The Kitchen

Upon arrival, you're greeted with piña coladas and fresh ceviche, prepared by Haydee and Claudia and the household. Up to three meals a day from the kitchen, though guests often take lunch on the boat or a few dinners in town.

The Pelican's Nest

The Pelican's Nest is adjacent to the main villa. One bedroom with a king canopy, a bath with jacuzzi tub, a small kitchen, and dining area in the living area open to 2 small balconies. Stairs spiral up to the roof and a rooftop tower lookout ideal for morning birdwatching and evening sunsets. Available in addition to the main villa for larger parties of 11-15.

Excursions

Carlos comes to the villa on the evening of arrival to talk through the week. Some trips he runs himself — snorkeling on the reef, sailing to Caye Caulker, the Mayan ruins at Altun Ha and Lamanai, the Belize Zoo, cave tubing and ziplining on the mainland. For diving — including the Blue Hole — and for sport fishing, we send guests with the operators we've worked with for decades. The boat picks you up at the dock. Massages are arranged in the beach gazebo.

Booking questions, answered simply

How do I reserve the villa?

Contact us directly using the form below or by email. Once we confirm availability we will send you an invoice of the rate of the villa, the cook fee, and initial groceries and the tax. A payment of half the rental fee is due to reserve your dates. The balance is due 60 days before arrival.

What is the nightly rate?

The villa starts at $1,795 per night and increases for high season and holiday weeks. The Pelican's Nest guest house is available for larger groups of 11-14 people. We'll provide a full itemized quote when you inquire — Belize charges a 9% hotel tax and 12.5% GST on accommodations, so there are no surprises.

How much is the cook?

Our wonderful chef Haydee, and her assistants will prepare up to three delicious meals for your group of 8 -10 guests for $130 per day. A $400 grocery deposit is collected on arrival to cover the first few meals.  You will plan subsequent meals with the cook and provide grocery money as needed (typically $130–$150 per person per week, plus beverages). Please see our reviews here and on VRBO to discover that Haydee and the staff is an absolute must!

What is the cancellation policy?

If you cancel 90 or more days before arrival, all but 10% of the rental fee is refunded. If you cancel fewer than 90 days before arrival, all but 10% is refunded if the villa can be rebooked for your dates.

What documents do I need to enter Belize?

All travelers — including children — must have a valid passport. Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your return date.

How do we get to the villa from the airport?

San Pedro is on the island of Ambergris Caye, reached by a short domestic flight or water taxi from Belize City (BZE). The villa is 1¾ miles south of San Pedro — about a 6-minute taxi ride. Our guide Carlos meets guests on the evening of arrival to walk you through all available activities and excursions.

Is the villa available for weddings and special events?

Yes. The 250-foot private beach, pool, and gardens make Casa Tortuga a stunning setting for weddings and milestone celebrations. Contact us directly to discuss your event.

Some weeks become the week you talk about for years.

Casa Tortuga sleeps ten in five bedrooms, fourteen with the Pelican's Nest. Most weeks book
six to twelve months ahead. Peggy answers personally.