Reviews of Palmento Grove Garifuna Eco-Cultural & Healing Institute

The cabins are well kept, the fact that it was off the beaten path. I liked the eco aspect, primarily solar

Not getting to see more of the features they offer.

The host was on her way back from town and picked us up whilst walking with a heavy rug sack in the heat. Helped with our luggage in the kayak. Talks in the communal kitchen and being able to cook for ourselves Making Hudut with the host.

I was very disappointed in the place and this is also due to my expectations of being amidst active culture. We were the only guests for the 4days and there was nothing to do except purchasing the cultural activities which were way past our budget options. We also found it difficult to relax because of the heat. The sea wind did not penetrate through the bush in the hut we were staying. even 2 fans were not enough. But that is not the main reason for the disappointment. Traveling for months now, we always managed to feel at home in the places we stayed. Here i did not at all. The host is sharp and direct and did not always have a friendly manner of communication. Although she laughed at our jokes the feel of distance was tangible. And this made me feel really uncomfortable. Thankfully I had a talk about this with her that cleared the air and we had a good cook together. It became clear to me that the rental of the cabins was a side income and all effort and energy went into the organisation of the paid extra activities. We did find a good cultural vibe in the town of Hopkins where we went everyday.

The location was just what we wanted. It was quiet but near enough to town. You could see every star in the sky at night and good birding from our deck. The breakfast we had there was one of the best we had in Belize. I highly recommend the history, cooking class and drumming experience we had during our stay.

The room was small for 3 people, but we found that at every place we stayed in Belize. Most accommodations are set up for 2 people. There was no air conditioning but the fans in the room kept the room at a comfortable temperature.

Palmento Grove is an experience worth having! Starting from the kayak ride over, to experiencing the oasis of garifuna culture and food, to the rustic yet comfy glamping cabanas- everything is memorable, earnest and full of joy. Special thanks to every member of the Martinez family, especially Uwahnie and Eugene, who felt more like old friends than hosts by the time we said goodbye. Cannot recommend enough!

We had a fabulous dinner and breakfast prepared by Awahnee. The cultural experience with history, garden tour, coconut prep and cooking lesson followed by a drumming lesson was phenomenal! Definitely worth it. We also enjoyed taking the kayaks across to the nearly private beach.

The BEST part was the host and the amount of learning we were afforded. The environment was SO peaceful that I could feel my body relax when we arrived.

Everything was excellent, except the cold shower :) We understand why the water was not hot and accept the condition. Oh yeah, the mosquitos ate my husband alive but they did not like me and left me alone!

Fab experience, everyone was super friendly and kind. The Kayak was easier than I expected. Was also a plus size inclusive experience all round and felt safe as a solo female traveller

Nothing I didn’t like it was awesome but you need to be ready to embrace nature a bit!

We liked to kayak and explored the mangroves. Went swimming on the beach after kayaking. Enjoyed local food and cooking instruction.

Parking was adequate but could be improved a bit.

We had a great stay at Palmento Grove, we were there on the day that the do the cultural experience so we took part in that, which was really informative and the cooking class was a great experience. They were able to cater for my gluten free diet and the owners (father and daughter) were really helpful when trying to organise things and we used their shuttle service to the bus at Hopkins junction.

The 30 second kayak crossing is a little scary at night as there are crocodiles (not that we saw any). And to go into town you had to cross the river. But this shouldn’t put you off going, it’s just something to be aware of.

Kayaking on the mangroves was a highlight and the bird watching was super. Uwhanie was an experienced host and cooked excellent breakfasts and dinners Garifuna style.She made us hudut, fried jacks and plantains. We picked the herbs from her garden. It's a peaceful site

Sandflies! The water pump broke for 2 of the 3 days we were there. Uwhanie got it fixed promptly. It's like camping in a wooden shed

Very quite. The people running the place were very friendly and very helpful. The bioluminescence when kayaking across the river at night was really cool.

Shower was cold in the morning, so we couldn't shower before checking out. Thought it was on the beach, but you had to take a kayak to the beach. No AC. Wasn't able to lock our room, so we didn't feel safe leaving anything in our room.

wonderful experience

Location requires driving on a very rough rocky road for about 500 m ( 500 yds) which is not suitable for passenger cars . We use only 4 WD vehicles for this sort of road in Canada & USA. We had a typical rent a car . Road definitely needs upgrading with smaller material to get repeat customers.

A good match for our values while traveling. Interesting place.

Mesquitoes

Very unique eco-lodge cabins on an island facing the lagoon where the river meets ocean, a peaceful retreat for nature lovers. Amazing cultural experience if you want to learn about Garifuna people, their history and traditions.

We were initially supposed to stay 2 nights, but when we arrived at Hopkins in the afternoon and called the property, we were told that our cabins would be ready the next day due to some rennovations and we were offered very basic rooms in the village for that night. It was disappointing since we only had 2 days there and wanted to make most of it.

We really enjoyed the location & kayak across & the owner gave a friendly welcome and helped with our luggage. The rooms are spacious, we loved that everything is eco-friendly, there are kitchens on site (buy food before arriving!). We also had a wonderful private cooking class which we were very grateful for and the food was delicious. Kayaking around the area is beautiful - recommended at sunset!

It was very quiet when we were there - if you want to do activities I would recommend asking / booking in advance. There are a lot of sand flies due to the location so take long sleeves & be careful sitting outside.

Loved the relaxed eco nature where we kayaked, fished and the host helped us prepare and cook the fish we caught!

The 2km walk from town wasn't ideal with luggage and I got eaten alive from mosquitoes.

Beautiful spot. Lovely helpful staff. Kayak & short walk along beach to places to eat, drink, swim.

Palmento Grove was as promised. An island in a lagoon at the edge of the sea. Rustic amenities were both charming and comfortable. The opportunity to take part in a Garífuna cultural experience was a joy, and a great way to begin our trip in Belize.