Lamanai is an ancient Mayan city in Belize that showcases a 111-foot tall pyramid. It is one of the longest occupied sites in Mayan history, which is said to be attributed to its location in the rich rainforest in the Orange Walk District. Actually, the site is so remote that the main way to reach it is by taking a 26-mile boat ride up the New River starting in Orange Walk Town. Lamanai is Belize's third largest archaeological site, and many of the site's artifacts can be found in the local museum.
The Xunantunich site is another location for massive Mayan ruins. The largest temple, El Castillo, is about 130-feet tall and allows for spectacular views of the entire site, as well as into nearby Guatemala. The site, which is located in the Cayo District of western Belize, about six miles west of San Ignacio, was said to have been abandoned after an intense earthquake occurred in the beginning of the 10th century.
The Half Moon Caye Natural Monument is a protected area of land and surrounding waters that acts as a bird sanctuary. Located at the southeast corner of Lighthouse Reef Atoll, it protects the rare booby, along with 98 other species of bird. Day visits to the island are common as the hiking, diving and bird-watching are spectacular. Half Moon Caye Natural Monument was actually named a World Heritage Site in 1996.
Altun Ha is a Mayan site consisting of several tombs and temples that have been closely excavated by archaeologists. The tallest temple, The Temple of Masonry Altar, reaches 60 feet above the site. Altun Ha was said to be a religious center, as well as an important trading point in the Mayan world. It is located in the Belize District just about 30 miles to the north of Belize City and six miles inland.
