If you’re considering a trip to Belize in 2023, why not consider booking a beach and jungle vacation package with Chabil Mar? The resort offers a perfect blend of luxury and adventure for travelers who want to experience the best of both worlds.
With stunning views of the Caribbean Sea and lush tropical jungles nearby, Chabil Mar is the perfect place to unwind and explore the natural beauty of Belize.
The resort offers a range of activities such as snorkeling, kayaking, and hiking, and guests can also relax and rejuvenate with a variety of spa treatments. With its luxurious accommodations and impeccable service, Chabil Mar is the ultimate destination for those seeking an unforgettable beach and jungle vacation in Belize.
Here are some top reasons to consider booking a beach and jungle vacation with Chabil Mar this year:
Exploring the Wild Side: Jungle Adventures in Belize
Belize is known for its lush jungles and diverse wildlife, and Chabil Mar offers a range of jungle adventures for guests to experience. From Chabil Mar, guests can explore more of the jungles and wildlife that Belize is famous for through a variety of excursions.
Experience the breathtaking Monkey River and see howler monkeys, crocodiles, and other wildlife in their natural habitats. Explore the vast Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, home to jaguars, tapirs, and other exotic animals.
Visit the ancient Maya ruins of Nim Li Punit, and learn about the fascinating history and culture of the region. Additionally, the resort offers excursions to the incredible Lubantuum ruins, where guests can see the remains of an ancient Maya city and step back in time to a fascinating civilization.
With a variety of excursions available, guests can have an unforgettable experience exploring the natural beauty and history of Belize.
Beach Activities for Your Belize Getaway
Chabil Mar boasts 400 feet of private beach, offering guests a relaxing and tranquil spot to soak up the sun and swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean Sea.
But that’s not all – guests can also embark on an unforgettable island-hopping adventure to nearby destinations like Laughing Bird Caye, Moho Caye, and the Silk Cayes. These secluded and picturesque islands offer some of the best snorkeling and diving opportunities in Belize, providing the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.
For those seeking more beach activities, Chabil Mar has kayaks and paddleboards available for guests to use. So, whether you’re looking to unwind on the beach or enjoy some fun water activities, Chabil Mar has you covered.
A Match Made in Belize: Beach and Jungle Packages
Looking for the ultimate Belize adventure? Chabil Mar has partnered with some of the most luxurious properties in the country to offer an unparalleled experience for travelers seeking the perfect mix of jungle and sea.
Guests can choose from 7-night packages that include stays at high-end properties like Hidden Valley, Caves Branch, and The Lodge at Chaa Creek, with the option of spending 3 or 4 nights at each location. With this package, visitors can enjoy the best of both worlds: relaxing on Chabil Mar’s private beach while also exploring the lush jungles of Belize.
This unique opportunity is the perfect way to experience the most luxurious and beautiful destinations that Belize has to offer.
Book a beach and jungle package with Chabil Mar for a memorable vacation in Belize in 2023.
Belize is an outstanding example of a true melting pot society where different cultures, religions, and traditions have formed a harmonious whole. By the numbers, the Creole people, sometimes spelled Kriol, are the largest segment of society. Originally of African origin and brought to the Caribbean as slaves to assist in the valuable logging industry, the Creole people constitute approximately 25% of modern Belize’s population.
In the early 18th century, English loggers came to Belize in order to harvest valuable timber species such as logwood and mahogany. Some of these loggers made huge fortunes and began importing slaves from other British colonies such as Jamaica. Being on the periphery of British society, many English loggers intermingled with the slaves. Today, the term Creole refers to a culture rather than physical appearance as some Creole have light skin, blonde hair, and blue eyes as a result of centuries of cohabitation.
And while the atrocities of slavery can never be forgotten, Belize was always a place where the lines between different segments of society were blurred. In 1798, when English loggers banded together to fend off a Spanish maritime invasion, they would’ve been unsuccessful had not they received vital assistance from Creoles.
The British Empire formally outlawed slavery in 1807, and the Creole population of Belize soon began thirsting for more autonomy and equal rights. After a series of protests in the early 20th century, the British government placed Belize on a fast-track towards independence, and the Creoles formed the dominant political force in the then-colony. In 1981, when Belize gained full independence from Britain, approximately 70% of the population was Creole.
The Creole then began opening Belize to other groups which had been persecuted elsewhere, including indigenous Maya people from Guatemala and Mexico, the Garifuna (an Afro-Caribbean people), East Indian entrepreneurs, and German-speaking Mennonites. Over time, the Creole developed their own unique version of English that is now the lingua franca for most people in Belize even if standard English remains the official language.
Creole food and its long heritage form the backbone of modern Belizean cuisine, including standards like rice and beans with spicy chicken, potato salad, wild game meats like peccary and gibnut, and a variety of seafood dishes. But the most popular Creole food is fry jacks, soft strips of puffy, fried dough that are a breakfast mainstay.
The current prime minister of Belize, Dean Barrow, is Creole.
Placencia Village on the southeastern coast of Belize is a popular holiday destination for North American expats and tourists. The village is located on the southern tip of the 16-mile long narrow Placencia Peninsula, a relaxed “barefoot friendly” community that bills itself as the caye (island) that you can drive to as it is easily accessible by automobile via a paved 27-mile road that branches off from the Southern Highway.
Placencia is a popular destination for vacationers but each tourist brings their own expectations to the kind of experience that they have in the area. Many enjoy the laid-back barefoot atmosphere where you can wander up and down the public beaches or mosey into some of the best bars and restaurants in the area. Others visitors looking for a more pampered experience can stay at top-rated luxury resorts like Chabil Mar located just a few minutes’ walk from the village.
The high season in Placencia starts in mid-December and lasts until after Easter, although any time of the year is a good time to visit. There’s always a bump in the number of visitors during the full moons of the months of May and June as that’s when the whale sharks come to feed in the waters just offshore.
Here are 8 must do activities/tours in Placencia.
Explore Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary
Located in the Stann Creek District and not far from Placencia Village, the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary is globally recognized as the world’s first jaguar preserve and is home to cascading waterfalls to swim in, panoramic mountain views, nature trails, furry mammals, colorful insects, scaly reptiles and a variety of neotropical birds. In addition, river tubing is a favorite adventure for the many visitors to this unique tropical paradise. Tours leave daily from Chabil Mar.
Although the jaguar (the largest spotted cat in the world) is what the reserve is famous for, you are unlikely to see one as the cat is nocturnal. However you will see its tracks along with tracks of tapir, deer, and other wildlife that inhabit the nature reserve. Cockscomb Basin is also home to one of Belize’s highest points — Victoria Peak and many travelers who vacation in Placencia go on this tour.
Go on a Kayaking expedition at Laughing Bird Caye
Kayaking in Placencia is a joy! The crystal clear waters, tepid sunshine and balmy Caribbean breezes that Belize offers make for an ideal kayaking expedition. As you glide across the warm waters, you will observe untouched coral reefs, white sandy beaches and abundant marine wildlife like the amazing sea turtle.
Belize has numerous cayes that can be explored on a kayak. Laughing Bird Caye National Park for example, is a mini atoll and is a favorite stopover for reef kayakers.
Pay a Visit to the Resident Howler Monkeys
Take a boat to Monkey River Village and head up Monkey River and into the jungle to pay a visit with the resident howler monkeys. Complete your adventure along the ride to observe crocodiles sunning along the river banks, along with exotic birds, iquana hanging in the trees, a few bats and lizards and enjoy a lunch with the villagers in Monkey River. On the way back to Placencia you may even see a few manatees along with their pups.
Explore Maya Temple Sites
According to archeologists, over 1 million Maya people lived in present day Belize. Today there are a range of Maya temples scattered throughout Belize. If you are vacationing in Placencia, you might want to explore Maya Temples like Nim Li Punit and Lubantuun in the Toledo District or Xunantunich and Cahal Pech in western Belize. While visiting some of these sites, maybe even add on a swim up river and into a cave! That is a thrill of a lifetime.
Dive or Snorkel – even with Whale Sharks
Home to the second largest barrier reef in the world, Belize is a diver and snorkeler’s dream come true. In addition, over 100 islands dot the coastline, just offshore from Placencia, providing endless opportunities for diverse diving and snorkeling opportunities.
During the months of March, April, May and June around the full moon, giant whale sharks will emerge in the turquoise clear waters of Gladden Spit and Silk Caye Marine Reserve near the Placencia Peninsula. This marine reserve is used by over 30 species of tropical fishes to release their eggs and it is the eggs of the cubera, mutton and dog snappers that the whale sharks munch on.
Both divers and snorkelers can swim with these giant whale sharks in the pristine and warm waters of southern Belize without any risk from these magnificent creatures as they do not pose any significant threat to humans.
Fishing is Extraordinary
As a traditional fishing Village, Placencia is the residency of some of the finest fishing captains in Belize. And, due to its location on a peninsula, the lagoons to the west, the Caribbean to the east and the barrier reef 18 miles offshore, while being dotted with multiple islands (cayes, pronounced “keys”), fishing is inherent in the population and history of this beautiful Village of 1500 residents. A grand slam is a definitely a possibility while visiting Placencia.
Enjoy delicious Belizean Cuisines
Placencia Village is a traditional fishing Village with a tourist element. It is this small tourist exposure that has encouraged its residents to populate it with amazing restaurants like Tipsy Tuna, Rum Fish, Barefoot, La Dolce Vita, Secret Garden, Yoli’s, Pickled Parrot, Purple Space Monkey and Wendy’s (no not the fast food restaurant) and these well known restaurants offer a variety of fresh sea food at a reasonable price. Dotted along the streets are many vendors serving some of the best Belizean dishes in the country, passed down from generations and prepared with local ingredients. Rum Fish for example, sells the best fish tacos and if you are into gourmet burgers you’ll have to try Barefoot Restaurant & Bar which is located right on the beach.
You can also check out the Italian Gelato Shop that offers incredible and authentic fruit gelatos. Gelato in Placencia? Yes, and we dare say among the best you will ever have the pleasure to put to your palate.
Placencia Beaches
In a country with more than 180 miles of beaches, the Placencia Peninsula truly stands out. Lovely white sand, refreshing tropical breezes, and the sight and scent of the sparkling waters of the Caribbean combine for a truly unforgettable tropical beach experience.
While many people partake in organized adventures on both the mainland and nearby Belize Barrier Reef, one of the truly special joys of a Belize vacation is relaxing and exploring the beaches of the Placencia peninsula.
Below are a few ways to make the most of Placencia’s golden beaches:
Take a long walk – In some parts, it’s considered a cliche to say that you enjoy a long walk on the beach, but in Placencia the words won’t matter. Whether you’re strolling hand in hand with a loved one or simply admiring the view on your own, walking along the beach in Placencia is undeniably good for the soul.
Enjoy a fine meal – Whether you’ve packed a picnic basket filled to the brim with tasty local goodies or you’ve decided to enjoy a seafront view at one of the peninsula’s amazing restaurants, few experiences can compare to dining on delicious food and drinks on the beach.
Main Street – New York has Fifth Avenue and Paris has the Champs-Élysées, but the village of Placencia has its own unique claim to fame. Officially declared the smallest main street in the world, the central “boulevard” running through the middle of the village is actually a sidewalk just four feet across. No cars are allowed which makes it the perfect place to visit cute little shops, grab a coffee, or sit down for a delicious snack.
Relax! – Many people get so wound up trying to cram in as many activities and tours during their vacation that they forget the reason why they decided to visit Belize in the first place. The lovely golden dunes of Placencia are a great place to work on your tan, swing in a hammock, or dip your toes in the Caribbean while unwinding and relaxing.
Seine Bight – Heading north from Placencia Village, visitors walking along the beach have the opportunity to go see the village of Seine Bight. Home to Belize’s unique Garifuna culture, Seine Bight is a great chance to experience Garifuna music, dancing, and food.
Take unforgettable photos – Whether you want to impress your friends on social media with your amazing selfies or simply want to capture the happy memories of vacation, the beaches of Placencia are ideal for taking photographs.
Visit our website chabilmarvillas.com for more information on Belize and Placencia, and don’t hesitate to send us an email, or call US/CAN Toll Free: 1-866-417-2377, Local: (011-501) 523-3606, if you have questions or need help in planning a Belize vacation.
For some, the act of taking vacation time presents dilemmas because time spent away from responsibilities comes with too many risks. Happily, that doesn’t have to be the case if you take to heart the advice of seasoned travelers whose business demands usually leave little time for R&R. But if you adopt these 4 tips and choose Belize as your destination, you’ll not only have fun but enjoy every minute.
1. Prioritize: You’ve got only so many days at your vacation spot, so make the most of each one.
2. Do your homework. Researching your destination can turn a holiday stay into pure pleasure.
3. Stick close to home. Travel to Belize in couple of hours means you avoid jet lag.
4. Travel during holidays to add one more day to your stay.
With these tips in mind, plan to visit as many of these 10 Belize stops as your time schedule allows in 2023.
1. The Belize Barrier Reef. As the second longest on the planet, Belize’s Barrier Reef is ideal for scuba diving, fishing, or kayaking at the reef’s edge to observe the wonderland of marine life just below the surface.
2. The Belize Blue Hole. Jacques Cousteau was captivated by this ancient sink hole. You will be too. If a deep dive is too scary to consider, why not grab a helicopter ride to take in this hole’s magnificence from the air?
3. Visit Xunantunich and Cahal Pech. Belize is home to 900+ Maya sites and each is unique. Focus your limited time on these two for a taste of the past. If you’re fascinated, you can always add more!
4. ATM Cave. This underground adventure tickles the imaginations of visitors as they learn more about ancient rituals conducted by Maya priests thousands of years ago from knowledgeable guides.
5. Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary. Home to the world’s only protected jaguar sanctuary, consider yourself lucky if you spot one of these sleek cats roaming their 150-square mile home turf at the edge of the Maya Mountain chain.
6. Monkey River. As soon as you approach this body of water, you’ll hear the cries of Howler monkeys emanating from jungle riverbanks. Traverse the entirety of the river and take in Monkey River Town.
7. Silk Cayes. Visitors seeking idyllic snorkeling experiences love this protected marine reserve that’s part of Belize’s Barrier Reef. Located 22 miles off the Placencia peninsula, bring a picnic lunch for an afternoon of bliss.
8. Laughing Bird Caye. The gulls for which this island was named have long since migrated to different parts of Belize leaving this haven for human visitors seeking solitude throughout a gorgeous 1.8-acre park.
9. Placencia. Considered Belize’s trendiest destination, the Placencia peninsula may measure just 19 miles long and half a mile wide, yet it’s packed with things to do, see, taste and experience, from natural attractions to nightlife and shopping. You’ll save lots of time by sojourning on Placencia if you want to do everything on this list.
10. Chabil Mar. Is there one resort on the peninsula that stands head and shoulders above the rest? There is: Chabil Mar Resort, the property that never disappoints. Book your 2022 stay early to take advantage of this property’s long list of perks, not the least of which are the fabulous Belize vacation packages and specials that can make a great stay better.
Choose the package that suits your vacation dates and interests and even if your time in country is finite, you can still take in all the recommendations on our list thanks to Chabil Mar staffers whose mission – to make certain that every guest gets their fill of Belize’s wonders – is accomplished by the friendliest people you’ve ever encountered, no matter where in the world you have traveled!
Visit our website chabilmarvillas.com for more information on Belize, and don’t hesitate to send us an email, or call US/CAN Toll-Free: 1-866-417-2377, Local: (011-501) 523-3606, if you have questions or need help in planning a Belize vacation.
Do you have to be a kid to develop a fascination with primates? Not if you like being entertained. While the globe’s primate population may be declining, “New World Monkey” species making their homes from Mexico to Argentina are thriving.
Just ask editors at Nature.com. Their roster of monkey types begins with the one and only howler monkey, a mammal that can be heard from a distance of half a mile away.
Howlers are the most audaciously outspoken critters in Belize. They’re most likely to make themselves known when anything or anyone—-human or animal—-attempts to invade their neighborhoods. Don’t believe us? Check out this YouTube video for a sampling of their howls:
Howler monkeys inhabiting Belize’s forests and jungles rarely search for sustenance because it’s all around them. Though classified as omnivores, howler diets tend to be vegetarians, always on the lookout for raw fruits and vegetables that keep energy levels high enough to race from branch to branch over forest and jungle canopies.
Belize’s howlers are quite happy to be living in a nation that offers so much dietary variety that it’s easy to maintain an average weight of between 15 and 22 pounds. Are there overweight howler monkeys? Not really. They move around too much and so much activity results in an average lifespan of from 15 to 20 years.
It’s unusual to find a howler hanging out alone. These creatures stay in family groups that can number up to 20 kin. Like most primate groups, an older male is likely the head of the household, but everyone in the clan has a unique personality.
Despite the danger indigenous jaguars present, howler monkeys love to “irritate” these big cats on the ground by pelting them with branches and sticks for fun. Far from reach on distant tree branches, howlers are smart enough to know that if they get closer, they could become lunch.
Howler monkeys have excellent vision and they are enthusiastic swimmers. They love to hang out along the Monkey River. Wouldn’t you like if someone named a body of water in your honor?
What’s the best way to see these entertaining creatures? Come to Belize for a visit and take in Belize’s Monkey River Tour, not far from Placencia Village. Once there, feel free call these howlers by their Latin name Alouatta pigra or use the Creole word Baboon to get their attention.
About The Monkey River Howler Tour *
You will never forget a trip to Monkey River. Your trip begins dockside from Chabil Mar Resort, where your guide picks you up by boat, for your adventure. Prepare to weave your way through the mangroves, where it’s not uncommon to see a peaceful manatee lumbering by. Continue along the coastline where you will reach the mouth of the river at the Village of Monkey River. From there you will travel upstream through the Belize rainforest. Along the way you may witness exotic bird life, crocodiles and howler monkeys feeding in the shoreline trees of this tropical jungle paradise. You will then take a jungle hike and see amazing plant and animal life as you search for troops of exotic howler monkeys. Back at Monkey River Town, you’ll enjoy a traditional Belizean lunch and an optional walkabout in the idyllic Belizean village. Then it’s back onboard your skiff for the return trip back up the coast and through the mangroves to Chabil Mar Resort, with a stop to view the manatees lumbering at a nearby island favorite of theirs.
Advance reservations are currently being snapped up so take advantage of Chabil Mar deals while you can. Just imagining yourself at Chabil Mar is likely to buoy your spirits and make your current situation more tolerable!
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