Looking for ways to stay active on your Belize vacation?
Hotel fitness centers are often the most convenient and preferred way to keep fit for travelers looking to stay active on their Belize vacation. But why choose a dull four-walled room whose most enchanting feature is the mirrors themselves? Your Belize trip is already filled with naturally occurring charm and wonder, it makes sense for your fitness schedule to reflect that, too.
Belize is a playground that encourages its explorers to pursue an active lifestyle, especially when so many stunning attractions require creative ways to be discovered. Even better, a resort that promotes a different kind of workout can do wonders for your mental health. Especially if it’s shrouded in greenery and wildlife. At The Lodge at Chaa Creek, guests can make the most of
Mother Nature’s gym within the vast 400-acre reserve.
Why go to a gym when you can work out in the rainforest?
If you’re looking for a fitness vacation that doesn’t involve treadmills and ellipticals, Chaa Creek is the place for you. The resort offers travelers plenty of opportunities to work out outdoors in the rainforest, including hiking trails through jungle terrain, yoga sessions on riverbanks, and even horseback riding exploration. Why would anyone ever want to leave the property when you could go for a run while looking at all of its natural wonders?
Below we’ve outlined the best activities at Chaa Creek that can help keep you both happy and healthy.
This Belize Eco-resort has jungle-themed hiking
Hiking through the rainforest is a great way to stay fit, relax, and clear your head. It’s also a great way to get to know Belize’s wildlife – and it doesn’t cost you anything! You’ll come across Keel-billed toucans hopping from tree-tops to tree-tops, or Blue Morphos flitting about in a flurry of iridescence. Perhaps a troop of spider monkeys will scamper along tree branches overhanging paths. The opportunities for bonding with wildlife are endless.
Meditative hikes could also include forest bathing—a popular Japanese practice that involves sitting still in nature while breathing deeply—and bird watching, which can be done from any point on the property. Hiking is no longer just about exercise; it’s now considered an art form!
You can do yoga on the banks of the Macal River
Vinyasa poses accompanied by brow jay chirps, sun salutations made richer with rustling bamboo leaves nearby. This is the beauty of doing yoga on the banks of the Macal River at Chaa Creek. Yogis who start their day by opening their chakras can take advantage of this natural yoga location just a short walk from their room. One benefit of practicing here is that the sound of flowing water has been proven to have a soothing effect on our brains. Studies show it also helps with depression and anxiety.
You can explore the jungle in a canoe
Belize’s rainforest is home to a number of exciting animals, including green iguanas and regal jaguars. For a more intimate experience with the jungle’s wildlife, take a canoe trip through San Ignacio’s waterways. It’s a relaxing way to see tropical birds and other creatures as you paddle past broadleaf trees and learn about their habits. Plus, if you get lucky you might see howler monkeys or a wild cat!
Canoeing on the Macal River is also a great way to get away from it all while working your arm muscles. For an intense workout, canoe all the way to San Ignacio, which will take between two to four hours. Once you reach the bridge, hop off for some lunch in town at either the San Ignacio market or at Guava Limb Cafe. Just let us know so we can pick up your canoe and drop you off wherever you please.
Go horseback riding with your family
The horseback riding activity at the eco-resort is a great way to explore the jungle, have fun, and get a good workout while doing it. If you’re not used to being on a horse, our trusty guide Teddy will give you some pointers before you hit the trail. And believe us when we say once you bond with Gitana and learn how to ride, there’s no better way to see the deep green growth of our nature reserve. If you’re traveling with kids, this activity is also a great way for them to meet new friends and learn about the local culture.
They might even learn some Spanish or Maya from their guide along the way! And don’t forget: there are ruins nearby that was built by the ancient Maya civilization long ago. (You can hike there if it interests you.)
Chaa Creek as your natural Fitness Center
Staying at a resort with a naturally built-in gym in its backyard does wonders for your mental and physical health. Here, you’ll be able to enjoy nature and spend quality time with friends and family without abandoning your regimen. To help you get started, check out the various packages available for a memorable Belize vacation with Chaa Creek.