Black Orchid Resort

Overview

Description

Black Orchid Resort is nestled on the banks of the pristine Old River. Local wildlife such as iguanas, crocodiles, and resident and migratory birds can all be viewed by taking a river tour from the resort. We also offer the following tours:

• Bermudian Landing Community Baboon Sanctuary
• Belize Zoo
• Cave tubing (includes lunch)
• Lamanai Mayan Ruin (includes private boat, lunch)
• Altun Ha (includes lunch)
• Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary (no lunch)
• Xunantunich (includes lunch)
• Diving/snorkeling the cayes
• World Heritage Sites and protected areas (to be announced; inquire at the reception desk)
• Bacalar Chico National Park and Marine Reserve
• Blue Hole Natural Monument - Lighthouse reef
• Half Moon Caye Natural Monument
• South Water Caye Marine Reserve
• Glover's Reef Marine Reserve
• Laughing Bird Caye Natural Monument
• Sapodilla Caye Marine Reserve
• Whale shark diving
• Shark Ray Alley/Hol Chan Marine Reserve
• Horseback riding jungle adventure
• Jungle hike
• Belize river tours

Rooms

19

Making a Difference

Number of employees: 19

Percentage of local employees: 100%

Black Orchid Resort is proud to participate in the Rainforest Alliance's Verification program. The resort is currently managing its conservation efforts in line with sustainable practices by supporting local vendors and businesses using renewable resources and by using eco-friendly cleaning products.

At Black Orchid Resort, we have delicately fostered an environmental balance where our guests are acquainted with our local "in house" neighbors: the black howler monkey (Alouatta caraya), parrots, iguanas, and of course Belizeans. Since its opening in 2005, the executives of the Black Orchid Resort have recognized the importance of preserving the pristine river environment which has protected and nurtured the rich biological diversity of the region for centuries. In order to accomplish this and standardize its sustainability practices, Black Orchid participated in training programs offered by the Rainforest Alliance. We are also a member of the World Heritage Alliance to "go green" and have implemented activities and programs designed to educate both staff and visitors in practicing conservation. As an excellent option near Belize City, Black Orchid Resort is committed to preserving the environment for generations to come by supporting local vendors, participating in eco-educational workshops, practicing eco-friendly standards in waste and water runoff treatment, and partnering with other hotels and tour operators committed to sustainable development.

We support the local community by sponsoring local scouting events, adopting local parks, hiring employees from surrounding communities, and buying from local artisans who sell products made from renewable resources (i.e. bamboo, slate, clay, coconut, etc). We are committed to the amelioration of poverty in indigenous communities and maintain a local schoolyard.

Rates

$101 – $150

Black Orchid Resort offers all-inclusive packages such as the "Best of Both Worlds," which combines jungle and sea adventures with room and board. We also offer "Singles" and "Girlfriend" getaways, making it easy for our guests to enjoy an affordable vacation. We are a family-oriented resort and not designed for nightlife, but we can take you to that type of entertainment on request.

For more information about rates, please visit:

• www.blackorchidresort.com/room-rates.html (available in English).

Getting There

Nearest international airport: Belize City (BZE)

Nearest local/national airport: Belize City (TZA)

Travel time to nearest airport: 15 minutes

Black Orchid Resort is the only jungle resort with paved road access that is centrally located, just 30 minutes from Belize City and 55 minutes to the islands or cayes.

Additional Information

Awards or Recognitions

The management team at Black Orchid Resort was recognized by the Belize Hotel Association as hotelier of the year in 2008.

Additional Web sites

• www.belizerus.com (available in English). Belize R Us is a tour operating company that owns the Black Orchid Resort. We provide all tours offered in Belize with trained professional guides and properly serviced and insured vehicles. At Black Orchid Resort, your comfort and safety is our concern.
• belizehotels.org/setting/tropical-jungle/black-orchid-resort-belize-district/ (available in English). The Belize Hotel Association website.

Date This Information Was Provided

December 2011.

Photos courtesy of Black Orchid Resort, Belize, for SustainableTrip.org.