Ancient Tour of the Maya: Lamanai River Tour

Discover the wonders of Lamanai, meaning “submerged crocodile” in the Maya language, one of Belize’s largest and most captivating ancient ceremonial centers. Nestled along the stunning banks of the 30-mile-long New River Lagoon in the Orange Walk District, this site offers a unique blend of nature and history. 

Your adventure begins with a comfortable private van ride from Belize City to Orange Walk, covering approximately fifty miles of scenic landscapes. Once you arrive, you’ll board a boat and receive an informative briefing on the day’s itinerary.

As you glide along the New River, keep your eyes peeled for charming villages, including a quaint Amish community that has flourished since 1958. You’ll be captivated by the diverse wildlife, from colorful birds to playful monkeys, alongside turtles and crocs indigenous to the vibrant ecosystems of Belize. 

When you reach the Lamanai Lagoon, you will step ashore and embark on a short, engaging hike to the ancient Mayan city of Lamanai, a remarkable site that thrived even when the Spanish first arrived in the New World. 

Surrounded by a lush rainforest, the city’s impressive temples offer a stunning backdrop to your exploration. Guided by an expert, you’ll delve into the rich history of Lamanai, which features eight major plazas, including a ball court with the largest known court marker and a breathtaking 108-foot-tall pyramid, one of the largest structures from the Preclassic era. 

Marvel at the well-preserved mask of a Mayan ruler emerging from a crocodile headdress and an intricately carved stela depicting “Lord Smoking Shell.” You’ll also encounter the remnants of a Christian Indian church, revealing how the Spaniards erected the first church atop a Mayan temple in 1544. With an extraordinary continuous occupation that spanned over 3,000 years, from 1500 B.C. to A.D. 1675, Lamanai is truly a window into ancient civilization. 

After an enriching exploration, you’ll return to the starting point for a delicious and authentic Belizean lunch. To cap off your exciting day, visit the onsite museum before enjoying a relaxing and scenic boat ride back to the Lamanai outpost, where your van will be ready to take you back to Belize City. Experience the magic of Lamanai—it’s an unforgettable journey into history and nature

There is a 1 hour drive to the site where you will catch the boat and head up the river for another hour before reaching the archaeological site.Comfortable clothing and closed-toe-shoes.Sunscreen and insect repellent sunglasses and a hat recommended