Hickatee Cottages is a 60 acre nature property close to Punta Gorda Town in Belize. Our philosophy is one of minimal impact to the environment, and maximum benefit to our adopted community. We are committed to providing guests with a sustainable, quality product that protects the environment and conserves natural resources, while promoting and protecting the local culture and economy. We reduce, re-use, and re-cycle wherever and whatever possible, and care deeply about our adopted homeland.

Environment:

We have re-developed only a small portion of our land to ensure wildlife corridors remain. We allow no logging, hunting, or fishing, and actively campaign against any irresponsible and illegal logging, illegal dumping of waste, or any other environmental damage.

We use virtually no chemicals and compost all organic matter. We provide the use of free bikes for our guests and encourage people to not remove any items from their natural home.

Local Community and Culture: 

We are committed to raising awareness and telling our guests about the district’s local cultures, including the promotion of cultural events to preserve the rich heritages.

We are committed to local purchasing, and all our daily purchases are within 3 miles of Hickatee Cottages.

Resources:

Renewable energy is an important part of our philosophy, and we strive to reduce our use of non-renewable energy, with the bulk of power provided by solar panels and a battery system.

Water supply is vast, so along with our 20,000 liters of stored, filtered rainwater cisterns, we have a 100 foot well which supplies 10- gallons of water each minute during the dry season. 

Conservation & Community Highlights:

1. Partner with the largest butterfly export company in Belize to further promote conservation of the rainforest
2. Partner with local artisans to promote and sell their craft products to ensure a sustainable living
3. Partner with non-profit organizations, government officials and private entities on youth in Belize, specifically school funding projects for building needs and school supply needs
4. Partner with local NGOs on protecting the critically endangered Hicatee Turtle

Future Aims:

1. New partnership and grant opportunities for nature and rainforest preservation
2. Support local community artisans and procurement of their handmade products
3. Collaborate with international sponsors on youth programs for success, including but not limited to laptop sponsorships, school cafeteria rehabs, youth outreach programs, etc.
4. Networking with NGOs and other private landowners on rainforest/jungle conservation initiatives for flora and fauna
5. Promotion of eco-friendly accommodations and connections with local cultures and communities

Images provided.