About this experience
Journey to Lamanai, one of Belize’s most iconic Maya cities — hidden deep in the jungle and accessible only by boat. This unforgettable full-day adventure combines a scenic drive departing San Ignacio, a wildlife-rich river cruise, and a guided exploration of towering temples surrounded by rainforest.
With roundtrip transfers, lunch, entrance fees, and a guided tour included, you can simply relax and enjoy the journey
Highlights
Visit one of Belize’s most impressive ancient Maya cities in the jungle
Cruise the New River with opportunities for wildlife spotting
Learn the legends, history, and symbolism of Lamanai with a licensed guide
Includes pickup and drop-off from San Ignacio / Cayo, lunch, tour guide, entrance fees and taxes
Perfect day trip for travelers staying inland who want culture + nature in one tour. The easiest way for inland travelers to experience one of Belize’s most iconic Maya sites without having to arrange transportation to Belize City.
At a glance
- Duration: 10 hr
Plan your experience
Set aside 10 hr for the experience itself, with additional time to reach your meeting or pickup point.
Before you go
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Local guides to help you plan
San Ignacio Travel Guide
Plan a rewarding stay in San Ignacio, Belize, with practical advice on transportation, trip length, the town market, ATM cave tours, Big Rock Falls, accessibility, costs, and active day trips across the Cayo District.
What is included
- Bottled water
- Entrance fee
- Local Belizean lunch. Please specify dietary restrictions
- Roundtrip ground transfer from starting point.
- Round trip Boat ride
- Licensed Tour Guide
Not included
- Personal expenses (Optional gratuities, souvenirs, snacks, etc)
Itinerary and highlights
Your day begins with convenient pickup in San Ignacio (Cayo District). Sit back in an air-conditioned vehicle as you travel north toward the river dock near Orange Walk. Along the way, your guide shares insights into Belize’s cultures, landscapes, and history beyond the tourist trail.
Then it’s time for the highlight: an hour boat cruise along the New River in Orange walk. As you glide through peaceful jungle waterways, keep your eyes open to spot howler monkeys, crocodiles, iguanas, turtles, and tropical birds. This river corridor is one of Belize’s most beautiful natural pathways.
At Lamanai Archaeological Reserve, you’ll explore one of Belize’s most impressive and longest-occupied Maya sites with a licensed guide. Walk through jungle-shaded plazas and climb towering temples for panoramic views over the rainforest and lagoon. Your guide will bring the site to life by explaining Maya history, symbolism, and daily life while you visit Lamanai’s most iconic structures, including the High Temple, Jaguar Temple, and Mask Temple. Expect an amazing mix of culture, nature, and photography moments in a truly unforgettable setting.
After your guided exploration of Lamanai and lunch, we begin the journey back by boat. Enjoy another relaxing cruise along the New River, a perfect opportunity for more wildlife sightings and photo moments. As the afternoon light hits the riverbanks, travelers often spot additional birds, iguanas, and (if you’re lucky) crocodiles resting near the shoreline.
Upon arrival back at the river dock near Orange Walk, your driver will be waiting for the return transfer. Settle into your air-conditioned vehicle and enjoy a smooth ride back to San Ignacio / Cayo District, with drop-off at your original meeting point
Meeting and pickup information
- Please meet us at the bench located in front of the Cayo Welcome Center and Tourist Information Center in downtown San Ignacio. Your driver or guide will meet you there and confirm your booking details before departure. Please arrive 10 minutes before your scheduled pickup time for a smooth start.
- We offer complimentary pick up from any location that is less than 15 minutes away from San Ignacio. Please know there may be an additional fee if your pickup is farther away. However, the fee may be waived if it is enroute. Please be at the front desk of your hotel or by the entrance of your air b n b for pick up. If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to reach out through our Whatsapp or give us a call for urgent assistance. Please look out for correspondence from us confirming meeting time or if your pickup details/time will be changed to be more convenient for you.
Languages and tickets
- English — Guide
- Mobile Only
Tour operator
- Ruwa Travels
Meeting points and locations
Accessibility and practical details
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Comfortable and safe walking shoes
- Hat, sunscreen, and repellant
- camer/phone to use at your discretion
- Lightweight breathable clothing
- Poncho/umbrella is its forecasted to rain
- Spending money for souvenirs or gratuities(Optional)
- Remain on demarcated trails
- No jumping permitted on monuments
- No loud noise, shouting or music permitted
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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