About this experience
**Why This Garifuna Drumming Class Is Truly Unique in San Pedro**
Only at The Mayan can you learn authentic Garifuna drumming hands-on with a nationally celebrated master drummer. Real Garifuna culture lives on the mainland and southern cayes, so genuine Primero, Segunda drums and hand-crafted Dangriga maracas almost never reach Ambergris Caye — making this the rarest cultural experience on the island.
Set beneath the largest Sacred Ceiba tree on Ambergris Caye (sacred to both Maya and Garifuna), in our overwater palapa at sunset, you play the actual ancestral instruments while the Caribbean breeze carries every beat.
No other place in San Pedro brings together:
- A true Garifuna champion drummer from the community
- Real hand-made drums & maracas
- This breathtaking seaside Ceiba setting
Most visitors leave San Pedro without ever touching Belize’s true heartbeat. Here, you don’t just hear Garifuna music — you become it, in a sacred space that exists nowhere else on the caye.
At a glance
- Duration: 1 hr 30 min
Plan your experience
Set aside 1 hr 30 min for the experience itself, with additional time to reach your meeting or pickup point.
Before you go
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Local guides to help you plan
Belize Garifuna Culture Guide
Plan a respectful, practical Garifuna culture itinerary in Belize, with guidance on Dangriga, Hopkins, Garifuna Settlement Day, transport, costs, and local etiquette.
What is included
- Admission fee
- 12.5% GST Tax
Not included
- Dinner is not included in the price of admission but can be purchased for an additional cost on location.
Itinerary and highlights
Led by renowned Garifuna master drummer. Immerse yourself in the powerful, heartbeat-like rhythms of authentic Garifuna drumming in this hands-on, intimate class held beneath the sacred Ceiba tree at The Mayan. Guided by one of Belize’s most celebrated Garifuna drummers, you’ll go far beyond just listening; you’ll touch, feel, and play the soul of the Garifuna culture.
- Discover Garifuna History & Culture: Learn the incredible story of the Garifuna people — their African and Indigenous roots, resistance, arrival in Belize, and how the drums remain the living voice of their ancestors.
- Master Drumming Basics: Get expert instruction on the iconic Primero (lead drum) and Segunda (bass drum), plus the shimmering shake of traditional maracas.
- Learn Traditional Rhythms: Step-by-step guidance into classic Garifuna rhythms such as Hungu-Hungu, and Paranda — rhythms that make bodies move and spirits soar.
- Experience Drumming as Therapy: Feel the proven healing power of collective rhythm as stress melts away and joy rises with every beat.
The class takes place in our breathtaking overwater palapa as the sun sets over the Caribbean, with the majestic Sacred Ceiba overhead.
See the overview, available options and booking details for the experience schedule.
Meeting and pickup information
- The Mayan at Lina Point is located at the backside of Mara Laguna just north of the San Pedro bridge. The Mayan is located at Lina Point Overwater Resort in San Pedro, Ambergris Caye Belize.
Languages and tickets
- English — Guide
- Mobile Only
Tour operator
- The Mayan Experience
Accessibility and practical details
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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