Belize is quickly becoming a must-visit destination for those seeking both adventure and relaxation. Nestled between the Caribbean Sea and the Central American jungles, it offers an idyllic mix of pristine beaches, rich rainforests, and vibrant cultural heritage. For travelers looking for the best of both worlds, two standout resorts — Matachica Resort & Spa on Ambergris Caye and GAÏA Riverlodge in the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve — offer two distinct yet equally captivating ways to experience this paradise.
Belize has this magical charm,
Daniel Lighter
“Belize has this magical charm. It’s rare to find a place that allows you to experience both the ocean and the jungle in one trip,” said Daniel Lighter, a former criminal lawyer and the visionary behind these tropical retreats. “When I first visited, it felt like I had stepped into paradise.” And a paradise it truly is.
“For me, it wasn’t just about building hotels; it was about creating experiences,” said Daniel. “Matachica is all about the beach, the reef, and the sea, while GAÏA is where you go to reconnect with nature in the jungle. Together, they offer something truly unique that you can’t find anywhere else.”
Beachfront serenity at the Matachica Resort & Spa
For those dreaming of a tropical escape, Matachica Resort is the quintessential beachfront oasis. Located on the breathtaking Ambergris Caye, the resort is a haven for those who crave a laid-back atmosphere with upscale comforts. Overlooking the world’s second-largest barrier reef, Matachica’s sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters are perfect for snorkeling, diving, and simply soaking in the beauty of the Caribbean.
Mambo at Matachica: A culinary journey through Belize
At the heart of Matachica’s experience is Mambo, a restaurant that blends local Belizean flavors with global culinary techniques. Executive Chef Stephen Lighter, alongside Chef Léon Cerredo, formerly of The French Laundry, has created a menu that celebrates the best of Belize’s natural bounty. “We wanted Mambo to be more than just a restaurant, said chef Stephen Lighter. “It’s about embracing the essence of Belize through its ingredients and creating a menu that celebrates the ocean and the land. Every dish is crafted with the intention to showcase local flavours in ways people haven’t experienced before.”
The duo embarked on a cross-country journey to discover the finest local ingredients, from fresh seafood to tropical produce, and incorporated them into unique dishes that reflect the ocean-side setting of Matachica. “We traveled across the entire country of Belize to find the right farms, producers, and purveyors, said chef Stephen Lighter. “It’s all about highlighting the diversity of Belize’s culinary landscape and supporting local communities.”
Signature dishes highlight locally sourced seafood, enhanced with creative combinations of Belizean spices and flavors. For dessert lovers, the in-house ice cream made from fresh vanilla beans is a standout, along with daily-baked breads and pastries that showcase the restaurant’s dedication to quality. Whether you’re dining under the open-air thatched palapa or savoring the exquisite presentation, Mambo offers an elevated Belizean dining experience unlike any other.
Seaside to Deep Sea: Something for everyone in Belize
Belize offers an incredible range of marine experiences, and staying near Ambergris Caye puts you at the heart of it all. One unforgettable adventure is swimming with nurse sharks and stingrays at Hol Chan Marine Reserve, where the clear waters allow you to marvel at these graceful creatures up close — a perfect mix of thrill and tranquility.
At Shark Ray Alley, you’ll have the unique chance to snorkel alongside stingrays, nurse sharks, and even turtles. Be sure to have your camera handy — this is a photo opportunity you won’t want to miss!
For diving enthusiasts, The Great Blue Hole is the crown jewel. This bucket-list destination is famous for its deep blue hues and underwater caves, attracting divers from around the world. Even if you’re not diving, it’s a frequent topic of conversation among travelers excited about the natural wonder.
Whether you’re snorkeling vibrant coral reefs, paddling across turquoise waters, or gearing up for an epic dive, Belize offers everything from the seaside to the deep sea — and every adventure in between.
Jungle tranquility at GAÏA Riverlodge
For those seeking a more immersive connection with nature, GAÏA Riverlodge in the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve provides a peaceful retreat surrounded by the lush rainforest. Tucked into the heart of Belize’s jungle, this eco-friendly lodge offers rustic-luxury cabins that overlook the Five Sisters Waterfalls, giving guests a front-row seat to some of the country’s most spectacular natural beauty.
GAÏA’s organic garden: from farm to table
GAÏA’s commitment to sustainability and local sourcing is evident in its Five Sisters Restaurant, where the menu is dictated by the lodge’s very own organic vegetable garden. The garden’s fresh herbs and produce are used daily, providing the base for many of the restaurant’s specials. “Working alongside Chef Léon Cerredo, we’re able to take techniques from kitchens around the world and marry them with Belizean ingredients,” said chef Stephen Lighter. “A fusion of cultures and culinary artistry that we hope excites and surprises our guests.”
Additionally, the on-site bakery produces fresh breads and baked goods, while the chicken coop supplies eggs daily. These ingredients come together to create flavourful, wholesome meals that reflect the lodge’s deep respect for the land and local traditions.
What sets GAÏA apart is its dedication to sustainable tourism. Guests can explore the local culture and Mayan traditions through curated experiences, such as visiting the nearby organic farms or the soon-to-be-completed butterfly farm, offering a truly unique perspective on Belizean biodiversity.
“At both Matachica and GAÏA, sustainability is at the heart of what we do,” said chef Stephen Lighter. “Whether it’s the organic garden at GAÏA or the fresh seafood at Mambo, we’re deeply committed to sourcing responsibly and treading lightly on the land and sea.”
A toast to Belize: Wine and cocktail culture
At Matachica, the drink menu is just as carefully curated as the food. Chef Stephen Lighter has selected a wine list that champions natural and biodynamic wines from small, family-run wineries across the globe. The wine program complements the resort’s focus on sustainability and aligns with its creative, eco-conscious ethos.
The cocktail offerings at both Matachica and GAÏA similarly embrace the vibrant local flavors of Belize. Using fresh, locally sourced ingredients, these cocktails are perfect for sipping by the beach at Matachica or watching the sunset over the jungle at GAÏA. If you’re a cocktail enthusiast, recipes can be shared to help recreate a taste of Belize back at home.
Jungle adventures and taking in natures beauty
At GAÏA Riverlodge, the jungle offers both adventure and tranquility. We embarked on a thrilling tour through the dense forest in a Toyota Land Cruiser, navigating rivers and rugged terrain, while our guide provided fascinating insights into the diverse plant species and their traditional uses in local cultures. Early morning jungle walks were equally captivating, as we explored the beauty of the landscape while learning about the deep connection between the land and the indigenous Maya people.
One of the highlights of staying at GAÏA is the proximity to the stunning Five Sisters Waterfalls, which you can even see from your cabin. Beyond admiring them, we took the opportunity to swim in the refreshing waters — a perfect way to cool off and fully embrace Belize’s natural beauty. Whether you’re exploring the jungle or relaxing by the waterfalls, GAÏA offers a perfect mix of adventure and peaceful immersion in nature.
A destination for every kind of traveler: Belize
Whether you’re drawn to the serenity of the Caribbean coastline or the tranquility of the jungle, Belize offers a variety of experiences that cater to all kinds of travelers. Matachica Resort & Spa and GAÏA Riverlodge highlight the best of both worlds: beachfront relaxation and an immersive retreat into nature.
From the fine dining at Mambo to the farm-to-table approach at GAÏA, these resorts embody the spirit of Belize — a country where natural beauty and local culture come together to create unforgettable experiences. Belize truly has it all, and these two resorts provide the perfect way to experience the wonders of this Central American gem.
Editor's note: Hero video, courtesy of Travel Belize. Disclosure: Our team was hosted for a complimentary experience to take in the beauty that is Belize by both the Travel Belize team, Matachica and GAIA Riverlodge teams, but had no input, or pre-approval of this content.
