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Belize Maya Temple Tour

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Santa Rita - The Birthplace of Modern Belize

Price

Price varies by location - Can be done during a transfer.

Difficulty / Requirement

Easy - Walking and Climbing

What's included

Guide, Entrance Fee, Round Trip Transportation, Lunch, and Water. (Full day tour).

What to bring

Bug spray, Hat and Sunglasses.

Santa Rita

Located near Corozal Town, Santa Rita is a fascinating Maya archaeological site that offers a glimpse into the rich history of the northern Belize region. Once a thriving trade and political center, Santa Rita played a key role in connecting the Maya civilization with other Mesoamerican cultures. Unlike the grand pyramids of Caracol or Xunantunich, Santa Rita is smaller but historically significant, as it is believed to be the ancient city of Chetumal, the capital of the region during the Postclassic period.

Today, Santa Rita is one of the most accessible Maya sites in Belize, making it an excellent historical stop for visitors exploring Corozal and the northern districts.

Things to Do at Santa Rita

Explore the Ancient Structures: Santa Rita features ceremonial temples, altars, and residential buildings, giving visitors an insight into Maya daily life, politics, and religion.
See the Well-Preserved Murals and Artifacts: Archaeologists have uncovered beautiful painted murals and intricate jade artifacts, including the famous jade mask of the Maya Sun God, Kinich Ahau.
Learn About the Maya Royal Wedding Tradition: Santa Rita is believed to be the site where a royal Maya princess married a Spanish conquistador, marking the first recorded intermarriage between the Maya and the Spanish in Belizean history.
Enjoy the Views of Corozal Bay: Santa Rita’s elevated structures provide stunning views of Corozal Town and the Caribbean Sea, making it a great spot for photography and relaxation.

The Journey to Santa Rita

Santa Rita is conveniently located just outside Corozal Town, making it one of the most accessible Maya sites in Belize. The Journey From Belize City to Santa Rita would be Approximately 1.5 to 2 hours with our shuttle, following the Northern Highway.

History of Santa Rita

Santa Rita dates back to the Preclassic Period (around 1200 BC) but reached its peak during the Postclassic Period (1000–1500 AD). It was one of the last major Maya cities to thrive before the Spanish arrival.

The city played a crucial role in trade and cultural exchange, connecting the Maya with Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula and Central America. It was a center for jade craftsmanship, cacao production, and maritime trade, with goods moving between Belize, Guatemala, and Mexico.

During the Spanish conquest, Santa Rita was one of the final strongholds of the Maya resistance, but it was eventually abandoned as European influence grew in the region. Today, much of modern-day Corozal Town is built over the ancient ruins of Santa Rita.

Location to your destination

Nearby Temples and Attractions

If you’re visiting Santa Rita, there are several other attractions nearby worth exploring:

(Click on them to learn more)

Cerros: Located across Corozal Bay, Cerros is a stunning waterfront Maya site featuring temples and pyramids with breathtaking views of the sea.

Corozal Town: A charming town with a mix of Maya, Mestizo, and Caribbean cultures, offering local markets, seaside parks, and delicious Belizean food.

Chetumal, Mexico: Just across the border, the Mexican city of Chetumal is home to museums, shopping centers, and Maya heritage sites, making it an easy day trip.

Testimonials

Good Service, Happy Clients!

Nelson Maya Adventures ( shuttles and tours)

4.8

Based on 58 reviews

review us on

MoeNight 21

2 months ago

I had a great experience with them. Highly recommended

Hossein Siadat

3 months ago

We got shuttle service from Belize airport to Guatemala and back to Belize airport. Extremely happy with the service, all of the drivers were friendly and kind. The service was exceptional. Jasmin was the coordinator and she was awsome and helpful.
If you get the service with them you will love it.

Shawnya Arthur

12 months ago

The best tour ever. From all the assistance Yasmin provided at booking to the actual activities top tier. We enjoyed the Mayan Ruins, ATV & Cave tubing. Our guide was a wealth of information regarding the Mayan Culture and Belizean culture. Warm, friendly and professional company.

Grant Welsh

12 months ago

We arranged multiple pickups and drop offs as well as a trip into Mexico to see Chichen Itza during a weeklong visit to Belize. The drivers were very good, on time and helpful. When in Belize there was constant communication and updates regarding our times etc. and our goals were met and our trip was great. Thanks to everyone at Nelson Maya Adventures for a great vacation.

PMA Wave

1 year ago

Private Transfer from Belize City (Water Taxi Terminal) to Belmopan

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Our private transfer from Belize City to Belmopan was absolutely smooth and comfortable. Upon arrival at the Water Taxi Terminal, we were warmly greeted.

The vehicle was clean, air-conditioned and very comfortable—an excellent relief after the boat ride. Our driver was not only punctual but also extremely friendly and knowledgeable. He shared interesting insights about Belize, its culture.

The ride itself was relaxed and safe. The driver maintained a smooth pace and drove very professionally, making us feel secure at all times.

Overall, this was the perfect choice for anyone looking for a hassle-free and comfortable transfer from Belize City to Belmopan. I highly recommend this service and would use it again without hesitation!

Jeriva Traylor

2 years ago

We went on the Lamanai tour and had an amazing experience! Our driver, Anthony, met us at the ferry and took us to the boat landing. There we boarded our boat and took the river to Lamanai. Our boat captain and tour guide, Brenda, was incredible. Her knowledge about the river, her community, and the Lamanai ruins made our tour so enjoyable. She was able to answer questions and provide us with a deeply enriching experience. After a delicious lunch (stewed chicken, rice and beans, coleslaw, and chips and pico de gallo) and some time at the museum and gift shops, we headed back to the boat landing where our driver awaited to take us back the the ferry. All in all, excellent day!

Ryan Wright

3 years ago

By far one of the best tour companies in Belize , we opted to book with them not only the AMT caving tour but also the shuttles from bc to San ignassio then San ignassio to Hopkins and then back to BC. We tried other shuttles but came up short either over charging or had sub par vehicle. Nelson maya had safe vehicals and Chris our driver drove very safe.

The staff where always amazing and Jasmine who booked everything was always checking in the night before to let us know we where booked the next day

The ATM cave tour is a must do if you come to Belize and are a adventurous person. I work as a firefighter professionally and on the tour I saw the tour guide was very experienced. He knew how to manage people even when they where either scared or nervous about some of the situations in the cave.

Highly recommend

Belize Maya Temple Tour