Benque Viejo Town

Situated on the scenic Mopan River that borders Guatemala, Benque is the western gateway city for Belize. There is a distinctly Spanish feel to the town which is rich in the Mestizo cultural heritage. Benque is un-crowded, quiet and non-touristy while still being close to area attractions.

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By Bus
All major buses running east to west along the highway begin and end in Benque. The bus station is located at the bottom of the hill next to the Mopan River.

By Taxi
Regular taxi cooperatives run between Benque and San Ignacio. These “collective” taxis function like carpools and take 3 or 4 people who pay a reduced rate. They will stop anywhere between the towns to pick up or drop off people. Before you get in the taxi, ask if it is a taxi-cooperative and for the price. Prices are under US$2 per person between the towns. The price may be slightly higher depending on where your final destination is in town.

By Vehicle
The Western Highway comes through San Ignacio and becomes the “Benque Road”. From the exit of San Ignacio, it’s about 6 miles to Benque. Just after passing the scenic village of Succotz, situated on the Mopan River, there is a junction in the road with signs to the western border or straight ahead for town. The road to the western border becomes a boulevard with Benque Town on both sides of the road.

Getting Around
Benque is small enough that you can get around easily on foot, although there are some hills that can give people a workout. Taxis are also available, although due to the rough road conditions in town, prices start at US$3.

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Banks: There are no banks in Benque Viejo Town, but for a listing of banks in other area of the Cayo District, click here.

Post Office: The post office is located on the main street about ¼ mile up from the bus station.

Stores & Shops: Two sizeable grocery stores are located on the Boulevard on the way to the border. Other, smaller shops are located around the bus terminal.

Restaurants
The most popular restaurant and bar in town is Halo’s which has a large outdoor thatch area and an indoor bar area. The other restaurants in town are mostly Chinese.

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Benque House of Culture: Located at the former police station, the HOC promotes community participation in the arts and provide a venue for concerts and exhibitions.

Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church: From almost anywhere in town you can see this large church above the tree line. The Catholic mission in Benque is strong with a rich history of service to the community through establishing schools. The church is also well-known for their dramatic procession through the streets of the town on Good Friday during Holy Week.

Poustinia: One of the best kept secrets for art and nature lovers is the Poustinia Land-Sculpture Park. Just a few miles out of town on the Arenal Road, this park is an eco-sensitive, sculpture park showcasing the works of Belizean and international artists. See www.poustiniaonline.org for more information.

Stone Tree Records: It is worth noting that Stone Tree Records records and produces some of Belize’s most well-known music. Ivan Duran, the visionary behind the company works closely with thirteen musicians who range from legendary Parandero, Paul Nabor, Boom and Chine Master, Mr. Peters and Florencio Mess to younger aspiring musicians such as Mohobub and Griga Boyz.

Accommodations
Click here to find Toucan Trail accommodations in Benque

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The Cayo District is chock full of people from all walks of life. This section continues to grow and so as you meet people who are interesting, please drop us a line so we can include them in the listing!

Find a Tour Guide

Click here to find a Tour Guide for Benque.

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