Turneffe Flats Lodge
Turneffe Flats Lodge
Turneffe Flats Lodge, nestled on the spectacular Turneffe Atoll in Belize, offers an extraordinary escape for those seeking world-class saltwater fly fishing, scuba diving, and marine eco-tourism. Renowned for its pristine natural beauty and rich biodiversity, the lodge provides guests with unrivaled access to some of the Caribbean's most stunning and productive waters. Whether you're casting for bonefish on the expansive flats, diving amidst vibrant coral reefs, or simply soaking in the serene tropical landscape, Turneffe Flats delivers an unparalleled adventure.
Fishing at Turneffe Flats is a truly exceptional experience, renowned for its world-class saltwater fly fishing. Situated on the vast and ecologically rich Turneffe Atoll, the lodge offers anglers the opportunity to catch an impressive variety of species, including bonefish, permit, and tarpon. The atoll’s crystal-clear, wadable flats provide perfect conditions for sight fishing, with daily chances to spot tailing bonefish and permit.
From April to October, large migratory tarpon add to the excitement, while resident tarpon can be found year-round. The diverse fishery also includes snook, triggerfish, barracuda, snapper, and jacks, ensuring every fishing expedition is filled with potential and adventure.
The accommodations at Turneffe Flats Lodge are designed to offer a luxurious and comfortable retreat amidst the natural beauty of the Caribbean. Guests stay in air-conditioned beachfront cabanas that provide stunning views of the turquoise sea and vibrant coral reefs. Each cabana is thoughtfully furnished with modern amenities, ensuring a restful and relaxing stay. The lodge's attention to detail is evident in every aspect, from the plush bedding and spacious living areas to the private porches where guests can unwind and take in the breathtaking surroundings. With its blend of tropical charm and contemporary comfort, Turneffe Flats Lodge offers a serene and inviting sanctuary for all its visitors.
Traveling to Turneffe Flats Lodge is a straightforward and scenic journey that begins with a flight to Belize City (BZE), Belize’s capital. This airport is conveniently serviced by major airlines such as Delta, American, and United, with flights from most major U.S. cities. Once you arrive in Belize City, a Turneffe Flats representative will greet you and escort you to the city harbor. From there, you will board a comfortable, forty-eight-foot power boat with a closed cabin for a picturesque ninety-minute ride to Turneffe Atoll. This journey is a great opportunity to take in the beauty of the Caribbean Sea as you travel through several offshore cayes and the barrier reef before crossing the open ocean and finally navigating through the interior lagoon of Turneffe Atoll.
Your flight should arrive at Belize International Airport (BZE) no later than 3:30 pm. Upon arrival, collect your luggage, clear customs, and exit the airport. Airport porters are available if you need assistance with your luggage. A Turneffe Flats representative will meet you outside customs and transport you to the Radisson Marina, where you will be informed of the boat’s departure time. If you are unable to locate the representative, take a taxi to the Radisson Marina.
Don't forget to bring a valid passport, as it is required for entry into Belize. We also recommend packing a change of clothing and necessary personal items, including medications, in your carry-on bag in case your luggage is delayed.
U.S. dollars are widely accepted throughout Belize and can be easily exchanged at a rate of $2 BLZ for $1 US, so there’s no need to exchange money before your trip. However, it is advisable to bring smaller denominations, as larger bills ($50s and $100s) can be difficult to break. Turneffe Flats accepts MasterCard, VISA, and AMEX, but not Discover, and major credit cards are also widely accepted in Belize City.
If your flight is delayed and you miss the transfer boat, you will need to stay in Belize City overnight and take a private charter to Turneffe Flats the next morning at 7:30 am. This charter trip will be at your own expense, but Turneffe Flats will assist with the arrangements. They will also help you find accommodation for the night and monitor your flight to stay informed about your situation. Contact the Turneffe Flats office at the local number (280-9022) or the reservation office (888-512-8812) for assistance.
Turneffe Flats Lodge benefits from Belize’s southern latitude, making it an excellent destination for winter fishing. While spring remains the favorite season for many anglers, summer brings light southeasterly breezes and the presence of larger migratory tarpon. Though tropical storms can occur from June to November, with the highest likelihood between August and October, the autumn months often provide stable conditions similar to those in spring. Open year-round, Turneffe Flats Lodge enjoys favorable fishing conditions throughout the seasons. Occasionally, during winter, cooler temperatures and northerly winds can pose challenges for anglers; however, Belize generally offers a reliable winter fishing experience. The prime months for catching migratory tarpon, especially those exceeding one hundred pounds, are from May through August, making it an ideal period for targeting these impressive fish.
At Turneffe Flats Lodge, there's an array of activities beyond world-class fishing to ensure every guest has a memorable experience. Dive into the vibrant underwater world with our exceptional scuba diving program or take an introductory scuba course. Explore the rich cultural heritage of Belize through engaging cooking classes and historical tours led by knowledgeable guides. For those seeking adventure, our guided Atoll Adventures offer thrilling snorkeling excursions and educational eco-tours. If relaxation is your goal, unwind by the infinity pool, enjoy a peaceful kayak ride, or simply relax in a hammock under the swaying palms. Whatever your interests, Turneffe Flats Lodge provides a diverse range of activities to make your stay unforgettable.
If you’ve ever been curious about scuba diving, our Discover Scuba Diving course is a perfect introduction. Under the guidance of PADI-certified instructors, you’ll receive basic scuba instruction followed by two shallow dives, each no deeper than 30 feet. This course is available for an additional fee of $185 plus tax, which includes all necessary equipment and instruction.
Turneffe Flats is situated near some of the world’s premier diving locations, offering 18 dives each week, including expeditions to Lighthouse Reef and the Blue Hole, weather permitting. Our valet dive service ensures a hassle-free experience, with our staff handling your equipment setup and maintenance. With more than 65 dive sites accessible within an hour, our personalized service and superb dive team will make your underwater adventures unforgettable.
Enhance your stay with a mainland tour, available either before or after your visit to Turneffe Flats, or on Wednesdays when our supply boat heads to Belize City. In Belize City, a top-notch guide will take you to explore Mayan ruins, the Belize Zoo, or other attractions depending on the season. These tours are an additional expense, with costs varying based on the chosen itinerary.
Discover the rich and ancient history of Belize through our captivating historical tours at Turneffe Flats Lodge. Led by our expert Atoll Adventure guide, Abel Coe, who is a native Kek'chi Mayan, these tours offer a deep dive into the fascinating Mayan civilization that once thrived in this region.
Abel's extensive knowledge and engaging storytelling bring to life the traditions and beliefs of the Mayan culture. Visit several Mayan fishing villages on Turneffe Atoll, dating back to 400 A.D., and learn about their intricate trade routes that connected them with distant regions. A highlight of the tour is exploring the impressive Mayan ruins on the mainland, where you can witness the architectural prowess and cultural heritage of this ancient civilization.
These tours not only provide historical insights but also offer the unique opportunity to connect with Belize's vibrant past and its enduring influence on the present.
For those seeking tranquility, our Rest & Relaxation Package offers the perfect escape. Enjoy the serene beauty of a private tropical island with hammocks under palm trees, an infinity pool with a stunning view, and excellent on-site snorkeling and kayaking.
While this package does not include organized or guided activities, we can easily arrange inland tours to Mayan ruins or the Belize Zoo. For a bit more adventure, consider our Atoll Adventure package, which includes a variety of guided activities, ensuring a fulfilling and relaxing experience at Turneffe Flats.
Immerse yourself in Belizean culture with our engaging cooking classes. Spend part of your day in the lodge kitchen with one of our expert cooks, learning to prepare traditional dishes such as empanadas, tortillas, tamales, or garnaches.
This experience goes beyond cooking, offering a deep dive into Belizean culinary traditions and culture, leaving you with cherished memories and authentic recipes to take home.
Turneffe Flats Lodge offers a range of all-inclusive packages to suit various preferences, with rates calculated per person based on double occupancy. There are options for full-week and partial-week stays, with full weeks typically running from Saturday to Saturday. Partial week packages are available from Saturday to Wednesday, Wednesday to Saturday, or Tuesday to Saturday, depending on availability, especially during peak seasons. Special packages and à la carte upgrades can be arranged directly at the resort if space permits.
- Airport transfers on Saturdays and Wednesdays
- Comfortable lodging
- Three meals daily plus pre-dinner hors d’oeuvres
- Daily guided activities as per reserved package
- Access to on-site amenities such as the pool, internet, sea kayaks, and the gym
- Belizean taxes
- Bar charges, gratuities, and equipment rentals
- Marine Reserve Fee of $50 and Blue Hole Park Fee of $40
- Special charters to Turneffe Flats on days other than Saturday and Wednesday
- COVID-19 test prior to departure
- All rooms are priced the same, with private room upgrades available upon request.
- Holiday weeks are charged at peak season rates.
- A single supplement fishing package is available for those preferring individual accommodations.
To secure a reservation, a deposit equal to 25% of the package price is required within two weeks of booking. This deposit is refundable (minus a $100 handling fee per package) if canceled up to 90 days before the trip start date. Within 90 days of the trip, deposits are non-refundable unless the space can be resold.
The final payment is due 90 days before departure and is non-refundable. No refunds are available for unused portions of the packages. It is strongly recommended to purchase trip cancellation insurance to protect your investment.
Private Flights Available
Enjoy a personalized travel experience with flexible scheduling, allowing you to maximize your time in paradise. Private flights eliminate long security lines and crowded terminals, ensuring a stress-free journey. Additionally, you'll benefit from direct routes and quicker travel times, arriving swiftly and relaxed, ready to immerse yourself in the beauty and adventure that awaits.
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