This morning, we'll visit the Community Baboon Sanctuary, co-founded by National Geographic Grantee Dr. Robert Horwich. This community-run organization is dedicated to the conservation of the Yucatán black howler monkey, locally called a baboon. Tour the sanctuary with a guide and observe these endangered monkeys in the wild. Then head to the village of San Antonio to visit the local operator–supported women's cooperative. Try your hand at throwing clay in the cooperative's pottery workshop, and learn how to prepare corn tortillas using ancient Maya techniques. After lunch, continue to the bustling town of San Ignacio.
The town of San Ignacio is situated on the banks of the Macal River. It is a perfect location to visit the surrounding countryside. All activities here are optional, so the choice is yours: explore the Mayan cave of Actun Tunichil Muknal, containing relics dating back 1400 years, visit the butterfly gardens, or go tubing or canoeing through the natural limestone caves of the region.
【Tortilla-Making】
Corn tortillas are a staple of Belizean cuisine, and the fresher they are the better. Drop by the San Antonio Women's Cooperative for a tortilla-making lesson and demonstration. Help grind wet corn kernels on an ancient stone that's been passed down through generations to the special ladies who work here. Then try your own hand at making perfectly round tortillas, which is harder than you may think. Afterward, enjoy the results of the group with a cup of atole, a local corn drink.
【Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Howler Monkey Experience】
Founded by five-time National Geographic-grantee Dr. Robert Horwich, the Community Baboon Sanctuary is a conservation project that works to protect the natural habitat of the black howler monkey through community education and sustainable ecotourism practices. Go for a nature walk in the rainforest with a community guide to observe monkeys in the wild. The sanctuary also promotes the economic development of the surrounding communities through the ecotourism it brings in. Over 200 private, local landowners in seven villages, stretching over 20 square miles, have voluntarily pledged to conserve their land for the protection of the black howler monkey, resulting in an increase in the monkey population. So as part of the experience, also enjoy a cultural demonstration of rice beating and cashew roasting.
【Your G for Good Moment: San Antonio Women's Cooperative visit with Pottery Class and Local Lunch】
Like in many places around the world, education for women in the village of San Antonio isn't prioritized. Girls don't typically attend school beyond primary levels. So a women's cooperative was founded here, as a way for underprivileged women to earn income, learn new skills, and share centuries-old Mayan techniques and knowledge. Visit the pottery workshop, which is newly expanded with an investment from our partner operator. Meet some of the women who've found community within its walls and gain insight into the tradition of throwing pots. Try your own hand at these ancient techniques during a pottery class. Afterward, enjoy lunch together with these inspiring and unforgettable women, sampling traditional foods of the Cayo region.
【Private Vehicle】
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.