Overview
San Antonio is the largest Mopan Maya village in Toledo District, offering a rare glimpse into traditional Maya life far from Belize's beach resorts. The village was established in 1883 by Mopan Maya fleeing Guatemalan persecution, and it remains the most developed village in the district with electricity, running water, and a health centre while retaining traditional thatched houses scattered across gentle hills.
Culture · Day Trips · Nature · Off The Trail
Before you go
Accommodation
TEA guesthouse charges BZ$22/person; Bol's Hilltop Hotel offers basic rooms for BZ$15 with shared bath. Meals must be arranged in advance at the guesthouse.
Connectivity
Community telephone available but no mention of mobile coverage or internet. Arrange important communications in Punta Gorda.
Health
New health centre opened in village. For serious medical needs, travel to Punta Gorda or Belize City.
Language
Most villagers speak English along with Spanish and Kekchi Maya. Mopan Maya is spoken by only 5,000-7,000 people total in southern Belize and Guatemala.
Safety
Village is small and welcoming with low crime risk. Standard jungle precautions apply when hiking to the falls.
Transport
Village busses (Chun's Bus, Coc's Bus, Bol's Bus) connect San Antonio to Punta Gorda for BZ$3, taking about an hour. No taxi service exists.
