The Miles Between: Sarteneja And Belize City

Sarteneja is a picturesque fishing village located in the Corozal District of Belize, approximately 110 miles from Belize City. This hidden gem, nestled in the country's northeastern coast, offers a unique and tranquil experience away from the bustling tourist hubs. With its pristine beaches, lush mangroves, and vibrant community, Sarteneja showcases the natural and cultural richness of Belize. The village is known for its colourful wooden houses, friendly locals, and breathtaking sunsets over the water.

The bus from Belize City to Sarteneja takes 2 hours and costs $6-8

Sarteneja is a picturesque fishing village located on the northeastern coast of Belize, in the Corozal District. It is approximately 40 miles north of Orange Walk Town and is easily accessible to travellers. The village is often included as a stop on the road trip between Belize City and Corozal.

Buses depart Sarteneja for Belize City (via Orange Walk) between 4 am and 6:30 am. There is also a direct bus from Chetumal, via Corozal and Orange Walk, which runs daily. Buses from Corozal are less frequent, so it is advisable to check the schedule before planning your trip.

In addition to buses, you can also get to Sarteneja by boat, air, car, or taxi. Most visitors arrive by water taxi from Corozal or San Pedro. The Thunderbolt water taxi departs Corozal at 7 am, arriving in Sarteneja 40 minutes later. Alternatively, you can fly into the Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport in Belize City and then rent a car or take a taxi to Sarteneja.

Sarteneja is 59 miles from Belize City; the road distance is 95.1 miles

Sarteneja is 59 miles from Belize City, with a road distance of 95.1 miles. This small fishing village is located in the Corozal District of Belize, along the country's northeastern coast. It is a hidden gem that offers travellers a unique and authentic experience, showcasing the natural beauty and cultural richness of Belize.

Getting to Sarteneja

Although Sarteneja is only 59 miles from Belize City as the crow flies, the road distance is much longer at 95.1 miles. This is because Sarteneja is located on a peninsula that stretches into Corozal Bay, and the journey involves travelling around the bay. The best way to get from Belize City to Sarteneja is by bus or car. The bus is the cheapest option, costing around $6-$8, and takes about 2 hours. The bus departs from the Belize City station and arrives at the Sarteneja station. Driving is another option and takes approximately 3 hours.

About Sarteneja

Sarteneja is the largest village in Belize, with approximately 4,500 inhabitants. It is named after the 13 Mayan wells found in the area, which provided potable water. The village was first settled by the Maya over 2,600 years ago and is now home to a mixture of Mexican migrants, North American expats, and descendants of the ancient Maya. Sarteneja is known for its fishing and lobster industry, as well as its artisan boat builders. It is the only place on the Belize mainland where you can watch the sun set over the water. The village also offers pristine beaches, lush mangroves, and a vibrant local community.

Things to Do in Sarteneja

Sarteneja is an ideal destination for those who enjoy fishing, kayaking, sailing, and exploring nature reserves. The nearby Shipstern Nature Reserve and Rio Bravo Conservation Area offer abundant wildlife and pristine ecosystems. Sarteneja is also a great place to experience the local culture, with a unique mix of Mestizo, Creole, and Maya communities. The annual Sarteneja Regatta and Lobster Fest are colourful celebrations that showcase the village's strong connection to the sea and its fishing heritage.

The village is 40 miles north of Orange Walk Town

Sarteneja is a village in Belize, located approximately 40 miles north of Orange Walk Town. The village is situated in the country's far north, in the Corozal District, and is officially Belize's largest village, with around 4,500 inhabitants. The name 'Sarteneja' is derived from the Mayan name 'Tza-ten-a-ha', which translates to 'water between the rocks'. This name reflects the village's abundance of freshwater wells, which were a vital source of potable water for its early settlers.

Sarteneja's history is deeply rooted in Mayan culture, with evidence of Maya settlement dating back over 2,600 years. The village was a significant trading area for the Maya, and artefacts such as gold, copper, and shells continue to be discovered in the region. In the mid-19th century, Mexican refugees from the Yucatán Caste Wars were drawn to Sarteneja for its accessible drinking water, contributing to the village's cultural diversity.

Today, Sarteneja remains a vibrant fishing community and is renowned for its lobster and conch fishing, boat building traditions, and pineapple farming. The village is also a popular destination for tourists seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences. Its location on Corozal Bay offers breathtaking sunsets, pristine waters for swimming, and opportunities for sportfishing. The village is also known for its annual Easter Regatta, a colourful tradition featuring newly painted sailboats, live music, and local games.

Located about 40 miles north of Orange Walk Town, Sarteneja can be reached by road, water taxi, or air. The journey from Orange Walk Town takes about an hour by road, traversing smaller roads through the scenic countryside. Alternatively, visitors can opt for a water taxi service, such as the Thunderbolt Water Taxi, which operates between Corozal or Ambergris Caye and Sarteneja. For those seeking a quicker option, Tropic Air offers flights from San Pedro to the Sarteneja airstrip, with the journey taking just 10 minutes.

In summary, Sarteneja, located approximately 40 miles north of Orange Walk Town, is a charming Belizean village steeped in history and cultural significance. With its natural beauty, thriving industries, and unique attractions, Sarteneja offers a memorable experience for those seeking to explore the authentic Belize.

The boat to Sarteneja is on the Corozal-San Pedro route

The distance from Sarteneja to Belize City is approximately 100 miles. The journey by road takes around 2.5 hours.

The Boat to Sarteneja

The Thunderbolt is the main water taxi option, but there is also the Exodus water taxi, which runs opposite the Thunderbolt schedule. It leaves San Pedro at 7 am and returns from Corozal at 3 pm, stopping at Sarteneja both ways. The Exodus boat is smaller and has long bench-type seats without cushions. The round trip on the Exodus costs $85 BZD.

Other Transport Options

If you don't want to travel by boat, there are several other ways to get to Sarteneja. You can fly into Belize and rent a car or take a taxi to Sarteneja, which takes around 2.5 hours. You can also take a bus from Belize City, which takes 3 hours and costs $5 one-way.

There is also a ferry between Copper Bank and Sarteneja, which you can get to by following the ferry signs from Copper Bank. From the T-intersection near Chunox, follow the unpaved road for 20 miles to Sarteneja.

Sarteneja is 2.5 hours north of Belize City by car

Sarteneja is a village located in the Corozal District of Belize, approximately 2.5 hours north of Belize City by car. The distance between the two locations is around 95 miles by road, and the journey offers picturesque views of the Belizean countryside.

Sarteneja is a hidden gem, known for its pristine beaches, lush mangroves, and vibrant local community. With its unspoiled natural surroundings and rich cultural heritage, it offers a unique and authentic experience for travellers seeking to explore the beauty and culture of Belize.

The village is nestled between the Caribbean Sea and Corozal Bay, providing breathtaking views of turquoise waters and stunning sunsets. It is the only place in Belize where you can watch the sun set over the water. Sarteneja is also known for its fishing industry, artisan boat builders, and pineapple farming.

Getting to Sarteneja by car involves a scenic drive through rugged and dusty roads, which can be flooded and rutted during the rainy season. The journey takes you through small towns and offers a glimpse of the diverse landscapes of Belize.

Sarteneja is easily accessible by car, and its proximity to Belize City makes it a convenient stop for travellers exploring the country. The village is also connected by bus and water taxi, providing alternative options for those without a vehicle.

The journey to Sarteneja is an adventure in itself, and the village welcomes visitors with its tranquil atmosphere and warm hospitality. Whether arriving by land or sea, travellers can expect an unforgettable experience in this picturesque fishing village.

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