Lamanai is one of the largest and longest-occupied Maya sites in Belize, and the journey is half the attraction. The ruins stand on the western shore of the New River Lagoon in northern Belize, and many tours reach them by a boat ride of around an hour and a half down the New River, spotting herons, kingfishers, bats and crocodiles on the way. The site's name is usually translated as submerged crocodile, and the place was occupied for roughly three thousand years, from the Preclassic to Spanish colonial times. Highlights include the High Temple, which rises about thirty metres above the canopy, the Mask Temple with its giant carved face and the jaguar temple. Howler monkeys roar in the trees above the plazas, and guides tell stories that bring the stones to life. The tour we link runs from Belize City with lunch included.
Lamanai has a long and unusual history. The Maya continued to live here after many other cities were abandoned, and ruins of a Spanish mission church and a nineteenth-century sugar mill sit beside the ancient plazas. The site is spread through jungle, with paths leading from temple to temple, so a guided visit helps you find the best structures and learn what they meant. A small museum near the entrance displays pottery and carved artefacts found on site, which adds helpful context before you walk the plazas.
A good Lamanai trip is long but rewarding. Expect an early pickup, a drive of around an hour and a half to Orange Walk or Tower Hill, a river cruise, a guided tour, lunch and the return drive, so the day typically runs eight to ten hours. Wear sturdy shoes and light clothing, and bring repellent, sunscreen, water and a hat. Climbing the High Temple is optional and strenuous in heat but offers the best panorama in northern Belize. Mornings are the best time for wildlife on the river.
If you have time for only one large Maya site in Belize, choose between Lamanai in the north, with its boat ride and wildlife, and Xunantunich in Cayo, which is more compact and easier to combine with caves. Lamanai suits travellers who want jungle atmosphere as much as archaeology. It works well from Belize City, and day trips are also possible from the cayes with a flight or boat, though they make a very long day.
What to expect
The experience
A guided day trip combining a river cruise down the New River with a walk through the plazas and temples of a jungle Maya city.
Best time
Dry season, roughly February to May, for comfortable walking, with mornings best for wildlife on the river.
How long
Eight to ten hours from Belize City, including the drive, river cruise and lunch.
Tips
Wear sturdy shoes and light clothing, bring repellent, water and sunscreen, and take the High Temple steps slowly.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Travellers who want archaeology and wildlife together, and do not mind a long day.
- Families
- Good for older children, with the boat ride a highlight; the day is long for small ones.
- Couples
- A relaxed exploration of jungle ruins, with an atmospheric river ride.
- Pair with
- Xunantunich on another day, or Belize City sights on the return.
- Time needed
- A full day from Belize City.
Good questions
How do you get to Lamanai?+
Most tours drive from Belize City to Orange Walk or Tower Hill, then take a river boat down the New River. The boat ride is about an hour and a half each way on many itineraries.
Can I climb the temples?+
Yes, visitors can climb the High Temple, the highest structure at the site, though the steps are steep. Follow your guide's advice and avoid the climb in wet conditions.
What wildlife will I see?+
Expect birds, bats, crocodiles on the river and howler monkeys in the trees at the site. A guide helps spot them.
Is Lamanai a good day trip from San Pedro?+
It is possible with a flight or boat to Belize City and a transfer, but the day is very long. It is easier from Belize City.
Is lunch included?+
On the tour we link, lunch is included. Always confirm inclusions and any entrance fees before you book.
