Frequently Asked Questions
Below are some of the more common questions we get from guests. Please contact us if you have further questions.
How far is the lodge from the Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport?
The lodge is approximately a 1-hour and 45-minute drive from the international airport in Belize City. The lodge can assist in arranging private transfers or providing directions for those renting a car.
How far is Maya Mountain Lodge from San Ignacio?
Maya Mountain Lodge is located just 3/4 mile up the Cristo Rey Road from San Ignacio Town. It is a 5-minute taxi ride or a scenic 20-minute walk from the twin cities of San Ignacio and Santa Elena. The road is new and excellent.
What is the check-in and check-out time?
Check-in starts at 2:00 PM and ends at 8:00 PM. Check-out is by 11:00 AM. If you plan to arrive after 8:00 PM, please contact the front desk in advance.
Does Maya Mountain Lodge have air conditioning and Wi-Fi?
Yes. All guest units (apartments, cottages, and bungalows) are equipped with air conditioning. The lodge also offers free high-speed fiber-optic Wi-Fi throughout the property, including in guest rooms and common areas.
Why stay at the Maya Mountain Lodge in its Apartments?
We always prioritize our reputation and are motivated to care for you, our guest. We provide the best nature experience and are only a 15-minute walk from town.
What do I bring?
We are a jungle eco-lodge, so please pack light, with quick-dry clothing and sunscreen for relaxing by the pool. Don't forget mosquito repellent for your adventures. For a detailed list, see our packing list at: https://www.mayamountain.com/packing-list.
What should I wear on my trip?
You should come prepared to relax. Belize doesn't cater much to fancy dress and coats and ties are out of fashion. You are welcome to wear shorts to dinner, although some people choose to dress casually. If you decide go out dancing then stylish clothes are often worn.
What forms of payment are accepted at the Lodge?
Maya Mountain Lodge and most businesses throughout Belize accept US Cash (paper bills only, no coins) at a fixed exchange rate of $2 BZD to $1 USD.
For card payments, we accept Visa and MasterCard at the lodge. We strongly recommend notifying your bank of your travel itinerary to Belize before arrival to prevent security blocks on your cards. Please note that personal checks are not accepted.
If you need additional cash during your stay, most banks in nearby San Ignacio have ATM kiosks. For withdrawals exceeding standard ATM limits, you can visit any local bank branch and pay a nominal $10 fee to process a larger cash withdrawal from your credit card.
Do I need a visa to go to Tikal in Guatemala?
Most of our guests (including USA, Canada,Australia and EU countries) do not need visas. A list is listed below of those who are exempt. The list is subject to change so ALWAYS look it up.
Is there a swimming pool on-site?
Yes, there is a 28-foot diameter outdoor pool (3.5 feet deep) surrounded by tropical gardens. It is accessible 24 hours a day for guests, with a quiet time from 9pm to 8:00 am.
How many beds are in a room?
It varies. Check this website under accommodations for details.
Are there any wheel chair/ handicapped accessible accommodations?
Yes we have 1 cottage which is wheelchair accessible. Also, the commons room is accessible. Sidewalks allow access to most areas of the gardens as well.
Can I get my email and use the internet while at the lodge?
Yes, we have FREE wireless availability throughout the lodge.
Is there a telephone?
Please note that there are no telephones in the units. Most guests use WhatsApp to contact our office. There is a 24-hour number available to reach the manager, who resides on the property.
Is there TV in the apartments?
We do not have TV's at Maya Mountain. Guest often watch Netflix, Amazon Prime, or other online content.
Is Maya Mountain Lodge near the Mayan Ruins?
Yes, the lodge is ideally situated for history buffs. It is a 7-minute drive to Cahal Pech, 20 minutes to Xunantunich, and serves as a primary base for day trips to Caracol and the ATM Cave (Actun Tunichil Muknal).
Does the lodge cater to vegan, vegetarian, or gluten-free diets?
Yes. Fiona’s Cafe specializes in healthy, farm-to-table Belizean cuisine. The chefs are trained in raw foods, vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free preparation to accommodate all dietary requirements.
I want to eat Belizean Foods. Is that easy to achieve and safe?
Yes, in fact, most food is Belizean as foreign food or themed restaurants are rare in Belize. The exception to this rule is that the Chinese, who live in Belize, have Chinese restaurants throughout Belize. Both our staff and your fellow travelers are a great source of information on who has the best of each specialty.
Is the water safe to drink at the lodge?
The lodge provides complimentary purified drinking water in each unit.
Is Maya Mountain Lodge pet-friendly?
Pets are generally not allowed, though certified service animals are welcome.
What is the cancellation policy?
Cancellation policies vary by season:
- Peak Season (Nov 1 – Jan 11): 60-day policy
- High Season (Jan 11 – April 30): 14-day policy.
- Low Season (May 1 – Oct 31): 7-day policy.
Travel insurance is strongly recommended as late cancellations are non-refundable.
Eco-Friendly Tourism
Eco-friendly tourism at the Maya Mountain Lodge in San Ignacio, Belize strives to provide a model for the community. We focus on how people and communities can live in balance ecologically with the vibrant rain-forest that surrounds us. The principles of permaculture are our guideline as we strive for a sustainable relationship with our planet.