I visited caves branch with a group a 12 people from Canada for a week in December 2024. It was an amazing experience. The lodge is beautiful, the beds comfortable and the food delicious. But it’s the people and the tours that really make this a special place. The staff are all friendly and accommodating. We were a big group but we were able to do every tour we wanted together. The guides are great. They are informative and fun but also made sure every activity was done safely. And the activities were spectacular. From exploring deep caves to tubing to rappelling, it was all fantastic. It was a real bonding experience for us and our 20 something kids. And the owner Ella was so helpful and friendly. Can’t recommend this place enough!

IAN'S ANDERSON CAVE BRANCH IS THE MOST BEAUTIFUL RESORT I HAVE EVER BEEN IN BELIZE. I GOTTEN THE TREE HOUSE AND IT WAS BREATH TAKING. THE ROOM WAS SO CLEAN,COMFORTABLE ANS THE VIEWS I GOTTEN FROM IT WAS AMAZING. THE STAFF ,THE FOOD THE OWNERS THEY GIVE YOU THE BEST OF THE BEST. MADE ME AND MY FAMILY FELT AT HOME. ITS A MUST FOR US TO BE BACK.

Our family of 5 (kids 19, 20 and 23) stayed 5 nights in mid December of 2024. Lodging - We collectively stayed in a Jungle Cabana, a Jungle Suite and a Treehouse. The Treehouse was so unique and amazing. The other units were also lovely. Any selected lodging will be wonderful. The air conditioning units make for comfortable sleeping. The outdoor showers are a unique experience we all enjoyed. Food - We found the food and drinks both delicious and plentiful. The dining room staff was friendly and attentive. The service at dinner is rushed between courses. Activities - We participated in the Black Hole Drop, the River Tubing, the Waterfall hike, the Night Hike, the full day Kayak and the ruins day trip. We enjoyed the tours. A few tours were not running due to high water levels. I appreciate that CB cancels when conditions are unsafe. They don't control the weather! Evenings - There is nothing to do after dinner. We played cards in our room but had to set up flashlights around the room to see. The lighting in rooms could use an upgrade solely to allow for something to do in the evenings. We were there in December, so the fewest daylight hours of the year. Pool/hot tub area - We loved hanging in the hot tub each evening before dinner and having drinks and conversing with the other groups staying at CB. The botanical gardens are also beautiful to walk through. Staffing - The staff are truly amazing. We had Hector 4 times and Justo 3 times as guides. They both get 10 out of 10 ratings. When we first arrived I feared that 5 nights was going to be too long. I was incorrect. I'm so grateful we stayed 5 nights because this allowed for time for our family to get to know Hector and Justo (and Zane in the dining room) and learn about the people and life in Belize. Our final day was a full day kayak tour with Hector and Justo. I loved floating in the back and watching our kids (ages 19, 21 and 23) float along and interact with Hector and Justo. By the time we left, we left our new friends. The longer stay truly allows for guests to settle in, enjoy and appreciate the people and beauty of Belize. Book a stay at Cave's Branch. It's a truly unique experience.

We can for 5 days, 4 nights over the winter holiday. Absolutely perfect for Our first trip to Belize. The resort is very comfortable with nice beds, hot water, and an air conditioner. The adventures were amazing - as a slightly anxious mother, we were guided to things I never would have been brave enough to tackle on my own. It just pushes the edge of safety. You truly get to experience the jungle lifestyle. All of the staff was wonderful, kind, helpful, and local. I felt welcomed into their world. Food was not gourmet, but was delicious and plentiful. We would absolutely recommend to anyone for their first trip to Belize and I would strongly consider a return trip when our 7yo is a bit bigger and can do more of the challenging adventures.

We stayed at Ian’s Caves Branch for 3 nights which seemed like the perfect amount of time. One additional night would have been ok but anything thing more would have been too long. Welcome to the jungle. You are in the jungle and there will be bugs. Lots of bugs so bring ample bug spray and pants. You will also need old sneakers or keen type shoes for foot protection, old sneakers are preferred. The water shoes (with flimsy soles) will not be acceptable for the three most popular day trips which are the Waterfall, Black Hole and River trips. Overall a good experience. The best day trip if you can handle the activity level is the Waterfall hike into the cave. Be prepared to be wet all day long. You need pants and will be soaking wet all day. The guides wore military type pants and boots. The resort is a nice place to come back to after the day trips. There is no evening entertainment but dinner is promptly at 6pm nightly. There is WiFi only in the dining area and not in the rooms. The breakfast and dinner buffets have lots of options.The rooms will have bugs, you are in the jungle. Our extended family went on the night hike, an additional $30pp. They didn’t see much and it was very slippery in the muddy wet jungle despite not having rained. One adult slid down a slope surfing style but caught himself and then a young adult fell in the mud. The next night our family and another group had planned to go on the Night Hike, but it was pouring rain for most of the day and evening so after dinner no one wanted to go on the night hike in the pouring rain especially given our extended families experience the night before when it wasn’t raining. The resort told us that it was a last minute cancellation, the guides were here, and that we would still be charged the full amount for the hike, even though it was pouring rain. So, if you do want to do the night hike you should check the weather and know that it’s going to be muddy. The resort told us our credit cards were charged the morning before the night hike, and it can’t be changed. This seemed like a way to nickel and dime you, but regardless I would say our overall stay was good. It was easy for a large group to find activities that suited all age and activity levels. Bring your own sunscreen, bug spray etc. There are a few things available in the gift shop.

We loved Caves Branch! Parents (50s) traveled with our 2 kids, plus one (20s). We stayed in one of the tree houses, which was great for our group. The daily excursions (and the staff) were amazing. The pools, cocktails and food were delightful. Highly recommend to active travelers!

There aren’t enough words to describe how amazing this place actually is. The adventures are truly one of a kind and so special. The accommodations or so special, they are unique and feels like you are really in the jungle. The food is excellent. There are always options for everyone’s taste but also some more local/traditional dishes (pig tail soup!) The entire lodge is perfect, it is seamlessly part of the jungle and such a memorable experience. However, it is the staff that make the stay truly special. The tour guides are absolutely amazing, they are so experienced and knowledgeable about their tours every minute is memorable. The service staff are friendly and go out of their way to learn your name and preferences. Every afternoon we returned to our tree house, the house keeping staff had it looking like the first time we walked in. Our stay at Caves Branch was easily the highlight of our trip to Belize.

Our 3 generation group ages 13 to 78 stayed in a beautifully appointed treehouse unit and loved the views, tiled outdoor shower, immersion in nature and all the special treatment by the beyond friendly staff! Don't miss the night jungle walk, the massages, the fun tropical drinks (with or without alcohol) anytime anywhere, the adventures and the hot tub afterwards... Special kudos for buffet style dining at breakfast and dinner. It made it easy to meet all 6 schedules, appetites and dietary needs.

We did a Jungle/Beach package through Ocean Breeze (Placencia) and started with 3 nights in Caves Branch. We had efficient and enjoyable transportation from the airport to the jungle lodge with Victor. We were greeted with welcome drinks, shown to our beautiful room. The property is gorgeous and has good AC which is important LOL. The indoor shower was very sensitive when changing hot vs cold, but the outdoor shower had perfect temperature. We stayed during a "slower" time which was nice. We enjoyed delicious 4 course meals every evening, and enjoyed breakfast buffet in the morning with fresh juices and the must-have "fry jacks." The resort pool and hot tub were awesome, and very refreshing given the weather. We did a lot of excursions in a small period of time, our first was an absolute must- bird watching. We only did a morning tour but if we had more time we would have done a full day tour. Israel was very knowledgeable, kind, and helped us spot some amazing birds, including many up close and personal on the scope! It was such a magical experience to hear and eventually spot the national bird of Belize. This was our favorite tour! We did Mayan ruins (Cahal Pech) and Iguana Conservation Project with Arnold. We were originally trying to go to Xunantunich but we were unable to because of the water level from the recent rain. Arnold was very fun and kept the tour interesting and enjoyable. They were overall on the smaller side but it was nice to not do any excessive walking that day. Lastly, we did a full-day jungle trek with Telma which was also a pleasure. Telma was very kind and knowledgable. They said the trek was 7/10 difficult but I felt it was pretty mild. However we only walked one way, since both ways would have been a little too long for us given the heat and the mosquitos. We saw many cool things including jaguar footprints! We also took a dip in the blue hole river before taking a fun tractor ride back to the resort. Overall our experience at the lodge was magical, surrounded by so much nature and wildlife, and the entire staff took very good care of us. Would absolutely recommend.

The lodge was my very first time. Being out in the wilderness and breathing the fresh air of our natural rainforest was the best of all. My family and I enjoyed every moment of it. The tour was exceptional have a great guide like Wilmer make it the best for them. The bartender ( forgot his name) and Leo, they were very welcoming. The entire staff were friendly. Thanks Ian Anderson Caves Branch for this marvelous experience. Definitely come back.

Where to begin? I watched this lodge for 20 years dreaming that someday I'd make it to Belize and visit this amazing place. Staff: most kind, friendly, knowledgeable and they truly love their jobs and that reflects the character of the place! (Lissette, Amira) everyone on staff is from local village and the way they treat you during each interaction makes you feel special and that they truly care about your experience. Food: Every single dish I had was outstanding. They truly found a gem in their chefs.(Pineapple upside down cake, carrot cake live only in my dreams now). Lodging: I reserved the cabana but was upgraded to a spectacular tree house. Words can't describe waking up to see the canopy of the jungle. Guides: The guides are amazingly knowledgeable on all tours and topics relevant to caves branch area.Vince, Hector,Jaeson, Christian all amazing. The guides also love their homes and recognize that being indigenous to Belize is a blessing and they try to share that with guests. Top quality professionals. Tours: I went on the river cave and the waterfall cave tours. Both were wonderful. Waterfall cave was my favorite because it was a little more intense and hanging out in a dark cave climbing and jumping waterfalls was an experience I'll never forget. My goal was to see howler monkeys and explore caves. I never imagined I'd fall in love with everything about Ian Anderson's Caves Branch Jungle Lodge. Lastly a hat tip to Mr. Anderson himself. Who after finding out my story about trying to get to caves for ao long (probably because I told everyone) personally called me at dinner to ensure I was having a great time even though he had just had surgery! I recommend this experience without hesitation to anyone who is looking for a jungle adventure! I'll be back.

We did one of the tours offered by the resort, but stayed elsewhere. When we arrived we were greeted by Rosa who immediately started out our day in the best way with her infectious smile and amazing customer service. The tour we did was the Cave Branch tour and our guide was Telma Telma has to be one of the most incredible people I've ever met. Her knowledge of the cave and Mayan history was incredible. One of my favorite things was that she never told us what to expect. So many tour guides will tell you, "Ok and around the corner you're going to see such-and-such, and if we climb up to that spot you'll see such-and-such". Telma allowed everything to be a surprise which made the tour constantly exciting. She is incredibly observant and takes the safety of her guests very seriously, but allows total freedom to explore and have a unique experience. She taught us all about the history and purpose of the cave For any experience at Ian Anderson, you definitely want to request Telma. I cannot say "thank you" enough for the amazing experience she gave us

Great family jungle adrenalin experience. We were 2 adults and 2 teenagers (age 13 and 15). Room: we had a jungle suite which was a great size - we had a double bed (with AC just over the bed) and the kids had bunkbeds in the lounge space. Plenty of room on the floor to keep bags which was helpful as we lived out of our bags this trip. Mozzie nets on all windows and no shutters meant we really did feel like we were in the middle of the jungle (and the howler monkeys in the middle of the night helped with that!). General / staff: we'd been at very quiet places before we arrived at Caves Branch - and when we arrived here it was busy (Saturday night end of season, buffet style dinner with tables called up in order because there were lots of guests) so it was a bit of an assault on our senses and it look us a day to adjust (we were all inclusive, so I personally found the painkiller cocktail helped!). The staff were very friendly, but it did feel just a little less personal than other places we had stayed (although special shout out to Indira, Edgar and Kathryn who were especially lovely). Food was fine - I read somewhere that they don't claim to be gourmet and that's right, but it was still good. Pool is good to have (although it's also right on the river too so the kids took some tubes out and swam there as well). Activities: we had various guides for different activities. We couldn't do the 7 mile tubing trip as the water level wasn't high enough, but we did the cave exploring and river tubing with Telma and Junior who were great - good fun, knowledgable - it was a great day. On our second day the boys (my husband and 15 yo son) did the waterfalls trip (which they said was amazing - basically climbing and jumping off waterfalls in the caves) while my 13 yo daughter and I went horse riding - stunning scenery, just the 2 of us with our guide who was also friendly and knowledgeable (there is a theme in Belize - everyone is friendly and all the guides know their stuff!). My daughter hadn't been in a horse in 5 yrs and never without being led, but by the end of the 90 mins she was cantering along! The Caves Branch driver told us about the Blue Hole national park so we walked there from the lodge - it's only a 15 min walk (although for us Brits in 30 degrees 85% humidity at 1 pm this felt like quite a long way!) and it was totally worth it - gorgeous clear natural swimming pool just off the highway. Recommendation: this place didn't quite sing to my soul like the 3 other places we stayed in Belize (largely because it was busier and a little less personal), but it was really convenient for some of the action stuff which we're all glad we did. Like other jungle places in Belize you def need mozzie spray (they sell it if you don't have it); plenty of drinking water available (take a refillable water bottle each - saves plastic), tap water is fine to clean your teeth.

Our family of five (three boys- tween/teen) enjoyed our stay at Caves Branch immensely. We just got back, and I would say it was fairly quiet at the resort. Dinners were plated and not a buffet, but we still got a choice in our main dish each night and there was enough of a variety to make everyone happy. I'm gluten free and I had absolutely no problem at all eating through the week- they made it very easy for me. We stayed in a two bedroom treehouse and there was a lot of space for everyone. It was hot in the treehouse during the day, but we weren't in it a lot--just in the evenings. If we turned on our bed AC units right about when we headed to dinner, the sleeping areas were cooled off well enough for everyone to sleep without an issue. The upstairs King room even got a little chilly! The monkeys woke us up every morning, but we knew about them ahead of time and watched a youtube video so we knew what they sounded like (they don't sound at all like what you'd think they would!). They were only loud for 10-15 minutes and then all was quiet again. We saw them multiple times throughout the day hanging out in the trees, which was super cool. We had an outdoor shower, which everyone LOVED, and it was hilarious to be taking a shower and seeing monkeys climbing the trees right above you. Everyday when we came back from our tour, housekeeping had made adorable towel animals on the beds and we all loved seeing their creativity. The room was constantly filled with fresh flowers and flower clippings. We chose the waterfall caves tour, the cave tubing/exploration tour and the evening Jungle walk. All of our guides were fabulous- friendly, funny, informative and they all made sure we had a good time. We had Jeison, Ismael, Marvin, Telma and Eynar and we loved all of them. Our family's favorite was the waterfall tour- it was very strenuous though (which they do tell you for sure!), but we all made it through and have some great memories. The cave exploration tour was also awesome and Telma was wonderful- a little adventure and a little education wrapped up together :) I did cut my foot on a sharp rock right at the beginning of cave tubing (I was wearing keens), but Eynar quickly tended to me with the med kit and I was able to enjoy the full adventure. The boys loved the pool area and the bar being so close. Winder was awesome at the bar and very friendly. The servers became our favorite part of the eating area. We loved Amira, Indira and Edgar. They were all so friendly and we carried on conversations as the week went on. Ian and Ella were super friendly- we actually ate dinner with them twice. We saw them multiple times through our week and they were always chatting with guests and making sure all was well. We had our own car, so we did have one day where we didn't have a tour. We hopped over to San Ignacio and did a few things there, and also visited a chocolate shop and the Art Box (GREAT souvenir shop about 25 minutes away!). If you don't have a car, St Herman's Blue Hole is literally right across the street, and that was a fun thing for us to do an hour or so on our day off from a day tour. Other info: There is plenty of water for you in your room, so no need to worry about safe drinking water. The bugs are horrendous, so bring lots of bug spray, but that is all over Belize and not just at the resort. Also, the lights are pretty dim in the rooms, so grab some flashlights before you come (we got LED rechargeable ones from amazon) and they came in handy multiple times. Overall, do your research. Caves Branch doesn't claim to be anything that they aren't. It's rustic, but upscale. It's adventurous. It's not for everyone. But it was amazing for us, and we're glad we chose it! We would definitely come back! Belize was beautiful <3

Before I get into everything we loved about this amazing resort for our honeymoon, we want to ask that if this review was helpful, please write down Andy & Angela on the referral section when making your reservation! For each referral we get, they credit us with a percentage of the cost of your trip to help us get back there sooner - because it was seriously awesome and we really want to go back! Okay now let's get into it! My wife and I just did the 6-night/4-adventure all-inclusive package for our honeymoon! We wanted to get a true jungle/rainforest experience and this did not disappoint! We stayed in a jungle cabana and it was quite lovely. The AC over the bed is necessary, although the temps got down into the low 70s overnight. None of the accommodations have glass windows here, so be prepared to deal with the humidity. We only realized that fact when we got there, and we were nervous about it at first, but it honestly ended up being perfectly fine. It was very cool getting to hear all the sounds of jungle each night, and we slept like babies after all the adventures we went on during many of the days. Another thing we didn't realize until we got there was that the WiFi doesn't extend to the rooms - it's only available at the lodge and around the pool area. Again, we were nervous because we like to watch movies at night and generally be connected 24/7, but it ended up being perfectly fine. We used hotspots when necessary but enjoyed being unplugged for those hours, too. Mosquitos were not an issue in the cabana, but anytime we went outside we typically sprayed ourselves with bug spray. The pool was really nice for the days off from the adventures. It had several nooks and sections to swim in and claim your lounge chairs, so it made it feel a little more private than it actually was. The lodge was awesome, too. We highly recommend the buffets for breakfasts and dinners. The food was so tasty, the servers were amazingly attentive, and we loved how they sat you with different groups for each dinner to help you get to know more people. These servers and bar staff were particularly awesome: Winder, Logan, Edgar, and Indie were our absolute favorites! Everyone on their staff seriously has their hospitality process/culture down pat. The adventures were the best part of each day, though. The four we chose were Xunantunich/Cahal Pech Mayan Ruins, Black Hole Drop, Waterfall Caves, and Horseback Riding. Their guides were absolutely unmatched. We had the pleasure of having Marvin, Telma, Jeison, Melanie, and Hector for our excursions. They were so knowledgable, kind, funny, and kept us safe. The Waterfall Caves was our favorite adventure by far! It was a strenuous hike upstream over 7 waterfalls, before we turned around and jumped our way back down each waterfall. Then we had lunch before heading out of the cave. It was physically difficult all while being one of the coolest things we'd ever done. Highly recommend! Overall, this resort, the adventures they provide, and their incredible staff make it a must-go type of trip. If you're reading this and you don't book, you're making a mistake! Enjoy your rainforest adventure like we did and help us get back there someday soon by putting Andy & Angela on your referral line!