How To Spend Three Fun Days in Punta Gorda, Belize  

by Larry Waight

Punta Gorda, also known as “PG” orPeini,” is the major town in the Toledo District of southern Belize. Even if you do not plan to spend time in Punta Gorda, it is a major hub for domestic flights and traffic to Belize’s many natural attractions and offshore cayes. Now if you are interested in seeing what this beautiful town has to offer, keep reading for an unforgettable three-day weekend.

Day One: Getting in Touch with Your Inner Adventurer

Welcome to Punta Gorda. Photo Courtesy: Belizing.com

On your first day in Peini, take the 40 minute trip to the Maya archaeological site of Lubaantun. With three ball courts and five main plazas, Lubaantun is the most expansive ancient Maya site in southern Belize. Every stone was purpose-shaped without mortar. 

After traveling back in time for the morning, enjoy a picnic right on site. Then head to Nim Li Punit which is just 15 miles away. This ancient Maya settlement was named after the longest (17-meters) of 25 stelae found there. 

When you’re done, head back into town for a delicious dinner.

nim li punit
An ancient Pok-Ta-Pok court at Nim Li Punit in Toledo, Belize.

Day Two: R&R with Caves and Chocolate

Take a guided tour to Tiger Cave, near San Miguel. While most of the cave is dark, its vaulted ceiling allows shafts of light within. Tiger Cave is a half-day adventure that few people consider visiting. Then, break for lunch without even thinking of dessert. That’s because in the afternoon, you’ll be taking a delicious chocolate tour.

Southern Belize is known for cacao, and there are several tours that walk you through the process of making chocolate from the source to its ultimate, delicious fate.

must do's

Chocolate making at Copal Tree Lodge

Day Three: Cool Off Before You Head Off

Bring a swimsuit, snorkel and picnic basket, and head to Rio Blanco National Park. Home to plenty of waterfalls, as well as a natural pool, this spot gives you plenty of time to relax, see gorgeous birds and even have a picnic for lunch.

Later, pick one of the many amazing and off-the-beaten path cayes, like the Snake Cayes, and go snorkeling with marine creatures. Down in Belize’s “forgotten south” there will be few other people to bother you.

snake-cayes-toledo-belize

The Snake Cayes, offshore of Toledo in Southern Belize. Photo by Roeming Belize

Finish your last day with a nice dinner and make peace with having to leave paradise as you pack up.

Punta Gorda may be near the bottom of the country but it should hardly be at the bottom of your vacation plans. There is plenty to do in the Toledo district if you know where to go. Hopefully, this three day weekend itinerary has given you some insight into what PG has to offer. 

Featured Photo courtesy of Belize Tourism Board 

Editor’s note: This post has been slightly modified since its original publication date of February 11, 2020. 

Related Articles