Belize

Approximately an hour’s drive from Belize City are the fascinating Mayan ruins of Altun Ha. Three plazas and 13 structures mark the epicentre of this significant ceremonial site, known as the Maya of Mesoamerica. Altun Ha was said to have been a key trade and religious centre in the ancient world, believed to have accommodated about 10,000 people.

The most extensively excavated of all the Mayan sites in Belize, Altun Ha is located just 7 miles from the sea and surrounded by primary broadleaf rainforest. Visit the incredible temples and tombs where many interesting and unique artifacts have been uncovered. Possibly the most famous of all Altun Ha’s finds was a 9½ pound jade head of the Sun God, Kinich Ahau, found in the tomb of a royal priest within the main temple.

Stone steps allow you to climb to the top of three of the main temples, where these ancient vantage points afford magnificent views over the surrounding forests and Mayan plazas.

Following your visit to Altun Ha, you’ll return to Belize for an overview of the city.

The Mayan ceremonial centre of Xunantunich, meaning ‘stone woman’, is spectacularly perched on a natural limestone ridge, providing a panoramic view of the hilly Cayo district. Situated just 2 miles from the Guatemalan border, the site has been at the centre of archaeological interest for over 100 years. After a coach drive you’ll reach the site via a short ferry journey across the Mopan River.

The largest temple on the site, El Castillo, which is excavated and partially restored, is fascinating due to the band of stucco decoration which at one time extended around the whole temple. Three of the carved stelae found on the site are exhibited for you to see, as well as 3 plazas and a partially excavated ball court. A museum has been built on site at the entrance of the centre, providing an introductory history and display of the ruins.

After your visit, enjoy lunch amidst the tropical fruit trees of the Cayo District, followed by some time for shopping before returning to Belize City.

Over one hundred species of wildlife, all indigenous to Belize, have found a perfect home at the Belize Zoo and Tropical Education Centre. Established in 1983, the goal of the Centre was to provide a home for a collection of wild animals which had been used in making documentary films about tropical forests.

Today, the Zoo keeps animals which were either orphaned, born at the Zoo or have been rehabilitated. The Centre aims to bring the people of Belize close to the animals that they share their country with, in the hope that they will then protect these special resources for future generations. The magnificent mammals include Jaguars, Margay and Oceleot, as well as birds such as Toucans, King Vultures and Harpy Eagles. You will also find Iguanas, Crocodiles, Boa Constrictors and Coral Snake. After a guided tour around the Zoo, there will be time to visit the souvenir gift shop.

Your return drive to Belize city will include a tour of its interesting highlights.

Belize City is the grand lady of the colonial era of Belize, referred to by Belizeans simply as ‘Belize’. Situated at the mouth of the Belize River, the city has access to rivers, the ocean and the major roads of Belize. Today Belize City is the county’s biggest urban enclave and port of entry, with nearly all journeys of Belize beginning and ending here. With no high-rises, and only three traffic lights, the city is criss-crossed with narrow streets and lined with a mixture of old, wooden colonial homes, combined with modern cement structures.

Though perched on the edge of the Caribbean, Belize City is a contrast to its neighbours, which makes it all the more exciting to explore. With an antiquated feel, the city is alive with culture and aspiration, and your tour will delve into the contrasts hidden within the city.

The many landmarks include the 200 year-old cathedral where several Mosquito Coast Kings were crowned and the famous Baron Bliss Lighthouse, marking the grave of the Baron who left a great deal of his fortune to Belize.

Enjoy the cool ocean breeze on your open-air trolley tour, as your experienced guide details the rich history and cultural diversity of this former British settlement. You will travel through contrasting districts, from the affluent residential homes in King’s Park and the Governor’s Mansion to the working class neighbourhoods brimming with daily life.

See the first Anglican Church built in Central America and the oldest building in Belize, St John’s Cathedral, which was constructed by slaves in 1812 using the ballast bricks from merchant ships.

As you travel along Regent Street in the hub of the old commercial district you’ll feel like you have stepped back in time. Built for horse and buggy, the narrow streets are lined with quaint shops and small boutique hotels. Here you will see fine examples of restored colonial architecture, showing a delightful blend of old and new.

No tour of Belize City is complete without a trip over the Swing Bridge, said to be the only manually operated bridge still in use today. After crossing the bridge, your tour will end back at the Tourism Village.