Frequently Asked Questions about Thatch Caye Resort
Where is Thatch Caye Resort?
In Belize, a “caye” (pronounced key) is an island. There are different spellings, most commonly Cay or Caye. Thatch Caye a natural island complex that forms a 12 acre marine park in the Cocoplum chain just 9 miles from Dangriga in south-central Belize and only two miles from the second largest reef in the western world. Thatch Caye Resort is inside the northern boundary of the protected South Water Marine Reserve (Most maps show Cocoplum Caye). Dangriga, is the largest town in the Stann Creek District. It is 55 miles from Belize’s capital, Belmopan and 105 miles from Belize City.
Which airlines fly to Belize City (BZE)?
American Airlines, Continental Airlines, U.S. Airways, Delta Airlines, TACA, and United Airways fly into Belize International Airport. Unless you are arriving from a hub city, you will likely have a layover.
Please note: when visiting Thatch Caye Resort between December and January please book your international flight into Belize City for an arrival no later than 3:30 pm. The last Maya Island Air or Tropics Air flights depart Belize City for Dangriga at 5:00 pm.
Is international airfare included in the package rate?
No, the international airfare is not included in the package rate.
How do I get to Thatch Caye Resort once I arrive in Belize?
Once arriving to Belize International Airport (BZE), most guests take a short commuter flight to Dangriga on Maya Island Air or Tropic Air. Round trip flights between Belize International Airport (BZE) and Dangriga (DGA) are $140 US per person. This is not included in the package rates, however, we are happy to organize the local flight for you. Some guests also choose to take the bus from Belize City, or elsewhere in Belize. We are also happy to meet you at the Dangriga bus station with notice of your arrival.
At the Dangriga airport, a Thatch Caye Resort staff member will greet you and shuttle you or your party to our boat. Enjoy a short 25 minute crossing to Thatch Caye Resort! Our first shuttle of the day is around 2:30pm. Please confirm your arrival time and method 48 hours prior to arrival.
Is there internet service at Thatch Caye Resort?
Wireless Internet access is available in the reception area. We have a laptop available for your use. Or, you are welcome to bring your own.
Is there electricity at Thatch Caye Resort?
Yes, just like in USA 110V with the same plugs, we have generators but prefer to run the caye from our deep cycle batteries, which store energy captured by Solar panels and Wind Generators.
Can you drink the water at Thatch Caye Resort?
Our water comes from the sky and is collected in cisterns. This rainwater is piped directly into our guest units and is fresh and fine for showering and hand washing. Drinking water is purified through a reverse osmosis filtering system for our kitchen and ice maker and 5 gallons of bottled drinking water are provided in all of our guest units. Water is as valuable as gold on tropical islands so, we use salt water in all our toilets to insure a reserve of fresh water during the dry season.
Is air conditioning available at Thatch Caye Resort?
We do not offer air conditioning at Thatch Caye Resort. However, all of our units feature both wall and ceiling fans, plus slated screened windows to allow you to enjoy the Caribbean Sea breeze.
Will I see a lot of bugs at Thatch Caye Resort?
You can expect to encounter mosquitoes and sand flies when traveling to the tropics. Thatch Caye substantially reduced the biting insect population by eliminating any swampy areas on the island, planting natural ground covers and placing mosquito traps in public areas. These efforts substantially decreased their populations in order to increase your enjoyment of our tropical island. For those who are sensitive to insect bites, we advise bringing an insect repellent
What clothing do you suggest I bring to Thatch Caye Resort?
Belize is a very relaxed and informal country. Daytime on the Island calls for shorts, t-shirts, bathing suits, wraps, hats, and sandals. The evenings can be a touch cool, depending on the time of year, due to the sea breezes and days spent in the tropical sunlight. Light slacks and long sleeve shirts and blouses or a windbreaker would keep most visitors perfectly comfortable.
From November to February, Belize is subtropical and can get quite cool due to Belize’s geographical location and topography. Often cooler air from the mountains of Guatemala can make its way down to the coast of Belize and this combines with a winter coldfront coming down from North America to lower temperatures into the 60′s (F), so please bring proper clothing and do not expect completely tropical weather at all times from November to February. Although the Cayes off Belize get less rain than the mainland, we still recommend a rain slicker for the unexpected downpour.
The same type of clothing applies while on tours to the mainland but, we’d suggest a good set of hiking or walking shoes with socks in place of sandals. If you’re not going off the beaten path, then sandals are just fine.
What is the most popular package at Thatch Caye Resort?
The most popular package is our Rest & Relaxation package, which offers you the freedom and flexibility to book your tours and activities on site while you are with us. The only tours that require advance bookings are diving courses, whale shark diving, and fly fishing.
What is included in Thatch Caye Resort packages?
All of our packages include:
- accommodation
- welcome drink and orientation
- three meals daily from dinner on arrival to breakfast on departure
- non alcoholic beverages
- unlimited use of kayaks
- round trip shuttle between Dangriga and Thatch Caye Resort
- all taxes (9% hotel, 12.5% sales)
- 10% gratuity
Are alcoholic beverages included in the packages?
All guests receive a welcome punch on arrival, however drinks are not included in our packages. Drinks can be purchased from the bar in Thatch Central. Or, ask about adding an all inclusive alcoholic beverage package to your stay, which includes local alcohol (Coconut rum, Crystal white rum,One barrel and Gin) and local beers (Belikin products).
What is the Reservations Policy at Thatch Caye Resort?
Thatch Caye Resort requires a 50% deposit at the time of confirmation. The balance is due 30 days prior to arrival. Thatch Caye Resort accepts Visa, MasterCard and American Express.
What is the Cancellation Policy at Thatch Caye Resort?
90 (or more) days before arrival – 100% refund of your deposit*
31-89 days before arrival – forfeit 50% of deposit*
30 (or less) days before arrival – forfeit 100% of payments*
*Please note that a $100 Administration Fee applies to all cancellations.
What is the time zone in Belize?
Belize Standard Time is 6 hours behind Greenwich Mean Time (GMT-6). Belize does not adjust for Daylight-Savings Time.
Do I need a passport to travel to Belize?
A valid passport is all that is required for citizens of the Australia, Britain, Canada, Hong Kong, Mexico, New Zealand, Norway, United States, Venezuela, and CARICOM member states, as well as nationals of European Community. Belize requires citizens from certain other countries to have an entry visa. To see a complete list please click here!
What is the monetary exchange in Belize?
The Belize dollar has a locked exchange rate of two Belize dollars to one US. dollar.
Do I need to bring Belize currency?
No, US. dollars are accepted everywhere in Belize (US coins excluded). The majority of tourism facilities including hotels, restaurants and shops in populated areas accept Credit Cards & Travelers’ Checks. Street vendors and smaller establishments in remote areas may accept only cash.
Do I need any shots before traveling to Belize?
For additional information on Belize including travel and health information please visit the Government of Belize website.
Is there cellular service at Thatch Caye Resort?
Sometimes it is possible to get a signal at Thatch Caye Resort. We recommend speaking with your cellular service provider to set up an international plan so you don’t incur unnecessary charges. We have a house phone that you are welcome to use with the purchase of an international phone card.
Is there a telephone number I can give to my friends and family in case they need to reach me?
Yes, our local telephone number is (011) 501-532-2414. You can also have your friends or family send an email to info@thatchcayebelize.com or telephone our North American office at 1-800-435-3145. We will gladly relay any messages to you.
Do you allow families at Thatch Caye Resort?
Yes, we do welcome families at Thatch Caye Resort, however we ask that children are a minimum of 12 years of age. All of our accommodations are double occupancy and not suited for younger children.
