Monkey River, Manatee Watch and Placencia Visit Tour

Hopkins , Belize

Monkey River, Manatee Watch and Placencia Visit Tour

Active

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Get ready for an exciting eco-adventure in Southern Belize!

Your journey begins with an hour's drive from Hopkins Village to Placencia. Once there, you will embark on a scenic boat ride along the breathtaking coastline, followed by a trek into the lush mangroves and winding waterways of the Monkey River—a true haven for wildlife and natural beauty.

As you cruise upriver, your knowledgeable local guide will point out fascinating sights, including manatees, crocodiles, iguanas, exotic birds, and, of course, the howler monkeys that give this tour its name. Their deep, echoing calls will surround you as you venture deeper into the jungle.

After your Monkey River tour, you'll have the opportunity to explore Placencia before returning to Hopkins Village.

Available options

Monkey River, Manatee Watch and Placencia Visit Tour

What's included

Licensed Tour Guide

Bottled water

Lunch

Transportation

Detailed itinerary

The journey starts from Hopkins Village and heads to Placencia Village. Enjoy the scenic views of the lush jungle along the Southern Highway. As you near Placencia, the road offers stunning vistas with a lagoon on one side and the Caribbean Sea on the other. The ride takes about one hour, and the driver will make a stop at the M&M Gas Station dock, where you will meet your guide/boat captain.

On your river cruise, keep your eyes peeled for a vibrant array of wildlife, including exotic birds, crocodiles, iguanas, and stunning bromeliads and orchids. The sounds of howler monkeys echoing through the trees will enrich your experience as your guide points out fascinating features and answers your questions.
Next, embark on a guided hike along the forest trails by the river’s edge for an up-close look at howler monkeys. Your guide will enlighten you about the medicinal properties of local plants and the unique behaviors of the area’s elusive wildlife.
After your adventure, savor a delicious Creole lunch in Monkey River Village.
On your return trip to Placencia, stop at a grassy area near the mangroves, where you can marvel at the West Indian manatees feeding peacefully in their natural habitat. This immersive experience offers a perfect blend of nature, culture, and adventure.

After exploring the Monkey River, you will have a chance to explore Placencia! Enjoy the delicious Tutti Frutti ice cream, stop at gift shops on the sidewalk, and relax on the beach.

The ride back to Hopkins will be peaceful and relaxing, feel free to close your eyes and drift into a well-earned nap. After a day full of adventure and discovery, it's time to unwind, reflect, and return to your hotel, where your vacation continues in paradise.

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Specialized infant seats are available

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

About Hopkins

Hopkins is a charming coastal village in Belize known for its rich Garifuna culture and stunning Caribbean beaches. It offers a unique blend of cultural heritage, natural beauty, and adventure activities, making it a perfect destination for travelers seeking an authentic experience.

Top Attractions

Hopkins Beach

A beautiful stretch of white sand and turquoise waters, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.

Beach Half day to full day Free

Garnett's Pastries and Bakery

A local bakery famous for its delicious pastries and bread, offering a taste of traditional Garifuna cuisine.

Cultural 1-2 hours Budget

Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary

A unique wildlife sanctuary and the world's first jaguar reserve, offering hiking trails, waterfalls, and wildlife spotting.

Nature Full day Moderate

Sockton's Pines

A local craft shop and art gallery showcasing traditional Garifuna art and crafts, including handmade drums, jewelry, and textiles.

Cultural 1-2 hours Budget

Marie Sharp's Farm

A local farm and factory producing Belize's famous habanero hot sauce and other spicy sauces.

Food and Drink 1-2 hours Budget

Must-Try Local Dishes

Hudut

A traditional Garifuna dish made with fish cooked in a coconut broth, served with mashed plantains.

Main dish Contains fish and plantains, may contain allergens.

Johnny Cakes

Fried dough balls, often filled with cheese or sweet fillings, a popular local snack.

Snack Contains flour and may contain dairy or sugar.

Coconut Buns

Sweet buns made with coconut, a popular breakfast item in Hopkins.

Breakfast Contains flour, sugar, and coconut, may contain dairy.

Popular Activities

Hiking Fishing Wildlife spotting Beach activities Sunbathing Swimming Garifuna drumming and dance Local craft workshops

Best Time to Visit

November to April

This is the dry season with plenty of sunshine and lower humidity, ideal for beach activities and cultural events.

24-30°C 75-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Spanish, Garifuna, Creole
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Belize Dollar (BZD)

Time Zone

GMT-6

Electricity

110VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Hopkins is generally safe for travelers, with a low crime rate and friendly locals. However, standard precautions should be taken to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Use reputable tour operators and taxis.
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
• Be cautious when using ATMs and avoid carrying large amounts of cash.

Getting there

By air

Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport • 130 km (80 miles)
Dangriga Airstrip • 5 km (3 miles)

By bus

Belize City Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are available to nearby towns but not within Hopkins itself. They are an affordable but less convenient option.

Taxis

Available • Apps:

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Hopkins Village Sittee River

Day trips

Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary

90 km (56 miles) • Full day

A unique wildlife sanctuary and the world's first jaguar reserve, offering hiking trails, waterfalls, and wildlife spotting.

Sittee River

15 km (9 miles) • Half day to full day

A scenic river offering tours, fishing, and wildlife spotting.

Dangriga

5 km (3 miles) • Half day

A nearby town with a rich cultural heritage, offering local markets, historical sites, and cultural experiences.

Festivals

Garifuna Settlement Day • November 19 Hopkins Seafood Festival • June

Pro tips

Visit Garnett's Pastries and Bakery for a taste of traditional Garifuna pastries.
Explore the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary for a unique jaguar spotting experience.
Try local seafood dishes, such as Hudut, at Innie's Restaurant and Bar.
Support local artisans by purchasing handmade crafts at Sockton's Pines.
Attend a Garifuna drumming and dance performance for an authentic cultural experience.