Belize is notable for a collection of important Maya Archeological sites. Several different ancient settlements feature well preserved structures and beautifully intricate carvings and stelea. It is part of the southern Maya lowlands and the sites were occupied well up until the Spanish arrived.

Caracol: Probably the most historically significant site, Caracol was one of the largest Mayan Kingdoms. At its peak, in 650 AD, it was 20 km in diameter, larger than Belize City, today! Many thousands of structures, over 35,000 of which have been identified, remain today for archeologists and tourists to glimpse the history Central America. The city once supported perhaps 200,000 people, more than twice as many citizens as Belize City.

Caracol is characterized by an epicenter characterized by consists of three plaza groups surrounding a central acropolis and two ball courts. More than 20 miles of road radiate out from the epicenter likes spokes of a bicycle wheel. The most prominent feature in Caracol is Caana, the tallest man-made structure in the entire country.

Cerros: One of the earliest Maya sites, Cerros possesses a unique archeological site known as an E-Group.

Lamanai: Lamanai pairs new and old world in a stoic testament to imperialism. The remains of a church from a failed Christian Mission rest near the Mayan ruins. Lamanai literally translates to “submerged crocodile” in Mayan. It’s the third largest site in Belize. Lamanai boast a tremendous history, having been occupied for over 3000 years – leading up to the middle of the 17th century! It’s isolation contributed to this tremendous endurance. Lamanai sits in isolation in a tropical rain forest in the Orange Walk district in Northern Belize.

Lamanai boasts unique architectural characteristics. Besides the remains of a Spanish Mission, the ruins show an approach to development and modernization different from other Mayan archeological sites. Rather than knock down old, or unneeded buildings, the residents of Lamanai chose to build upon existing structures. As such, it boasts the second largest pre-classic structure in the Maya world. Lamanai also features a prominent stele, Stele 9.

Lamanai makes for an exciting tour thanks to its protected status. Many wild animals such as howler monkeys, various birds and even crocodile (in the neighboring lagoons) call Lamanai home. This pairing of ancient architecture and wild adventure makes Lamanai a worthy option for the top of anyone’s travel list.

Xunantunich: Xunantunich is located in western Belize, within eyesight of Guatemala. It sits near the Maypan River.

Standing atop El Castillo, one can view the neighboring country. Take the hike to the top and grasp the sheer vastness that is the earth with an unobstructed panoramic view of the Belizean jungle. The area is composed of numerous plazas surrounded by pyramids. Six major plazas and over 25 temples and palaces will keep you busy during your visit to Xunantunich.

Xunantunich translates to “stone woman” in Mayan. This name is a modern name given to the archeological site as, like many other forgotten Mayan cities, the original name was lost. The Stone Woman name was given to the site because of the many ghost sightings that have appeared there. On numerous occasions, dating back as far as 1895, witnesses have reported seeing a woman dressed in white with glowing red eyes. She seems to climb up the steps of El Castillo before disappearing into the rocks. Witnessing this supernatural phenomenon may be truly rare, but once you’ve seen a ghost, I’m sure the experience is unmatched.

Amazing intricate carvings characterize Mayan archeological sites

Xunantunich is home to a remarkable archeological prize. A well preserved Stele can be found among the ruins. Rather, it is preserved in a modern facility on the grounds. Dating from 200 BC to 150 AD, it is a remarkable artifact that should not be missed. Stelae are funeral slabs erected to honor the dead, much like tombstones of today. The intricate relief carvings are remarkable even by today’s standards.

Getting to Xunantunich seems to be relatively manageable. Nearly every resort in the area offers tours to this ruin. Some offer guided tours by horseback. Others will drive you in and feed you. Wear hiking boots or sneakers as the grounds are not so mild as to accommodate flip-flops or sandals.

Xunantunich and The Belize Zoo – $ 102.85 Imposing temples and exotic animals! Is it the latest Hollywood action movie? No, this time it’s real and you’re the star. Travel Belize by a hand-cranked ferry, see stunning Mayan ruins, and marvel at the majesty of the Belizean rainforests. And the wildlife? You’ll see unique indigenous species in their natural habitat at the Belize Zoo.