Along the banks of the Belize River, this jungle lodge is one of the best spots for families. Equestrians of all skill levels can choose from 80 horses. Owners John and Carolyn Carr (he's a cowboy from Montana; she's a noted artist) arrange canoe trips and hikes on the lodge's 4,000 acres. Deer and a spider monkey roam the grounds, along with many birds in an aviary. The aging resident jaguar, Tika, died in 2007, but she has been replaced by a new young jaguar named Tikatoo. Thatch cabañas with curving walls are modest but comfortable (no air-conditioning, though), and there are three air-conditioned rooms and two suites in the three-story Chateau Brio, and four budget rooms in the Chalet. Hearty, simple meals are served family-style. Pros: Good choice for families and horse lovers; lodge now has a swimming pool; guests and owners mingle at meals. Cons: Pesky mosquitoes.
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