PUNTA GORDA AND THE TOLEDO VILLAGES

They used to call this the “forgotten corner” of Belize and, to some extent, it still is. The Southern Highway is paved now—mostly—and boat access to and from Guatemala from the tiny, relaxed port town of Punta Gorda (PG) makes Toledo District a natural stopover for a growing number of backpackers. Still, PG is a long bus ride from Belize City, and the long-awaited investment boom remains just around the corner. Toledo’s offshore cayes, upland villages, caves, rivers, and waterfalls are tucked away, and you’ll need at least a few days to see them (plus a day of travel on either end if you need to get back to Belize City), especially if you elect to participate in one of the renowned guesthouse or homestay programs. Planned and coordinated from offices in PG, the Toledo Ecotourism Association and Dem Dat’s Doin’ programs will send you up into the hills to learn a few phrases of Q’eqchi’ Maya and how to make a corn tortilla.

The Waterfront: Start your walking tour of lazy Punta Gorda along the Caribbean, then wander over to the central park for ice cream. (read more)

Lubaantun: The ancestors of today’s Maya used this sacred place as a ceremonial center. Lubaantun and the nearby sites of Nim Li Punit and Uxbenka boast stunning views, thick surrounding forests, and several long-standing legends, including the mystery of the Crystal Skull. (read more)

Village Guesthouses and Homestays: Head “upcountry” to experience these world-renowned cultural immersion programs in one of a dozen simple country villages. In addition to the cultural adventure, expect guided hiking, swimming, caving, and river trips. (read more)

Blue Creek and Blue Creek Cave: Near the village of Blue Creek, the cave of the same name is the source of the Río Blanco—you can swim 600 yards inside it. Also check out nearby Río Blanco National Park, Ho Keb Ha Caves, and the Fallen Stones Butterfly Ranch. (read more)

Barranco: This small, riverside village of Belize’s southernmost Garinagu population is accessed by boat or bus and available as a homestay site with many cultural and music program possibilities. (read more)