Kanu Private Island Frequently Asked Questions
Kanu is offered to one family or group at a time, all-inclusive, with a private chef, concierge and boat captain. Below are the questions guests ask most about this property. If you do not see your question, contact us at info@veryprivateislands.com or 1 416 728 4989.
Where is Kanu located?
Kanu is located 25 minutes by speedboat off the coast of Placencia, Belize, on its own coral island with a house reef, about 20 minutes by boat from the Belize Barrier Reef.
What are the booking terms?
A 20% deposit is required to secure your dates, with the balance due 90 days prior to your trip. A minimum stay of four nights applies. Please review our terms and conditions for further details. We also recommend travel insurance to cover any trip interruption or cancellation.
What is check-in and check-out time?
Check-in is at 4:00 p.m. and check-out is at 10:00 a.m. We make every effort to accommodate early check-ins and late check-outs, but we cannot always guarantee these requests.
What happens when I arrive in Belize?
Upon arrival in Belize City, you will be greeted by our team member, Emilio, outside customs and immigration. He will direct your group to the designated area for your transfers and will be holding a sign with your name.
How do I get to Kanu?
A private shuttle for all guests from Belize City to Placencia is included. The drive time is approximately 2.5 hours and can make stops along the way. Upon your arrival at our office in Placencia, our team will greet you and bring you out to the island by speedboat. The travel time is 25 minutes. Domestic flights between Belize City and Placencia are not included.
Will there be other guests on the island?
No. Kanu is offered to one family or group at a time, with exclusive use of the island for your stay.
Are meals and beverages included?
Yes. Kanu’s rates include a private chef who prepares three meals plus snacks daily, along with local beer and spirits.
What else is included?
Rates include arrival and departure transfers by speedboat, plus one additional round-trip speedboat transfer to the mainland for stays of 7 nights or more, a private chef, meals and beverages as above, and a dedicated concierge. A fishing and snorkeling guide is available for local trips. Up to four complimentary massages per day, housekeeping, guest laundry, Internet and WiFi, and unlimited use of kayaks, paddleboards, snorkeling gear and other sporting equipment are also included.
What is not included?
Optional extras include additional boat transfers between the island and the mainland, mainland excursions, diving and deep sea fishing. Premium wine, champagne and spirits can also be added to your package. Domestic flights and gratuities for the island team are not included.
Can you accommodate dietary restrictions?
Absolutely. At the time of booking you will receive a guest preference sheet. Please indicate any dietary restrictions or meal preferences. Closer to your arrival, our concierge will reach out to discuss menu options and address any remaining concerns.
When should I return the preference form?
The guest preference sheet is our way to get to know your needs. Please complete and return it as soon as possible. Our concierge will follow up 30 to 60 days before your trip to ensure every detail is tailored to your preferences.
How do we order premium wine or champagne?
We will send you a list of our current offerings and pricing. Simply indicate your preference and quantity; upfront payment is required to complete the purchase.
How do we arrange excursions?
Your concierge will provide a menu of available excursions with details and pricing. It is ideal to have your excursions planned before arrival; however, arrangements can also be made while on the island.
Do I need travel insurance?
We highly recommend that all guests purchase travel insurance to mitigate the risk of a lost booking due to unforeseen circumstances.
Do I need Belizean dollars?
No. U.S. dollars are accepted everywhere, as are most major credit cards.
Does the island have WiFi?
Yes. The island offers excellent WiFi.
Is laundry service included?
Yes. Personal guest linens placed in the laundry hamper are collected mid-week and again the day before checkout, ensuring you can pack clean clothing. If you require more frequent laundry service, please inform your housekeeper.
Is there air conditioning?
Yes, air conditioning is available in the bedrooms, which can be completely sealed to allow the air conditioning to operate effectively. The remaining areas are designed with an open-air concept, taking advantage of the cool ocean breezes that flow past the island.
What are the voltage and plugs used?
The villas use 120V power with North American-style plugs, so no adapters are required. Please bring your own charging cables for phones, cameras and other personal devices.
Are there insects?
The gentle sea breezes and small size of the island mean there are generally no biting insects. Our active maintenance program includes regular spraying and daily beach raking. Bug spray is available on site. We also advise keeping villa doors closed around sunset to minimize insects.
What happens in a medical emergency?
There is a fully staffed clinic in Placencia for minor issues. For major emergencies, helicopter evacuation to Belize City may be required. We recommend purchasing travel insurance to cover any events that might result in trip interruption or cancellation.
What is the suggested gratuity for staff?
Gratuity is discretionary; 10 to 15% is generally customary and greatly appreciated by Kanu’s team. A lock box is provided, and tips are divided among the staff based on pre-set guidelines to foster a team mentality.
What should I bring with me?
We recommend a rash guard (swim shirt), walking shoes, a hat, a lightweight jacket and sunscreen. Please also remember to bring any necessary medications.