Altun Ha Tour

Altun Ha is a well-excavated site and was a wealthy ceremonial centre boasting two main plazas, thirteen structures (including the Temple of Sun God or the Temple of the Masonry Altars). From Belize City To Altun Ha, you’ll now head north on the old Northern Highway and then on the Old Northern Road to the Mayan ruins at Altun Ha. Located in the jungle and only about 15 of them over 500 mounds have been excavated. The others are still buried in the thick jungle. 

The city was settled around 200 BC as a major trading and religious center. Much of the restoration was done by an archaeologist Dr David Pendergast and some locals from 1967 to 1974.

In the Sun God Temple, they found the largest jade object to date, a carved jade head weighing 4.42 kgs. It is also housed in the Central Bank of Belize. You can follow the paths of the Mayans as you walk through the site. Hike up above the ruins where you’ll have a birds-eye view of where the wealthy families lived and worked. From here you’ll have a panoramic view of the lush jungle and yet to be uncovered ancient structures. Your guide will also point out and explain how some of the plants of the rainforest were harvested and used for medicinal purposes.

In 2014-2015 the site was renovated to better accommodate tourists with upgrades including a wheelchair accessible restroom and a visitor centre. After exploring the 2 plazas you’ll have a chance to purchase local handmade wood crafts. 

To complete your Altun Ha Tour experience, you’ll be treated to lunch from a local restaurant where you can try Belizean favourites of rice and beans cooked in coconut milk, chicken stew, fried plantains and coleslaw. Or a vegetarian option is available upon request.