Nitun Reserve

A private nature reserve hidden on the wooded shores of Lake Peten Itza, providing fine cuisine, tranquility and unrivalled local knowledge

Former coffee plantation owner turned eco-pioneer Bernie Mittelstaedt launched Monkey Eco-Tours in 1988, bringing explorers to then unknown Peten. He realised clients wanted a relaxing place to sleep, hot showers and delicious food to complement his in-depth knowledge of nature and archaeology. In partnership with Lorena Castillo, they leased and then bought 35 hectares of secluded virgin forest on the shores of Lake Peten Itza; Ni'tun Reserve opened 3 years later, in 1995.

Bernie and Lore are a unique couple, passionate about their beautiful country and its conservation, hugely knowledgeable about Mayan history and culture, fabulous cooks and wonderful hosts. This simple but classy eco-lodge reflects this: 4 traditionally-built casitas and a welcoming restaurant and kitchen, with polished hardwood floors and thatched roofs, hummingbird feeders and local textiles. It's a magnificent haven, whether after a long hard trek or a short sightseeing tour.

Highs

• Convivial, knowledgeable and excellent hosts in Bernie and Lore
• Superb cuisine
• A wide range of tours can be tailored to your specifications; there's much of interest in the area
• It's only 20 minutes from Flores, and is best reached by boat across the stunning lake (it's 25km by land)
• Peaceful setting - less than a seventh of the land is used, the rest being kept as a nature reserve

Lows

• It's over an hour away from Tikal
• The accommodation and amenities are basic, though comfortable and spacious
• There's little to do in the evenings other than chat to fellow guests and quiz Bernie and Lore about Guatemala - but hey, you didn't come here for the nightlife
• There are lots of steps to the casitas lower down the hill