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Our Story
Rooted In Nature
Set deep in the rainforest of Southern Belize, Copal Tree Lodge is more than an eco-resort—it’s a living story of culture, conservation, and conscious travel. From ancient Maya roots to award-winning agritourism, every chapter of our journey is rooted in purpose and guided by a commitment to sustainability.
600 A.D.
The land surrounding Copal Tree Lodge has a rich history of human inhabitants dating back to the Classic Maya period, around 600 A.D. During this time, the Maya people used the Rio Grande River as a vital transportation route, connecting their communities to the Caribbean Sea.
1860s
In the 1860s, Confederate settlers from Alabama and Texas arrived to grow sugarcane, raise cattle, and produce rum. A Belizean-born descendant, Ms. Marie Louise Young, later purchased the land that would become Copal Tree Lodge.
She raised cattle, cultivated 80 acres of sugarcane, produced aged Agricole rum, and started a distillery called "Rocky Run Rum." The original cane press can still be seen at our Agritourism Center.
2001
In 2001, the property was sold to the owners of El Pescador in San Pedro, and construction began on El Pescador South, a new fly fishing lodge.
In 2005, an avid marine conservationist, Todd Robinson purchased the fishing lodge and became involved in regional environmental conservation.
2009
By 2009, the lodge was rebranded as Belcampo Lodge, and soon after, it changed again to what we now know as Copal Tree Lodge. Copal Tree became one of the largest agritourism destinations in Belize, producing key organic crops such as sugarcane, cacao, coffee, and vanilla. The farm offers educational programs to share and study these incredible ingredients at their origin.
TODAY
Copal Tree Lodge has grown from pioneering sustainable food production and agritourism to becoming an award-winning, world-class destination. With only 17 suites, we welcome discerning, conscientious travelers from around the globe.
Originally founded as a fly fishing lodge, we still proudly uphold this tradition as an Orvis-endorsed lodge, offering exceptional fly fishing experiences while staying true to our sustainable roots.
“Way back when, I brought my 3 sons here, it was a fishing lodge, with a small organic farm. Fast forward to today, and WOW! The farm has certainly grown. Fields & fields of sugar cane for Copalli Rum production. Chocolate. Coffee. Amazing to see the evolution. The people who work here and who have been here for years, truly make it special.”
Tracy A. - Calgary, Canada
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Sustainably Grown
Sustainability is woven into every part of the property experience, from gravity-fed rainwater systems and tree planting to sustainably harvested wood furniture. Through agroforestry, local sourcing, and regenerative practices, we’re committed to preserving Belize’s ecosystems and uplifting its communities for generations to come.
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Committed to Community
Supporting the local community is woven into every stay. As the largest employer in Southern Belize, Copal Tree provides jobs, educational grants for local children, and leads with sustainability in all we do. Through donations, partnerships, and guest programs, every visit leaves a lasting, meaningful impact.
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The Copal Family
Experience genuine Belizean hospitality with our passionate local team. From expert fly-fishing guides and regenerative farmers to award-winning chefs and conservationists, every member brings deep knowledge and heart to what they do. Many come from nearby communities and have been with us for years, making you feel less like a guest and more like family.
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