Excursion Altun ha mayan ruins tour at Belize City

Explore an ancient Mayan civilisation dating from 200 B.C. during this captivating, half-day excursion to the Xunantunich Mayan Ruins.

Belize City, Orientation Drive, British-Colonial and Modern Buildings, Countryside Villages

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately one-hour drive to Altun Ha. En route, embrace the Caribbean charm of Belize City during an orientation drive through its picturesque streets. See and learn about the business, historic and cultural aspects of Belizean life, beautiful landmarks, and old British-Colonial buildings mixed with modern architecture. Leaving the city, ride along the Phillip Goldson Highway and pass by several quaint, countryside villages before reaching the Altun Ha Mayan Ruins. Located only seven miles (about 11.2 kilometres) from the sea and surrounded by a primary broadleaf rainforest ruins, Altun Ha spans approximately five square miles (about 13 square kilometres).

Altun Ha Mayan Ruins, Jade Head of the Sun God Kinich Ahau, Temple of the Masonry Altars

Archaeologists believe that Altun Ha dates from 200 B.C. Three plazas and 13 structures mark the epicentre of this very important ceremonial site and trade centre of the ancient Mayan civilization. However, Altun Ha did not come to the attention of archaeologists until 1963, when pilot and amateur Mayanist Hal Ball noticed the existence of this ancient site from the air. In 1965, Altun Ha captured worldwide attention when Professor David Pendergast of the Royal Ontario Museum discovered the almost ten-pound jade head of the Sun God Kinich Ahau in the tomb of a Royal Priest, located within the Temple of the Masonry Altars. The jade head is considered one of Belize's national treasures.

Walk to the Top of a Temple, Altun Ha Museum, Artisan Village, Shopping, Lunch, Marimba Music

Upon arrival at Altun Ha, take a guided walking tour. Along the way, see the largest of the pyramids, the Temple of Masonry Altars, which rises 54 feet (about 16.4 metres) above the ground. During your tour, you are invited to climb the stone steps to the top of one of the three main temples on the site (weather permitting). From this vantage point, enjoy spectacular panoramic views and photo opportunities of the surrounding countryside. Other highlights of your visit here include the Altun Ha Museum, which displays evidence of ceremonial practices and items traded with the Yucatan, and an opportunity to browse the items for sale at the artisan village located onsite. Following your visit, re-board your coach and commence the approximately one-hour drive back to the pier.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Belize City Tour, Countryside Villages, Altun Ha Ruins, Museum, Artisan Village, Jade Head, Temple of the Masonry Altars, Walk to the Top of a Temple

Note

Please note: This tour involves walking for approximately one mile (about 1.6 kilometres), at times grassy, and natural surfaces and hills, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach and 75 steps at the sites visited. This tour is not suitable for pregnant guests, guests with back and/or neck problems, guests with heart and/or respiratory conditions. Guests with limited mobility, and guests who utilise a wheelchair can participate on this excursion as the terrain is flat. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking or sport shoes, and bring sun protection, insect repellent and cash for purchases from the ship; sandals and high heels are prohibited. Videography, tripods and drones are not permitted at the Mayan site. A signed waiver is required to participate on this tour. The tour sequence may vary.