Altun Ha
Out of all of the Mayan sites in Belize, Altun Ha is the most easily accessible from Belize City. This site was once a major trading center, as indicated by the discoveries of jade, jewelry, pottery, and elaborate sculptures. Just 30 miles (50 km) north of Belize City, Altun Ha is a popular day trip for both cruise ship passengers and independent travelers.
Major construction at Altun Ha occurred between 100 A.D. to 900 A.D. At the height of its occupation, it is believed that up to 10,000 Mayan lived in the area around the site. Archeologists believe that the Maya living here traveled with their goods up and down the nearby Belize River in canoes, in order to make trading deals with nearby communities.
This site was also a center of religious activity. Altun Ha has 8 large temples and palaces. The main attraction is the 54-foot (16-meter) tall Temple of the Masonry Altars. Visitors are allowed to climb to the top of this pyramid, where they will find a large, round altar. This altar is believed to have served as the epicenter of religious ceremonies. Several tombs have also been discovered inside the temples, with remains that are believed to belong to Altun Ha’s high priests.
After exploring the ruins, you have the opportunity to purchase locally made handicrafts and art from the vendors located near the site entrance.
While close to Belize City, the road to Altun Ha includes a 10-mile drive on a gravel and dirt road that is full of potholes. Large tour buses also drive on this road, so take care when you turn corners on this road. It is also recommended that visitors carry bug spray.
Altun Ha itineraries from local insiders
Explore hand-picked Altun Ha itineraries designed by local insiders who know every hidden corner. Each trip is completely flexible, customized to your pace, travel style, and budget.
A Tropical Treat for the Family
Fun in the sun and epic adventures combine to create the perfect family getaway when you choose this Signature Trip to beautiful Belize.
Belize
A Thrill Seeker's Trip to Belize
Take yourself on a grand adventure through Belize. Enjoy both beaches and jungles. Go snorkeling, zip lining, horseback riding, caving/spelunking, and more.
Belize
Experiences in Altun Ha
Explore hand-picked Altun Ha tours and experiences led by local insiders, from wildlife encounters to cultural deep-dives.
Ambergris Caye
Altun Ha Maya Ruin Adventure - By Plane
Tour
Where to stay in Altun Ha
From boutique lodges to luxury resorts, every Altun Ha accommodation is hand-picked by our local insiders for location, comfort, and character.
Caye Caulker Plaza Hotel
Caye Caulker Plaza Hotel has 30 comfortable rooms. It is located walking distance from Caye Caulker’s restaurants, bars, and gift shops, as well as popular spots for swimming and socializing on the Caribbean shore.
Lamanai Outpost Lodge
In the middle of the jungle, this beautiful and authentic lodge in the ancient Maya city of Lamanai offers both adventure and peaceful nature.
Iguana Reef Inn
This resort is located on Caye Caulker, one of Belize’s low-key Caribbean Islands. This hotel makes guests feel at home with its an elegant interpretation of Caribbean style.
Flora & fauna in Altun Ha
The wildlife and plant life you might encounter in Altun Ha, from iconic species to the rare finds our local insiders know where to look for.
Insider-led Belize Design & Concierge
Your insider team designs the trip around what you care about, then supports you in-country with private logistics, vetted partners, and concierge help when plans change.
