Coming back from Caye Caulker, I needed to get to Guatemala in time to beat the imposition of COVID testing for vaccinated people. However, I wanted (very badly) to spend a day or two at Crooked Tree to find Jabiru Stork, which had eluded me at Hopkins Wetlands. However, as a budget backpacker traveling long term, I was put off by the prices of accomodations in the area, many of which were in triple digits per night, excluding cleaning fees and taxes.
That was when l stumbled upon this gem. Without many reviews to go on, I booked it not knowing what to expect. From the outset, Sitnah and her amazing family were beyond helpful. They own a bus which enabled me to get to the accomodation without much hassle even though my ferry from Caye Caulker was a bit late. From there, they showed me how to get to Crooked Tree. It is an easy 15 minute bus ride either to the junction (from which you can easily and safely hitchhike into the reserve if you don't feel like walking all the way) or directly to the Sanctuary itself.
Ultimately, I went to Crooked Tree twice. I found my Jabiru Storks, but that was only the beginning. There were also black collared hawks, laughing falcon, scissortail flycatchers, and snail kites just to name a few of the 60 or so species I was lucky enough to encounter. Tip: you do NOT need to spend 125 USD on a 2-3 hour boat tour to see these birds (I walked both times), but if you want an agami heron, that is another matter. They are very shy and elusive. I did not find one, but also did not expect to as I was plenty happy with what I did find. Canoe rental is also an option if you want to reach them but I didn't trust my paddling skills. :)
But you don't have to go to Crooked Tree for great birding. Indeed, get up early in the morning and you will be treated to parrots, thrushes, toucans, stunning vermilion flycatchers, and even the otherwise elusive Montezuma Oropendola (which in other settings is VERY difficult to photograph). The suite is, at this price, a real steal. It looks exactly the same as the photos and has a good air conditioning system. It is large, cozy, and remarkably well equipped. Large and hearty meals are available for just 5 USD.
But the best part about staying here is the attention that this kind and generous family bestowed upon me for the two nights that I stayed. If you've got a problem or concern, they will be there for you promptly. Their warmth and caring is something that I will never forget. In addition to myself, take it from the guest who stayed before me and had to delay her travel back to the US following a positive COVID test. Sitnah's family was there for her. They were there for me. They will be there for you, too. They go above and beyond what most hosts do and I use air b and b a lot so I have a lot of basis for comparison.
Thank you so much.