The Distance Between Sarteneja And Belize City: A Journey Through Corozal District

Sarteneja is a village in the Corozal District of Belize, located approximately 40 miles north of Orange Walk Town. The village is situated on the Bay of Corozal, making it the only place in Belize where you can watch the sunset over the water. Belize City, on the other hand, is a bustling urban centre and the country's largest city, located on the coast of the Caribbean Sea. The distance between Sarteneja and Belize City is approximately 88 miles, with a travel time of around two hours by road. While Sarteneja is a small, remote fishing community, Belize City serves as a hub for tourism and commerce, offering a contrast between the quiet village life and the urban dynamism of Belize.

Travel options from Belize City to Sarteneja

The distance between Belize City and Sarteneja is 59 miles, with a road distance of 95.1 miles. There are a few different ways to travel between the two locations. Here are some options:

By Bus

The bus is a convenient and affordable option to get from Belize City to Sarteneja. The bus journey takes approximately 2 hours and costs around $6 to $8. There is a direct bus service operated by Valdemar Perez that departs from Belize City and arrives at Sarteneja. The buses run every four hours, from 12 pm to 5 pm, Monday to Saturday.

By Car

If you prefer the flexibility of driving, the journey from Belize City to Sarteneja will take around 3 hours. The driving distance is approximately 95 miles. Keep in mind that the roads can be rugged and dusty, especially during the rainy season when they may be flooded and rutted.

By Plane and Boat

For a quicker option, you can fly from Belize City to Corozal and then take a water taxi to Sarteneja. Tropic Air offers flights from Belize City to Corozal, and the journey takes about 20 minutes. From Corozal, you can take the Thunderbolt water taxi to Sarteneja, which takes about 40 minutes.

By Shuttle and Ferry

Another option is to take a shuttle bus from Belize City to Caye Caulker, and then take a ferry from Caye Caulker to Sarteneja. This journey will take approximately 3 hours and 40 minutes.

By Boat from Corozal or San Pedro

If you are already in Corozal or San Pedro, you can take the Thunderbolt water taxi directly to Sarteneja. The journey from Corozal takes 40 minutes, while the trip from San Pedro takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Sarteneja offers a range of attractions, from its picturesque fishing village charm to its breathtaking sunsets and turquoise waters. With these travel options, you can choose the one that best suits your preferences and enjoy the journey to this beautiful destination.

Things to do in Sarteneja

Sarteneja, located in the Corozal District of Belize, is a charming coastal village offering a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and a laid-back atmosphere. Here are some of the best things to do during your visit:

Explore the Coastline and Beaches

Take a leisurely stroll along the pristine coastline, find a secluded spot to relax, or swim in the calm waters. The farther east you go, the more isolated and picturesque the swimming areas become. The beaches of Sarteneja are ideal for sunbathing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and other water sports.

Visit Shipstern Nature Reserve

For wildlife enthusiasts, the Shipstern Nature Reserve is a must-visit. This protected area is home to a variety of bird species, including toucans, parrots, and herons. Join a guided birdwatching tour or explore the hiking trails to witness the rich biodiversity of the tropical forest.

Boat Tour Through the Mangroves

Glide through the calm waters of the mangrove ecosystems, where you can spot manatees, crocodiles, and other wildlife. Mangroves play a crucial role in preserving the coastal ecosystem, and a boat tour offers a unique perspective on their importance.

Immerse Yourself in Local Culture

Sarteneja boasts a vibrant local community with a rich cultural heritage. Visit the artisan shops to admire the intricate wooden carvings and handmade crafts, and don't miss the opportunity to join in the traditional Punta dances and music during local festivals and celebrations, such as the Sarteneja Regatta and Lobster Fest.

Go Fishing with Local Fishermen

Join the local fishermen on a fishing trip to experience their traditional way of life. Spend the day on the water, learn sustainable fishing practices, and try your hand at catching your dinner. It's a great way to connect with the local community and gain insight into their longstanding maritime traditions.

Explore Nearby Attractions

Sarteneja is a great base for exploring nearby attractions. Take a day trip to the Lamanai Archaeological Site to discover an ancient Mayan city, or venture into the Rio Bravo Conservation Area to spot jaguars and howler monkeys. The Ancient Maya City of Calakmul, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is also within reach, located just 17 miles away in Mexico.

Watch the Sunset Over the Water

Sarteneja is the only place on mainland Belize where you can watch the sun set over the water. Head to the beach or the coastline to witness this breathtaking sight as the sky illuminates with vibrant hues.

Visit the Sarteneja Alliance for Conservation and Development

Learn about the local conservation efforts by visiting the Sarteneja Alliance for Conservation and Development. This organization works to protect the nearby marine ecosystems and manage the Corozal Bay Wildlife Sanctuary. They can also provide information on guided tours and help you find licensed local tour guides.

Rent a Bicycle

If your guesthouse doesn't provide one, rent a bicycle from Brisis Bike Rental on Front Street. Cycling is a great way to explore the village and its surroundings at your own pace.

Go Birdwatching in the Bacalar Chico National Park

The Bacalar Chico National Park and Marine Reserve, located on the northern tip of Ambergris Caye, offer excellent birdwatching opportunities. Spot various bird species and enjoy the pristine natural environment.

Fishing Along Corozal Bay

Cast your line into Corozal Bay, where you can fish for just $30 per person for two people with Ritchie Cruz of Ritchie's Place. It's a great way to relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings while trying your luck at catching some local fish species.

History of Sarteneja

Sarteneja, located in the Corozal District of Belize, is the country's largest fishing community and second-largest village. The village is home to approximately 4,500 inhabitants, a mix of Mexican migrants, expats from North America, and descendants of the ancient Maya. The name Sarteneja comes from the Mayan name "Tza-ten-a-ha", meaning "water between the rocks", reflecting the village's location on the Bay of Corozal and its several freshwater wells.

Sarteneja was first settled by the Maya over 2,600 years ago. During the colonial era, it became a hub for European explorers and traders, with the Spanish arriving in the early 16th century. In the 19th century, Sarteneja saw an influx of Afro-Caribbean settlers fleeing the aftermath of the emancipation of slavery in Belize. They brought with them their vibrant culture, including punta music and colourful traditional clothing.

Throughout its history, Sarteneja has been known for its skilled sailors and boat builders, who have contributed significantly to Belize's maritime industry. The village is also recognised for its annual Easter Regatta, a celebration of its strong connection to the sea, featuring sailing and fishing competitions, live music, food stalls, and traditional dances.

In recent years, Sarteneja has embraced the growing interest in eco-tourism and sustainable development, promoting community-based tourism initiatives. The village's economy remains primarily based on fishing for lobster, conch, and finfish, with many retired fishermen turning to farming. Tourism is increasingly becoming a significant source of income, with visitors drawn to Sarteneja's pristine beaches, lush mangroves, and vibrant local community.

Population and demographics of Sarteneja

Sarteneja, located in Belize's Corozal District, is the country's largest fishing community and second-largest village. The village has a population of approximately 4,500 inhabitants, according to recent estimates.

The name Sarteneja originates from the Mayan name "Tza-ten-a-ha", which translates to "water between the rocks". This name reflects the village's proximity to the Bay of Corozal and its access to freshwater wells. Sarteneja was first settled by the Maya over 2,600 years ago, and their influence is still evident in the village's name and culture.

According to the 2010 census, Sarteneja had a population of 1,824. The demographic breakdown of this population was as follows: 91.1% Mestizo, 3.6% Mixed, 2.6% Creole, 1.3% Caucasian, 0.3% Mopan Maya, 0.3% Asian, 0.2% Ketchi Maya, 0.2% Garifuna, 0.2% Yucatec Maya, 0.1% East Indian, 0.1% Lebanese, 0.1% African, and 0.1% Mennonite. This diversity in Sarteneja's population reflects the village's history as a melting pot of different cultures, including Mexican migrants, North American expats, and descendants of the ancient Maya.

In terms of languages spoken, the 2010 census revealed that 97.6% of the population spoke Spanish, 49.6% spoke English, 5.4% spoke Creole, and various other languages were also represented, including Mandarin, Cantonese, and indigenous Mayan languages. This linguistic diversity adds to the cultural richness of Sarteneja and the surrounding area.

Sarteneja's geographical location

Sarteneja is located in the Corozal District of Belize, along the country's northeastern coast. It is situated on a narrow peninsula that extends into the Corozal Bay, nestled between the Caribbean Sea to the east and the bay to the west. Sarteneja is about 2.5 hours north of Belize City and is easily accessible to travellers, often included as a stop on road trips between Belize City and Corozal.

The geographical coordinates of Sarteneja are 18° 21' 0" North, 88° 8' 0" West, and its original name is Sarteneja. The village is officially the country's largest, with approximately 4,500 inhabitants.

Sarteneja's geography is characterised by its diverse ecosystems. To the east lie pristine beaches fringed by coconut palms and mangrove forests, teeming with marine life. The calm and shallow waters of the bay are ideal for swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding, making it a paradise for water sports enthusiasts.

To the west of the village, the landscape transitions into vast wetlands and mangrove swamps, home to a variety of bird species, including herons, egrets, and ibises. The mangroves are also important breeding grounds for marine species, contributing to the ecological significance of the region.

Sarteneja's strategic location provides easy access to nearby nature reserves and protected areas, such as the Shipstern Nature Reserve and the Rio Bravo Conservation Area, showcasing Belize's extraordinary biodiversity. The village's position on the Bay of Corozal also makes it the only place in Belize where you can watch the sun set over the water.

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