We are a group of 8, late 20's to mid 30's who are very adventuresome, heading to Belize July 20 and returning July 28. We are looking at Hamanisa and Victoria House (4 nights at each). Mata Chica has caught my eye also. We want to horseback ride, snorkle & scuba (if we get our licenses in time), & hike. Any advise? Thanks!

All three places are excellent, though quite different. With eight people in a party, on Ambergris I think you might also want to look at some of the small condotels or suites places. Or even a house rental. They tend to offer more space for less money. Some great options: Xanadu, The Palms, Banana Beach, Belizean Shores, among others.

There's no horseback riding on Ambergris now, and I can't think of any near Hamanasi. Banana Bank near Belmopan is the best equestrian place in Belize.

--Lan Sluder

Could you offer your personal insight about Hamanisi, Victoria House, & Mata Chica? We really don't need a lot space - we don't spend any time in our rooms. Is it unreasonable to ride with Banana Bank from Hamanisa?

If you have 8 days and adventure in your blood, book into one of the jungle lodges on the mainland for a few nights for horses, ruins and caving and other activities. Banana Bank is a 20 minute flight (from Vic House and Mata Chica) plus an hour drive. It's about 1.5 hrs from Hamanasi by road each way.

Or stay at Banana Bank and go caving, do a river trip, visit a ruin, etc. I was just at Hamanasi yesterday and it's looking good. From Hamanasi, you can also book guided hiking in the Jaguar Preserve, a waterfall hiking trip and river kayaking.

Katie &/or Lan-
Would you recomend Hamanasi then? What about Ambergris Caye? Any thoughts on Mata Chica or Victoria House? Forget horseback riding - we can do everything else that we want to do on the mainland from Hamanasi. What do you think about Jaguar Reef?