8 hours
Daily Tour
Unlimited
English, Espanol
Discover Ancient Maya Wonders: Unforgettable Lamanai Tour!
Embark on an extraordinary journey through time and nature as you explore the enigmatic ruins of Lamanai, one of Belize’s most captivating archaeological sites nestled deep within the lush New River Lagoon’s verdant jungle embrace, where towering pyramids and intricately carved stone masks stand as silent sentinels to a civilization lost to the mists of history yet still whispering tales of grandeur and mystery to those who venture into this ancient realm.
Your adventure begins with a thrilling boat ride along the sinuous New River, its tranquil waters teeming with diverse wildlife from playful spider monkeys swinging through overhanging branches to majestic jabiru storks standing sentinel-like amid the reeds, as your experienced guide regales you with fascinating facts about the flora and fauna that call this vibrant ecosystem home.
As you glide through the serpentine waterways, keep your eyes peeled for glimpses of elusive crocodiles basking on sun-drenched banks, their prehistoric forms a reminder of the timeless nature of this untamed wilderness that has remained largely unchanged since the days when Maya traders plied these very waters in dugout canoes laden with precious cargoes of jade, obsidian, and cacao.
Upon reaching the archaeological site, prepare to be awestruck by the magnificent Mask Temple, its weathered stone face still exuding an air of ancient power, the imposing High Temple offering panoramic views of the surrounding jungle canopy, and the hauntingly beautiful Jaguar Temple, each structure a testament to the architectural prowess and spiritual beliefs of the Maya who once thrived in this remote corner of the world.
As you traverse the sprawling complex, keep your ears attuned to the ethereal howls of troops of howler monkeys echoing through the forest, their primal calls transporting you back to a time when Lamanai stood as a beacon of Maya civilization, its influence spanning over 3,000 years of continuous occupation and leaving an indelible mark on the landscape that continues to captivate and inspire visitors from across the globe. Your knowledgeable guide will unravel the secrets of the site, sharing insights into the daily lives of the ancient inhabitants, their complex cosmology, and the intricate hieroglyphic inscriptions that adorn many of the structures, offering tantalizing glimpses into a world both familiar and utterly alien to our modern sensibilities.
As you ascend the steep steps of the High Temple, feel the weight of history beneath your feet and marvel at the engineering feat that allowed the Maya to construct such monumental edifices without the aid of metal tools or the wheel, their hands and minds guided by a deep understanding of mathematics, astronomy, and the rhythms of the natural world.
From the temple’s lofty summit, gaze out over the vast expanse of emerald jungle stretching to the horizon, punctuated by the silvery ribbon of the New River, and imagine the bustling city that once sprawled before you, its streets and plazas alive with the vibrant tapestry of Maya life, from merchants hawking their wares to priests conducting elaborate ceremonies to ensure the favor of the capricious gods who held sway over every aspect of existence in this ancient world.
Descending from the heights, explore the nooks and crannies of the site, where every weathered stone holds the potential to reveal new insights into the lives of those who came before, from humble potsherds that speak of daily rituals to exquisitely crafted jade ornaments that once adorned the most elite members of society.
As the day progresses, take time to reflect on the enduring legacy of the Maya, whose achievements in art, architecture, astronomy, and mathematics continue to astound and inspire us millennia after their cities fell silent, their knowledge and traditions carried forward by their descendants who still inhabit the lands of their ancestors, keeping alive the flickering flame of an ancient wisdom that has much to teach our modern world about living in harmony with the natural environment and the cyclical nature of time itself.
As your tour draws to a close, savor a traditional Belizean lunch amidst the timeless beauty of Lamanai, the flavors of local cuisine mingling with the heady scent of tropical flowers and the distant calls of toucans and parrots, creating a sensory tapestry that will linger in your memory long after you’ve returned to the bustle of modern life.
With hearts full of wonder and minds expanded by the day’s experiences, board your boat for the return journey, the setting sun casting a golden glow over the lagoon and bathing the jungle in an ethereal light that seems to blur the boundaries between past and present, reality and dream, leaving you with a profound sense of connection to the timeless rhythms of nature and the enduring spirit of human creativity and resilience that finds its ultimate expression in the magnificent ruins of Lamanai.
8:00 AM – Pickup from Belize City
Start your day with a convenient pickup from your hotel, Airbnb, water taxi terminal, or the municipal airstrip. From here we take a short 1 hour drive to our boat in Orange Walk Town
9:00 AM – Scenic River Boat Ride
Board a comfortable boat for a scenic ride up the New River. Enjoy the lush landscapes and keep an eye out for local wildlife, including crocodiles, birds, and monkeys.
10:00 AM – Arrival at Lamanai Archaeological Site
Arrive at the Lamanai site, where you’ll be greeted by the towering temples and structures hidden in the jungle. Your expert guide will lead you through the ancient city, sharing fascinating stories and insights about the Maya civilization.
12:30 PM – Lunch Break
Enjoy a delicious Belizean lunch provided by your tour. This is a great time to relax and take in the beautiful surroundings.
1:30 PM – Explore More of Lamanai
Continue exploring the site, visiting highlights such as the Jaguar Temple, High Temple, and the Mask Temple. Climb to the top of the temples for breathtaking views of the surrounding jungle and lagoon.
3:00 PM – Return Journey
Begin your return journey with another scenic boat ride back down the New River to our original start point in Orange Walk from here we travel by road back to Belize City. Some guests who depart a hotel or airbnb in Belize City will want to be dropped at the water taxi or municipal airstrip at tours end, please advise us after booking.
4:00 PM – Arrive Back in Belize City
Conclude your adventure with a drop-off at your original pickup location.
Round-trip transportation from Belize City
Scenic river boat ride to Lamanai
Guided tour of Lamanai archaeological site
Lunch and refreshments
Entrance fees to Lamanai
Comfortable walking shoes
Lightweight clothing suitable for warm weather
Hat and sunglasses
Sunscreen and insect repellent
Refillable water bottle
Camera or smartphone for photos
Extra cash for souvenirs or additional snacks
Water Taxi Terminals: 7:45 AM
Hotels in Belize City: 7:45 AM
Airbnbs in Belize City: 7:45 AM
Municipal Airstrip: 7:45 AM
Price per Adult: $139
Price per Child (5-12 years): $99
Children under 3: Free
Group Capacity: minimum of 2 to any size
A combination of cultural, historical, and natural experiences
Moderate physical activity, including walking and climbing
Opportunity to see and photograph exotic wildlife
Educational insights from a knowledgeable guide
Confirmation: You will receive confirmation of your booking via email within minutes of reservation.
Guest Information Needed: Please provide the names, ages, and any dietary restrictions of all guests in your party.
Service Animals: Service animals are allowed, but please notify us in advance.
Wheelchairs: The tour involves uneven terrain and climbing; it may not be suitable for guests with mobility issues. Please contact us to discuss accommodations.
Weather Considerations: The tour operates rain or shine, but in case of severe weather, we may reschedule or offer a refund.
Guests coming from San Pedro, Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker are responsible for their water taxi or flight to Belize City.
Experience the wonder of the Lamanai Tour with Belize Fun Tours, where adventure and history come to life!
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Member Since 2022
Fabulous, interesting, learned so much!