Chabil Mar Resort - Belize Blog, Belize Vacation Planning

The Baird’s Tapir, the National Animal of Belize

Posted on June 3, 2025

With so many interesting and exotic animals living in Belize, choosing to see the Baird’s Tapir (Tapirus bairdii) may seem a little unusual. Baird’s tapirs are the national animals of the country and are rarely seen in the rainforests and jungles of Belize primarily because they are only active at nighttime and spend most of their lives completely alone.

But there’s a lot to appreciate about these creatures, the largest indigenous land mammal in Belize. Baird’s tapirs are named for Spencer Fullerton Baird, an American naturalist who first observed the animals in Mexico in 1843 but are known as “mountain cows” by Belizeans.

These mammals can grow up to six feet long (two meters) and weigh up to 500 pounds (225 kilograms). Baird’s tapirs are entirely vegetarian, usually feeding on fruits, leaves, grasses, and aquatic vegetation but they are happy to snack on corn and other crops when they get a chance. But don’t let their size fool you. Despite their big size and ungainly appearance, they are fantastic swimmers. In Belize, Baird’s tapirs range across vast territories, often having to cross rivers, creeks, and wetlands. These land mammals are also excellent at climbing steep terrain even in the thickest jungle.

It takes approximately 13 months for a Baird’s tapir to gestate and three years to grow to full maturity. During those three years, young tapirs will stay close to their mothers, the only time in their lives when they will live in proximity to their parents. It is estimated that they can live 30 or more years in the wild.

Baird’s tapirs don’t actually look like a cow. Their appearance is more of a big, gray anteater or elephant due to their long, prehensile nose. These mammals are actually most closely related to horses and rhinoceroses. Although it’s hard to spot a tapir in the wild, the tracks they leave behind are easily identifiable, a deep, splayed hoofmark with four toes in front and three in the rear.

Baird’s tapirs were once found all throughout Central and South America, but their numbers have dwindled due to poaching and the encroachment of human developments. Today, Belize is home to some of the biggest populations of these mammals. Baird’s tapirs don’t pose any risk to humans. When surprised, they usually like to flee to the nearest body of water, but on occasion, they will emit a loud whistle and stamp their feet.

If you’re interested in seeing a Baird’s tapir up close and personal, be sure to book your visit to the Belize Zoo with Chabil Mar.

Celebrating Father’s Day in Placencia, Belize: The Ultimate Dadventure

Posted on June 1, 2025

Father’s Day is a time to honor the special men in our lives, and what better way to do so than with an unforgettable getaway to the sun-kissed shores of Placencia, Belize? This charming peninsula is a treasure trove of experiences, offering a diverse range of activities that cater to every dad’s interests, from exciting adventures to relaxing retreats.

Adventures to Remember

For the dad who loves to cast a line, Placencia’s fishing charters are second to none. The Caribbean Sea teems with snapper, grouper, barracuda, and even the elusive tarpon. Whether he’s a seasoned angler or a novice, the thrill of the catch and the subsequent seafood feast will undoubtedly be a highlight of his trip.

If your dad is a certified diver, the Belize Barrier Reef awaits. As the second-largest barrier reef in the world, it boasts a mesmerizing underwater world of vibrant coral gardens and diverse marine life. Swimming alongside gentle nurse sharks is an experience he’ll cherish forever. For those who prefer to stay closer to the surface, snorkeling offers an equally captivating glimpse into this underwater paradise.

A wildlife safari up the Monkey River is a must for nature-loving dads. Cruising through the mangrove forests, you’ll encounter howler monkeys, crocodiles, iguanas, and a plethora of bird species. This eco-adventure is a fantastic way to connect with Belize’s rich biodiversity and create lasting memories.

Relaxation and Rejuvenation

Placencia’s picturesque beaches are the perfect place to unwind. Miles of sandy shores invite you to soak up the sun, swim in the crystal-clear waters, or simply stroll hand-in-hand. Kayaking and paddleboarding offer a more active way to explore the coastline, while a good book and a hammock provide the ultimate in relaxation.

For dads who deserve a bit of pampering, Placencia’s luxurious resorts offer a range of spa treatments. Massages, facials, and body wraps are just a few of the ways to melt away stress and rejuvenate body and soul.

No trip to Placencia is complete without sampling the local cuisine. Influenced by Caribbean, Latin American, and Maya flavors, Belizean dishes are a treat for the taste buds. Fresh seafood, rice and beans, stewed chicken, and fry jacks are just a few of the must-try delicacies. Pair your meal with a refreshing Belikin beer or a tropical cocktail for the perfect culinary experience.

Chabil Mar: Your Father’s Day Haven

When it comes to choosing accommodations, Chabil Mar is the epitome of luxury and comfort. Located on the beachfront, this exquisite resort offers spacious villas, personalized service, and a range of amenities to ensure your dad’s every need is met. Gourmet dining, an infinity pool overlooking the Caribbean Sea, and private villas with stunning ocean views create an ambiance of pure indulgence. Chabil Mar’s commitment to providing an unforgettable experience makes it the ideal destination to celebrate Father’s Day in style.

Whether your dad is an adventurer, a nature enthusiast, a foodie, or simply someone who appreciates the finer things in life, Placencia has something to offer everyone. This coastal haven is sure to provide the perfect backdrop for a Father’s Day celebration he’ll never forget.

For more information about vacationing in 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.

8 Reasons Why Half Moon Caye is an Amazing Caye in Belize

Posted on May 27, 2025

Photograph by by Marius Jovaiša, author of Heavenly Belize

Half Moon Caye is located at the southwest corner of Lighthouse Reef Atoll and just this week was selected as a top dive site by Jacksonville Business Journal, a popular business website in the United States.

Kristina Fazzalro, the writer who put together the article entitled “10 Best Dive Sites in North America” described the Caye as follows: Half Moon Caye in Belize offers divers the chance to go on a wall dive–a dive in which the vertical facades of the earth’s landmasses are explored. The depths at Half Moon Caye (and really at any wall dive) are tremendous, giving you the very correct feeling that you are staring into an abyss. The waters at Half Moon Caye are particularly clear, despite the depth, so you will be able to see all manner of wildlife, including loggerhead turtles, rays, barracuda, and eels.

Weather permitting, our dive package can include a trip to Lighthouse to dive the Blue Hole, Half Moon Wall and Long Caye

Of course we agree with Fazzalro’s description on Half Moon Caye and we also have 8 great reasons why we believe this beautiful gem is an amazing Caye in the country. Here are our 8 reasons:

REASON # 1 the fact that the water in Half Moon Caye is ridiculously crystal clear

REASON#2 the fact that the area is diversely populated with abundant marine life like groupers, snappers, hogfish, stingrays, and sand eels and all of these beautiful and colorful creatures are protected under Belize Law

REASON#3 the fact that the spectacular coral growth makes it the ultimate destination for snorkeling and diving in Belize

REASON#4 the fact that Half Moon Caye is a historical national park and protected area

REASON#5 the fact that the Caye supports the only viable breeding for the Red-footed Booby colony in the western Caribbean.

REASON#6 the fact that the Island Leaf-toed Gecko, also known as the Belize Atoll Gecko, is endemic to Belize, meaning it is found nowhere else in the world.

REASON#7 the fact that its beaches are clean and gorgeous

REASON#8 the fact that it is crescent- shaped and is divided into two ecosystems: on the western side it has dense vegetation with rich fertile soil and on the eastern section it sustains coconut palms and other vegetation.

For more information about Half Moon Caye 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.

Getting Excited For The 2025 Annual Placencia Lobsterfest

Posted on May 21, 2025

As the July sun shines high above the glistening waters and sandy white beaches of the Placencia Peninsula in Belize, one of the most popular events of the year is expected to draw record crowds. The world-famous Placencia Lobsterfest, held this year between July 4-6, will kick off the lobster season with music, games, and plenty of savory dishes made from everyone’s favorite crustaceans.

Regular visitors to Placencia know that the area is famous for its abundance of fresh-caught seafood, including conch, shrimp, snapper, grouper, kingfish, lionfish, and barracuda. The advent of the lobster season heralds an unparalleled opportunity to sample some of the finest cooking anywhere in the country, with local chefs competing to make the most savory dish from lobster.

Starting with the ubiquitous boiled lobster served with drawn butter, culinary competitors will tempt festival-goers with lobster curry, stewed lobster, lobster ceviche, and gourmet dishes elevated to a fine art. Along with all of the seafood, market stalls, restaurants and cafes will also feature fresh local organic fruits, vegetarian dishes, and savory dishes made from chicken, pork, and beef.

“We like to kid our guests about the weight-loss benefits of going to Lobsterfest,” says Larry France, the marketing manager at Chabil Mar Villas, a luxury resort on the peninsula, “because lobster is packed with protein and very low in fat. Gorging on lobster in combination with dancing to all the great local music and participating in sporting events is really a lot of fun.”

The main attraction of the Lobster Festival is, of course, all of the delicious food but it also has a serious side as well. The festival is organized by the Placencia Village Council to promote awareness of the local population as well as to raise money for charitable causes. In order to preserve the natural beauty of the area, the Placencia Village Council has instituted a “Keep It Green, Keep it Clean” policy for the festival. All food vendors are required to use biodegradable containers and bars are restricted to pouring drinks into reusable “stadium cups”. Bottled water won’t be on sale but thirsty festival-goers can refill their stadium cups or personal bottles at free water stations located throughout the festival area.

Chabil Mar situated on the Placencia Peninsula just a few minutes’ stroll down the beach from all the action at the Lobster Festival, is an ideal place to stay. Because of the popularity of the Lobster Festival, rooms are filling up fast so be sure to make your reservation today.

Visit our website chabilmarvillas.com for more information on the Placencia Lobsterfest, 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 Summer is the Best Time to Visit Belize: An Unforgettable Adventure Awaits

Posted on May 15, 2025

Although Belize is an exceptional destination to visit throughout the year, summer provides a truly distinctive and lively experience for travelers seeking to immerse themselves in this multifaceted, tropical utopia. Boasting magnificent beaches, lush jungles, and an intriguing mix of history and culture, Belize offers an abundance of reasons to make summer the ultimate time for exploration.

Let’s delve into the reasons that make Belize the perfect choice for an unforgettable summer adventure.

Bask in the Warm Belizean Sun

Summer in Belize boasts warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine, providing the perfect backdrop for outdoor adventures and relaxation. With average temperatures ranging from 79°F to 87°F (26°C to 31°C), the warm weather and clear skies create ideal conditions for beach days, snorkeling, and exploring the country’s diverse landscapes.

Experience Lively Festivals and Cultural Events

During summer in Belize, the air is filled with the excitement of colorful festivals and cultural events. Don’t miss the annual Placencia Lobsterfest in July, where you can savor delectable lobster dishes while being entertained by live music, games, and dancing. The Belize International Music and Food Festival is another captivating event that highlights the country’s rich musical diversity and tantalizing cuisine. This lively gathering unites locals and visitors, providing a one-of-a-kind chance to immerse yourself in Belize’s dynamic culture and delight in its exquisite culinary creations

Encounter Wildlife in Their Natural Habitat

Summer is the perfect time to witness the magnificent wildlife of Belize in their natural environment. The Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, home to the world’s first jaguar reserve, offers the unique opportunity to spot these elusive cats and other native species such as tapirs, howler monkeys, and various exotic birds. Additionally, summer is the prime time for whale shark sightings off the coast of Placencia, providing a once-in-a-lifetime experience for snorkelers and divers.

Explore Ancient Maya Ruins

Belize is home to several awe-inspiring ancient Maya ruins, and visiting these archaeological sites in the summer offers an unparalleled experience. The summer solstice, usually occurring on June 21st, is a significant event in Mayan culture, and many sites, such as Caracol and Xunantunich, hold special celebrations on this day, providing visitors with a unique insight into the ancient civilization.

Enjoy Off-Peak Travel Benefits

Summer is considered the off-peak travel season in Belize, which means fewer crowds and lower prices on accommodations and tours. This allows you to enjoy a more serene and budget-friendly vacation without compromising on the quality of your experiences.

Adventure Awaits

From cave tubing and zip-lining through lush jungles to diving into the depths of the iconic Great Blue Hole, summer in Belize presents countless opportunities for adventure seekers. The country’s diverse landscape and abundant natural resources provide the perfect playground for an exhilarating vacation.

Discover Placencia and Chabil Mar: The Perfect Summer Getaway

As you plan your exhilarating summer getaway to Belize, make sure Placencia and Chabil Mar top your list of must-visit destinations. Placencia, an enchanting travel destination, boasts breathtaking beaches, pristine waters, and a wide array of water sports, setting the stage for the ultimate summer escape. Don’t miss the chance to explore the nearby Laughing Bird Caye National Park, offering unparalleled snorkeling and diving experiences.

Nestled in Placencia, Chabil Mar is a luxurious beachfront resort that serves as the perfect base for your Belize summer adventure. The resort features exquisitely designed villas, a private beach, and two mesmerizing infinity pools, ensuring a stay that is both comfortable and unforgettable. With attentive personalized service and easy access to Belize’s finest attractions, Chabil Mar becomes your dream home away from home for a truly memorable Belize summer vacation.

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 summer vacation.