Lamanai
- Admission:Free
Meaning "submerged crocodile" in Yucatan Mayan, Lamanai is perhaps the most fascinating of all of Mayan sites in Belize if only because it is not yet completely uncovered. See history in the making as you visiting the excavation site, and prepare yourself for amazement when you realize that the hill you're looking at is actually a temple, still buried underground.
The temples you do get see, however, are equally incredible. Rising all the way from the jungle floor to above the canopy, study the amazing carvings and other examples of Mayan architecture in these astounding structures.
If you're feeling daring, venture to the top of El Castillo, one of the larger temples, by way of a narrow set of steps and a rope. The view of the jungle from the top is one-of-a-kind, and after climbing the 100ft (30m) to the top, it will be well worth it.
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Everything was great, especially the spider monkey, exotic bird and American crocodile sightings. Be sure and bring a pancho in the event that it rains. Seems like I was the only person prepared when it started raining pretty hard. Soon as it stopped everybody was soon blown dry by the speed of the boat and the heat of the outside temperature.
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A GREAT tour guide, and a wonderful trip. It was the 2nd time that I had been on that exact same trip. It was very well done.
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This trip is well organized by Discovery Expeditions. The river cruise is amazing. You see spider monkeys and lots of birds. The Mayan site is worth visiting, and the guide is knowledgeable.
Continue Reading »The easiest and most popular way to reach Lamanai is by the New River from Orange Walk, which is about 25mi (40km) north of the site. It is possible to reach it by road, but the road is difficult to navigate and bumpy, so it is advisable to join a tour group out of Orange Walk. The trip down the river is, in itself, an incredible excursion into the jungle, and passes many small villages along the way.
If you are seeing Belize by cruise ship, a stop in Lamanai is usually offered, so consult your tour package.
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