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The southern Toledo district, often described as Belize's last frontier, is a fabulous part of the country and much less visited than the west and east.

It experiences more rain than other parts of Belize making it lush with untouched rainforests, abundant with citrus plantations, paddy fields and home to remote Mayan sites, such as Lubaantun — where the famous 'Crystal Skull' was found — and Nil Li Punit (nim-lee-poo-nit), which has 25 original standing carved monuments including the longest in Belize at some 60 feet in length.

Landscapes and wildlife

Toledo District, BelizeThere are many large river networks and caves to discover and, being located on the coast, these provide easy access to the southern reefs of Belize. The birding is some of the best in the country with over 300 species found here. With 15 national parks and reserves throughout the area wildlife lovers will feel at home, as will adventure seekers, history buffs and snorkelers alike.

And if that isn't enough to entice you, the many traditional Maya and Garifuna villages dotted throughout the area will.

People and culture

The Toledo District is the cultural haven of Belize and your opportunity to visit local families who will proudly show off their homes and organic gardens. Many of them own small cacao plantations as this is the area that 'Green and Blacks' chocolate beans come from. They will demonstrate the chocolate making process which is harder than it looks if you get the chance to give it a go!

It is a truly wonderful region of Belize with so much to offer, yet it is still often overlooked by foreign visitors, which makes it all the more rewarding for those who are willing to make the effort.

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Start planning your tailor-made trip to Toledo District by contacting one of our Belize specialists

Suggested itinerary featuring Toledo District

This sample itinerary will give you an idea of what is possible when you travel in Toledo District, and showcases routes we know work particularly well. Treat this as inspiration, because your trip will be created uniquely by one of our specialists.

Map of Toledo District

Places & hotels on the map

    Places near Toledo District

    Accommodation choices for Toledo District

    We've selected a range of accommodation options for when you visit Toledo District. Our choices usually come recommended for their character, facilities and service or location. Our specialists always aim to suggest properties that match your preferences.

    Ideas for experiencing Toledo District

    Our specialists seek out authentic ways to get to know the places that could feature in your trip. These activities reflect some of the experiences they've most enjoyed while visiting Toledo District, and which use the best local guides.

    • Lubaantun Site, Mayan musician and Rio Blanco Park Visit
      Lubaantun Ruins, Toledo

      Lubaantun Site, Mayan musician and Rio Blanco Park Visit

      Lubaantun Site, Mayan musician and Rio Blanco Park Visit

      Visit a traditional Mayan musician and instrument maker, learn about the Crystal Skull and fascinating history of Lubaantun, and enjoy a swim beneath a cascading waterfall in the Rio Blanco National Park.

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    • Cacao Plantation and Community Visit Tour
      Grinding the cacao beans, Toledo

      Cacao Plantation and Community Visit Tour

      Cacao Plantation and Community Visit Tour

      Follow an experienced guide and plantation owner on a tour of a working organic cocoa farm, before visiting a traditional Belizean community located in a small village on the banks of the Moho River.

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