2023 Hosted Trips: November 4-11 * 2024 Hosted Trips Available!
Green Globe is the largest and most prestigious agency certifying resorts around the World based upon their environmental and societal sustainability. Turneffe Flats has been Green Globe Certified since 2014 and was recently audited for recertification. The audit process rigorously evaluates at all aspects of the resort’s infrastructure, operations, social interaction and environmental impacts. Turneffe Flats once again is proud to receive the top “green” rating in Belize, and possibly the highest rating in the entire Caribbean. |
For more than three decades, Turneffe Flats has been known as one of the world’s finest saltwater destinations. Our diverse fishery, with the opportunity to land bonefish, permit, and tarpon on any given day, sets Turneffe Flats apart from other destinations. Turneffe’s crystal clear, wadeable flats make bonefishing a consistent mainstay of our fishing. Turneffe is also one of a select group of saltwater destinations offering anglers the opportunity to experience the excitement of casting to tailing permit every month of the year. Additionally, Turneffe is home to large, migratory tarpon between April and October with the resident tarpon caught throughout the year. Snook, snapper, jacks, and variety of other species, round out an exceptionally diverse fishery.
Turneffe Atoll is the largest of only four coral atolls in the Western Hemisphere and is best-known for its variety of saltwater fishing. Turneffe Flats is located on a remote, picturesque point featuring white sand beach and coconut palms. An expansive bonefish flat is right outside your front door and a healthy coral reef is only a stone’s throw away.
Contact Front Range Anglers Adventure Travel Manager Rob Kolanda for additional information and to BOOK!
When you BOOK with FRA Adventure Travel you never pay more for our services as we work for YOU and the Lodge!
SOLAR PANELS INSTALLED
PRODUCING 80% OF ENERGY NEEDS
When it comes to green tourism and environmental sustainability, Turneffe Flats Lodge has long been one of the western Caribbean’s most innovative fishing and diving resorts. More than ten years in the making, Turneffe Flats’ new solar-powered system is one of the largest off-grid solar systems in the Caribbean, allowing the fishing, diving, and ecotourism resort to greatly reduce its dependence on diesel power. Located 30 miles from mainland Belize, the system is capable of producing 100 kilowatts of power, providing enough energy to operate the entire resort, which accommodates 30 guests per week.
Turneffe Flats founder and owner, Craig Hayes, advised that the new solar panels will provide approximately 80% of the island’s energy needs. This state of the art system will replace 17,000 gallons of diesel fuel each year. Craig Hayes also believes that in addition to being the right thing to do environmentally, replacing diesel with the sun also makes good economic sense.
Turneffe Flats has tried to set standards for environmental stewardship and sustainability and provide top-level guest service while having the least possible impact on the environment. Their new energy system is part of a long-term effort to lower their carbon footprint.
EXPERT PICK
INFORMATION
Belize Reopening Plan
Belize Reopening Plan
Belize is OPEN & FISHING! Belize Entry Requirement details can be found here.
Prior to arrival, all visitors to Belize must:
1) Proof of Covid-19 Immunization or A negative Covid-19 test – Effective JULY 12, 2022 Belize Tourism Board has lifted ALL C19 Entry Restrictions.
- Effective July 12, 2022, travelers are no longer required to show proof of vaccination for entry into Belize’s airport, land borders or sea ports.
- Unvaccinated travelers are no longer required to show proof of a negative PCR or a negative Antigen Rapid test upon arrival.
- Every child under the age of 18 years will not be required to show proof of vaccination upon entry into Belize through airport, land or sea port.
- Additional Information can be found HERE.
2) Belize Mandatory Health Insurance – Effective JULY 12, 2022, all foreign tourists entering Belize have the option to purchase Belize Health Insurance. It is no longer required for entry but is highly recommended by the Belize Tourism Board.
This insurance costs $18 USD per traveler and gives you coverage for up to 21 days from arrival. This is additional to any individual travel insurance purchased and specifically covers you if you get COVID-19 while visiting Belize. You can purchase this HERE.
3) Customs and Immigration Form – You are required to complete the Customs and Immigration Form that is provided to you on your flight to Belize.
Returning Home:
As of 12:01AM ET on June 12, 2022, CDC will no longer require air passengers traveling from a foreign country to the United States to show a negative COVID-19 viral test or documentation of recovery from COVID-19 before they board their flight.
For more information, see Rescission: Requirement for Negative Pre-Departure COVID-19 Test Result or Documentation of Recovery from COVID-19 for all Airline or Other Aircraft Passengers Arriving into the United States from Any Foreign Country.
What to expect fly fishing Turneffe Atoll
For more than three decades, Turneffe Flats has been known as one of the world’s premier flats fishing destinations combining a remarkable fishery with excellent English-speaking guides, top-notch equipment, superior accommodations, and service. The ability to sight-fish for BONEFISH, PERMIT, and TARPON on any given day makes Turneffe one of the few places where a Grand Slam is always a possibility.
- 6:00 AM: Wake
- 6:30 AM: Breakfast
- 7:00 AM: Depart for flats
- 8:00 AM- 4:30 PM: Fishing
- 5:30 PM: Back at the lodge
- 7:00 PM: Dinner
General Information
Bonefishing
Bonefish have been a primary target of Turneffe Flats’ anglers for more than 30 years. While wading the expansive flats on the seaward side of Turneffe, you will regularly see large schools of bonefish providing an unequaled opportunity for new saltwater anglers to learn the basics of the sport. There are also plenty of challenging opportunities for those who enjoy stalking larger fish (some in excess of 10 pounds) in skinny water. Our ocean-side flats are some of the most picturesque flats anywhere.
Permit Fishing
Permit is the prime objective of many anglers at Turneffe Atoll. With Turneffe Flats leading the way, Belize has gained a reputation as the permit capital of the world. Many guests have celebrated their first-ever permit with us and many return year after year to take advantage of Turneffe’s exceptional permit fishery.
Most permits is found as singles or in small groups on the flats and bars throughout the atoll, although we also frequently see larger schools of permit tailing in shallow water. Most of our permit fishing is done from a poled skiff but there is also excellent wade fishing for a permit on our ocean-side flats.
Tarpon Fishing
Tarpon is perhaps the ultimate challenge of saltwater fly fishing. Although there is always some resident tarpon to be found, our migratory tarpon season extends from mid-April to October. Tarpon inhabits the creeks, channels and lagoons of the Atoll and most tarpon jumped are 60-90 pounds, with some fish in the 100-150 pound range and occasional monsters approaching 200 pounds.
Other Species
The interior of the Turneffe Atoll offers miles of mangrove-lined bays, creeks, and lagoons to fish for snook, various species of snapper, jacks and barracuda with poppers or Clouser Minnows. This can be some very exciting saltwater fishing with either a fly rod or spinning gear.
Barracuda is an underrated and acrobatic game fish inhabiting the reefs at Turneffe in large numbers. Some anglers prefer to troll a fly for them, but they can also be taken by sight casting on the flats or by casting poppers into the deeper holes along the reef.
Along the reef, wading anglers can take snappers and jacks by casting deceiver patterns or poppers into the surf. Spending some time during your stay at Turneffe “chasing” other species is always fun and usually rewarding.
Non-Angling Activities and Options
Turneffe Flats has long been recognized as one of Belize’s premier saltwater fly fishing, SCUBA diving, and marine eco-tourism destinations. Located on the incredibly beautiful Turneffe Atoll, we specialize in superior service for a limited number of guests.
SCUBA and Snorkeling on the Coral Reefs
Explore all of the wonders and the beauty of the Turneffe Atoll. Our unique marine eco-adventure experience features world-class snorkeling, birding, wildlife sightseeing, and several other fun and informative activities. If you are so inclined, you can stay at the resort and lounge at the pool or on our beach. Every day offers a great new adventure and a perfect opportunity to relax – that’s what our Atoll Adventure is all about.
Atoll Adventurers choose from a variety of daily guided activities led by Abel Coe or another experienced Atoll Adventure guide, all of whom are informative and fun. Our 25-foot canopied boat is at your guide’s disposal for exploring the reefs, mangroves, creeks, and lagoons that make Turneffe the largest and most biologically diverse atoll in the Caribbean. Turneffe’s warm Caribbean waters, extensive sea life, and vibrant corals make snorkeling one activity that you will definitely want to experience. Our guides are masters at helping everyone feel comfortable in the water and beginners can learn to snorkel on our sandy shore before visiting the reef. With at least 60 species of birds at Turneffe, birding is another highlight. You may also want to tour the atoll looking for manatees and dolphins or enjoy an afternoon kayaking. Our Atoll Adventure Program is very flexible and is tailored to fit the particular interests of each group.
Rest & Relaxation Package is for our guests who primarily wish to relax and enjoy the beauty and serenity of a private tropical island paradise. There are hammocks under the palm trees, an infinity pool and lounging deck with an incredible view, great on-site snorkeling and kayaks at your disposal. The R & R Package does not include any organized or guided activities. However an inland tour of the Mayan ruins or the Belize Zoo can easily be arranged.
For a bit more than just relaxing, we recommend our Atoll Adventure package. This package costs only slightly more and it reserves space to participate in a variety of guided activities each day. Of course, guests opting simply for Rest & Relaxation will enjoy a wonderful experience at Turneffe as well.
Other
Massages are available from one of our excellent masseuses throughout your stay, after you’ve returned from a great day of fishing, diving, or snorkeling. We offer traditional Swedish Massage or Deep Tissue Massage which can be scheduled for either 60- or 90-minute sessions. Massages can be scheduled prior to your arrival or once your get to the resort. Massages are typically given in the comfort of your room.
Gym – For those who don’t get enough exercise wading the flats, diving or snorkeling, we have an exercise area available at anytime. For runners, a quarter mile route around the compound makes a reasonably nice area to run.
TV – With our guests’ active schedules, television is not a primary attraction. We do, however, have a comfortable television viewing area available to all guests at any time. There are also televisions in our villa accommodations. Our television service is via satellite and we receive major channels for big games and special televised events.
Turneffe Flats: The Best Fly Fishing Lodge in Belize
Lodging Overview
The social center of Turneffe Flats is our Lodge which features a beautiful mahogany bar, spacious sitting area, and the dining room. The sitting area is a great spot to enjoy tales of the day and a beverage of your choice before dinner. Incredible views from the upper and lower decks make this a favorite spot to relax and enjoy the tropical sea breeze.
Lodging Details
We understand that the small details are important for a great vacation. With this in mind, we offer a number of amenities to make your stay with us as enjoyable as possible. You are welcome to use our infinity pool and sit-on-top kayaks anytime you like or snorkel some beautiful coral heads from our dock.
You can keep in touch with family, friends and business colleagues with (limited) wifi and satellite telephone. A small conference center is available, and you can schedule a relaxing massage or catch that important game on satellite television.
Food and Beverages
Meals are a delicious combination of Belizean and International dishes. Fresh seafood, local produce, and home-baked pastries are standard fare. Depending on your plans and your preference, you have the option to take a packed lunch or return for lunch each day.
Following hors-d’oeuvres and refreshments in the evening, dinner is comprised of soup or salad, entree, and a delicious dessert. Entrees vary among seafood, chicken, pork, and beef and we do our best to accommodate special dietary needs. Our bar is located in the Lodge just adjacent to the dining area with plenty of open space to gather after a day of fishing, diving, and adventure.
Typical Length of Stay
The standard stay is seven (7) nights / six (6) fishing days.
Travel Details
Travel Documents Needed
DO NOT FORGET YOUR PASSPORT. A valid passport is required to enter Belize. We recommend that you carry a change of clothing and your necessary personal items such as medications in your carry-on bag. Although we have not had a substantial problem with lost luggage, this can help prevent some major headaches. Keep the bottom portion of your Immigration Form, which you will fill out on your arriving flight. It will be used when you depart Belize.
All U.S. citizens are required to have a valid passport that does not expire within six (6) months of trips dates. Please be sure that your passport has at least two blank, unstamped pages remaining in the back, and that it is not torn, de-laminated, or damaged in any way.
Travel Arrangements & Insurance
Front Range Anglers will assist with airline tickets, hotels, transfers, and all travel logistics. Contact us at 877.935.2975 or 303.494.1375 or [email protected] for more details on airfare ticketing, travel services, and trip insurance.
FRA REQUIRES all anglers to have Medical Evacuation Insurance- we recommend Global Rescue, and we HIGHLY recommend Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance.
Details about fly fishing at Turneffe Flats
Upcoming 2023 HOSTED Turneffe Flats Dates:
- Feb. 18-25, 2023 Cost $5,290 per angler plus taxes **5 Rods**
- May 27-June 3, 2023 Cost $5,290 per angler plus taxes **5 Rods**
- Nov. 4-11, 2023 Cost $4,590 per angler plus taxes **5 Rods**
Upcoming 2024 HOSTED Turneffe Flats Dates:
- Feb. 3-10, 2024
- May 18-25, 2024
- June 1-8, 2024
- July 27 – Aug 2, 2024
- Oct 26 – Nov 2, 2024
Packages Include:
- 7 nights lodging (double occupancy with beach cabana lodging)
- 6 days guided fishing (two anglers per skiff)
- All regional transfers to/from airport to Radisson Marina area and water taxi to/from Radisson Marina area to Turneffe Flats
- All meals
- Non alcoholic beverages while on the water fishing
Packages do not include:
- VAT
- Tax
- Mainland USA or international flights to Belize
- Beer and sodas at the Lodge
- Gratuities for the guides and staff
- Exit Fee of $40
- Trip insurance (optional but recommended)
- Global Rescue (optional but recommended)
- Belizean fishing license
- Any incidentals purchased at TF
Cancellation/Refund Policy
At the time of booking 50% of the trip is due and payable. At 90 days the remainder plus all VAT and taxes are due. Cancellation greater than 90 days from the date of trip, all monies refunded less $100 fee if a replacement angler is found. Cancellation within 90 Days, no refunds are provided unless a qualified replacement angler is provided. No refunds are provided for trip cancellation due to Weather, Acts of God, Airline/Travel issues.
Travel Insurance
Front Range Anglers recommends all anglers to have Medical Evacuation Insurance- we recommend Global Rescue, and we HIGHLY recommend Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance. FOR ANY QUESTIONS PLEASE CONTACT: Jessica Minard at 617.210.8106 (direct) or email [email protected].
CLICK HERE TO VIEW FRA GENERAL TERMS & CANCELLATION POLICY
Trip Insurance is strongly advised & recommended!
Turneffe Flats Lodge COVID-19 Reservations Policies:
Our new Reservation Policies will apply to NEW reservations made and confirmed between May 1, 2020 and January 15, 2021. For
reservations made during this period, the following guidelines will apply:
1. Our required 25% deposit to confirm a reservation will remain as is.
2. Final Payments will be due 30 days before the beginning date of your trip. (Please note that our standard Cancellation
Policy usually requires final payments 60 days before the start of your trip.)
3. Should anyone be prevented from traveling due to COVID-19, your trip will be re-booked at full credit, or alternatively, all
funds (deposit and final payment) will be refunded minus a $100 cancellation/processing fee. These cancellation options
will be available up to 14 days prior to the beginning of a trip. Within 14 days of your trip, our standard Cancellation Policy
will apply.
4. Our policy applies to cancellations due to COVID-19 preventing clients from traveling to Turneffe Flats.
COVID-19 Safety Policies & Procedures:
1. We ask that all clients take particular care to avoid possible contact with COVID-19 for two weeks prior to their trip and
contact us if there are any concerns in this regard.
2. Although airline policies are still being developed, we understand that several measures will be in place to ensure traveler
safety. These will likely include masks and possibly spaced-out seating.
3. Belize appears to have NO COVID-19 at this point and we assume that there will be strict policies at the Belize Airport to
prevent the re-introduction of COVID-19 into Belize.
4. We recommend that all incoming clients bring masks and gloves, although these will also be available at the lodge.
5. All Transfer Vehicles will be disinfected prior to each airport pickup and riders will be asked to wear masks and gloves.
6. Similar procedures will be in place for our transfer boat to Turneffe Atoll. Our boat will be disinfected before guests board.
Masks and gloves will be recommended and made available.
7. Hand sanitizer will be readily available in all pertinent locations.
8. Dining will be set up to allow for appropriate distancing and an in-room dining option will be available upon request.
9. Skiffs will carry and use hand sanitizer expeditiously and masks will be available if needed.
10. Of course, there is no better place to social distance than one of our beautiful flats.
**FRA’s Standard Cancellation Policy will apply to NON-COVID related cancellations **
2023: High Season – December 31 – June 24 :
- Fishing Package: $5,290 per person (Based on double occupancy & tax not included)
- Fishing Single Supplement Package: $7,290 per person (Based on single occupancy/Boat & Guide and tax not included)
- Diving Package: $3,490 per person (Based on double occupancy & tax not included)
- Combination Package (Fishing & Diving): $5,490 per person (Based on double occupancy & tax not included)
- Atoll Adventure Package: $3,290 per person (Based on double occupancy & tax not included)
- Rest & Relaxation Package (Use of resort amenities only): $2,990 per person (Based on double occupancy & tax not included)
2023: Low Season – June 25 – December 30:
- Fishing Package: $4,590 per person (Based on double occupancy & tax not included)
- Fishing Single Supplement Package: $6,590 per person (Based on single occupancy/Boat & Guide and tax not included)
- Diving Package: $3,190 per person (Based on double occupancy & tax not included)
- Combination Package (Fishing & Diving): $4,790 per person (Based on double occupancy & tax not included)
- Atoll Adventure Package: $3,090 per person (Based on double occupancy & tax not included)
- Rest & Relaxation Package (Use of resort amenities only): $2,790 per person (Based on double occupancy & tax not included)
February 18-25, 2023
2023: High Season – December 31 – June 24 :
- Fishing Package: $5,290 per person (Based on double occupancy & tax not included)
- Fishing Single Supplement Package: $7,290 per person (Based on single occupancy/Boat & Guide and tax not included)
- Diving Package: $3,490 per person (Based on double occupancy & tax not included)
- Combination Package (Fishing & Diving): $5,490 per person (Based on double occupancy & tax not included)
- Atoll Adventure Package: $3,290 per person (Based on double occupancy & tax not included)
- Rest & Relaxation Package (Use of resort amenities only): $2,990 per person (Based on double occupancy & tax not included)
May 27-June 3, 2023
2023: High Season – December 31 – June 24 :
- Fishing Package: $5,290 per person (Based on double occupancy & tax not included)
- Fishing Single Supplement Package: $7,290 per person (Based on single occupancy/Boat & Guide and tax not included)
- Diving Package: $3,490 per person (Based on double occupancy & tax not included)
- Combination Package (Fishing & Diving): $5,490 per person (Based on double occupancy & tax not included)
- Atoll Adventure Package: $3,290 per person (Based on double occupancy & tax not included)
- Rest & Relaxation Package (Use of resort amenities only): $2,990 per person (Based on double occupancy & tax not included)
June 17-24, 2023
2023: High Season – December 31 – June 24 :
- Fishing Package: $5,290 per person (Based on double occupancy & tax not included)
- Fishing Single Supplement Package: $7,290 per person (Based on single occupancy/Boat & Guide and tax not included)
- Diving Package: $3,490 per person (Based on double occupancy & tax not included)
- Combination Package (Fishing & Diving): $5,490 per person (Based on double occupancy & tax not included)
- Atoll Adventure Package: $3,290 per person (Based on double occupancy & tax not included)
- Rest & Relaxation Package (Use of resort amenities only): $2,990 per person (Based on double occupancy & tax not included)
November 4-11, 2023
2023: High Season
- Fishing Package: $5,290 per person (Based on double occupancy & tax not included)
- Fishing Single Supplement Package: $7,290 per person (Based on single occupancy/Boat & Guide and tax not included)
- Diving Package: $3,490 per person (Based on double occupancy & tax not included)
- Combination Package (Fishing & Diving): $5,490 per person (Based on double occupancy & tax not included)
- Atoll Adventure Package: $3,290 per person (Based on double occupancy & tax not included)
- Rest & Relaxation Package (Use of resort amenities only): $2,990 per person (Based on double occupancy & tax not included)
2024 Hosted Dates
February 3-10th, 2024
May 18-25th, 2024
June 1 – 8th, 2024
July 27th – August 3rd, 2024
October 26th – November 7th, 2024
*Rates may be subject to change*
High Season – December 31 – June 24 :
- Fishing Package: $5,290 per person (Based on double occupancy & tax not included)
- Fishing Single Supplement Package: $7,290 per person (Based on single occupancy/Boat & Guide and tax not included)
- Diving Package: $3,490 per person (Based on double occupancy & tax not included)
- Combination Package (Fishing & Diving): $5,490 per person (Based on double occupancy & tax not included)
- Atoll Adventure Package: $3,290 per person (Based on double occupancy & tax not included)
- Rest & Relaxation Package (Use of resort amenities only): $2,990 per person (Based on double occupancy & tax not included)
Low Season – June 25 – December 30:
- Fishing Package: $4,590 per person (Based on double occupancy & tax not included)
- Fishing Single Supplement Package: $6,590 per person (Based on single occupancy/Boat & Guide and tax not included)
- Diving Package: $3,190 per person (Based on double occupancy & tax not included)
- Combination Package (Fishing & Diving): $4,790 per person (Based on double occupancy & tax not included)
- Atoll Adventure Package: $3,090 per person (Based on double occupancy & tax not included)
- Rest & Relaxation Package (Use of resort amenities only): $2,790 per person (Based on double occupancy & tax not included)