5 Breathtaking Villages to Visit in Belize

Escape the bustle of life and rejuvenate in tranquility, nestled in some of the beautiful villages of Belize. From picturesque views to fun festivals, visiting these villages is worth having on your travel Belize bucket list. No matter where you are in Belize, a relaxing getaway is always waiting for you!

Here are five breathtaking villages you must visit in Belize:

Crooked Tree. Drive across the causeway to the peaceful village of Crooked Tree, located in the Belize District. It is home to the cashew tree and is known for its popular Cashew Fest hosted every May. From wine to bread to jams, this village produces a wide array of products and dishes using cashew. First established as a logging community, this Creole village offers visitors a tour down memory lane at the Crooked Tree Museum and Cultural Heritage Center. Bird watchers can also visit the Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary to look out for more than 50 species of birds, including one of the largest in Central America, the Jabiru Stork. 

Sarteneja. Head up north to bask in this graceful village located in the bay of the Corozal District. Sarteneja is a must-visit destination known for pineapple farming and artisan boat building. Taste the burst of flavors from various Mestizo cuisines or chill at the beach as you await the vibrant sunset over the Caribbean Sea. Take a trip to the Shipstern Nature Reserve nearby to look at various species of birds or awe over the array of flying colors at the Butterfly Breeding Center. Rest and rejuvenate in paradise at Sarteneja village. 

San Jose Succotz. Embrace nature as you walk along the still waters of the Mopan River in San Jose Succotz Village. The vibrant colors from the artisan stalls welcome you as you get on to the hand-cranked ferry to explore the wondrous Maya Temple, Xunantunich. Go canoeing, horseback riding, or tubing when experiencing the Maya community celebrating their patron saint at the San Jose Succotz Festival. Be immersed in the colorful Hog Head Dance or taste the deliciousness of authentic Succotz dishes such as tamales or bollos. Explore this adventure destination when in the Cayo District!

Hopkins. Immerse yourself in the Garifuna culture when you travel to Hopkins village! Stroll on the silky seashore or dive into the dancing waves of the sea. Located in the Stann Creek District, Hopkins village offers the perfect opportunity for an authentic experience with its people. Learn to play the drums or cook the traditional meals on a Garifuna eco-cultural tour. You can’t visit Hopkins without moving your hips to the upbeat sound of the Punta music! If you’re a fruit lover, you’ll be overjoyed to indulge in various mango-infused dishes and drinks available at the mango festival. So don’t hesitate to make your way to the harmonious Hopkins Village!

Placencia. Relax on the prestigious beaches of this renowned tourist destination. Placencia is one of the three villages along the Placencia Peninsula in the Stann Creek District. What started as a fishing community is the home of a kaleidoscope of ethnicities from varying parts of the world. Explore this pedestrian-friendly village as you eat flavorful gelato, go mini-golfing, or swim in the crystal waters. Purchase hand-crafted souvenirs at the Placencia Street Art Festival or feast on delectable cuisines at the Placencia Lobster Fest in July! 

Banner Photo Credit: Leticia Alas

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