Lower Dover Jungle Lodge & Maya Ruins, Unitedville

Location

Lower Dover Jungle Lodge sits on 99 acres of pristine jungle in Unitedville, Belize, providing immediate access to extensive and largely unexcavated Maya ruins. The Lodge is located near the renowned Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM) Cave, featured on National Geographic, allowing guests to beat the crowds with convenient tours that start directly from the property. Additionally, scenic destinations like Saint Herman's Blue Hole, Xunantunich, and Cahal Pech National Parks are accessible for under $10 USD, making it easy to explore the region.

Rooms

Accommodations at Lower Dover range from shared dorms to a luxurious honeymoon suite, ensuring options for all budgets. Each cabin offers varying amenities, with features such as air conditioning in select units and communal dorms equipped with privacy curtains, mosquito nets, and secure lockers. Clean and cozy cabanas cater to every need, from basic outdoor toilets to complete bathroom facilities.

Dining

Lower Dover provides healthy, homemade, family-style meals available when the cookhouse bell rings, with meals focusing on local ingredients. Guests can expect tropical fruit, organic vegetables, and free-range meats, ensuring a truly Belizean culinary experience. The on-site organic winery produces Hibiscus wine, which is grown, fermented, bottled, and enjoyed exclusively at the Lodge.

Outdoor Activities

The property includes well-maintained jungle trails leading to freshwater streams and natural swimming spots, enhancing the outdoor experience. Guests may also take part in canoeing on the nearby rivers, with guided services provided for easy navigation. Birdwatching opportunities abound, with over 500 species of native and migratory birds expected to be seen on-site.

Cultural Experience

Staying at Lower Dover offers guests a chance to explore the rich cultural and historical significance of the region, with educational tours about the Maya civilization. Visitors can learn about the historical role of the site as a royal ceremonial center for the ancient Maya and discover the medicinal plants that have been used since Mayan times. Guided experiences take guests deeper into local traditions and further afield to iconic sites like Tikal in Guatemala.

Highlights

Location: Extensive and largely unexcavated Maya ruins

Rooms: Range from shared dorms to luxurious honeymoon suite

Dining: Homemade, family-style meals

Outdoor: Natural swimming spots and jungle trails

Cultural: Guided tours of Maya history and medicinal plants