Garifuna Ancestral Healing Hands Massage

2 Hours
  • 2 - 10
  • 2–10
  • English, Garifuna
  • Year-round
  • Easy — nothing is required of you

About this experience

The Garifuna Ancestral Healing Hands Massage is a two-hour wellness experience at Palmento Grove in Hopkins, Belize: a walk through our herbal garden and healing trail, followed by a one-hour deep-tissue healing and relaxation massage.

The walk comes first, for a reason. You learn the plants our family has relied on for generations and what each is traditionally used for, so you understand where the practice comes from before you lie down.

Then the massage. The techniques weren't learned from a manual. They were worked out over generations by people caring for their own families, and taught hand to hand ever since. Natural oils and aromatic essences are part of the practice. Tell your therapist where you're holding tension and the hour goes there.

It's a chance to rest — and to experience one of the ways Garifuna families have long cared for each other.

What you'll do

  • A walk through our herbal garden and healing trail
  • Learn the plants our family has relied on for generations
  • A one-hour deep-tissue healing and relaxation massage
  • Traditional techniques, taught hand to hand through generations
  • Natural oils and aromatic essences used in Garifuna healing practice

What's included

  • Free pickup from your hotel within Hopkins
  • Kayak crossing to and from the island
  • Guided walk through the herbal garden and healing trail
  • One-hour deep-tissue massage with a Garifuna massage therapist
  • Natural oils and aromatic essences

What's not included

  • A boat crossing instead of the kayak — available at extra cost
  • Transport from Placencia, San Ignacio or Belize City — add a transfer
  • Tips and gratuities — not included in the price

Questions guests ask

Planning your massage

How long is the experience?

Two hours in total: a walk through the herbal garden and healing trail, then a one-hour massage.

Can the massage focus on a problem area?

Yes. Tell your therapist where you're holding tension and the session will focus there. Otherwise it's a full session.

What oils do you use?

Natural oils and aromatic essences used in Garifuna healing practice.

Where do we meet?

On the northern side of Hopkins, at the estuary where the lagoon meets the sea — locals call it Hawaii. If you're staying in Hopkins, we'll pick you up from your hotel for free.

How do we get to the island?

By kayak — a short, calm paddle across Fresh Water Creek Lagoon, included in the price. If you'd rather not paddle, a boat crossing is available at extra cost.

What is your cancellation policy?

Cancel 30 or more days before for a full refund minus a 10% processing fee, or 15 days before for a 50% refund or full credit toward a future booking. Cancellations less than 7 days before are non-refundable. The full policy is on our Terms page.

What happens if the weather is bad?

If we cancel because conditions are unsafe, you'll receive a refund, minus a 10% processing fee for card payments.

Are tips included?

No. Tips aren't included in the price. They're never expected, and always appreciated by the people who host you.