Garifuna Drum Class at The Mayan
Overview
Available languages
1 hour 30 minutes
Mobile ticket
**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.
Additional Info
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.
What To Expect
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.
What‘s Included
Admission fee
12.5% GST Tax
Dinner is not included in the price of admission but can be purchased for an additional cost on location.
Options
Garifuna Drum Class at The Mayan
Reviews
6 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Garifuna drumming class
femiliab,Mar 24, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Beautiful authentic experience
Culturally fun experience!!
Alicia B,Mar 18, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Rahim was an informative instructor. He explained the history of the Garifuna people, the importance of spirituality and drumming, and he was a fun teacher! We thoroughly enjoyed his patience with us and how he made it interactive and collaborative! ! I’d highly recommend it as we also liked that it was an intimate class of 5!
Raheem waa awesome. Awesome experience.
Lisa B,Feb 21, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00I learned so much about the Garafuna people. Raheem was patient with us and enriched us through history and drum. 10/10 I recommend this tour. Next time I will stay for the sunset drum experience.
Amazing experience, fun & informative
Christina S,Feb 5, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00The drumming lesson with Raheem was a lovely experience. He was very informative in his teaching and we left with a greater understanding and appreciation for the Garifuna culture. He is a very gifted musician and a lovely soul. Throuroughly enjoyed.
So much fun!!! It was very informative about the culture of the music along with fun learning different beats.
jodigomez,Feb 3, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.005/5…something different to do. We enjoyed the entire experience. Little out of the way but very much worth it 😁highly recommend
From US$25.00
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Operated by The Mayan Experience