El Gran Mestizo

Northern Belize


If you don't mind being a little way out of the center, El Gran Mestizo is a fantastic little resort on the banks of the New River. The compact cabañas are cozy and equipped with fridge, TV, air-con and comfy beds, while the premium cabins have a full kitchen and split-level living. There's even an immaculate six-bed dorm for budget travelers.

All accommodations face the river but are set back in a garden. It's a great spot for those looking to be surrounded by nature but who want to be close to town. Free transfers to and from town are available to guests, and the onsite restaurant is one of the best in town. Boat trips to Lamanai operate from here.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Northern Belize attractions

1. Flagpole Plaza

0.77 MILES

A small plaza behind the Town Hall that was once the site of Fort Cairnes, a British military post during the War of the Castes conflict.

2. Banquitas House of Culture

0.85 MILES

The modern Banquitas House of Culture has an attractively displayed exhibit on Orange Walk's history. It's especially good on the local Maya sites, and…

3. Independence Plaza

0.89 MILES

This run-down plaza near the bridge over the New River marks the site of Fort Mundy, a strategic British military position.

4. Cuello

2.41 MILES

Close to Orange Walk Town, Cuello (kway-yo) is one of the earliest-known settled communities in the Maya world, probably dating back to around 2400 BC,…

5. Nohmul

8.88 MILES

For a taste of how Belize's many majestic ruins may have looked to early explorers before being excavated and landscaped, head to this vast jungle-covered…

6. Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary

20.54 MILES

Between November and April, migrating birds flock to the lagoons, rivers and swamps of the massive Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary, which is managed by…

7. Maya Structures

21.75 MILES

At the far north end of the Lamanai site, and often missed by tour groups, this large platform, 120yd by 100yd in area, supports several large buildings…

8. Mask Temple

21.83 MILES

The Mask Temple (Structure N9-56) was begun around 200 BC and modified several times up to AD 1300. It has two 13ft stylized masks of a man in a crocodile…