Lower Dover Jungle Lodge & Maya Ruins
Location: PO Box 346 San Ignacio, Cayo District Belize, Central America, Unitedville, bz
Star Rating: 9.7 Stars
Property Type: Lodges
About this Property
Eco Jungle Experience
Immerse yourself in nature at Lower Dover Jungle Lodge & Maya Ruins, a jungle lodge and hostel nestled just outside San Ignacio. Explore 100 acres of jungle with hiking trails and Maya Ruins, perfect for bird watchers.
On-Site Entertainment
Unwind in the games room, enjoy a drink at the on-site bar, or savor a delicious meal at the restaurant offering special diet menus. Challenge your friends to a game of pool or darts, or head to the Belize River for some canoeing adventure.
Convenient Amenities
With free WiFi, private parking, and the option of a private or shared bathroom, your comfort is our priority. Don't miss the chance to visit the nearby ATM cave or the Mayan Ruin just a stone's throw away.
Book your stay at Lower Dover Jungle Lodge & Maya Ruins for an unforgettable eco-friendly getaway in Belize!
Important Information
Please inform of your expected arrival time in advance. You can use the Special Requests box when booking, or contact the property directly using the contact details in your confirmation.
Policies
Check-in: 02:00 PM - 06:00 PM
Check-out: 10:00 AM
Amenities & Facilities
- Free beach shuttle
- Offsite parking discounted rates available
- Guest education on local ecosystems and culture
- Parking
- Non-smoking rooms
- Air conditioning
- Restaurant
- Terrace
- BBQ facilities
- Luggage storage
- Express check-in/check-out
- Safety deposit box
- Tour desk
- Darts
- Private check-in/check-out
- Shared lounge/TV area
- Board games/puzzles
- Shuttle service (additional charge)
- Concierge service
- Grocery deliveries
- Shared kitchen
- Outdoor furniture
- Staff adhere to local safety protocols
- Guest rooms disinfected between stays
- Cleaning standards that are effective against Coronavirus
- Physical distancing rules followed
- Hand sanitizer in guest room and key areas
- Cashless payment available
- Fire extinguishers
- First aid kit available
- Sanitized tableware & silverware
- Invoice provided
- Guests can opt-out any cleaning services during stay
- Smoke alarms
- Guest room sealed after cleaning
- Physical distancing in dining areas
- Food delivered to guest room
- Process in place to check health of guests
- Access to health care professionals
- Face masks for guests available
- 24-hour security
- Delivered food - securely covered
- Thermometers for guests provided by property
- Television in common areas
- Express check-in
- Billiards or pool table
- Free wired internet
- Snack bar/deli
- Self parking (surcharge)
- Free beach shuttle
- Offsite parking discounted rates available
- Spa tub (surcharge)
- Internet access
- Games
- Private picnics
- Wine release events
- Reception hall
- Japanese garden
- Water sports equipment
- Beach club nearby (surcharge)
- Beach toys
- Charcoal grill
- Guest education on local ecosystems and culture
- Vegetarian menu options available
- Paddle boating nearby
- Accessible shuttle
- No accessible shuttle
Rooms Available
-
Double Room with Patio
This double room features a balcony, seating area and private entrance and the jungle is outside your door.
Max Occupancy: 3 (3 Adults)
- Shower
- Air conditioning
- Desk
- Seating Area
- Fan
- Toilet
- Private bathroom
- Mosquito net
- Barbecue
- Linen
- Outdoor furniture
- Outdoor dining area
- Upper floors accessible by stairs only
- Clothes rack
- Drying rack for clothing
- Toilet paper
- Board games/puzzles
- Books, DVDs, or music for children
- Trash cans
- Body soap
- Socket near the bed
- Smoke alarm
- Fire extinguisher
- Key access
- Carbon monoxide detector
- Single-room air conditioning for guest accommodation
- Hand sanitiser
-
Standard Family Room
The spacious family room provides a seating area, a wardrobe, a balcony with garden views as well as a private bathroom featuring a shower. The unit offers 3 beds.
Max Occupancy: 5 (5 Adults)
- Shower
- Desk
- Seating Area
- Fan
- Toilet
- Private bathroom
- Dressing room
- Mosquito net
- Wardrobe or closet
- Barbecue
- Linen
- Outdoor furniture
- Outdoor dining area
- Upper floors accessible by stairs only
- Clothes rack
- Drying rack for clothing
- Toilet paper
- Board games/puzzles
- Books, DVDs, or music for children
- Trash cans
- Body soap
- Socket near the bed
- Smoke alarm
- Fire extinguisher
- Key access
- Hand sanitiser
-
Wild Cabana in Belize - Off-Grid Jungle Experience with Private Porch
1 Double Bed
Porch/lanai with garden views
Layout - Separate dining area
Internet - Free WiFi
Food & Drink - Mini-fridge, microwave, and shared/communal kitchen access
Sleep - Bed sheets
Bathroom - Private bathroom, shower, and rainfall showerhead
Practical - Desk and yard
Need to Know - Limited housekeeping, toothbrush and toothpaste not available
Non-Smoking
Max Occupancy: 2 (2 Adults)
- Shower
- Desk
- Microwave
- Private bathroom
- Toilet paper
- Yard
- Separate dining area
- Free WiFi
- Rainfall showerhead
- Shared/communal kitchen access
- Bedsheets provided
- Outdoor shower
- Laptop-friendly workspace
- Porch or lanai
- Toothbrush and toothpaste available
- Toothbrush and toothpaste not available
-
Papaya Jungle House - Queen Bed, Tree Top Terrace
1 Queen Bed
Located on the top floor with garden views
Layout - Bedroom, living room, and dining area
Internet - Free WiFi
Food & Drink - Mini-fridge, microwave, and shared/communal kitchen access
Sleep - Bed sheets
Bathroom - Private bathroom, shower, and rainfall showerhead
Practical - Laptop workspace
Need to Know - Limited housekeeping, toothbrush and toothpaste not available
Non-Smoking
Max Occupancy: 2 (2 Adults)
- Shower
- Microwave
- Private bathroom
- Stovetop
- Toilet paper
- Separate sitting area
- Separate dining area
- Free WiFi
- Rainfall showerhead
- Shared/communal kitchen access
- Bedsheets provided
- Outdoor shower
- Laptop-friendly workspace
- Toothbrush and toothpaste available
- Toothbrush and toothpaste not available
- Location - top floor
-
Moonflower - Friends & Family Cabana - Queen Bed, Bunk Beds, Single Bed, Ensuite Bathroom
1 Queen Bed, 1 Twin Bunk Bed and 1 Twin Bed
Overlooking the garden
Layout - Separate dining area
Internet - Free WiFi
Food & Drink - Mini-fridge, microwave, and shared/communal kitchen access
Sleep - Bed sheets
Bathroom - Private bathroom, shower, and rainfall showerhead
Practical - Laptop workspace
Need to Know - Limited housekeeping, toothbrush and toothpaste not available
Non-Smoking
Max Occupancy: 5 (5 Adults)
- Shower
- Microwave
- Private bathroom
- Toilet paper
- Separate dining area
- Free WiFi
- Rainfall showerhead
- Shared/communal kitchen access
- Bedsheets provided
- Outdoor shower
- Laptop-friendly workspace
- Toothbrush and toothpaste available
- Toothbrush and toothpaste not available
-
Coco Cabana - Private Ensuite Bathroom & Outdoor Rainwater Shower
1 Double Bed
215-sq-foot room with garden views
Layout - Separate dining area
Internet - Free WiFi
Food & Drink - Mini-fridge, microwave, and shared/communal kitchen access
Sleep - Bed sheets
Bathroom - Private bathroom, shower, and rainfall showerhead
Practical - Laptop workspace
Comfort - Air conditioning
Need to Know - Limited housekeeping, toothbrush and toothpaste not available
Smoking And Non-Smoking
Max Occupancy: 2 (2 Adults)
- Shower
- Air conditioning
- Desk
- Microwave
- Private bathroom
- Toilet paper
- Yard
- Ceiling fan
- Separate sitting area
- Separate dining area
- Free WiFi
- Rainfall showerhead
- Shared/communal kitchen access
- Smoking and Non-Smoking
- Bedsheets provided
- Outdoor shower
- Laptop-friendly workspace
- Toothbrush and toothpaste available
- Toothbrush and toothpaste not available
-
Aqua Cabana - Private Jungle Cabana, Ensuite Bathroom, & Hammocks
1 Double Bed and 1 Twin Bed
325-sq-foot room, balcony/patio with garden views
Layout - Separate dining area
Internet - Free WiFi
Food & Drink - Mini-fridge, microwave, and shared/communal kitchen access
Sleep - Bed sheets
Bathroom - Private bathroom, shower, and rainfall showerhead
Practical - Laptop workspace
Need to Know - Limited housekeeping, toothbrush and toothpaste not available
Non-Smoking
Max Occupancy: 3 (3 Adults)
- Shower
- Desk
- Microwave
- Private bathroom
- Toilet paper
- Yard
- Separate sitting area
- Separate dining area
- Free WiFi
- Rainfall showerhead
- Balcony or patio
- Shared/communal kitchen access
- Bedsheets provided
- Outdoor shower
- Laptop-friendly workspace
- Deck or patio
- Toothbrush and toothpaste available
- Toothbrush and toothpaste not available
-
Double Room - Disability Access
This air-conditioned double room features a desk, a terrace, garden views and a shared bathroom. The unit offers 1 bed.
Max Occupancy: 2 (2 Adults)
- Safety deposit box
- Air conditioning
- Desk
- Seating Area
- Fan
- Toilet
- Shared toilet
- Tile/marble floor
- Mosquito net
- Wardrobe or closet
- Barbecue
- Terrace
- Linen
- Outdoor furniture
- Outdoor dining area
- Entire unit located on ground floor
- Clothes rack
- Drying rack for clothing
- Toilet paper
- Board games/puzzles
- Books, DVDs, or music for children
- Trash cans
- Body soap
- Socket near the bed
- Smoke alarm
- Fire extinguisher
- Key access
- Single-room air conditioning for guest accommodation
- Hand sanitiser
-
Cherry Cabana - Private Bathroom & Jungle Views
1 Double Bed and 1 Twin Bed
240 sq feet
Layout - Separate dining area
Internet - Free WiFi
Food & Drink - Mini-fridge, microwave, and shared/communal kitchen access
Sleep - Bed sheets
Bathroom - Shower with a rainfall showerhead
Practical - Laptop workspace
Need to Know - Limited housekeeping, toothbrush and toothpaste not available
Non-Smoking
Max Occupancy: 3 (3 Adults)
- Shower
- Desk
- Microwave
- Private bathroom
- Toilet paper
- Yard
- Separate sitting area
- Separate dining area
- Free WiFi
- Rainfall showerhead
- Shared/communal kitchen access
- Bedsheets provided
- Outdoor shower
- Laptop-friendly workspace
- Toothbrush and toothpaste available
- Toothbrush and toothpaste not available
-
Rasta Cabana (A/C, Balcony, 2 Beds)
1 Queen Bed and 1 Twin Bed
325-sq-foot room with a balcony/patio
Layout - Dining area and sitting area
Internet - Free WiFi
Food & Drink - Refrigerator
Bathroom - Private bathroom, shower, and rainfall showerhead
Practical - Yard and desk
Need to Know - Limited housekeeping
Non-Smoking
Max Occupancy: 3 (3 Adults)
- Shower
- Refrigerator
- Desk
- Private bathroom
- Yard
- Separate sitting area
- Separate dining area
- Free WiFi
- Rainfall showerhead
- Balcony or patio
-
Suite with Balcony
This spacious suite consists of 1 living room, 1 separate bedroom and 1 bathroom with a shower. Guests will find a stovetop, a refrigerator, kitchenware and an oven in the well-equipped kitchenette. The suite also provides guests with a barbecue. The suite provides air conditioning, a tea and coffee maker, a seating area as well as a terrace with garden views. The unit offers 1 bed.
Max Occupancy: 2 (2 Adults)
- Coffee/tea maker
- Shower
- Air conditioning
- Kitchenette
- Refrigerator
- Desk
- Seating Area
- Fan
- Toilet
- Private bathroom
- Sofa
- Tile/marble floor
- Dining area
- Mosquito net
- Wardrobe or closet
- Oven
- Stovetop
- Toaster
- Barbecue
- Terrace
- Linen
- Dining table
- Outdoor furniture
- Outdoor dining area
- Upper floors accessible by stairs only
- Clothes rack
- Drying rack for clothing
- Toilet paper
- Board games/puzzles
- Books, DVDs, or music for children
- Sofa bed
- Trash cans
- Wine glasses
- Body soap
- Socket near the bed
- Smoke alarm
- Fire extinguisher
- Key access
- Single-room air conditioning for guest accommodation
- Hand sanitiser
-
Family Room With Balcony
The spacious family room provides a seating area, a wardrobe, a balcony with garden views as well as a private bathroom featuring a shower. The unit offers 6 beds.
Max Occupancy: 6 (6 Adults)
- Shower
- Desk
- Seating Area
- Fan
- Toilet
- Private bathroom
- Shared toilet
- Mosquito net
- Wardrobe or closet
- Linen
- Upper floors accessible by stairs only
- Clothes rack
- Drying rack for clothing
- Toilet paper
- Board games/puzzles
- Trash cans
- Body soap
- Socket near the bed
- Lockers
- Smoke alarm
- Fire extinguisher
- Key access
- Carbon monoxide detector
-
Double Room
The double room provides air conditioning, a seating area, a balcony with garden views as well as a private bathroom featuring a shower. The unit offers 1 bed.
Max Occupancy: 2 (2 Adults)
- Shower
- Air conditioning
- Desk
- Seating Area
- Fan
- Toilet
- Private bathroom
- Mosquito net
- Barbecue
- Linen
- Outdoor furniture
- Outdoor dining area
- Upper floors accessible by stairs only
- Clothes rack
- Drying rack for clothing
- Toilet paper
- Board games/puzzles
- Books, DVDs, or music for children
- Trash cans
- Body soap
- Socket near the bed
- Smoke alarm
- Fire extinguisher
- Key access
- Carbon monoxide detector
- Single-room air conditioning for guest accommodation
- Hand sanitiser
-
Double Room With Patio
This suite features a balcony, sofa and seating area and the jungle is outside your door.
Max Occupancy: 2 (2 Adults)
- Shower
- Air conditioning
- Desk
- Seating Area
- Fan
- Toilet
- Private bathroom
- Tile/marble floor
- Wardrobe or closet
- Linen
- Upper floors accessible by stairs only
- Clothes rack
- Drying rack for clothing
- Toilet paper
- Board games/puzzles
- Trash cans
- Body soap
- Socket near the bed
- Smoke alarm
- Fire extinguisher
- Key access
- Carbon monoxide detector
- Single-room air conditioning for guest accommodation
-
Bunk Bed In Mixed Dormitory Room
This bed in dormitory features a balcony, private entrance and seating area and the jungle is outside your door.
Max Occupancy: 1 (1 Adults)
- Shower
- Desk
- Seating Area
- Fan
- Toilet
- Private bathroom
- Shared toilet
- Mosquito net
- Linen
- Upper floors accessible by stairs only
- Clothes rack
- Drying rack for clothing
- Toilet paper
- Board games/puzzles
- Trash cans
- Body soap
- Socket near the bed
- Lockers
- Smoke alarm
- Fire extinguisher
- Key access
- Carbon monoxide detector
-
Triple Room with Private External Bathroom
The triple room features air conditioning, a seating area, a balcony with garden views as well as a private bathroom boasting a shower. The unit has 2 beds.
Max Occupancy: 3 (3 Adults)
- Shower
- Air conditioning
- Desk
- Seating Area
- Fan
- Toilet
- Private bathroom
- Mosquito net
- Barbecue
- Linen
- Outdoor furniture
- Outdoor dining area
- Upper floors accessible by stairs only
- Clothes rack
- Drying rack for clothing
- Toilet paper
- Board games/puzzles
- Books, DVDs, or music for children
- Trash cans
- Body soap
- Socket near the bed
- Smoke alarm
- Fire extinguisher
- Key access
- Carbon monoxide detector
- Single-room air conditioning for guest accommodation
- Hand sanitiser
-
Budget Double Room
A seating area, a desk, a balcony and a private bathroom are available in this spacious double room. The unit has 1 bed.
Max Occupancy: 2 (2 Adults)
- Shower
- Desk
- Seating Area
- Fan
- Toilet
- Private bathroom
- Mosquito net
- Wardrobe or closet
- Barbecue
- Linen
- Outdoor furniture
- Outdoor dining area
- Upper floors accessible by stairs only
- Clothes rack
- Drying rack for clothing
- Toilet paper
- Board games/puzzles
- Books, DVDs, or music for children
- Trash cans
- Body soap
- Smoke alarm
- Fire extinguisher
- Key access
- Carbon monoxide detector
- Hand sanitiser
Guest Reviews
- Liz (10/5): -
- Joshua (10/5): Magical forest stay complete with birds, fresh air, and on-site ruins. - Lower Dover is a unique gem, clearly a labour of love for its owners and workers. We were surrounded by birds, and loved exploring the lush forest and the ruins still being unearthed in their depths. Fantastic kitchen and supplies to prepare our own food, but you'll want to join the owners and other guests for at least one meal (great food, even better conversations!). Great to have hosts who enthusiastically support plant-based diets. Honestly no downsides: we enjoyed having half our group stay in the "wild" cabin with no electricity and only a composting toilet, but being able to come visit the other half in their "luxury", two-floor house with its A/C, kitchen, and hammocks on the treetop-level balcony.
- Jessica (10/5): Comfortable cabins with jungle and ancient history at the same time - There’s so much to enjoy about this property. Justin was a fantastic host for one! Friendly, lots of information about Belize, the area and the property itself. Also talking #1 is the four legged host, Jose. He’s a golden mutt pupper who met us in the driveway, checked on us at dinner and was our personal tour guide while out walking the trails available on the property. The cabins are well constructed with a/c though when we went, fans were just fine at night time. Communal shower with hot water with multiple stalls and lots of space inside each stall. Family style dinner was interacting, great way to bring the guests together to meet each other and share experiences. Just confirm the menu as there was only one meal offered and may not be what you want. No alternatives and not really any where close by to “go grab something” so either pick up your own food and snacks before arriving or do the dinner (I think the dinner was delicious and plenty for all). I didn’t like that we didn’t stay longer. We only stayed one night and I wish we would’ve stayed at the very least 2.
- Sadie (10/5): -
- Clement sppv133 (9/5): - Hormis la literie, tout etait parfait , un merci spécial a Justin pour sa gentillesse et son partage Matelas vieillissant
- Catherine (10/5): Fantastic! - Lower Dover was incredible! Very peaceful and secluded, but easy to access the surrounding towns via taxi or using the public bus. I stayed in a private cabin and it was clean and comfortable. Maddie and Justin were amazing hosts
- Dwight (7/5): In the Jungle - Very easy to get to from Public Bus Bird watching was very good Meals portions very generous Walking trails with Maya Ruins and River walk and Beach very nice!!! My bed was not comfortable firm mattress mostly flat pillows Had to use AC and fans to cool room
- Yanev (7/5): Overall I'm glad visited that place. - Friendly staff,nature surrounding.Trails,farm animals,clean ground. Rooms are not sound proof, roosters are noisy early AM hours, toilet is not accessible from room you gotta put clothes and shoes every time going there.
- Jörg Maier (10/5): Mexico - Belize - Guatemala - Lage, Leute und Vibe Nichts
- Melissa (10/5): Amazing stay in the beauty of the jungle. - This place is a piece of heaven located on a beautiful expansive property with Mayan ruins, hiking trails, and a crystal clear swimming hole. The owners are very friendly and helpful and the meals are large and delicious.
- Tony (10/5): - Outstanding all-natural cookery by Maya, a masterful chef indeed of vegetarian fare. Beautiful, well marked trail system and maps to multiple points of interest to nature lovers. A smalliish table and chair to set up a laptop in the room would have been ideal for those of us who need this amenity.
- Jeroen (10/5): Nice lodge! - We very much enjoyed our stay here. The owner was friendly and helpfull. The breaksfast (different every day usually with beans, eggs and fruit. Big portions) and dinner (buffet style, plenty of choice of vegan and non vegan local dishes) were also nice. The showers work properly and give a feeling that you are showering outdoors. There are some nice short walks you can do from the resort. Make sure to bring anti mosquito stuff. The best part of the lodge are of course the dogs. They are so friendly and polite and love receiving pets and cuddles. The lodge is not very close to San Ignacio. But you can take a bus or a taxi no problem.
- Hanna (9/5): Best hot showers in central america! Unique experience in a super interesting location! Great for both rest and adventur - The hot, big, clean, great pressure showers were so lovely that I still think about them after our trip. Our first non moldy showers and bathroom in central america? Wonderful owner with so much Maya knowledge and it is worth staying here alone for the audio guided maya ruin walking tour in amazing jungle! On top of the cool location,all the facilities are great, we loved the shared meals and our hammock room - the rain didnt matter as we could happily lay in our roofed and netted hammock-room and read for hours, listening to the sounds from the forest! Room also had both fans and AC. The coffee was excellent!! Our room/bed was a bit smelly/stuffy (maybe due to all the rain), but luckily we enjoyed our hammock room so much and there are many communal rooms, so this wasnt really an issue. The first night the vegan food was a little low on protein (basically: just left out the chicken, no replacement), but all other vegan meals were great!
- Donna (7/5): It was very rainy which are effected our stay and overall it is an interesting location just don’ stay in the Wild casit - The Mayan ruins and vegan/vegetarian food options were great. The Cherry casita was nice. Good hot showers. The Wild casita did not have electricity so no AC, no lights and a compost toilet that smelled. It also did not have enough flagstones to get to the casita without getting very wet and muddy feet.
- Todd (9/5): This was a fun place to stay for a week. Interesting property with ruins and birds. Lots of insects. -
- Chris (10/5): Authentic comfortable Mayan jungle and archeological experience. - Very authentic Mayan jungle experience. Amazing food and exceptional friendly host Access road was pretty muddy
- Rachel (8/5): -
- Nick (9/5): -
- COLONNA (10/5): Lower Dover : havre de paix et d' authenticité - L' équipe est familiale, serviable, de bon conseil et très sympathique. Lower Dover, coloré éco, est idéalement situé pour nous, entre San Ignacio et Belmopan, sur Site Maya enfoui sous la jungle. On s' endort et se réveille avec les bruits des toucans et autres...les colibris sont devant nous dès le breakfast... c'est génial ❤️❤️❤️ Rien
- Matti (8/5): - Luonnonläheinen pieni hotelli /hostelli. Erittäin ystävällinen ja neuvova henkilökunta
- Naomi (8/5): - Great spot in a lush green area. Good for spotting toucans. Passionately run. Super to be able to get a pick up and drop off at the main road. Wonderful access to ATM cave. Nice atmosphere. Great that communal dinners are hosted - on the pricier end, also when it comes to the drinks.
- Andres (10/5): - Como parte del hotel, detrás de el hay ruinas arqueológicas, caminos y 3 diferentes rios para nadar. Increible
- Colleen (10/5): Hidden Gem - This place is a hidden gem; I highly recommend. Belize has so much to offer beyond the coastal area, and if you want to explore the jungle side, this is a perfect place to stay. You can get here by public bus (inexpensive) or shuttle (still affordable) from Belize City so you don't need a car, if you just want to hide out for a few days and enjoy the jungle atmosphere. If you do want to explore, you can catch the public bus to nearby destinations like San Ignacio, although renting a car may make it a little easier to really take advantage of the area - especially if you want to go out to eat (there is nowhere really nearby to go out, although the food at the hotel is delicious). A huge bonus is that there are actually Mayan ruins on the property that you can explore, and plenty of grounds to walk and just enjoy the jungle... The owners are absolutely lovely and friendly, and ready to help you make the most of your trip. Maddie is always on hand for tips! :) No notes :) Just do a little research about whether you'll want your own car or are good with public transportation.
- yam (10/5): - Incredible place. The colorful cute cabins, the belizian river that flows through the property is really beautiful, I went there every day, the trails to the maya ruins are a great attraction, the food is great too! I traveled as a digital nomad and stayed for about a week. Was a real sanctuary, and Maddy and Justin and Bill created a beautiful place. Highly recommended!
- Sara (10/5): Hidden Belizean Gem - My mom and I stayed at Lower Dover without knowing much about the property and area. The price was great, so we went for it. WOW. As an outdoor enthusiast and lover of hidden gems, this spot couldn't have been more perfect. Maddy was a gem as well. Although I selfishly want to keep this spot a secret for my return visits, Maddy deserves all the recognition and more. She even created a Spotify playlist to explore the recently discovered ruins on her property on your own! I kept thinking how fortunate I was to be there. Can't wait to return! The only thing I didn't like is that I didn't book longer!!! Lower Dover is perfection!!!
- Gomaa (7/5): Good -
- Luciano (10/5): Best possible accommodation in Belize. - Best possible accommodation in Belize. Located on 100 acres of private trails, jungle and rivers full of incredible wild life and impressive Mayan ruins! Beautiful cabins, delicious meals!!, fantastic showers, all in a very safe location and run by the friendliest, most helpful and knowledgeable family. Close to San Ignacio, on the way to Guatemala/ Tikal, and around the corner from the ATM Cave (best thing to do in Belize), staying here is a total must.
- Phoebe (10/5): Exceptional - Maddie was super lovely! Really helpful with any questions and her food was great! The best vegetarian food I have had in Belize. I was worried about how far away it was from San Ignacio but there is a bus stop near the property and that meant you could go and explore San Ignacio and the ruins surrounding it really easily. River and the ruins on the property are also great.
- Andrea (7/5): Good - Nice farm animals, very green. Good community areas and the staff was friendly The owner was abrupt, bordering on rude and pushy
- Connor (10/5): Exceptional - Excellent stay Maggie is awesome host goes above and beyond for anything you ask. Quite place with the best showers and toilets in Belize. Awesome Awesome place thank you. And the ruins are very special
- Scott (9/5): Our second time. Very relaxing place to stay. Explore onsite Mayan ruins with an impressive online guide. - Group dinner, Mayan ruins, swimming hole, host
- Thijs (10/5): "Feels like home" - Amazing place; genuine people, quality meals in a social setting, easy access to ATM Caves (you get in early). Can you ask for more as a traveler? Lower Dover property itself is also very interesting, a lot of history there, go and explore yourself!
- Suzette (10/5): - Maddie is awesome. She makes sure you are comfortable and happy. She is also a great cook. The meals are made with love. We will be back. Great relaxing stay.
- Conrad (10/5): Exceptional - More like a home stay than a hostel! Beautiful sights, delicious shared meals, grounds to explore. Nothing!
- Tammie (10/5): Exceptional -
- Lydia (10/5): Exceptional - Lower Dover was a last minute surprise! Maddie is very welcoming, has excellent connections and helped us book outside tours and transportation and made us feel so welcome. Her property is incredible. We ate dinner and breakfast there and it was some of the best food in Belize! Also, her dogs are amazing
- Mark (10/5): - The property is exactly as described. It was clean, comfortable and convenient. The property there is quite amazing with its ruins and the river and clear creek running right through it. Maddie especially made our time there special. She was so helpful in planning our days and sharing such interesting information about the area in addition to providing meals of breakfast and dinner that were wonderful for a very reasonable fee.
- Nil (10/5): Exceptional - everything about my stay was amazing. the accommodation was nice and clean, the meals were great, and the staff even better. Maddy is super knowledgeable both about the premises, which have tons of history and are an excavation site in itself, and just generally.
- Alice (9/5): Great place, the best host, lovely homecooked food and ecofriendly! - Ecofriendly, shower runs on solar heated rainwater eg. Maddy goed beyond to make you comfortable and knowledgeable with her tour if the grounds! Food was amazing too. A bit secluded, and if you’re traveling alone and want to do tours from here it can be a bit troublesome. With two or more it’s no problem though! Aline better arrange in San Ignacio.
- James (10/5): Exceptional - Amazing space, awesome hosts and delicious meals. I couldn't have found a better spot to stay in Belize
- Caroline (10/5): Exceptional - Super unique place to stay! The grounds are awesome - swimming in the river and exploring the Mayan ruins. The owner created a podcast to guide you which was really helpful. Our room had hammocks in a fenced in patio which was perfect. Air conditioning worked well! Helped us organize an ATM and Caracol tour. The food was not bad, but felt pricey for what it was since you are stuck there. It’s difficult to leave without a car / waiting to see when the chicken bus comes.
- Shelley (5/5): Passable -
- Charles (10/5): Excellent and would visit again! - This a a very unusual and unique place to stay. The little cabin wasn't expensive, the restroom was outside in back, all very nice, clean and updated. Great location, excellent trails on a river with a swimming area. Beautiful jungle area where they are actually excavating a new Mayan ruin. You can go on a trail and look at what they have uncovered so far. Lots of animals on the property which give it a hobby farm feel. The host was driving hikers to the bus stop and being really helpful. They even had coffee ready in the kitchen early in the morning.The food was really good and the people working were really friendly. Everything was really clean, definitely a hidden gem. We went somewhere else for a few days and wished we would have stayed at Lower Dover!
- Luymes (8/5): Very good - Facilitis we excellent. People were friendly and helpful. Breakfast and dinner were avalible or you could cook. We had a rental so going for supplies was not an issue. Bed was very firm. Animals were nice to keep pests away but noisy, roosters stared at 3 am. When paying by Credit card a surcharge of 4.4% was applied to the whole bill.
- Kassia (10/5): Couple days in the Jungle was everything we hoped for - Staff, Ruins, River and Food 10/10 - - Amazing staff - Adorable and well kept bunkies - well maintained and cared for land & animals - Food and drink onsite - website and blog information (easy for travellers) - RUINS! With audio tour on Spotify - River locations to swim! - Animals - All was amazing :) Definitely recommend!
- Florence (10/5): I would recommend Lower Dover - I had a great stay at Lower Dover. Dinner and breakfast were really good and nice to eat with other travellers. Really nice to go for walks in the jungle and swim in the river. All staff were very helpful. Would definitely stay again! If you’re a light sleeper, bring ear plugs because the wildlife is noisy! All part of the experience of staying in the jungle though.
- Robert (10/5): Overall a 10. Staff is the best hard working women and very nice. - Off the path into the jungle area by a big flowing. River. True farm and camp feel. Ac is a tad bit warm and struggles to cool even with fans.
- Julie (10/5): Go relax in the jungle 🦋 - Omg I would have spend a week there! Such a nice, cozy, beautiful place in the nature to relax! The staff is lovely, you feel at home as soon as you get there! Our Aqua Cabana was wonderful wow!! 🤩 Nothing! Everything was charming! Maybe just a suggestion: you are in the jungle so bring ear plugs if you are a light sleeper like me ;)
- Silke (10/5): Wonderful experience - Wonderful place in the middle of the jungle and surrounded by Mayan ruins. Very special! Where else can you find this? The staff is super friendly and helpful. It’s super clean. Amazing family diner en breakfast. -
- Gregg (9/5): Helpful, casual, organized, convenient, fun--a joyful stay we would repeat!! - Great staff, very helpful, beautiful property with lots of places to wander and swim. Nice summer camp feel, sharing meals with other interesting travelers from many places. Some faucet handles and ceiling fans didn't work, but generally well maintained.
- Matthew (10/5): Exceptional -
- Rebecca (9/5): Loved my stay at Lower Dover - The property is amazing, with trails to walk through the jungle, Mayan ruins, and a river and creek for swimming. The food was delicious and it was fun eating at a communal dinner table with other guests. I stayed in a cabin that was very comfortable and had a porch as well as a screened in area for relaxing. I met some wonderful people, both guests and staff. It is a very unique and special place and I would absolutely return!
- Natalia (10/5): Exceptional -
- Adrienne (10/5): Exceptional -
- Shaun (10/5): Must visit when in Belize, so much better than staying in town! - Lower Dover is a gem in Belize! It is situated around the jungle and very close to the ATM caves. Maddy and her family are so welcoming, full of knowledge of the area and Belize, and the ruins that are being excavated on the property were cool to see. We stayed for a few days over Christmas and it was such a memorable experience!
- Alexis (10/5): Peaceful retreat in the jungle - Location is top tier, we get to go the sleep and wake in the jungle. There are many trails around the camp where you can hike, go for a swim or just discover the ruins. Staff is friendly and helpful (Maddy drove me back to the bus stop), food was tasty, there is hot and drinking water, beds are comfortable ! I highly recommend you to stop at Lower Dover, you won’t regret it :)
- Margrete (9/5): An incredible bargain set in the middle of a Mayan ruin - The Lower Dover Jungle Lodge is literally located on a Mayan site. When we approached it, immediately brought to mind the hippie era of the 60s and 70s. The cabins are colorful and the meals, communal-which we really enjoyed. It is owned and operated by an American geographer and his wife. They are very knowledgeable about the area and took the time to share a bit of it with us. They created walking paths throughout the site that someday will be excavated. Our room was amazing given the price and we were able to see canaries and parrots from it. The room was very clean and comfortable.
- Lucy (10/5): Exceptional - Wow, what a wonderful place - sat amidst nature, this place has it all. On site walking trails where you can see unexcavated Mayan ruins, close to the gorgeous river with little pools to cool off in, delicious home cooked meals. Maddy and Katja were wonderful hosts and can help arrange all tours. It is also easy to take the public bus to San Ignacio and the border. For travellers looking for an escape and a quieter hostel, I highly recommend!
- Olivia (10/5): Overall fantastic! - We loved the place! Very traveller friendly and for us as a couple we stayed in the Wild Kabana and it was the first time people had stayed in it as guests! It’s got a more privacy as it’s further away from the other rooms, and it’s next to their own creek you can swim in. We were given headlamps and power banks too as the place is very Eco-friendly and they use mainly solar power to power the electricity. The Wild Kabana didn’t have any electricity but it has its own private toilets and it wasn’t a problem at all for us. They serve homemade dinner and breakfast for a low fee and it allows people to get to know each other over dinner in the communal dining room. The hosts and other staff were lovely and let us leave our bags while we went to a local tour at the ATM caves. Also if you like dogs, you’ll love it here! They’re very friendly. If you don’t, they won’t bother you much unless you want to say hello to them.
- Ben (10/5): Exceptional - On the rural outskirts of Belize and near San Ignacio town is a hostel like few others. Built on the grounds of ancient Mayan ruins and equipped with a series of trails and streams meandering between the decayed, old structures of a bygone time, it's a property that's equal parts historic and idyllic. Communal dinners - announced nightly with a quaint bell - bring together like-minded travelers from all across the world in exchanges of stories, words of caution, and tidbits of advice for the next off-the-beaten-trail adventures. In only a week staying at the hostel, it's hard to deny some enduring friendships I managed to forge. It's an environment that cultivates connections in a way that hostels with a hundred times the turnover struggle to achieve. From the moment I walked through its gates, it was clear that I'd stumbled onto a tropical paradise. Katya kindly showed me the ropes of the loveably eccentric grounds, that came equipped with everything from chickens, turkeys, flowing streams of lightly nibbling fish, and a delightful menagerie of dogs to be walked through the property's sprawling grounds on happy whims. Arriving at the hostel with an unexpected injury that curtailed some of my travel plans, the hostel keeper, Maddy, did everything she could to not only ensure I found the feasible activities that could reasonably be done with a broken toe, but even allowed me to make use of the property's hammocks during the healing process. While I'd hoped for a physically testing first few days of my trip, I'm glad I got to spend so much of my downtime here. To simply lie in the sun and breathe in all of the unfamiliar facets of this new Belizean environment was enough to make me more than content in diverting course. There was nothing I didn't like, so just going to continue instead here with the review that got tragically cut off for being too long: The sleeping accommodations in even the bunk house were more than I could have asked for. Sparing a few too-early cockadoodledoos, the sounds of the property that permeated the walls had a dependably pacifying effect. An orchestra of croaks and bleats would emerge along with spectacularly starry skies each evening that the sun would set. There are few hostels worth planning a trip around, but Lower Dover achieves that rare distinction. It's a hostel that all others should strive to live up to.
- Landon (10/5): Jewel of the Jungle! Great people and great place - Location was terrific! Close to ATM cave, San Ignacio, Xunantunich and Tikal ruins. Breakfast and dinner are delicious and served daily, they will cater to dietary needs. Maddy is wonderful and so are her team and her dogs. So much to explore and do on the property as well. Hope to come back someday. Bring earplugs for the roosters that start at 3am XD, otherwise nothing bad to say.
- Matthew (9/5): Enjoyed our stay. - Wonderful staff. Great meal options available. Deep and incredible knowledge of the local area. Off of beaten bath, so drive to other ruins and attractions takes a while.
- Juliane (10/5): Exceptional - Our stay at Lower Dover was extraordinary. Maddy, the host, took really good care of everybody. You could tell that the Lodge is her passion. We recommend everybody going there, who is seeking a great travel experience. The location is perfect to explore the sites around the area (especially if you are interested in the ATM Cave Tour). You can reach Lower Dover easily with the local bus. Otherwise Maddy will help with other arrangements. Breakfast and dinner are optional but very well worth it, at is is freshly made and very delicious (there will always be vegetarian options). If we ever happen to be back in Belize, we will definately visit again.
- Florian (10/5): Exceptional - Maddi and Bill are masters of creating a family atmosphere. I've felt so welcome! They take care and they put their heart and soul into this beautiful place ! Jungle, Maya ruins, a great place for everybody who loves nature and culture.
- Xindan (10/5): Fabulous leisure place in San Ignacio/ Unitedville - Lower Dover is the most interesting place i stay on this trip. It is a quiet jungle lodge，clean，comfortable ，with adoralble animals . Host Mandy and her family are super nice，help me so much during my stay，thanks to Mandy‘s help，i got the last chance to join ATM cave tour，which i highly recommend to all my friends.The breakfast and dinner they provide are natrual ，healthy and delicious，must try. i met four othet guests here ，we always had happy dinner together. Fantanstic！ nothing
- Katherine (10/5): Must stay for ATM cave - Everything is close by, on top of Mayan ruins. Super close to the ATM cave. Bus stop is really close to take the local bus where you need to go. The rooms is comfortable, the food is amazing, the staff is even more wonderful. Miss Maddy is quite the human, she was so incredibly helpful..it felt like she is a close aunt that just wants to take care of you and make sure you’re fed, healthy, getting best deals and experiences. I really couldn’t have asked for a better place to stay. This set the tone for my trip to Belize and my sister and I are overflowing with joy. We liked everything
- Katarin (10/5): Exceptional - Maddie is the most wonderful host. She helped us out with our plans, made delicious meals for both meat and vegetarian lovers and has created a very homely stay. There are ruins on their property that are being excavated so that was very cool to see!
- Natasha (10/5): Exceptional - This place is very special if you’re looking for something a little different. The ATM tour was easy through the lodge and was excellent. The dinners and breakfasts were great, and you can also bring your own food in if you prefer to save money. If a peaceful and potentially quiet stay in the jungle isn’t your thing, it’s probably not for you - there may not be many other guests there at the same time.
- Matthew (10/5): The ideal jungle stay - The location was just perfect, super easy to get to on the bus from Belize city or belmopan or San Ignacio. If you want to be in the jungle it's perfect, you're off the main road and there's plenty of paths out the back to really explore! Also it's literally about 10 minutes from the ATM cave and the lodge takes care of reservations for you to just get picked up right at the entrance of the lodge so it's perfect. Plenty of wildlife around too.
- Ingrid (10/5): Happy in Lower Dover!! - A very beautifull location in the jungle. I stayed in a very nice and clean cabin. Maddy, the host was very friendly and could tell a lot of information about the ruins that are also in the same location. Good homemade food. A very good start of my vacation in Belize! Nothing
- Amanda (10/5): Exceptional - All food was great!! The grounds were beautiful and the ruins are fascinating! Nothing
- Oksana (10/5): Fantastic stay surrounded by ruins & nature - We had a lovely stay at Lower Dover. Maddy was a superb host. She prepared a heathy and delicious dinner and treated us to a great conversation in the evening. Everyone on the property from the staff to guests were pleasant to interact with. The property offers so much to explore: Belize River, trails, plants, birds and the Ruins! I hope we will be back one day. Thank you for hospitality!
- T.c. (10/5): Awesome place will be back - Great hospitality, comfortable rooms, and stunning area to hike around. Nothing
- Richard (10/5): Really enjoyed on-site Mayan ruins and wonderful host - Host was great, property was fantastic, especially enjoyed walking in jungle, along river and around the Mayan ruins. Highly recommend the guided tour. Nothing - was great.
- Charlotte (10/5): Great place to stay - Calm and cozy cabana in the jungle. You could hear the birds and animals while chilling in your hammock on the porch. Property is next to the Belize river so ideal for a refreshing swim. When lucky you can swim with the otters. Madeline and Abby were very sweet and helpful. Giving us a lot of tips on what to do and see in the neighborhood. Home cooked breakfast and dinner were great. You also have the option to use the kitchen and cook something yourself. Madeline gave us an amazing tour of the property and showed us the mayan ruins. Good location for visiting the ATM cave, San Ignacio and Mountain Pine Ridge Forest. Nothing
- Robert (10/5): - This place is very back to nature. They have a mini farm with turkeys and ducks etc. Because it’s a little out of the way they do offer Brkfst and dinner. If you book in advance they reserve dinner. If coming in late, take advantage it was a very nice meal. There is also a time restriction for dinner, be aware. Owner is very nice and informative.
- Bonnie (10/5): Healthy peace and quiet. - The people at the lodge are amazing. They take a personal interest in making your stay fabulous. Nothing
- Verified traveler (10/5): - Great rasta suite with cold AC and enclosed porch. Hot showers available in the middle of all the units if you want a hot shower. Owner of thr hostel is very accommodating with providing meals if requested. Highly recommend!!!
- Verified traveler (10/5): - Amazing experience here! Maddy, the owner, is a wonderful hostess with lots of excellent suggestions for day trips and activities. She booked our drivers and guides for us and offered very detailed referrals for our trip. Food is fresh and tasty and there is plenty of it with local cooks cooking the meals. The property is charming with well appointed cabanas and rooms. Would definitely recommend for a unique experience in the jungle!
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