Belize is renowned for its stunning natural beauty. From its idyllic coastline along the Caribbean Sea to the lush rainforests that blanket the interior, this small but bio-diverse Central American country has a reputation as a nature-lovers’ paradise. While the country as a whole is a haven for eco-tourism, it is Toledo, the southernmost region of Belize, that truly stands out for its dedication to sustainable tourism practices and pristine nature. Often referred to as “the forgotten district,” this rarely visited region offers not only perfect and protected natural settings but also a rich cultural heritage and a growing network of eco-friendly accommodations. For travelers seeking to explore the world with a lighter environmental footprint, Southern Belize is a destination that should be at the top of the list.
An aerial of Punta Gorda, Toledo. Photo by Vista Real Estate
Southern Belize is a region defined by its natural beauty, offering a wealth of biodiversity found in few places on earth. Vast tracks of the Maya Mountains, miles of unspoiled coastline, uninhabited cayes, coral reef, mangrove forests, and freshwater rivers, make Toledo a prime destination for eco-conscious travelers. What makes the natural wonders of the region even more alluring is the local commitment to preserving these treasures.
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Many of the protected areas in Southern Belize are managed with the involvement of local communities, ensuring that conservation efforts benefit both the environment and the people who depend on it. One of the hallmarks of sustainable tourism in this region is the strong emphasis on community empowerment.
For example, the Toledo Institute for Development and the Environment (TIDE) works with local communities to promote sustainable livelihoods through eco-tourism, including guided tours of the Bladen River Nature Reserve and Sarstoon-Temash National Park. These tours give visitors an opportunity to experience the area’s stunning biodiversity while supporting community-driven conservation efforts.
Toledo is home to a growing number of eco-friendly lodges and accommodations that place sustainability at the forefront of their operations. From solar-powered resorts to accommodations that use natural materials in their construction, these lodgings offer travelers a way to minimize their environmental footprint without sacrificing comfort or luxury. Many of these eco-lodges are located in remote areas, providing guests with a unique opportunity to fully immerse themselves in nature.
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One standout example is Copal Tree Lodge, a luxury eco-resort set on 16,000 acres of nature preserve that utilizes sustainable practices such as rainwater harvesting, sourcing sustainable building materials, and cultivating heirloom crops in their extensive agroforestry and organic farming programs.
Copal Tree Lodge in the jungles of the Toledo District. Photo courtesy of property.
Guests can enjoy supreme comfort in their nature-inspired accommodations while minimizing their carbon footprint. The lodge offers an array of low-impact tours for eco-travelers to enjoy the lush beauty and fascinating wildlife from snorkeling and kayaking to jungle trekking and cave exploration. Take a guided tour along the property’s nature trail and learn about traditional uses of plants and herbs in Maya medicine or view the award-winning rum distillery onsite which operates as a neutral-impact facility.
Southern Belize is the next big thing in eco-tourism because it seamlessly blends natural preservation, cultural heritage, and eco-conscious travel experiences. The region’s commitment to responsible tourism ensures that travelers can experience its wonders while also contributing to the long-term well-being of both its environment and its people. Whether it’s exploring the ancient ruins of the Maya, snorkeling in pristine coral reefs, or staying at an eco-lodge that actively supports conservation, Southern Belize offers a one-of-a-kind experience for the eco-conscious traveler. As the world’s attention increasingly shifts toward more sustainable travel practices, Toledo should undoubtedly be on the radar of anyone looking to travel responsibly.
Featured Photo by ROEming Belize Travel Agency
