Many places like Lamanai Outpost Lodge (LOL) have one good looking picture, but in the end are disappointingly similar. LOL is much better than any picture you could take. The accommodations are individual (often assembled into small clusters) units with thatched roofs. They are not air conditioned, but have ceiling fans. Temperature was perfect in early April. Private modern bathrooms, good beds and very simple and elegant spaces. The open air (under roof) dining room is really quite spectacular. But what really sets this place apart is the people. After a few days there I asked one of the staff if there was a boss--because everybody acted like they were the boss! There is a boss but everybody on staff seems to own any problem you are trying to overcome. The food is excellent. The bird guides were extremely good, and the tours were very relaxed. The tours of the Lamanai ruins were also excellent. It will take you a number of days to exhaust this place.

From my first contact with Blanca at Lamanai I felt that we would be well looked after. They were prompt and helpful. We just spent 4 nights at Lamanai with our kids 14,11 and 9, and we all had a great time. Arriving at the lodge via a boat trip and seeing bats and crocs on the way in added to the feeling we were going somewhere special. The location of the lodge on a wide lagoon is scenic and great for swimming as well. Activities are very well done, and there is lots to see whether an early morning guided canoe ride, a visit into the local village for lunch or a nightime jungle walk. Adding to the appeal is that Lamanai is also very supportive of researchers, and we were fortunate to learn more about Jaguars from a group conducting research in the nearby national park. Having the amazing Lamanai ruins nearby was a bonus. However, what truly sets Lamanai apart is their fantastic staff, and their ability to make activities fun for kids and experts alike. My kids will never forget how well they were treated by everyone from the guides like Raul and Ruben, Mirna in the dining room and Danilo in the bar. While the menu is set, they were very happy to accomodate alternatives and while not everyone wants to be woken up by Howler Monkeys, this was what we signed up for!

I selected this spot based on Trip Advisor reports - even with the great reviews it far exceeded our expectations. Rather than repeat the glowing comments (which I concur with), the thought I'd provide some helpful tips -
1. There are set meals - the menu rotates every 4 days.
2. Despite a set menu, if there is anything you don't like or if you have allergies, they will make excellent substitute dishes for you - the chefs are 2 women from the village who are serving you their favorites local dishes and they take great pride in their food.
3. There were comments that they serve a lot of food. Yes, you get a 3 course lunch and a 3 course dinner but with all the hiking, I didn't feel like I was overserved and the portions were European in size for the most part. I felt that they had such pride in their food that they wanted ther guests to experience it.
4. If you like a recipe, ask for it - they will give it to you.
5. Howler monkeys move in and out of the lodge area so no guarantees but they like the tree above cabana #15 so if you like howlers, try to get #15.
6. Ask Danilo for his "Howler Monkey" drink - it's fabulous
7. If you like bird watching, get Ruben as a guide - he's amazing at spotting and getting a scope on birds.
8. They have tip envelopes at the front desk so you can save all your tipping until check out.
9. If you go over to the ruins for a tour - take money. There are 3 local craft shops there. They design their own T-shirts - great designs. If you forget (like we did), you can go the next day by boat and walk the 15 minutes back.
10. You really become one with the village - it doesn't matter whether you are talking to the chef, the guides or someone just picking up around the ruins. Everyone is very warm and welcoming and wants to share their knowledge of Belize with you - whether its the ruins, the birds, how to cook, local medicinal options, the butterfly farm, etc

To anyone who reads this and decides to go - I'm totally jealous! You will have a fabulous time!

Stayed over the New Year at this wonderful lodge.
Great location by the New River with lots of birdlife.
Accommodation is superb and food good but the highlight for my wife and myself was the marvellous staff. Their enthusiasm and knowledge of hte wildlife, flora and fauna area exceeded both our expectations.
Whilst at the lodge I took ill which took some of the gloss off for us but were impressed by the care and concern the staff showed.
If we return to Belize in the future we would definately go back to this lodge.