Roatan: Monkey & sloth tour with rum tasting + city sights

Summary

Meet sloths, taste rum, and see Roatan through local eyes

You’ll meet monkeys and sloths up close in Roatan’s jungle, sample local rums and cakes with friendly islanders, snap photos at iconic spots, and see real life on the island — all with private transport and a local guide who knows every shortcut. It’s a day full of laughter, new flavors, and moments you’ll remember long after you’ve left.

What’s the experience like?

I stepped out of the van and the first thing I noticed was the air — thick and sweet, with that green smell you only get in places like Roatan. Our guide, José, waved us over with a grin and told us we’d start at the Mayan Jungle. I wasn’t sure what to expect from a “monkey & sloth tour,” but as soon as I saw those slow-moving sloths just hanging there (literally), I got it. One of them blinked at me so slowly it felt like time stopped for a second. The monkeys were louder — one tried to steal my sunglasses when I got too close. José just laughed and said they’re “professional pickpockets.”

After that, we drove through some of Roatan’s older neighborhoods. There were kids playing soccer barefoot on the side of the road, and old men sitting under painted porches watching us go by. We stopped at this spot overlooking West End — honestly, the view made me forget about my phone for once. The sky was that washed-out blue you get after rain, but it was hot enough that my shirt stuck to my back anyway. We took photos at the big Roatan sign (touristy but fun) before heading to the rum place.

The rum tasting was not what I expected — way more flavors than just “rum.” There was coconut, coffee, even some spicy one that burned in a good way. They gave us little pieces of rum cake too; I may have gone back for seconds (don’t judge). You can actually blend your own bottle if you want — mine ended up half coconut, half indecision. Li behind the counter tried to teach me how to say “cheers” in Spanish but I probably butchered it. Still tasted good though.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Roatan City Tour and Tastings

• City tour of Roatan
• Rum and rum cake samples with view
• Photo stop at Roatan sign

Top questions

Do I need to arrange transportation for this monkey & sloth tour?

No, private transportation is included for all guests on this tour.

Are entrance fees to see the monkeys and sloths included?

Yes, entry to the Mayan Jungle Monkey and Sloth Hangout is covered.

Is this tour suitable for small children or strollers?

Yes, infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller during the tour.

Will there be opportunities to try local food or drinks?

You’ll get to sample different rums and rum cake during your visit.

Does this Roatan city tour include stops for photos?

Yes, there’s a stop at Roatan’s sign for great pictures overlooking West End.

Can service animals join this day trip in Roatan?

Service animals are allowed on this tour.

What’s included

Your day includes private air-conditioned transportation around Roatan with pickup, entry tickets to the Mayan Jungle Monkey & Sloth Hangout, plus plenty of chances to try local rum and cake before heading back — all guided by someone who really knows their way around the island.