Toledo District: 5 Reasons to Visit

Introduction

The southernmost district in Belize, the Toledo district, has historically been referred to as the "Forgotten District" and it's easy to see why. Toledo is the farthest district from the international airport and it's the least populated. As such, it has experienced the least amount of development in terms of tourism and tourism-related infrastructure. I would argue these are, in fact, Toledo's greatest assets for the right kind of tourist. In recent years Toledo has made many small, tasteful changes and improvements that make it an exciting destination to consider. These include, but are not limited to, paving the entire Southern highway all the way to Punta Gorda, as well as improvements to the regional airport, which accepts daily Tropic Air flights all the way from Belize City. With these changes alone it's no longer a struggle to reach the Toledo district. Follow along and I'll make the case that Toledo should no longer be considered the Forgotten District, but rather the Unforgettable District!

Reason 1: Rich Cultural Heritage

Toledo is known as the cultural heart of Belize, where visitors can truly immerse themselves in the lives of the Maya, Garifuna, Kriol, and East Indian communities. Unlike the more commercialized northern districts, here you can experience traditional music, dance, crafts, and festivals in a setting that hasn't been overly tailored for tourists. Here, you might dance to the rhythm of traditional Garifuna drums, or grind cacao beans by hand while you learn the history and cultural significance of chocolate.

Reason 2: Stunning Natural Landscapes

The Toledo District is a haven for nature lovers. With its less disturbed rainforests, visitors have a higher chance of wildlife encounters. Imagine waking up to the roar of howler monkeys or spotting the elusive ocelot on a twilight trek. The district boasts numerous protected areas like the Bladen Nature Reserve, which are less trafficked, providing serene environments for bird watching, with species that might be harder to spot in more developed areas. On our property alone, we've confirmed sightings of over 260 species of birds.

Take a trip off the coast to our cayes and you'll find numerous small islands with white sand beaches and crystal clear, azure waters perfect for snorkeling. And, with so few tourists, it's entirely possible you can have one of these islands to yourself for the entire day!

Reason 3: Adventure Activities

For those looking to escape the typical tourist trails, Toledo offers unique adventures like exploring the Deep River Forest Reserve, caving in the Blue Creek Cave, or kayaking in the rivers that meander through the jungle. These activities are often less crowded, providing a more personal and adventurous experience.

For anglers, the Caribbean waters off the coast of Punta Gorda are also frequently referred to as the Permit capital of the world. World class saltwater fly fishing is available year round for permit, tarpon and bonefish. Pro tip: come in the off-season and enjoy epic fishing with little or no competition from others!

Reason 4: Authentic Local Cuisine

Food in Toledo can be quite different from the rest of Belize due to its cultural diversity. Here, travelers can taste dishes that are hard to find elsewhere, like hudut (a fish coconut stew served with mashed plantains), made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. The farm-to-table experience here is authentic, with opportunities to learn about traditional cooking methods from local communities.

Reason 5: Eco-Tourism and Conservation

Toledo has been at the forefront of sustainable tourism in Belize. Many lodges and tours in the area focus on eco-friendly practices, community-based tourism, and conservation efforts. Visitors not only enjoy their stay but also contribute positively to local communities and environmental preservation. As an example, we don't use any paper or plastic products in our kitchen, we use eco-friendly soaps and detergents whenever possible, and almost all of our buildings are thatched with leaves that provide great protection from the elements and are an entirely renewable resource. Furthermore, when appropriate and with the approval of our guests, we support local industry by giving artisans from nearby villages the opportunity to put their items on display so our guests have a chance to buy truly authentic, hand-made souvenirs.

Conclusion

Toledo is rich with culture, has stunning natural beauty, plenty of opportunities for adventure, and countless opportunities to experience local cuisine after a full day of exploring. In addition, we, and many other lodges in the area, put tremendous effort into supporting local communities and caring for the natural beauty that makes our district special.

When compared with other districts Toledo is much more remote, quiet, and lacks some of the conveniences of the areas that cater to tourists. We acknowledge it might not be what every tourist is seeking. But if you're looking for the opportunity to genuinely immerse yourself in a different culture, and you're willing to open yourself up to thrilling and natural experiences, why not give Toledo a shot? At the very least we guarantee you'll leave with memories you cannot make anywhere else in the world!