Monkey River Jungle Tour – A Must See & Do in Southern Belize

monkey river tour

The tiny picturesque village of Monkey River in the Toledo District is located on the coast of southeastern Belize at the mouth of the iconic Monkey River. This Creole village is a popular destination for eco-tourism trips up the pristine natural river to see some of the extraordinary range of tropical flora and fauna in the country, including the ubiquitous howler monkey that gave the river and village their names.

This eco-friendly tour starts in the village of Monkey River where visitors can dine at the popular local restaurant and stock up supplies. Visitors then board a small watercraft to begin a leisurely cruise up this gentle river. Along the way, it’s easy to spot crocodiles, manatees (often called “sea cows” due to their placid nature and large size), dolphins, lizards, monkeys and dozens of tropical bird species like parrots and toucans.

The tour will stop at various locations to give visitors an opportunity to explore the jungle on foot, keeping an eye out for snakes and spiders. Howler monkeys will make their presence known with their famous call, inviting children and adults to join in all the fun. Following well-marked paths, visitors can learn from their guides about the rich variety of medicinal plants, insects and animals that call the area home.

If you’re sensitive to the sun, be sure to be prepared by bringing and applying plenty of sunscreen, wearing loose clothing and/or wearing a hat. Due to the abundance of insects in the jungle, it is also recommended that visitors bring insect repellent and wear protective clothing for hiking through the jungle.

Not designed to be a high-adrenaline adventure, a cruise up the Monkey River is instead a way to relax and enjoy the unspoiled scenery while keeping one eye open for some of the many interesting animals, reptiles, birds and marine creatures that inhabit this unspoiled area.

Lodging Near Monkey River Village in southern Belize

One of the finest resorts in all of Belize is located just a few miles from Monkey River Village. Chabil Mar, named for a Mayan term which means “beautiful sea”, is located on the Placencia Peninsula. The resort features full-size villas, an on-site restaurant and private beach access.

For more information about the Monkey River Tour, feel free to chat with the Concierge at: concierge@chabilmarvillas.com or contact the Reservations Manager at:reservations@chabilmarvillas.com. Or perhaps you would like to call toll free from the US or Canada: 1-866-417-2377.

 

Planning a Belize Fishing Vacation

Whether you’re an amateur angler or an experienced pro wanting to earn your Grand Slam, Belize is an ideal place to enjoy a fishing vacation.

Thanks to its year-round balmy climate, there is always a large variety of fish to be found in the waters of Belize, including tarpon, jack crevalle, permit, bonefish, barracuda, cubera, marlin, wahoo, blackfin tuna, bonito, mahi-mahi, king mackerel, swordfish, snook, and snapper. Whether it’s deep sea fishing, fishing in lagoons, or fly fishing from the flats, there is truly an abundance of great species to fish in Belize.

In order to protect the health of the environment and protect the valuable fish stocks in the country, all fishing in Belize must be done with a license from the government’s Coastal Zone Management Authority and Institute. Licenses can be purchased online here.

The law in Belize requires that bonefish, tarpon, and permit fish are all catch-and-release. There are some fish species that you are allowed to keep, but in general, most fish are also catch-and-release as well. If you’re interested in catching some fish for a tasty meal, be sure to ask your guide which species you are permitted to keep.

Note: The government strongly encourages fishing for lion fish, an invasive species, which you are definitely allowed to keep (and eat).

Here are a few of the top fishing spots in Belize:

Ambergris Caye – the lagoon on the western side of the island is a good place to find bonefish, permit, and tarpon.

Caye Caulker – the lagoons on the western side are also a great place to find bonefish and tarpon.

Turneffe Atoll – Ideal for fly-fishing amongst the mangrove islands or saltwater flats. Tarpon and bonefish are found in abundance in this area.

Punta Gorda – The coastal flats are a great place to find some permit fish.

Placencia – This area on the southeastern coast is also a great place to enjoy some fly fishing for permit fish.

Dangriga – A popular choice with local and foreign anglers alike, Dangriga’s shallow flats are loaded with bonefish. And a nearby island called Tarpon Caye is well named indeed.

If you’d like to enjoy a fantastic fishing vacation in Belize, Chabil Mar Resort offers a number of Belize fishing vacations. Chabil Mar is a luxury resort located on the Placencia Peninsula in southeastern Belize.

Visit our website chabilmarvillas.com for more information about fishing in 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 your Belize vacation.

The East Indians of Belize

east indians in belize

Within the Belize melting pot lives a vibrant community of East Indians who continue to practice traditions brought from their India homeland so very long ago.

Tracking migration patterns can be a fascinating if not complicated business, but there was a clear path to Belize residency for the group of Hindu East Indians who first arrived on the nation’s soil around 1858. About 1000 came in the first wave that year, and by the 1880s, an indentureship program mandated by India’s British colonists added to the community of hard-working people eager to put down roots.

While other East Indians sought work on neighboring Guatemala coffee plantations, new members of the Belize society coalesced in two geographic areas: Belize’s Toledo and Corozal Districts. There they found work on the estates of ex-soldiers who had fought for the Confederate army in the Civil War. Indentureship ended after five years, at which time East Indians began to invest in their own land, growing produce and selling it on the open market.

Sadly, race discrimination dogged East Indians for generations. Stereotypes like “East Indians are better for light agricultural work” than darker-skinned Africans and Garifuna pervaded society, but East Indians– particularly those practicing the Hindu faith–remained undaunted and continued to arrive on Belize shores in the 1920s. At this point, Belize City was home to the largest concentration of East Indian ex-pats.

While people of East Indian descent do not make up a huge portion of Belize society, their presence contributes mightily to the nation’s cultural heritage, economic success and entrepreneurial spirit. And while East Indians have adopted many Belize traditions, beliefs and tenets, they proudly retain their unique identities by dressing in clothing from India, eating Indian foods and practicing social and religious customs.

In fact, if one were to identify one area that is the most commercially successful for East Indians, it would have to be food-related. The importation of spices and operation of eateries serving East Indian foods lend a distinct flavor to this community’s personality, and when new immigrants arrive these days, they bring with them new merchandising talents and skills that contribute to the nation’s economic success.

Generations have passed. Intermarriage has served to further merge ethnicities into the whole fabric that is Belize, and if you’re fascinated to know more about Belize’s East Indian citizenry, you will want to book an authentic Belize vacation at Chabil Mar so you are headquartered in an area with the best proximity to these neighborhoods, markets and cultural sites.

While you’re learning more about these people and their traditions, take advantage of one of Chabil Mar’s money-saving, all inclusive jungle and sea vacation packages. There’s a lot from which to choose as evidenced by the bounty of choices you’ll be offered when you plan your trip. See a tour you like? Follow the sage advice of Benjamin Franklin who said, “Don’t put off until tomorrow what you can do today”!

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.

Why It’s Time to Start Planning (& Booking) Your 2024 Belize Vacation

Records Being Set for 2023 Travel. Don’t Miss Your Opportunity!

In the evolving landscape of international travel, marked by fluctuating economic indicators and global events, the industry is observing a buoyant resurgence. As challenges that impacted overseas tourism begin to wane, there’s a silver lining: the spirit of wanderlust is rekindling, and the familiar rhythm of travel is making a robust comeback.

Insiders are buzzing about the current travel metrics, which suggest that bookings are soaring to unprecedented levels, eclipsing even the most optimistic projections.

Central America, in particular, is emerging as a significant hub in this travel renaissance. Current market analyses highlight a marked increase in travel sales, underscoring the region’s enduring appeal.

A pivotal detail in this trend is the growing preference of travelers for international journeys. Belize, in particular, is capturing a significant chunk of this interest, celebrated not only for its English-speaking environment but also for the myriad opportunities it presents for travelers to get the most bang for their buck. With its pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and vibrant culture, Belize is quickly establishing itself as a top destination for discerning explorers.

Time to discover Belize for yourself

Obviously, you’ve got lots of choices but why not focus on a seaside resort that not only offers every imaginable water sport under the Belize sun but delivers on affordability via creative Belize packages designed with budgets in mind? Staff at Chabil Mar Villas never met a guest they couldn’t spoil. 

In addition to care and affordability, guests are treated to surprising luxuries. This boutique property, known for its oceanfront villas, accommodation interiors reflecting the nation’s artisan traditions plus roaming butler service, and gourmet dining easily matches those of high-priced resorts. Until you’ve been served a cool beverage by a butler while relaxing on a beautifully groomed private beach, you haven’t experienced paradise.

Records Being Set for 2023 Travel. Don’t Miss Your Opportunity

Skeptical about whether you can afford all of this? 

Don’t be. Chabil Mar’s Belize vacation packages and specials make a 2024 stay at the resort doable, and you can customize your stay to suit your interests and needs. 

From choosing the Yoga Wellness and Lifestyle bundle that focuses on your desire to maintain fitness habits you developed during COVID to thrilling escapades like scuba diving, snorkeling, caving, repelling, zip-lining, and other thrilling adventures you may be ready to try, you could feel conflicted by so many choices. 

Frequent guests find Chabil Mar irresistible

If you worry that all of this seems too idyllic to be believed, don’t take our word for it. Featured on the cover of International Living, Destinations Travel Magazine, American Airlines Magazine, GQ, Fodor’s the AOL travel channel, and US News and World Report, Chabil Mar is everything guests seek, earning 1000+ TripAdvisor reviews from visitors who have nothing to gain by speaking their minds! 

2024 travel will set records. The earlier you book, the more likely you’ll get your first date choices, and as a bonus, you get lots of time to savor the prospect of your trip to paradise with each passing day.

Records Being Set for 2023 Travel. Don’t Miss Your Opportunity!

Visit our website Chabilmarvillas.com for more information on traveling to 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.

Fly in Comfort to Belize: The Top Airlines to Get You There

Fly in Comfort to BelizeThe Top Airlines to Get You There

Belize, a small Central American country bordered by Mexico, Guatemala, and the Caribbean Sea, is a popular destination for tourists seeking adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty. If you’re planning a trip to Belize, you’ll be glad to know that several top airlines offer flights to the country. Here are the top airlines that fly to Belize:

American Airlines: American Airlines is one of the largest airlines in the world and offers daily non-stop flights to Belize from Miami and Dallas/Fort Worth. With comfortable seating, in-flight entertainment, and a range of meal options, American Airlines is a great choice for those looking for a comfortable and convenient flight to Belize.

Fly in Comfort to Belize


United Airlines:
 United Airlines is another major airline that flies to Belize. United offers non-stop flights to Belize from Houston and Newark, with comfortable seating, personal entertainment, and delicious dining options.

The Top Airlines to Get You There
Delta Airlines: Delta Airlines is one of the world’s largest airlines and offers non-stop flights to Belize from Atlanta and Los Angeles. With comfortable seating, entertainment options, and a range of meal choices, Delta is a popular choice for those looking for a comfortable flight to Belize.

The Top Airlines
Southwest Airlines: Southwest Airlines, known for its affordable fares and friendly service, offers flights to Belize from Houston and Denver. With comfortable seating, onboard Wi-Fi, and a range of snacks and beverages, Southwest is a great choice for those looking for an affordable flight to Belize.

Comfort to Belize
Avianca: Avianca is a popular airline that offers flights to Belize from San Salvador, El Salvador. With comfortable seating, in-flight entertainment, and delicious dining options, Avianca is a great choice for those looking to fly to Belize from Latin America.

Avianca AIrline
Tropic Air: Tropic Air is a Belizean airline that offers flights to Belize from various locations in Central America and Mexico. With a fleet of modern aircraft and a focus on customer service, Tropic Air is a popular choice for those looking to explore Belize and the surrounding region.

Tropic Air
Copa Airlines: Based in Panama, Copa Airlines offers flights to Belize from Panama City. With a modern fleet of aircraft and a focus on customer service, Copa Airlines is a popular choice for those traveling from Latin America.

Copa Airline
Alaska Airlines: Alaska Airlines offers flights to Belize from Los Angeles, California, and Seattle, Washington. With a reputation for quality service and comfortable seating, Alaska Airlines is a great option for those traveling from the West Coast of the United States.

Alaska Airline
Frontier Airlines: Frontier Airlines is a low-cost carrier that offers flights to Belize from both Orlando, FL, and Denver, CO. Despite its affordable fares, Frontier Airlines provides comfortable seating and a range of in-flight entertainment options.

Frontier Airline
WestJet: Based in Canada, WestJet offers non-stop flights to Belize from Toronto & Calgary with comfortable seating, in-flight entertainment, and a range of dining options. Known for its friendly service and affordable fares, WestJet is a popular choice for Canadian travelers.

WestJet Airline
Air Canada: Air Canada is the country’s largest airline and offers flights to Belize from Toronto. With a range of seating options, in-flight entertainment, and dining choices, Air Canada is a great choice for those seeking a comfortable and convenient flight.

air canada airline
Sun Country Airlines: Sun Country Airlines is a low-cost carrier based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, that offers flights to Belize from Minneapolis-St. Paul, MN. Despite its affordable fares, Sun Country Airlines provides comfortable seating, onboard Wi-Fi, and a range of snacks and beverages.

sun country
Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, these airlines provide a convenient and comfortable way to explore the beauty of Belize.

And, if you’re looking for a perfect place to stay in Belize, head to Placencia and check out Chabil Mar, a luxurious resort that offers a unique and unforgettable experience. Nestled on a beautiful stretch of beach, Chabil Mar offers stunning ocean views, spacious and elegantly appointed villas, and exceptional service. With a focus on creating a personalized and authentic experience for guests, Chabil Mar is a perfect base for exploring the many wonders of Belize. Don’t miss the chance to relax and rejuvenate in one of the most beautiful places in the world.

For more information about vacationing in Belize or Placencia, 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.

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