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Benque Viejo del Carmen: A Hidden Treasure in the Cayo District, Belize

Benque Viejo del Carmen, commonly known as Benque, is a picturesque town located in the Cayo district, on the western border of Belize with Guatemala. With a rich history and vibrant culture, Benque is a tourist destination that offers a variety of unique experiences for visitors.

History and Culture

Benque was founded in the 19th century by mestizo refugees fleeing the Caste War in Yucatán, Mexico. The town is known for its strong cultural identity, which is reflected in its traditions, music, dance, and festivals. One of the most notable events is the Fiesta de la Cruz, a religious celebration that takes place in May and includes processions, traditional music, and folk dances.

Tourist Attractions

Benque is the gateway to several Mayan archaeological sites, including Xunantunich, one of the most important sites in Belize. Visitors can explore the ancient ruins, climb the El Castillo temple, and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

The town is also near the Noj Kaax Meen Elijio Panti National Park, which offers a variety of outdoor activities, such as hiking, bird watching, and cave exploration. The park is named after a famous Mayan healer and is home to diverse fauna and flora.

Cuisine

The cuisine in Benque is a mix of Mayan, mestizo, and Creole influences. Visitors can enjoy traditional dishes such as chaya tamalitos, turkey broth, and black stuffing, as well as a variety of fresh seafood and tropical fruits.

Accommodation and Transportation

Benque offers a variety of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to more economical lodgings. The town is also well connected by road and there are regular bus services to and from Belize City and other destinations in the Cayo district.

In summary, Benque Viejo del Carmen is a tourist destination full of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you're interested in Mayan archaeology, local cuisine, or exploring nature, Benque has something to offer all visitors.

Gastronomic Products of Benque Viejo del Carmen

• Mayan Food

  Benque Viejo del Carmen is known for its rich Mayan heritage, which is reflected in its cuisine. Traditional Mayan dishes include Pibil, which is pork or chicken marinated in achiote and orange juice, wrapped in banana leaves and cooked in an earth oven. Another popular dish is Tamalitos, which are small tamales made from corn dough and filled with meat, cheese or beans.

• Fresh Fruits and Vegetables

  The Cayo region is known for its agriculture, and Benque Viejo del Carmen is no exception. Local markets offer a wide variety of fresh fruits and vegetables, including bananas, mangoes, papayas, pineapples, guavas, yucca and many more. These fresh produce are used in many local dishes, providing fresh and vibrant flavors.

• Seafood

  Although Benque Viejo del Carmen is located inland, seafood is an important part of the local diet. Nearby rivers provide an abundance of fresh fish, which is used in a variety of dishes, from ceviches to soups and stews. Shrimp and lobsters are also popular, especially during the lobster season in the summer.

Places near Benque Viejo del Carmen

If you are in Benque Viejo del Carmen and wish to explore a bit more, here we present you with some nearby cities and towns that offer unique tourist and gastronomic experiences:

San Ignacio, a charming tourist destination in Belize, offers a rich blend of Mayan culture, jungle adventures and unique cuisine, with local dishes such as chicken tamale and black shell ceviche.

Xunantunich, in Belize, offers an immersion into the ancient Mayan civilization with its impressive ruins. Visitors can enjoy authentic Belizean cuisine, with local dishes such as tamales and panades, in nearby restaurants.