Roatan: Private Monkey & Sloth Tour, Chocolate & Rum Tasting

Summary

Monkey encounters chocolate making and beach time in Roatan

You’ll taste artisan chocolate straight from the source in Roatan, meet monkeys and sloths up close at Mayan Eden Eco Park with a local guide, sample unique island rums (with cakes!), and end your day floating in clear water at West Bay Beach. It’s relaxed but full of surprises — you’ll probably come home smelling faintly of cocoa and salt air.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I remember is the sound — parrots chattering somewhere above us as we stepped out of the van in Roatan. Our guide, Ana, waved us over with a grin that made me feel like we were old friends. She handed out a piece of fresh cacao to try (honestly, it was more bitter than I expected), and then led us into the Mayak Chocolate factory. The place smelled like roasted beans and warm sugar, but not in that fake way you get at tourist shops — it was earthy and real. We watched a guy named Luis grind cocoa by hand; he let me try turning the grinder, which was harder than it looked. My hands smelled like dark chocolate for hours after.

After that, we drove up a bumpy road to Mayan Eden Eco Park. There were monkeys everywhere — one jumped onto my shoulder before I even had time to panic (Ana just laughed). The sloths moved so slowly I wondered if they ever got bored. A macaw landed right next to my nephew; he froze, then started giggling so much he nearly dropped his camera. It was humid but breezy, and I kept noticing how green everything was — leaves bigger than my head, flowers I’d never seen before. The park felt alive in a way that’s hard to explain unless you’re there.

We stopped at the Roatan Rum Company next. The building sits on this hill where you can see the sea stretching out forever — honestly, I didn’t expect that view from a rum shop. They let us sample rums with names like Island Spice and Dark Chocolate; my favorite was some mango thing that tasted like vacation in a glass (and yes, they had cakes too). Kids got fruit juice while we did our tasting — Ana made sure everyone felt included.

The last stop was West Bay Beach. White sand that squeaks under your feet, water so clear you can see tiny fish darting around your ankles. Some locals were playing music nearby — not for tourists, just for themselves — and it drifted down the shore while we floated in the shallows. I still think about that light on the water when I’m stuck at my desk back home. It wasn’t perfect — my towel got sandy and I forgot sunscreen on my knees — but honestly? That’s what makes it stick with me.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Roatan cultural and nature tour

• Visit Mayak Chocolate factory
• Explore Mayan Eden Eco Park
• Tour Roatan rum company
• Relax at West Bay Beach

Top questions

How long does this Roatan private excursion last?

The tour typically lasts several hours including all stops: chocolate factory, eco park, rum tasting, and beach break.

Are children allowed on the monkey & sloth tour?

Yes, children are welcome; infants can ride in strollers or prams and specialized infant seats are available.

Is hotel pickup included for this Roatan tour?

Yes, private transportation with pickup is included for your convenience.

Can kids participate in the rum tasting?

No, only adults may taste rum; kids are offered fruit juice instead during that part of the tour.

What animals will we see at Mayan Eden Eco Park?

You’ll encounter monkeys, sloths, macaws, and other wildlife roaming safely in natural settings.

Is lunch provided during this day trip?

No traditional lunch is included; however you’ll sample chocolate and cakes during tastings.

What should I bring to West Bay Beach?

Bring swimwear, sunscreen (don’t forget your knees!), a towel, and maybe sandals for comfort on the sand.

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?

Yes—walking is minimal and most areas are accessible for all physical abilities.

What’s included

Your day includes private air-conditioned transportation with hotel pickup and drop-off around Roatan; all entrance fees for the chocolate factory tour (with tastings), Mayan Eden Eco Park animal encounters, rum tasting (adults only), plus plenty of free time to enjoy West Bay Beach before heading back relaxed—and probably a little sandy.