The Monkey River Tour is classified as one of the top rated tours in Southern Belize
The quiet Village of Monkey River in Southern Belize is habitat to a plethora of flora and fauna and as a result, it has been rated as one of the top tours in Southern Belize. Tropical birds, butterflies, crocodiles, iguanas, and of course howler monkeys are just a few of the wildlife that visitors see on this tour.
In this post, we bring to you 10 interesting things that you might know about Monkey River.
1.) Monkey River Village lies on the coast of Southern Belize in the Toledo District and is home to about 200 people. The Village can be accessed by road or sea from destinations like Placencia and Punta Gorda Town.
2.) Monkey River Village is a perfect location to experience the amazing flora and fauna of southern Belize.
3.) Families of howler monkeys can be seen and heard here, for which the village got its name.
4.) Nature Trails, Manatee watching, and Bird watching are just a few of the tours that are available in Monkey River.
5.) Hiking the surrounding rainforest of Monkey River will likely bring you encounters with tropical birds, gibnuts, deer, ocelots, tapirs, agoutis and possibly jaguars.
6.) Monkey River was born with the banana industry and at that time in the 1800’s, the population was about 2500 people. Today, the village is home to about 200 people.
7.) The river banks in Monkey River are perfect for birding.
8.)The Monkey River tour is a 15 miles boat ride from Placencia.
9.) There are no cars and only 2 streets in Monkey River Village.
10.) In October 2001, a major hurricane devastated Monkey River Village but it has been rebuilt since then.
For more information about Monkey River or Belize, feel free to chat with our Concierge at: concierge@chabilmarvillas.com or contact our Reservations Manager at: reservations@chabilmarvillas.com. Or perhaps you would like to call toll free from the US or Canada: 1-866-417-2377.
Dangriga Town will charm you with its color, vibrancy and friendliness. The town is the capital of the Stann Creek District in Southern Belize. With a small population of over 9,000 people, it’s small enough to be enjoyed in a day.
Get to Know a Vibrant Community
Dangriga Town is often called the cultural capital of Belize because it’s the heart of Belize’s Garifuna culture. The Garifuna are descended from slaves who escaped from a sinking ship. Over the years, the escaped slaves mingled with the indigenous people of St Vincent in the Caribbean and then migrated to the coastlines of Honduras, Guatemala and Belize. Today, the Garifuna people live in communities like Dangriga, Hopkins, Placencia and Punta Gorda.
Enjoy Art and Culture
Dangriga Town is the birthplace of Punta Rock, an authentic Belizean musical style. It’s also home to festivals that celebrate Garifuna music, art and food. Spend some time at the Gulisi Garifuna Museum to learn more about this vibrant, thriving people.
Make sure to make your way to the Pen Cayetano Art Gallery, owned by the celebrated Garifuna painter and musician Pen Cayetano.
Get Close to Nature
Natural beauty is never far away in Belize, and Dangriga Town is no exception. It’s surrounded by pristine rainforest, sandy beaches, coconut trees and the Maya Mountains. Dangriga Town is close to the southern edge of the Belize Barrier Reef. It’s also close to the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, one of the most beautiful natural areas in Belize.
Taste True Belizean Flavor
The Garifuna people have added to Belize’s rich ethnic flavor. You can get a taste of that in the delicious, freshly cooked meals you’ll enjoy here. Sample some traditional Garifuna dishes like sere, a stew made from fish and coconut milk. Dangriga has other specialties like cashew wine, mashed plantains and cassava bread.
Do you love chocolate? Learn how the ancient Maya of Belize make their world-famous Maya chocolate at the Maya Center which is located a few miles outside of Dangriga Town. At the Maya Center you can sign up for a farm-to-factory tour with a master chocolate maker. The tour includes a trip to a cacao plantation.
Chabil Mar
Every trip to Belize should include the beautiful beaches and fun, friendly towns of southern Belize. At the Chabil Mar, we’re in the perfect location for all your Belize explorations. We offer luxury accommodations and we’ll help you enjoy all that Belize has to offer.
Every year on November 19, Garifuna Settlement day is observed which marks the arrival of the Garifuna people in Belizean territory in 1802. The holiday was created by Thomas Vincent Ramos, a Belizean civil rights activist and is celebrated for a whole week with major festivities that include parades, live music, drumming, dancing, prayers and pageantry in Garifuna communities. Here are 6 things to know about the Garifuna people of Belize:
1.) In 2001, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) recognized the Garifuna language, music and dance as a masterpiece of the oral and intangible heritage of humanity. This designation means that it is a important culture that should be preserved, promoted and celebrated.
2.) According to Historians, the Garifuna resisted British and French colonialism in the Lesser Antilles and were defeated by the British in 1796. Because of a violent rebellion on St Vincent, the British moved 5000 Garifuna across the Caribbean to the Bay Islands off the north of Honduras. From there, they migrated to the Caribbean coasts of Nicaragua, Honduras, Guatemala and Belize. By 1802 about 150 Garifuna had settled in Stann Creek (present day Dangriga) area and were engaged in fishing and farming.
3.) The Garifuna are resilient people who have survived many years of extreme hardships and are the only black people in the Americas to have preserved their native Afro-Caribbean culture due to the fact that their ancestors were never slaves. The Garifuna’s deep sense of kinship and participation in community cultural activities have provide them with a sense of solidarity and cultural identity during times of turmoil.
4.) The religion of the Garifuna consists of a mix of Catholicism, African and Indian beliefs. They believe that the departed ancestors mediate between the individual and external world and if a person behaves and performs well, then he will have good fortune. If not, then the harmony that exists in relationships with others and the external world will be disrupted leading to misfortune and illness. Their spiritualism is expressed through music, dancing and other art forms.
5.) The Garifuna foods consist of fish, chicken, cassava, bananas and plantains. One of the staples of the diet is cassava. Cassava is made into bread, a drink, a pudding and even a wine! The cassava bread is served with most meals. The process of making the bread is very labor intensive and takes several days. Hudut is a very common traditional meal. Hudut consists of fish cooked in a coconut broth (called sere) and served with mashed plantains or yams. Dharasa is the Garifuna version of a tamale made with green bananas. It can be made either sweet or sour. The foods are very labor intensive and used to be cooked over an open fire hearth. Today, stoves save time, but some families still prefer the taste of the fire hearth.
6.) The Garifuna flag consists of three horizontal strips of black, white and yellow, in that order, starting from the top. The flag has been accepted internationally as the flag of the Garifuna Nation and the colors have been used in forums where Garifuna people assert their Garifuna identity. Discover the culture of Belize.
When it comes to finding the perfect destination to unwind and recharge, Placencia stands out as Belize’s ultimate spot for a relaxing getaway. This picturesque peninsula, known for its golden beaches, calm turquoise waters, and welcoming atmosphere, offers the ideal blend of natural beauty and tranquility. Whether you’re looking to escape the stresses of daily life or spend quality time with loved ones, Placencia has everything you need for an unforgettable retreat.
At Chabil Mar, you’ll experience a level of comfort and luxury that perfectly complements Placencia’s serene charm. From private beachfront villas to exceptional service, Chabil Mar ensures your getaway is nothing short of extraordinary.
Unwind on Placencia’s Pristine Beaches
Placencia’s beaches are some of the most beautiful in Belize, providing soft sands and gentle waves perfect for relaxation. Unlike busier tourist destinations, the peninsula maintains a laid-back vibe, where you can lounge under the shade of a palm tree or stroll along the shoreline without distractions. The peaceful atmosphere invites you to slow down and soak in the natural beauty around you.
For those seeking quiet moments of reflection, there’s no better place than a Placencia sunrise or sunset. Watching the horizon light up with vibrant colors over the Caribbean Sea is a simple yet profound experience that rejuvenates the soul.
A Gateway to Relaxing Adventures
Placencia’s relaxed pace doesn’t mean a lack of activities—it simply means you can enjoy them on your own terms. Take a leisurely boat ride to explore nearby cayes, where pristine coral reefs await snorkelers and swimmers. The tranquil waters surrounding Placencia are home to a stunning array of marine life, making every outing an opportunity to connect with nature.
For a change of scenery, head inland to visit lush jungles and waterfalls. Destinations like the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary offer easy hiking trails that take you through Belize’s vibrant rainforest without the need for strenuous exertion. The sanctuary is also home to natural swimming holes, where you can cool off and enjoy the sounds of the jungle.
Exploring Placencia Village is another way to unwind. This charming community offers a taste of local culture, with quaint cafes, artisan shops, and beachfront restaurants serving fresh Belizean cuisine. The village’s welcoming atmosphere makes every visit feel like a step into paradise.
The Chabil Mar Experience
A stay at Chabil Mar elevates your relaxing getaway to a whole new level. Designed with privacy and comfort in mind, Chabil Mar’s luxurious villas offer stunning ocean views, spacious interiors, and elegant furnishings. Each villa is a personal retreat, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration or beachside relaxation.
What sets Chabil Mar apart is its personalized service. From arranging spa treatments and private dinners on the beach to curating bespoke excursions, the resort’s staff ensures every detail of your stay is tailored to your preferences. With its tranquil setting, lush gardens, and beachfront location, Chabil Mar creates an atmosphere of serenity that allows you to truly disconnect and rejuvenate.
Contact us today to book your stay and discover why Placencia and Chabil Mar are the ultimate combination for your next relaxing escape. Whether you’re unwinding on the beach or enjoying a private villa, every moment in Placencia will leave you feeling refreshed and inspired.
Visit our website Chabilmarvillas.com for more information on Belize and Chabil Mar, 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.
Belize is a dream destination for marine enthusiasts, offering unparalleled opportunities to explore the vibrant underwater world. From its iconic barrier reef to its crystal-clear waters, this small yet biodiverse country has earned its reputation as one of the premier locations for snorkeling and diving. Whether you’re an experienced diver or a first-time snorkeler, Belize provides the perfect combination of stunning natural beauty, thriving marine life, and easy access to some of the most sought-after aquatic experiences in the world.
The Belize Barrier Reef: A Global Treasure
The Belize Barrier Reef is the centerpiece of the country’s marine attractions. As the second-largest reef system on the planet and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it spans over 190 miles along Belize’s coastline. The reef is home to hundreds of coral species and thousands of fish, offering explorers the chance to witness a diverse and colorful underwater ecosystem. This living treasure serves as a haven for snorkelers and divers alike, providing everything from shallow coral gardens to dramatic drop-offs and caverns.
One of the most famous dive sites in Belize is the Great Blue Hole, a natural wonder that draws divers from all over the globe. Located in Lighthouse Reef Atoll, this massive underwater sinkhole measures over 400 feet deep and offers a unique diving experience. Descending into its depths, divers encounter fascinating stalactite formations and may even spot reef sharks gliding through the blue. For those who prefer to stay closer to the surface, snorkeling around the surrounding reef provides spectacular views of marine life and vibrant coral.
Marine Reserves and Cayes: Nature’s Sanctuaries
Another standout feature of Belize’s underwater offerings is its collection of marine reserves and cayes. Places like Laughing Bird Caye, Silk Cayes Marine Reserve, and South Water Caye provide protected environments where marine life thrives. These reserves are ideal for observing sea turtles, rays, nurse sharks, and countless species of tropical fish in their natural habitats. The calm, shallow waters make these locations perfect for families, beginner snorkelers, and those seeking a leisurely aquatic experience.
Belize also boasts three of only four atolls in the Caribbean—Turneffe Atoll, Glover’s Reef Atoll, and Lighthouse Reef Atoll. These atolls offer secluded diving and snorkeling opportunities, away from crowded tourist spots. Each atoll has its own unique characteristics, from Turneffe’s extensive mangroves and lagoons to Glover’s pristine coral formations, making them a must-visit for those seeking variety in their marine adventures.
Placencia: Your Base for Marine Adventures
Beyond the reef, Belize’s commitment to marine conservation enhances its appeal as a top snorkeling and diving destination. Many of the country’s marine reserves are protected areas, ensuring the sustainability of their ecosystems and allowing marine life to flourish. Local tour operators and resorts often prioritize responsible tourism practices, creating an environment where visitors can enjoy the underwater world while contributing to its preservation.
Placencia, a charming coastal village, is a prime spot to base your marine exploration. With its proximity to the barrier reef, local cayes, and atolls, Placencia provides easy access to world-class snorkeling and diving sites. Staying at Chabil Mar Villas Boutique Guest Exclusive Resort in Placencia enhances this experience even further. The resort offers luxurious beachfront accommodations, personalized service, and curated tours that ensure every dive or snorkeling trip is tailored to your preferences. After a day exploring the underwater wonders, you can relax in the comfort of your private villa or enjoy a gourmet meal by the sea.
Whether you’re exploring the coral gardens of the barrier reef, swimming alongside turtles and rays, or diving into the depths of the Great Blue Hole, Belize offers an unmatched experience for marine enthusiasts. Plan your trip today and stay at Chabil Mar for a combination of luxury, adventure, and convenience. Dive into the wonders of Belize and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Visit our website Chabilmarvillas.com for more information on Belize and Chabil Mar, 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.
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