Here, your only crowd might be a curious troop of howler monkeys or a school of fish while snorkeling. No need to fight for that perfect waterfall selfie; they're all yours! And let's talk about the wallet-friendly vibes – Toledo's prices are as low as its tourist count, making your adventure both authentic and affordable.

Forget sandy beaches; we've got cacao farms where you can indulge in the chocolate-making process instead of just eating it (though you can do that too!). Dive into cultural experiences that are more real than reality TV, and if fishing is your jam, you're in for a treat with world-class catches right off the coast.

So, pack your sense of adventure (and maybe a cacao bean or two), because in Toledo, the only thing more abundant than nature is the peace and quiet. Bon appétit, culture vultures and nature nerds – Toledo's waiting to show you what Belize is really about!

Contact us at info@creeksideoasislodge.com or on WhatsApp at +501-673-9822 for more information!

Creekside Oasis is a rainforest lodge located in the Toledo district of Belize, approximately 7 miles from Punta Gorda town and the Caribbean coast. Creekside Oasis is well-known to the birding community for the large variety of bird species spotted on the property (over 260 confirmed as of this writing). The nearly 40-acre property has been left predominantly natural and is criss-crossed by nature trails, offering opportunities for birdwatching and exploration. Approximately 10 acres have been beautifully maintained and landscaped with dozens of species of flowers and other flora.

The property is also known for offering an authentic Belizean experience without compromising comfort and amenities. Creekside Oasis provides both North American-style lodge rooms with tile floors and air conditioning, as well as traditional, Maya-style thatched casitas. Every room, regardless of type, has a private bathroom and shower, and every reservation includes a freshly prepared, full breakfast.

A little over a year ago, as of this writing, the property came under new ownership. Despite its natural beauty, there were opportunities for improvement that would enhance the guest experience and reflect our commitment to the environment and sustainability. The following is a summary of some of the key improvements made to the property, illustrating the new owners' dedication to providing a safe, comfortable, relaxing, and enjoyable stay.

Comfort Upgrades

The most important aspect of any lodging is offering guests the ability to feel comfortable and rest well. As such, we targeted the most significant aspects of the lodge which impact guest’s comfort.

• Air Conditioning Units: One of the most common pieces of feedback received from guests was around the AC units provided in the lodge rooms. The existing units were small, traditional “window” AC units. While they did (usually) work to cool the rooms, they tended to be noisy and the manner in which they could be operated was inconsistent. For example: some could be operated by remote control while others could only be operated by an on/off switch. Additionally, window units were notoriously inefficient with regard to energy consumption.

  Guest feedback and our commitment to conservation were taken into consideration, and now all lodge rooms have upgraded, split-unit air conditioning. The new units are uniform in style and brand, can be operated by remote, and are more aesthetically appealing, quiet and energy efficient.

• Mini-Fridges in Lodge Rooms: Until recently there was a single mini-fridge which would be moved into a room for certain guests. Usually the fridge was made available upon request, or if there was only a single room reserved at a given time. There has always been a shared refrigerator available for guest use in the restaurant area of the lodge.

  Mini-fridges are now provided for all of the premium rooms. This adds convenience and privacy for guests staying in lodge rooms, and meets the expectations of guests coming from places like North America, where having a refrigerator in hotel rooms is commonplace.

Enhancing Outdoor Experience

• New Porch(es): The back side of the lodge, adjacent to the kitchen, had a small porch that was rapidly succumbing to the elements. It was recently replaced with a professionally constructed, covered deck which can be enjoyed safely by guests and staff.

  The lodge rooms have always shared a nice, an outdoor veranda with ceiling fans, and casitas 9 and 10 also have a small, private veranda. The remaining casitas, however, did not have a convenient outdoor area for guests to relax and enjoy the fresh air and nature. As such, our talented groundskeeper was able to build small porches for the remaining 3 casitas. Now, guests in every room have access to their own outdoor space.

  

• Screen Doors on All Rooms: One of the most straightforward improvements for both the lodge rooms and the thatched casitas, was adding screened doors. Good ventilation, while keeping out biting and stinging rainforest residents, certainly makes for a more comfortable stay!

• WiFi Upgrade: In response to feedback from guests, we've enhanced our WiFi system for better coverage and reliability throughout the property.

Infrastructure and Maintenance

• Exterior Paint on Lodge and Caretaker House: One of the first things guests notice as they enter the property is the caretaker’s residence and the lodge itself. Both needed significant work to protect their exteriors from the humid climate. A high quality white paint was chosen to replace the existing color. White was chosen because it is easy to see when cleaning is required, as well as the fact it does a good job of reflecting the often hot, Caribbean sun.

• New Roof Over Caretaker Veranda: Again, the caretaker house is one of the first things a guest notices on the property. An old, thatched roof over the veranda in front of the house was removed in favor of a more permanent roof. The new roof is larger and more sturdy, offering better shade and protection from the rain, not to mention better curb appeal.

  

• First-Floor Restroom for Groundskeepers: It may sound obvious, but our workers work hard and sometimes nature calls! It can be disruptive to guests, and inconvenient for our groundskeeping staff to remove muddy boots and march all the way through the restaurant area of the lodge to use the restroom. A small, conveniently located building was converted to a restroom for use by groundskeeping staff. This offers them convenience and privacy to get on with their day without interrupting business with guests.

Landscaping

• Tree Removal: While often beautiful, the climate and weather of a rainforest can be unforgiving. The consistent rain keeps the ground fairly saturated and soft. Very occasionally there are increased winds and lightening strikes. In order to mitigate the possibility of trees and branches causing damage to power lines or buildings, it is necessary to keep trees trimmed and, from time to time, to remove trees.

• Plants/Flowers Planted: Birds and pollenating insects thrive near flowering plants and trees. The staff have made a conscious effort to plant more flowering plants around the lodge and in the casita garden area. This increases the biodiversity of the area as well as the aesthetic appeal of the lodge, making for a more beautiful experience for guests.

  

Practical Enhancements

• Storage Room Added: We realized quickly that storage for linens and other supplies was limited within the property. In order to improve cleanliness, efficiency and comfort for the staff, it became necessary to increase the space available for storing items when not in use. An extra storage area was walled off and built below casita 10, in order to free up space in the laundry facility.

Conclusion

At Creekside Oasis, we've spent the last year transforming our lodge to better serve our guests, enhance their experience, and respect our beautiful rainforest environment. From the comfort of your room to the natural beauty outside your door, every change has been made with you in mind.

We invite you to come and experience these enhancements firsthand or return to see the difference. Your feedback is invaluable to us; it shapes our approach and drives further improvements. Please share your thoughts or suggestions on what you'd like to see next at Creekside Oasis. Whether it's through comments below, social media, or during your stay, we're eager to hear from you to continue making this rainforest retreat the best it can be. Thank you for being part of our journey towards excellence in hospitality and conservation.

Ready to experience Creekside Oasis with its new upgrades? Book your stay here and immerse yourself in nature like never before!

Tourists usually think of white sand beaches and all-inclusive resorts when they think of Belize. While there’s certainly nothing wrong with sipping cocktails while you watch the waves roll in, if you’re open to a different flavor of relaxation and you like the idea of saving some cash, the Toledo district might be just the thing for you! Historically referred to as the “Forgotten District”, Toledo has lately been experiencing a bit of a renaissance. A lot of money has been put into improving infrastructure. This has also benefited other areas of the tourism sector. Roads have been repaved, hotels have been purchased by investors and cleaned up, old restaurants have reopened and new restaurants have come onto the scene! The Toledo district is working diligently to re-brand itself from the “Forgotten district” to the “Unforgettable district”!

Follow along as we introduce 5 inexpensive ways to experience Toledo, the unforgettable district of southern Belize.

Visit Maya Sites

The Maya people have occupied what is now Belize for thousands of years. The descendants of this ancient culture continue to thrive today, especially in southern Belize. There are at least 5 different Mayan archaeological sites to visit in the Toledo district. Some are more “touristy” than others but, in general, if you arrive on your own (meaning you haven’t hired a guide to take you) the amount you pay to enter the site will range from nothing to very little. As an example, at the time of this writing, both Lubaantun and Nim Li Punit charge an entrance fee of US$5. Both are relatively easy to access and are very well maintained sites. Google Maps will take you directly to either location without a problem. They both have clearly marked signage, museums full of artifacts and information about the sites, as well as staff on site to answer any questions. Furthermore, I have personally visited both in the past week and my group and I were the only visitors at either location. My guests were blown away by the fact we were free to roam around the sites, take pictures, and enjoy the beauty of the place without having to share the experience with a single other tourist.

Maximize your fun by making sure you have a clear understanding of how to get to these places and what to expect when you arrive. Bring water, insect repellent and snacks for children. A very small amount of planning will go a long way. We want your experience to be “unforgettable” in a GOOD way!

Explore Blue Creek

Blue Creek/Blue Creek Cave is another “must see” attraction in Toledo that usually costs nothing to visit. Take the long, bumpy, gravel road to Blue Creek Village. Once you arrive at the village, park along the side of the road just before crossing the creek. Here you’ll find a meandering trail along the idyllic and stunning creek. There are established swimming areas along the way, particularly in front of the IZE Rainforest Lodge, which is situated in front of the creek and along the trail. After a short hike through the forest, you will arrive at the mouth of the cave. PLEASE do not enter the cave if you are not with a guide. In front of the cave you’ll find many natural pools and a series of small waterfalls. It truly looks like a scene from a movie.

Check in with us, or other locals, prior to your visit to find out what the water is like. In the rainy season it is possible to get flooding or for the water to be muddy. Bring appropriate footwear, insect repellent, and be aware of your personal condition and ability. The trail is not particularly long, but you’ll be hiking over slippery rocks in some cases. If you are interested in actually entering the cave please reach out to us so we can put you in touch a licensed and reputable guide. There will, of course, be cost associated with hiring a guide, but on the plus side you’ll live to tell about your “unforgettable” adventure!

Wander Punta Gorda Market

The Punta Gorda Market, located along Front Street near the Civic Center, is a vibrant hub showcasing the rich cultural tapestry of the Toledo District. Here you’ll find vendors selling everything from fresh local produce to handmade crafts. Depending on the day you may also encounter local musicians, activities for children, “street food” and more. For those looking to immerse themselves in the local culture, interact with diverse ethnic groups, and savor authentic Belizean flavors, visiting the market is an excellent option.

Discover Rio Blanco National Park

If you’re not up for the drive to Blue Creek, Rio Blanco is a more accessible, but no less rewarding option. From our lodge you’ll take the paved road west past the villages of San Antonio and Santa Cruz. As you approach the village of Santa Elena you’ll see signs for the park to your left. There will be a fee around US$5 - US$10 to enter the park. You’ll find beautiful nature trails and, of course, waterfalls. Depending on the time of year you may be able to swim in the area near the falls. Provided the river is not flowing too much or too little at the time, tourists and locals alike enjoy jumping into the clean, clear pools of water. A great way to cool off if you’re not used to the warm, humid Belizean weather!

Birding

Arguably one of the best reasons for a nature lover to visit southern Belize, birding in the area is exploding in popularity. Belize as a whole has recorded over 500 species of birds while our lodge alone boasts over 260! Popular spots include the Aguacaliente Wildlife Sanctuary, known for its wetlands teeming with waterfowl, and the diverse habitats around Punta Gorda, where the transition from mountainous highlands to coastal and marine habitats provides a dynamic environment for birdwatching. Strolling through our trails and gardens you’re sure to spot hummingbirds, toucans, parrots and others. But if you’re a serious birder and you really want to step up your game, hire a local guide to help you check off some of the more elusive species.

Conclusion

If you’re ready to get away from the standard, touristy, all-inclusive experience of a typical Caribbean vacation, come explore the unique and budget-friendly attractions of Toledo, Belize's "Unforgettable District!" Discover ancient Maya sites like Lubaantun and Nim Li Punit, venture to the stunning Blue Creek Cave, immerse yourself in the vibrant Punta Gorda Market, enjoy the natural beauty of Rio Blanco National Park, and indulge in birdwatching across diverse habitats. All this and more is available year-round, and without breaking the bank!

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!

Brief History

Belize's history stretches back over thousands of years. Archaeological evidence suggests the presence of humans in what is now known as Belize, at least as far back as the Paleo-Indian Period (15000 - 7000 BC). Eventually, the first known fully-developed societies were the Maya. Their culture and civilization flourished until the arrival of the Spanish in the 16th century, although, even then the Spanish did not fully colonize Belize due to resistance from the indigenous people and the lack of perceived economic value at the time. British settlers, known as Baymen, began logging operations in the 17th century.

It was around this time that the Kriol culture and language began to emerge from the intermixing of African slaves and European settlers, particularly the British loggers and pirates. The term "Kriol" itself refers to both the people and the language, which evolved as a means of communication between these groups.

Eventually the British gained control of the area despite Spanish opposition, culminating in the Battle of St. George's Caye in 1798 where the British and Baymen defeated a Spanish invasion, solidifying British presence.

The early 19th century, specifically 1802, is when the Garifuna people began to arrive in Belize. Larger waves came around 1832 fleeing from Honduras after a civil war. They are descendants of West African, Central African, Island Carib, and Arawak people. Their arrival in Belize is celebrated on Garifuna Settlement Day (November 19), marking their migration to Belize after being exiled by the British from the island of Saint Vincent.

After slavery was abolished in the British Empire in 1834, there was a significant labor shortage on plantations. To address this, the British turned to India, which was under their control, to source cheap labor. East Indians were brought to various parts of the Caribbean, including Belize, under contracts of indenture. This wasn't forced migration in the sense of capturing and enslaving, but it often involved elements of coercion or misleading promises about the conditions and terms of work. Subsequent waves of East Indians may have come to Belize seeking better economic opportunities with the intention of returning to India, only to end up staying because of the high cost of return passage or other various reasons one can imagine. Regardless, over time they established communities that allowed for preservation of cultural practices that may have even encouraged further migration and familial reunification.

This history is neither detailed nor comprehensive. There are many other cultures which have played a significant role in the history of Belize. The Mennonites and the Chinese are two that easily come to mind. I encourage you to continue researching the fascinating and exciting history and culture of this little country on your own to learn more.

British Honduras and Independence

Belize officially became the colony of British Honduras in 1862. This brought about the expansion of the logging industry, particularly mahogany as well as the introduction of sugar plantations which played a role in the aforementioned indentured servitude. Colonization further impacted the cultural landscape with the spread of the English language, education systems and legal structures, most of which can still be found today.

Over time, the push for independence grew, influenced by the global wave of decolonization. The 1950s and 1960s saw the rise of nationalist movements, particularly the People’s United Party (PUP) led by George Price. In 1964, Belize achieved self-government, renamed itself Belize in 1973, and after overcoming territorial disputes with Guatemala, gained full independence on September 21, 1981. Independence was achieved peacefully, with Belize becoming a member of the Commonwealth.

Proud and Free @ 43

At the time of this writing Belize is about to turn 43 years old. Throughout the country there are ceremonial flag raising events, parades, and lots and lots of parties. Belize is a small country with a rich history.

Come stay with us soon so you can experience Belizean culture for yourself!

Mayan civilization flourished from about 2000 BC to the 16th century AD. The civilization peaked between 200 AD and 900 AD, which is known as the Classic Period. Geographically the Maya covered parts of Mexico, Guatemala, Belize and other countries in northern Central America. They had sophisticated agricultural and architectural techniques, had a fully developed writing system of hieroglyphics and were known to have had a sophisticated understanding of mathematics.

In the post-classic period, many city-states declined due to various factors including warfare and environmental degradation. Of course later, the arrival of the Spanish in the 16th century led to significant cultural disruption, but the Maya persisted and even integrated some aspects of European culture into their own, while maintaining their core traditions.

Maya Today

Today, millions of Maya descendants continue to live in the same regions, including near our location in the Toledo district of southern Belize. Their culture is very much alive and can be found both in their villages, and in the broader community where you will encounter influences from their cuisine, music, language and many other aspects of Belizean culture, including architecture.

Mayan homes were built traditionally from resources found in the jungle. Those materials usually included hardwood poles to form the structural framework, lashed together with vines or other plant fibers. The steep-pitched roofs would be thatch made of fronds from one of a few different palms, depending on the region. The floors were typically made either from compacted earth, or sometimes elevated, in which case a platform was built that would sit on wooden stilts or stone.

You can find homes built in a similar style, using many of the same materials, dotting villages all across southern Belize.

Influence on Creekside Oasis

At Creekside Oasis you'll find modern day reflections of the Mayan culture in our thatched-roof casitas. While they do not necessarily exactly resemble a traditional Mayan home, many aspects are similar. Our casitas most closely resemble an elevated Mayan home, complete with a thatched roof, but with a few modern conveniences for the comfort of our guests. Most notably, there is electricity for lights, ceiling fans and wall outlets, and in the bathrooms you will find modern plumbing. Also, where you would typically find open air windows, we've added screens to cut down on the aggravation of dealing with our biting and stinging friends.

While staying in one of our casitas is not exactly the same as growing up in a pre-Columbian Mayan village, you will get to safely, and comfortably, experience falling asleep to the sounds of the jungle and waking up to the beautiful sound of bird songs. As you lie in bed, you'll stare up at the thatched ceiling above you and marvel at the ingenuity of a culture that's persisted for thousands of years and continues to thrive in such a beautiful and wild place as southern Belize.

While often overlooked by tourists, the Toledo district is a paradise waiting to be explored. Below is a short list of attractions, all within an hour or less of Creekside Oasis. Just know that we’re barely scratching the surface of what awaits you in the “Unforgettable District!”

1. Lubaantun Archaeological Reserve

   1. Explore Ancient Maya Culture: “Lubaantun” is a modern Maya name meaning “place of fallen stones”. The site has many features which are not characteristic of other sites in the area, including pyramids with rounded corners and no use of mortar.

2. IXCACAO Maya Belizean Chocolate Farm

   1. Chocolate Bliss: Just down the street from Creekside Oasis, IXCACAO is one of several cacao farms in the area. They are proud to make products using all organic cacao beans which are processed without artifical ingredients.

3. Blue Creek Cave (Hokeb Ha Cave)

   1. Nature’s Oasis: Take a refreshing dip in the Blue Creek Cave, where a waterfall spills over rocks at the cave entrance. The easy hike to the cave mouth is well worth it.

   2. NOTE: Enjoy the hike to the cave, but DO NOT enter the cave without a guide. It is extremely dangerous!

4. Snake Cayes

   1. Classic Caribbean Paradise: Boasting white sandy beaches, beautiful coral, and some of the best snorkeling and sport fishing in the Caribbean, you won’t want to miss an opportunity to visit these little islands. Interestingly, they are not part of the Belize Barrier Reef.

5. Spice Farm

   1. Spice it up!: Formally known as the “Spice Farm & Botanical Gardens.” Whatever you call it, it’s a beautiful, and unforgettable place to visit. Take a tour and learn about dozens of spices and flowering plants. Then stay for lunch in the gorgeous, mahogany restaurant.

**
Pro Tip**: Extend your adventure by checking out the nearby Copal Tree Distillery for a tour and a drink, or scheduling a formal tour with Toledo Cave & Adventure Tours.

1. Flying

2. Driving

3. Marine vessel

Which one do you choose:

1. Where are you coming from?

2. What is your budget?

3. Timing?

Break it down:

1. Air - most international travelers arrive by air and will arrive at the Philip S.W. Goldstein International Airport (BZE) outside of Belize City. From there you can either drive or fly.

   1. Flying south out of BZE - After going through Immigration in BZE, you can take a Tropic Air regional flight all the way to Punta Gorda. I’ve personally done this many times. It’s the fastest way to get between the two parts of the country. It’s also, in my opinion, the most fun.

   2. Driving

      1. There are car rental options at, or near, the airport but if you intend to rent a car, please make the arrangements in advance of your trip. The drive to Toledo takes about 3 hours if you take the shorter route, which makes use of the relatively new coastal highway. It will take more like 3hrs 45mins if you take the longer route via the popular hummingbird highway. Both take you through some pretty spectacular scenary so it really depends on your preferences.

      2. You can hire a shuttle service to pick you up at the airport. We would be happy to assist you in making those arrangements by connecting you with reputable, properly licensed, and insured services in the area.

      3. Take the bus! Depending on the day, the timing of your arrival, and the bus line, you may need to take a taxi to the nearest pickup location. It’s about a 6.5 hour journey by bus from Belize City to Punta Gorda (if you’re coming to stay with us you don’t go all the way to PG) and it will cost you around US$15. Your best bets are Floralia and James Bus. Be sure to check schedules ahead of time. I would also recommend reaching out via WhatsApp or email ahead of time to make sure you understand the logistics of reaching pick up location.

2. Land

   1. Driving into Belize from Guatemala - You’ll leave Guatemala from Melchor de Mencos and you’ll enter Benque Viejo del Carmen on the Belize side. This is the only place to cross the Guatemalan border into Belize. From there it’s about 3 hours 45 minutes to Toledo.

   2. Driving into Belize from Mexico - You’ll cross from Chetumal Mexico into Santa Elena Belize. After crossing the border it’s roughly 5 hours driving to Toledo.

3. Sea - For non-commercial marine vessels there are ports of entry in Belize City, Placencia, and Punta Gorda. More information at Belize Port Authority

Links and sources of information:

• Belize Tourism Board

• Travel Belize

• Belize Port Authority

• Tropic Air

• James Bus

• Floralia

As a couple who had grown up relatively sheltered in the midwestern United States, this trip felt surreal to us at the time. I had only ever read about the rainforest in books. I had only ever seen crocodiles in zoos. I had only heard the sounds of the animals and insects of the jungle in movies. I had taken a trip or two to an ocean, sure, but I had never snorkeled in crystal clear azure waters and watched sea turtles and rays swimming beneath me as if I were swimming in an aquarium. I could not believe what I was experiencing was real life!

Needless to say, I fell in love with Belize. Years later we came back to see more of the country and to learn more about its culture. We visited some of the other districts: Belize, Stann Creek, Cayo…all are beautiful and have plenty to offer. In particular we really loved the village of Hopkins, which is in Stann Creek. We even purchased a small lot there and planned to build a vacation home. If things had gone as planned that might even have been where the story ended. But life rarely goes as planned.

My family and I (now 3 of us) took a vacation in the spring of 2023. At the end of the trip, as we were making our way home, I started to realize I was dreading going back to work. Don’t get me wrong, my employer was very good to me. It’s not that I was being mistreated, or even poorly compensated. My job was pretty cushy, to be honest, and I worked in cybersecurity at the time. I continue to believe cybersecurity is a good and noble field. Even so, I dreaded the idea of sitting behind a screen on my computer for hours, upon hours, upon hours…day after day, week after week. I knew I couldn’t do it forever and I knew the only person who could decide to make a change in my life was me. So I did.

I picked up my phone, tapped on the search box and quite literally typed in, “businesses for sale in Belize”. One of the results was, “https://businessesforsale.com” with a list narrowed to Belize. I started swiping through the list of results, most of which were way out of my price range, or they were businesses in which I had no interest. But a small handful seemed like reasonable, viable options! I was stunned.

Discussing with my wife the possibility of purchasing a business in Belize and quitting my full-time job to focus on it went much better than I expected. We agreed this pursuit would likely prove more fulfilling, which would make me a happier, more content person, which would in turn benefit the family. I think it was a nice way of her saying, “whatever will make you more pleasant to live with is worth the risk.”

Wildlife is what inspires my wife, so we narrowed our search to rainforest properties that were a reasonable distance from the sea. Ultimately we decided on one property that seemed right for us to pursue taking next steps. The price was on the higher end of our budget, but the property was compelling: around 37 acres of land, charming casitas with thatched roofs, a large lodge with plenty of space, and the owner had really highlighted that birdwatchers were the largest demographic of guests. Perfect! But where was it? We had never been to the Toledo district.

Toledo is the southernmost and least populated district of Belize, bordering Guatemala and the Caribbean Sea. It is also the most remote, the hardest to reach, and the poorest district in the country. It has a reputation of being the “forgotten land” of Belize, often overlooked by tourists and development. I needed to see for myself if it was worth investing in this “forgotten land.”

Following a few lengthy WhatsApp calls to the owner of the lodge, I put in a tentative offer and made my way to the lodge for a visit. I flew first to Belize City where I took a regional flight on a prop plane to small airstrip in Punta Gorda. I was picked up at the airport by the real estate agent who was representing the property. He generously shuttled me around for the entirety of my visit. Besides spending time walking the grounds at the lodge, we visited waterfalls, a spice farm, we ate lunch on the coast, and we met dozens of other business owners in the area.

You already know how this story ends, but let me finally tell you why. On that trip I learned that Toledo is home to some of the most pristine and diverse rainforests in the world, teeming with wildlife and plants. It has over 1700 species of trees, 400 species of birds, 100 species of mammals, and countless insects, reptiles, amphibians, and fish. Some of the animals that live here are rare and endangered, such as the jaguar, the tapir, and the scarlet macaw. Toledo also has many rivers, waterfalls, caves, and lagoons, where you can swim, kayak, canoe, or fish.

Toledo is also home to some of the most ancient and fascinating Mayan sites in the world, dating back hundreds, or even thousands of years ago. Some of these sites are still being excavated and studied, revealing secrets and mysteries of the past. Some of the sites available to visit are Lubaantun, Nim Li Punit, Uxbenka, and Pusilha. Toledo also has many Mayan villages, where you can meet the descendants of the ancient civilization, and learn about their customs, beliefs, and languages.

Toledo is also home to some of the most diverse and vibrant cultures in the world, reflecting the melting pot of Belize. Besides the Mayans, Toledo has people of Garifuna, Creole, East Indian, Mennonite, and Chinese descent, among others. Each group has its own history, identity, and contribution to the society. Toledo is a place where you can experience different music, dance, art, and cuisine, and celebrate different festivals and holidays. Some of the events and holidays available are: the Chocolate Festival, the Battle of the Drums, the Deer Dance Festival, and the Garifuna Settlement Day.

Toledo is a place where I found what I was looking for: a connection with nature, a connection with history, and a connection with people. It is a place where I felt at home, where I felt inspired, and where I felt alive. It is a place where I decided to buy a lodge, and to share my passion and my vision with others.

My lodge is called Creekside Oasis, and it is located on approximately 37 acres of stunning rainforest. It is about 7 miles northwest of Punta Gorda along the Southern highway. It is a modest rainforest lodge, with 4 spacious and air conditioned rooms with a veranda overlooking the garden, 5 beautiful and comfortable thatched-roof casitas, all with a view of the garden, a restaurant area, a swimming hole in the adjacent creek, and numerous trails for hiking, birdwatching and wildlife viewing. It is also a base for adventure, with many activities and tours available in the area, such as hiking, birdwatching, zip-lining, horseback riding, caving, tubing, snorkeling, diving, fishing, and more.

I invite you to come and visit Creekside Oasis, and to discover the beauty and the magic of Toledo. I promise you that you will not regret it. Toledo is not the forgotten land of Belize, it is the unforgettable land of Belize. I hope you will love it as much as I do.