Hickatee Cottages

Overview

Description

Green, friendly, and untouristed, Toledo is Belize's only ridge-to-reef district, and one which offers a wealth of activities for lovers of nature, adventure, and culture. Hike the jungle-clad foothills of the Maya Mountains with their rainforest flora and fauna, and enjoy a variety of superb birding habitats. Kayak our rivers, or swim in one of the world's largest cave systems. Visit ancient Maya sites, explore the villages of their descendents, and take the Cacao Trail to learn about our ancient and modern-day links with chocolate. Snorkel in the sparkling waters of the Port Honduras Marine Reserve, search for manatee and dolphins, try your hand at sport fishing (catch and release), or dive at the World Heritage Site Sapodilla Cayes!

Toledo's kaleidoscope of cultures is evident everywhere -- the Maya farmers and Creole ladies at PG's bustling morning market, the evening sounds of traditional Garifuna drumming in the local bars, the distinct East Indian cuisine, traces of the US Confederate settlers, and the Mennonites in their horse-drawn buggies.

Rooms

4

Making a Difference

Percentage of local employees: 100%

We care deeply about our adopted homeland, and strive to provide guests with a sustainable, quality product that protects the environment whilst promoting and protecting the local culture and economy. Guest sensitization is a key part of our approach.

• Environment
  We continue to reduce our generator-useage, through energy-saving measures and increasing our solar/ battery capacity, and employ water saving measures to aid with the disposal of water. We re-developed only a small section of our land, clearing by hand, and growing trees to re-forest neighbouring land. Appropriate waste is composted, and we use only natural or environmentally-friendly cleaning products. We provide free bikes for guests and encourage them to 'tread lightly'.

• Re-use / Recycling
  Sophisticated waste management systems are not available in Belize, and we are constantly mindful of the 'cradle to grave' principles, and focus on reducing packaging and re-using whatever and wherever possible.

• Local community and culture
  We are committed to raising awareness and educating our guests in the rich and varied local cultures, and the impact that their presence may have. We are active in the local community, and support Boom Creek Village School (sponsoring a staff member to teach part-time, encouraging guests to bring school supplies, and contributing to the school's feeding programe.

• Purchasing
  Over 90% of our day-to-day purchases are made within 3 miles, with preference for local and environmentally friendly goods. We use only registered Belizean tour operators, and those who follow responsible practices. All our income is received in, and stays in Belize - we transfer no money out of the country.

• Employment
  Staff training is key in ensuring long-term sustainability of tourism in Toledo, and we are committed to training, empowering and fully supporting our staff in all aspects of their work, and further education and training.

Rates

$51 – $75

Room rates are based on room type and occupancy levels, but range from US$55 per night to US$110 per night

Room rates include:

• free transfer to and from the airstrip, bus station, or boat dock
• free morning tea or coffee delivered to your verandah
• free light continental breakfast (fresh homemade bread, local jams and honey, tea and coffee, and freshly squeezed juice)
• free internet access using the modem jack at Charlie's Bar and some WiFi - bring your own laptop!
• free use of bikes to explore the local area
• free visit to Fallen Stones Butterfly Farm on a Wednesday or Saturday (exclusive to guests of Hickatee Cottages on a first-come, first-served basis)

For more information about rates, please visit:

• https://www.hickatee.com/southern_belize_hotel.html (available in English).

Getting There

Nearest international airport: Belmopan (BZE)

Nearest local/national airport: Punta Gorda (PND)

Distance, by land, to the nearest airport: 3.2 km.

Alternatives are:

• to fly to Cancun and take a connecting flight to BZE, or travel overland by bus;
• to fly Guatemala City and take the bus to Puerto Barrios and water taxi to Punta Gorda.

Rental vehicles are available for hire from Belize International Airport (4 - 5 hour drive).

During very heavy rains the causeway at Kendal, in the Stann Creek District, may be temporarily submerged.

The Southern Highway to Punta Gorda is a well-paved road, with the exception of a 5 mile stretch through the Golden Stream Corridor Preserve which is currently being upgraded. The majority of roads in Toledo, however, are unpaved and visitors should be comfortable with driving on graded roads.

Additional Information

Date This Information Was Provided

July 2009.

Photos courtesy of Hickatee Cottages, Belize, for SustainableTrip.org.