Mayan Ruins Community Chocolate Farms Toledo District Outdoor Activities Waterfall
Things To Do In Punta Gorda
Punta Gorda, a picturesque town and the capital of the Toledo District, is the perfect base for exploring the rich cultural and natural landscape of southern Belize. It is locally known as P.G. and the town's inhabitants primarily include people of Garifuna, East Indian, Kriol, and Maya descent, with most being Kriol/English-speaking. Punta Gorda functions as a seaport and fishing town, exporting sugarcane, bananas, and coconuts, and serves as an economic hub for nearby villages.
The town is known for its natural beauty and cultural heritage, acting as a gateway to explore the Toledo District's attractions such as fishing, caving, Maya archaeological sites, and rainforests. It is a center for Garifuna drumming and music, and has a significant Maya presence. The Toledo Cacao Festival is an annual event held in May. The town has essential amenities like a hospital, schools, and churches, providing a very relaxed environment.
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Travel Guide for Punta Gorda Attractions & Activities
Exploring the Maya Culture
In the Toledo District you can visit a traditional Maya village and participate in a "Living Maya Experience." Learn traditional farming techniques, how they prepare traditional meals like corn tortillas and Maya soup, learn about local crafts and ancient traditions. Many of these tours are run by local families, ensuring an authentic experience.
Chocolate Tour
The Toledo District is the heart of Belize's cacao production. Tour a local cacao farm to see the entire process, from harvesting the cacao pods to grinding the beans and making your own chocolate.
Garifuna Drumming and Culture
Punta Gorda has a vibrant Garifuna community. You can take a drumming lesson at the Warasa Garifuna Drum School to learn about the history and significance of this UNESCO-recognized art form.
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Best Punta Gorda Full Day Tours
Lubaantun Mayan Temple
This temple is famous for several architectural traits that distinguish it from other Maya sites. The ancient city of Lubaantun flourished for over 150 years, from about 700 to 850 A.D. A few excavations made have uncovered unique artifacts like ocarinas, ceramic figurines, and whistles. This temple gained recognition from a discredited claim regarding the "Mitchell-Hedges Crystal Skull". It is about 42 kilometres (26 mi) northwest of Punta Gorda,
Rio Blanco National Park
Rio Blanco is a national park located north of Punta Gorda, Belize, and is easily accessible via a scenic drive through traditional Mayan villages. The park features a beautiful waterfall and plunge pool for swimming and is a popular spot for picnics and short hikes. This is a 30-35 minute drive from Punta Gorda, offering a journey through rural Mayan communities.
Sapodilla Cayes Marine Reserve
This is a top-tier destination for snorkeling and diving. Located about a 2.5-hour boat ride from Punta Gorda, these islands offer pristine coral reefs, an abundance of marine life, and beautiful white-sand beaches. You can see everything from colorful fish and sea turtles to stingrays and possibly even dolphins or whale sharks.
Fishing Trips
Punta Gorda is a world-class sportfishing destination. You can book a tour for fly fishing or deep-sea fishing for a chance to catch bonefish, tarpon, and permit.
A Belizean Hospitality Package
This Belize vacation package is a 6-day, 5-night adventure is ideal for travelers who want to experience both the jungle and the coast in one trip, with a mix of adventure, wildlife, and cultural exploration.
Where is Punta Gorda Located? + Map
Punta Gorda is located 260 km/162 mi from Belize City, the nearest international airport is Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport. By land, the trip takes approximately 4 hours. If you take a flight from Belize, the flight takes a little under 1 hour.
Punta Gorda, Belize
South
Population: 5,000
FAQs About Visiting Punta Gorda
What are the people in Punta Gorda like?
The people of Punta Gorda are friendly and welcoming. The town is home to a diverse mix of cultures, including Maya, Garifuna, and East Indian communities.
Is the tap water safe to drink?
It is not recommended to drink tap water. Most accommodations provide filtered drinking water.
What are some popular activities in Punta Gorda?
Punta Gorda is a gateway for nature and cultural experiences. Visit ancient Maya ruins like Nim Li Punit and Lubaantun, enjoy a swim at the Rio Blanco Falls, experience local culture and learn about chocolate.
What is the best time to visit?
The coolest and driest season runs from December to April. Visiting during the rainy season (June–November) offers cheaper hotel rates and fewer crowds, but with a higher chance of storms.
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