DANGRIGA & HOPKINS
Dangriga and Hopkins are two of the main towns in Belize’s Stann Creek district. Dangriga is the capital and the largest town in Southern Belize and has gained the nickname the Culture Capital for its diverse mix of people and cultures. Garifuna culture in particular is strong here and visitors can enjoy traditional drumming, delicious seafood and a warm welcome in this region, as in all of Belize.
Hopkins is a smaller and quieter town but the perfect escape from it all. It offers 12 miles of pristine white beach in a traditional Garifuna community.
If wildlife is your thing, the Cockscomb Basin Nature Reserve is 128,000-acre area of pristine rainforest, winding rivers, and scenic waterfalls. It contains the highest concentration of jaguars in all of Belize. It is also home to wildcat, deer and tapirs as well as some spectacular bird species.
The Mayflower Bocawina National Park is a beautiful and exhilarating mix of waterfalls, Mayan ruins and the longest zipline in Belize. It is the perfect place for adventure activities including cave tubing, water rappelling and zip-lining. There is some great birdwatching here with over 290 species identified. The ruins here are mere evidence of a Mayan city and are as yet unexcavated.
This region is also excellent for water sports and serves as an access point for many cayes, atolls and reefs which offer some exceptional diving.
WHERE TO STAY
Our favourite luxury hotels
Hopkins Bay Resort
A stunning resort complete with white sands and palms swaying in the gentle breeze. The property has an impressive list of amenities including two pools, a rum-shack on the beach, Garifuna restaurant, dive centre, hammocks on the beach and the Drum Bar. There are also kayaks and bicycles for guests to use at their leisure. The villas are of a spacious colonial style, all with views over the sea. They are suitable for couples or families, with 1, 2 and 3 bedroom options.
Lodge at Jaguar Reef
A gorgeous getaway on Belize’s Caribbean coastline, offering cosy cabanas in a tranquil environment. Located right on the beachfront, with panoramic views and wonderful amenities, the hotel is comprised of a range of cottages and villas lining the beach. Inside, facilities include air conditioning, iPod dock, coffee maker and private porch with hammock. Guests can enjoy a range of activities including fishing, snorkelling, a full-service spa, beach front restaurant, swim up Tiki bar, kayaks and paddle boards.
Almond Beach Resort
A pristine resort located on a long stretch of beach a short stroll from the charming Caribbean village of Hopkins. There are just 12 rooms here, which are lavish and stylish. All are sea facing and a stone’s throw from the beach. Boasting a home-from-home feel, each features traditional yet contemporary décor with luxury amenities. Guests can enjoy fishing, snorkelling, a full-service spa, beach front restaurant, kayaks and paddle boards.