What is the Best Way to Experience Lamanai?
For national monuments (such as Lamanai), the Belize Government requires that you be accompanied by a licensed-trained tour guide. This is not only for your safety, but the governments way of protecting their historical monuments. Start with Jaguar Temple, move onto Mask Temple and save the High Temple for last (since it's the most dramatic). Be sure to visit Stele #9 to see the 13-foot man/crocodile statue and you’ll be in close proximity to the ancient residential complex believed to be the quarters of Mayan elite. While the ball court is one of the smallest among Central America’s Mayan compounds, it’s no less fascinating when you imagine this as a gathering place for generations of villagers. When is the Best Time to Visit?
If you’re eager to peek into every nook and cranny—climb 125 feet to the High Temple’s summit and explore the other temples and buildings in this massive compound—visiting during the green season may not deliver the most enjoyable experience. On the other hand, if you could care less about rain and feel comfortable scaling ruins wearing proper shoes, come any time during the year because the park is always accessible. |
Where is Lamani Located in Belize?
The district that’s in closest proximity to Lamanai Mayan Ruins is Orange Walk and, specifically, the villages of San Filipo and Shipyard. Use them as your point of origin when planning your trip. Lamanai is located on the banks of the New River Lagoon and the most spectacular way to travel to the site is by means of water taxi up the river. The trip by river is also a nature-lover’s heaven for numerous species of water birds live along this rich and diverse waterway. You may even be lucky enough to view iguanas and crocodiles as they sun themselves on the river banks. There are also interesting flora and fauna to be seen at the Lamanai reserve.Another way to reach Lamanai is via an all weather dirt road (approximately 28 miles) which runs from Orange Walk through several villages including San Felipe and Shipyard. The site is located in the village of Indian Church.
What is the Best Way to Reach Lamanai?
If you’re not vacationing in Orange Walk, travel there first. Choose between the water taxi that goes up the New River Lagoon or rent an all-terrain vehicle for the 28-mile-long drive through both San Felipe and Shipyard to reach Lamanai. A packaged tour is the most relaxing way to travel—particularly if you dislike driving dirt roads. |