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Tourists
exploring the town |
Traveling 200 miles down the Southern Highway transports
visitors to the most southerly town in Belize and the capital
of the Toledo District. Situated along the shores of the
Caribbean Sea with the domineering Maya Mountains holding
their stance in the foreground, Punta Gorda Town (called
‘P.G’ by locals) is home to the smallest population
in the country and an atmosphere reminiscent of a more primitive
Belize. The cool narrow streets are lined with wooden houses
and large ancient fruit trees providing shade for pedestrians
and cyclists as they pass by. Residents seem to live in
harmony in their quiet, laid-back seaside town.
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Wooden
dory on seashore |
Originally settled by the Garinagu who arrived on these
southern shores in 1832, Punta Gorda Town is now home to
an interesting blend of cultures (typical of most regions
in Belize), including the Maya, East Indian, Creole, Garifuna
and Mestizo with a sprinkle of Chinese and Lebanese entrepreneurs.
Residents are known for their hospitable nature, often greeting
visitors with smiles, waves and small chitchat as they pass
them on the street. Most of the town’s people crowd
the streets on market days (Monday, Wednesday, Friday &
Saturday mornings) when farmers from surrounding villages
decorate the square with fresh, colorful, fruits and vegetables.
The town’s economy is based primarily on fishing and
agriculture with a few grocery stores, restaurants and bakeries.
The face of the town has been changing slightly in recent
years, however, causing more residents to recognize the
benefits of ecotourism.
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Gas
station |
With a few rustic accommodations, P.G. provides an ideal
base for exploring the natural treasures of the Toledo District.
Excellent tour guides living in town, are easy to locate
and ready to provide their services. Just 40 miles offshore,
the last stretch of the Barrier Reef provides exceptional
diving and snorkeling. Within the protective wall of the
Barrier Reef sits a handful of the country’s most
pristine coral islands, perfect for basking in complete
exclusivity, kayaking on the aquamarine waters, fly fishing,
and snorkeling. Inland boasts ancient Mayan cities, intriguing
underground caves, hidden waterfalls, several nature reserves,
and miles of lush rivers meandering their way through Mayan
villages and the largest expanse of rainforest in the country.
Places nearby: 
Interests:
