Archeological Sites in Belize

Belize

Ancient Mayans once thrived throughout Belize, and today you can explore the ruins of these wonderous civilizations at archeological sites. There are a number of sites to visit and all kinds of structures to see, including palaces, temples, and ball courts. There are ceremonial centers dating back thousands of years and reservoirs that display an advanced knowledge of engineering. Touring these archeological sites will provide travelers with a close-up look at one of Belize's oldest cultures.

Archeological Sites in Belize
Destinations

Belize Highlights

A curated look at the best Belize has to offer. These are the destinations that consistently stand out — places with real character, great experiences, and something worth going out of your way for.

Xunantunich

Xunantunich

Home to the second largest Mayan pyramid in Belize, Xunantunich is one of the most impressive Mayan sites in Belize. The site is composed of three major ceremonial plazas surrounded by numerous temples, palaces, and house mounds. Xunantunich is located 8 miles (13 km) southwest of San Ignacio on the Western Highway.

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Cahal Pech Ruins

Cahal Pech Ruins

Less than a 10-minute drive or a 25-minute uphill walk from the town of San Ignacio, the 2-acre Mayan ruin site called Cahal Pech makes for pleasant morning or afternoon trip.

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Altun Ha

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.

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Actun Tunichil Muknal

Actun Tunichil Muknal

Actun Tunichil Muknal is a cave that the Mayans used for ceremonial purposes, dating back to around 900 AD. According to Maya lore, Actun Tunichil Muknal (known locally as “ATM”) connects the world of the living to Xibalba, the Maya underworld. This cave served as the site of human sacrifice – archeologists have uncovered the remains of 6 children and several adults inside the cave. Historians speculate that the Maya intended these sacrifices to appease the gods of the underworld.

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Caracol Ruins

Caracol Ruins

When you visit the Caracol ruins, you’ll get to see over 30 structures built by the Mayans, including the tower of Caana, the tallest structure in all of Belize. To reach Caracol, you’ll visit the Chiquibul Forest Reserve in western Belize, at the foothills of the Maya mountains.

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Trips to inspire

Featured Belize Trips

Browse our handpicked selection of Belize itineraries, each crafted by local experts who know the country inside out. Whether you're after adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, we have a trip tailored for you.

8 days | $$$

Island Relaxation Vacation

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Island Relaxation Vacation
12 days | $$$

A Laid-Back Belize Vacation

If you're planning a trip, consider Belize! From nature-filled jungle excursions to relaxing beaches, it has something for everyone.

A Laid-Back Belize Vacation
10 days | $$

Jungle Wildlife Adventures

Had such a great time! Everything was so smooth and easy.

Jungle Wildlife Adventures
15 days | $

Beaches to Mayan Ruins

I would recommend Anywhere.com. We've used their services twice, in Costa Rica and Belize. For the second trip, Belize, we did feel we had to communicate more often to get the trip sorted out, but in the end, Anywhere totally came through for us. Every connection was smooth, every accommodation well-represented, and every tour well worth the trip.

Beaches to Mayan Ruins
7 days | $$$

An Above & Beyond Birthday

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An Above & Beyond Birthday
20 days | $$$

We Traveled All Over Belize

Belize seems to take sustainability quite seriously. For the most part it is a very clean country.

We Traveled All Over Belize
6 days | $

An Unforgettable Belize Honeymoon

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An Unforgettable Belize Honeymoon
12 days | $$$

Mother and Son's Belize Adventure

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Mother and Son's Belize Adventure
9 days | $$$

We had an UnBelizable Time

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We had an UnBelizable Time
9 days | $$$

A Grand Family Anniversary Trip

Belize is beautiful and completely exceeded our expectations. This special 50th wedding anniversary celebration trip for the 10 of us went flawlessly, and we all couldn’t wait to come back!

A Grand Family Anniversary Trip
6 days | $$$

A Private Getaway in Paradise

Treat yourself to an adventure in paradise with this amazing solo trip. From snorkeling with sharks and rays to supporting a jaguar preserve, this vacation has it all.

A Private Getaway in Paradise
6 days | $$$

Belize for Two - Me & You

Whether this getaway is a honeymoon, anniversary, or simply a getaway for two, romance and adventure are waiting for you on the soft sunny beaches and emerald jungles of Belize.

Belize for Two - Me & You
6 days | $$$

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.

A Tropical Treat for the Family
10 days | $$$

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.

A Thrill Seeker's Trip to Belize
9 days | $$$

Caves, Snorkeling, and Sunset Sails

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 Caves, Snorkeling, and Sunset Sails
Anywhere Belize

More Archeological Sites in Belize

There's always more to discover in Belize. From off-the-beaten-path gems to well-loved classics, these destinations are worth adding to your itinerary.

Lamanai

Lamanai is an extensive and diverse Mayan site set deep in the jungle along the banks of the New River Lagoon. One of the longest-occupied Mayan sites in Belize, Lamanai served as home to up to 35,000 Maya from 500 B.C., up until the beginning of the Spanish colonial period in the 17th century.

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Nim Li Punit Ruins

The Mayan site of Nim Li Punit is easily accessible from the Southern Highway and sits on a ridge 220 feet (67 m) above sea level. On a clear day, the Caribbean Sea is visible from the site. A series of plazas and platforms are built into the hillside.

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