We stayed in four different hotels while we were in Belize, and this was definitely our favorite. I still dream about the sound of the rapids that lull you to sleep, the bright stars at night, and the exotic birds (hello Toucans!) spotted from the pavilion in the morning. I never wanted to leave. It was everything I hoped for and was definitely the most relaxing part of our trip, and we did four activities in 36 hours! The other guests are really nice and interesting, and it is nice to eat family style to get to know your fellow travelers. All of the staff are great and helpful too. Only downside is that the food and activities can get a little pricey, but you don't have to do as many as we did! I wish we spent more quality time in the hammock on our balcony. I wish I was there as I write this review. Sigh...

Your own little cabana with a private patio and hammocks, surrounded by lush jungle, overlooking rapids on the beautiful Macal river. This is such a special place. From the jungle and river sounds to the great staff and variety of excursions (we visited the Mayan ruins of Cahal Pech, Xunantunich, & Tikal in Guatamala and the Market in San Ignacio where we got great local food and crafts), we loved it. There's also plenty to do on site---we just needed more time to do it.

My boyfriend and I spent 4 days at Black Rock Lodge this past August and could not have had a more enjoyable experience! Black Rock, located in a Belizian Rainforest, is unlike any place I had ever visited. The atmosphere is wonderful - from the cabins to the dining area to the staff, and especially the location! The sights are breathtaking, and it is incredible to see and hear exotic birds, creatures, and insects in their natural habitat. We spent our days full of activities: hiking throughout Black Rock's property, horseback riding (twice), canoeing down the Macal River, tubing, and zip lining.
One of the most enjoyable aspects of our stay was the "family style" dinner every night at 7. Since August tends to be the wet season in Belize (though we lucked out with gorgeous weather and sunshine for an entire week) the lodge was only filled to half capacity and we could all fit at one long table for dinner. It was great to meet and chat with other visitors from around the world about their travels and adventures earlier that day. The food is also DELICIOUS. Menus are offered for breakfast and lunch and everything is freshly prepared on site. My favorite breakfast was the yogurt, fresh tropical fruit, and homemade granola with colombian coffee and fresh juice! I believe dinner was a flat rate each night, and guests were given a choice of a meat of vegetarian entree option. Dinner always involved some type of bread, soup, salad, entree, and dessert. There were also alcoholic beverages available for purchase at the bar in the main lodge.
When our 4 days were up we were so sad to leave. The staff had been so wonderful towards us and incredibly welcoming. It was an amazing trip and an experience I will never forget.
* I should note that this is not a luxurious, resort-like vacation. While the facilities are very clean and well kept, it is still in the midst of the rainforest! This is a perfect destination for outdoor and adventure enthusiasts, and ideal for individuals interested in bird watching and nature. The scenery is completely authentic and can't be beat, but don't expect to come here and be pampered!

The outstanding thing about Black Rock Lodge is the atmosphere created by the staff.

When we arrived we were greeted by Giovanni and Jesse, both of whom are responsible for the staff of the lodge. Their introduction of themselves and the introduction to the Lodge's layout, activities available at the location and offsite, and the guides available to assist, made us feel right away that we had made the right choice.

The impression that we could do what we wanted, when we wanted, made us feel that we could relax and be at home in much different surroundings.

This feeling stayed with us during our 3 day stay. The rest of the staff made us feel welcome all the time and the central Palapa was a nice place to hang out. We could view birds anytime with a skilled bird guide identifying the different birds. We also met some two legged birds and had fun talking to them about their travels and adventures.

We did a nice canoe ride down the river with our guide Elvis, and hiked by ourselves to the top of the hill on a well marked trail. The hike was moderately difficult for an older person but entirely doable. Beautiful surroundings in the jungle and wonderful views of the valley.

It was a nice restful place with plenty of opportunities to do what you like best.
We would stay there whenever we decide to visit Belize again.