming pool is amazing, and the cooking is phenomenal. The cabanas have thatched roofs and are older but well maintained and, well, charming. The beds are comfy. The only downside is that there are bugs, but you're in the middle of the jungle, so that is to be expected.
• Verified traveler (8/5): - Great experience with the home style meals and getting to know the owners and staff. Rustic and remote which adds to the Belizian experince.
• Verified traveler (10/5): - Just a agoer stay. Beautiful location but realize thar the lodge is in the jungle. No other restuarant or services available beyond that provided by the lodge. Saw a young jaguar, many parrots and exotic wild birds to see. Horseback riding available and it would have been fun to try that if we had the rime.
• Verified traveler (10/5): - Amazing place , quiet, excellent service and amazing food, kids loved horseback riding, and many other activities they offer❤️💯
• Steven (10/5): Lovely even if you don't ride. - The grounds are beautiful, carefully landscaped with tile-lined paths connecting the various buildings. Great pool, on site jaguar and parrot aviary. The major attraction is on site horse back riding, which we didn't do. But there are plenty of day trips to do--we went to ATM and Tikal, and there are plenty more. Downsides are that it is pretty isolated (15 min off main road) and food is perfectly adequate but not memorable.
• Gail&Tom (10/5): - Banana Bank Lodge is a very unique get-away. The owners, Carolyn and John made us feel very welcome and are very interesting. They dined with us each night. The food was reasonable and very good. The grounds were gorgeous! Our cabana was very comfortable and beautifully designed. There are horses and parots roaming around the property...very cool. They also have an art gallery of Carolyn's paintings and a small museum of Mayan artifacts in their home. If you love nature, art, animals, and military history (John is a very informative source) or just want some peace and quiet...this is the place to stay. Not to mention it's very close to town.
• Verified traveler (10/5): Beautiful place to get away - Our family had a wonderful time at Banana Bank Lodge. The family style meals were fabulous and a great way to talk with other guests, the pool was refreshing, the property was beautiful, the staff were fabulous. We visited ruins one day and spent the next day riding. My two adult children enjoyed riding so much we nixed our plans for the afternoon and went on another ride. The staff had an evening soccer game and included our children, what a thrill! If you are staying inland, I couldn't recommend a better place!
• Verified traveler (8/5): Beautiful gardens and ambiance - Front desk staff was pleasant, but could use more training about the local tour offerings - they were somewhat uninformed and seemed confused about arranging tours and transportation. The food was good, although we got a bit tired of chicken. Best was chatting with the owners, Carolyn and John Carr - they have some awesome stories! LOVED the herd of horses and the experience with the horses in the pink roundpen - a highlight for sure! The architecture and gardens are lovely. The room we stayed in could use a bit of sprucing up and maybe a new mattress, but was still a sweet and comfortable room. YES we would return - and certainly hope to one day.
• Verified traveler (6/5): Jungle setting, needs updating. - Check in was fine but when we got to our room it was pretty bad. The bathtub looked as if someone had spilled paint in it and there were large rust spots. The toilet would not totally flush unless you did it at least three times. We complained loudly and were upgraded to a much nicer room. However the clerk was rather snippy about it. They had a nice pool and beautiful landscaping. The meals were quite good although we thought they were rather expensive. The buildings could use some work in places. They have some birds and a jaguar in cages. Not a terrible place to stay but we would not go back.

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