Belize has an incredible selection of Mayan sites
throughout the whole country, and more are discovered almost daily. Overgrown ruins dot the landscape across farms and within the jungles, and several distinct locations are among the best examples of Mayan architecture in Central America. With so many choices scattered across Belize, I focussed on visiting the most easily accessible sites to make sure you maximize time. Although some are more visited than others, none are overwhelmed with tourism like you sometimes find at similar locations in Mexico or Guatemala. From the palaces of wealthy families, to the grandeur of lost cities, Belize is brimming with Mayan heritage. While this itinerary is designed for ten days, it would be easy to add other locations or multiple visits to explore some of the sites listed and extend this trip to two weeks, or to simply cut days and make it a weeklong trip.
This itinerary is only an overview
of the most popular sites. The sites are grouped by location to spend the least time traveling possible, and I threw in a local restaurant each day for good measure. I highly suggest hiring a tour guide so you can decipher the historical and cultural significance of these incredible locations. It is always appreciated if you choose to tip your guide. They’re worth every penny, and it helps keep your tourism dollars within communities that help maintain these incredible pieces of history.
These activities are a broad overview of available Mayan cultural offerings throughout Belize. These are just suggestions so you should adjust to suit your traveling style and personal interests. Double check availability based upon your day of arrival so you don’t have any surprises– not everything is available seven days a week. If you have any questions you can ask anybody local.
Day One — Travel Day
- Arrive at PGIA in Belize City (BZE)
- Find your driver or pick up your rental car
- Optional Stop– Altun Ha
- Check into accommodations in Orange Walk
- Dinner at Maracas
Day Two — Wildlife and History
- River cruise to Lamanai Archaeological Site
- Dinner at Nahil Mayab
Day Three — Ruins of The North
- Drive to Corozal
- Tour Santa Rita Archeological Site
- Tour Cerros Mayan Ruins
- Drive to Orange Walk
- Dinner at Cosina Sabor
Day Four –Travel and Cave
- Drive To Barton Creek
- Tour Barton Creek Cave
- Drive to San Ignacio
- Check into San Ignacio Accommodations
- Dinner at Gully Grill (reservation suggested)
Day Five — Delightful and Relaxed
- Ajaw Mayan Chocolate
- Oxmul Coffee Experience
- San Antonio Women’s Co-op
- Optional Stop: Beers at Trin’s
- Dinner at Ko-ox Han-nah
Day Six — Epic Adventure
- All Day tour of ATM Cave
- Dinner at The Guava Limb (reservation suggested)
Day Seven — Archeology
- Breakfast at San Ignacio Market
- Self-guided Tour of Cahal Pech
- Tour Xunantunich Mayan Ruin
Day Eight — Untouched Artifacts
- All Day tour of Che Chem Ha Cave
- Dinner at Restaurante Azteca
Day 9 — The Biggie
- All Day Tour of Caracol Mayan Site
- Dinner at Crave House of Flavor
Day Ten — Travel Day
- Breakfast at The New French Bakery
- Drive to PGIA in Belize City
- Optional Stop— Belize Zoo
- Fly home
Enter Belize 
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