Mayan Archaeological Sites
Travellers wishing to follow ‘La Ruta Maya’ ('the pathways into Mayan culture') will find some unspoilt and rarely visited Mayan ruins in and around Belize. Lamanai (Submerged Crocodile) is one of the largest Mayan centres and, as an archaeological reserve, also contains a museum, the remains of two 16th-century Spanish churches and a 19th-century sugar mill. The site is situated on the banks of the New River Lagoon in the North of Belize and accommodation is available in local guest houses and jungle lodges.
Altun Ha (Water of the Rock) has two main plazas, over 13 temples and a large jade head of the Sun God Ahau (one of the largest carved Mayan jade objects). Several tour operators run trips to the site, which is located near the Belize district and is inaccessible by public transport. Situated in the Chiquibul Rain Forest of the Cayo District, Caracol (Snail) is home to the tallest human-made structure in Belize; Canaa (Sky Place) Pyramid rises 43m (140ft) high. Although hard to get to during the rainy season, trips and the necessary entry permits can be organised with travel agents in Belize.
Cerros (Maya Hills) lies on a peninsula overlooking Corozal Bay and consists of three large acropolises dominated by pyramid structures. The impressive ruins of Xunantunich (Stone Woman) include six plazas, 25 temples and palaces, and the 43m- (130 ft-) high ‘El Castillo’ (The Castle). To access the site requires taking a bus 8 miles west of San Ignacio town and a ferry over the Mopan River, before walking a further 1.6km (1 mile) to the grounds. It is advisable to book the trip through a travel operator or company. For further details, contact the Belize Tourist Board (see Contact Addresses section).
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