The only functioning golf course in all of Belize is the Roaring River Golf Course (Mile 50¼ Western Highway, tel. 501/664-5441 or 501/820-2031, www.belizegolfcourses.com), an unpretentious, executive-type 18-holer (3,892 yards, par 64, slope rating 116).

It’s a short drive from Belmopan and a worthy activity for anyone staying in an area lodge or resort, whether you’re a seasoned slugger or just golf curious (free lessons are offered for beginners). The feel of the course, clubhouse, and restaurant is tranquil, the staff is friendly, and the greens fees are reasonable (US$18 per round or US$25 all-you-can-play).

This is a unique jungle-golf opportunity, by any measure. Over 120 bird species have been identified on and around the property, there are crocodiles in the water hazards, and you’ll hear the sound of the nearby river, which flows from Thousand Foot Falls in the Mountain Pine Ridge.

After sweating out a round, take a dip in one of the cool, clean, shady pools of the river.

Roaring River Golf Course is well maintained with a level layout and interesting landscaping dividing the fairways; greens boast Bermuda grass, grown from seed. Paul, the South African owner, notes that his course uses chemicals very sparingly, almost not at all—“just a bit of spraying for the ants,” he says. The property uses water from a natural spring flowing from within the mountain.

Plant your non-golfing family members in the river for the day while you hit those links. The “Meating Place” restaurant has earned several “best steak in Belize” comments from reviewers (Paul’s wife, Jennie, who hails from South Carolina, cures and ages the meat herself); their top filet goes for US$18, if you want to judge for yourself.

Guests can stay in one of four well-furnished villas with air-conditioning, Internet, TV, queen beds, fridge, coffeemaker, work counters, lounge suites, and stunning back porches over the river. Staying here is a perfect option for someone who really wants to get some early rounds in, or for anyone trapped by an assignment in Belmopan, which is only 10 or 15 minutes