Ke’kchi Chocolate & Culture

It’s a 40-minute boat transfer from Harvest Caye Marina to the mainland of Belize where you will depart from the Malacate Pier on your air-conditioned bus for a scenic 60 minute ride. Pass through the village of Mango Creek which began as a sawmill settlement in the 1940's and still has unpaved streets, then it's onto Belize's hinter lands, where you will observe the panoramic vista of the ancient Mayan Mountains. You will also pass several quaint Ke'kchi Mayan villages as well as pine and hardwood forest reserves on the way to the Akte'il Ha Cacao Farm. Learn how the Ke'kchi hand craft chocolate the traditional way from the pod to the bar. You will have a tour of the organic chocolate farm and go through the chocolate making process. Observe the hand grinding of the cacao beans and taste the chocolate in its various forms. You will then head to the Big Falls Outpost for a welcome respite and your delicious Belizean lunch, here you will be able to purchase drinks, and get souvenirs of your time here in Belize. Reboard your bus for the second part of your journey, to visit the Living Ke'kchi Maya Experience. An authentic Ke'kchi home that offers guest a fascinating glimpse into a rapidly disappearing world of the traditional Ke'kchi Mayan. Learn about the Ke'kchi language, their history, medicine and culture. In this truly rustic setting engage in activities such as playing the various traditional Mayan musical instruments. Head back to the Malacate Pier.