Agritourism in Belize: Some of the Best Experiences

In recent years, the tourism industry has witnessed a shift towards more sustainable and authentic experiences.  One of the most intriguing trends to emerge is that of agritourism—a form of tourism that allows travelers to see and experience firsthand where our food comes from.  This offers a unique opportunity to reconnect with nature and learn about agriculture in a fun and interactive way.  Belize has always been a leader in sustainability as well as a destination for curious travelers seeking meaningful experiences.  It’s no wonder that agritourism has gained significant traction here and is adding to the gamut of captivating excursions we offer.  Here are some of the best agritourism experiences in Belize.

Bean to Bar Chocolate Making

One of the most popular educational excursions in Belize is a traditional Maya Chocolate Making Tour. Get a hands-on lesson in cacao processing using ancient methods of grinding the nibs to create your own confection.  Learn about the harvesting of cacao pods and the natural fermentation process. Then, take a turn trying the traditional grinding stones. Watch as nibs turn into an antioxidant-rich paste that when sweetened resembles the commercially available chocolate we all know.  After completing the labor-intensive lesson, you are sure to have a newfound appreciation for everyone’s favorite sweet treat.

Copalli Rum Distillery

Deep in Southern Belize’s Toledo District, Copalli Rum Distillery is a marvel of ingenuity and a shining example of sustainable agriculture.  The premium spirits produced here are made from non-hybridized, heirloom sugar cane native to the area, wild yeast, and pure rainforest water. 

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The facility is zero-impact, making use of any byproducts of the distillation process to recycle as biofuel or fertilizer.  Take the field-to-flask tour to learn about the month-long process of producing the award-winning rum. And of course, end with a rum tasting in their lounge overlooking lush jungle and tropical gardens.

Immersive Garifuna Cooking Class

Explore the fascinating history and enduring culture of the Garifuna people. Enjoy an all-day cooking class punctuated by informative conversations, storytelling, and music.  Learn about the indigenous flavors and traditional techniques passed down through the generations as you prepare and then enjoy a typical Garifuna meal.  Cook your dish on a traditional fire hearth stove for an authentic flavor that simply can’t be replicated in a modern kitchen.

Spice Farm and Botanical Garden

Visit the beautiful botanical gardens and tour the Belize Spice Farm. This agritourism experience allows for an education in the cultivation of exotic spices, medicinal plants, and gorgeous hardwoods.  Meander through acres of blooming gardens and productive grove. Sample tropical fruit straight from the trees such as star apple, tamarind, rambutan, and Surinam cherries.  Visit the wood shop where rosewood, mahogany, and teak trees are transformed into gorgeous and enduring furniture pieces.  Witness the careful practice of hand-pollination of vanilla blossoms and cardamom harvesting.  Black pepper, allspice, nutmeg, and turmeric are among some of the flavors you can sample directly from the grounds of the farm.

For travelers seeking a deeper connection with the land and a more sustainable way to explore the world, agritourism offers an intriguing and impactful experience.  Belize, with its commitment to sustainability and preservation of its agricultural heritage, will only continue to grow its agritourism offerings in the future and be better able to share its knowledge and traditions with visitors.  Plan to participate in one of these incredible experiences on your trip to Belize. They’re perfect for forging a direct connection to the land and the people who work it.