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Nelson Maya Adventures

Alluring Mayan Site Tours and Outstanding Transfers Service for the Insightful Traveler.

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Belize Maya Temple Tour

With our team of expert travel agents and tour operators, we ensure your experience is truly unforgettable.

Lubaantun​ - The City of Fallen Stones​

Price

Price varies by location - Can be done during a transfer.

Difficulty / Requirement

Easy - Walking and Climbing

What's included

Guide, Entrance Fee, Round Trip Transportation, Lunch, Water, and (full day tour).

What to bring

Bug spray, Hat and Sunglasses.

Lubaantun

Hidden in the lush hills of Southern Belize, Lubaantun is one of the most fascinating and unique Maya archaeological sites. Known for its distinctive dry-stone construction and its association with the famous Crystal Skull legend, Lubaantun offers visitors a glimpse into the mysterious and advanced engineering techniques of the ancient Maya. Unlike most Maya cities, Lubaantun’s structures were built without mortar, with perfectly cut and fitted stones that have stood the test of time.

Things to Do at Lubaantun

  • Explore the Unique Stone Architecture: Lubaantun is famous for its precisely cut black slate structures, built without the use of mortar—a technique rarely seen in Maya architecture. Walking through its terraced plazas and stepped buildings, visitors can admire the skill of ancient Maya builders.

  • Visit the Ball Courts: The site contains multiple ball courts, which played a central role in Maya society. Unlike other Maya sites, Lubaantun’s ball courts are notably larger, hinting at their significance for ceremonial or political events.

  • Discover the Crystal Skull Legend: Lubaantun is famously linked to the mystical Crystal Skull, allegedly discovered here in 1924 by explorer Anna Mitchell-Hedges. Though its origins remain debated, the legend continues to attract visitors intrigued by its mystery.

  • Enjoy the Jungle Setting: Surrounded by dense rainforest and wildlife, Lubaantun offers a tranquil atmosphere perfect for nature lovers and photographers. The area is home to colorful birds, butterflies, and howler monkeys.

The Journey to Lubaantun

Lubaantun is located in southern Belize, about 26 miles (42 km) from Punta Gorda in the Toledo District. The journey from Punta Gorda takes approximately 45 minutes by car, with the last section of the road being a scenic but bumpy jungle drive.

From Belize City, the journey takes around 5 hours by car, making Lubaantun a great destination for those exploring southern Belize or staying in Punta Gorda.

History of Lubaantun

Lubaantun, meaning “Place of Fallen Stones”, was an important Maya ceremonial and political center during the Late Classic Period (730–890 AD). The city is notable for its unique construction style—black slate blocks carefully stacked without mortar, which suggests advanced engineering techniques.

Archaeologists believe Lubaantun was once a thriving trading hub that engaged in agriculture, pottery production, and regional commerce. However, like many other Maya cities, it was mysteriously abandoned around 900 AD, possibly due to climate changes, warfare, or resource depletion.

The site gained worldwide fame in the 20th century due to the discovery of the Crystal Skull, a perfectly carved quartz skull that some claim has supernatural properties. Although the authenticity of this find is debated, it remains an intriguing part of Lubaantun’s history.

Location to your destination

Nearby Temples and Attractions

If you’re visiting Lubaantun, there are several other fascinating places nearby worth exploring:

 

  • Nim Li Punit: Located about 20 miles (32 km) from Lubaantun, this site is famous for its massive carved stelae (stone monuments), some of the tallest ever found in Belize.

 
  • Blue Creek Cave (Hokeb Ha Cave): This sacred Maya cave near Lubaantun features stunning crystal-clear pools, underground waterfalls, and ancient artifacts. It’s a great stop for adventure seekers.

 
  • Punta Gorda Town: A charming coastal town known for its Garifuna and Maya cultural influences, Punta Gorda is a great place to experience local food, markets, and boat trips to nearby islands.
Testimonials

Good Service, Happy Clients!

  • star rating  My husband Joe & I had a great tour with Josh as our guide. He took us to the Community Baboon Santuary to see the Black Howler Monkeys, the Belize... read more

    avatar thumb Tara S
    February 2, 2023
  • star rating  While visiting Caye Caulker with friends we decided to visit the Xunantunich ruins. Booking was seamless and our guide Auner met us at the water taxi. ... read more

    McGregor4
    October 25, 2022
  • star rating  We did a day trip from Belize City to Xunantunich with Auner as our guide and it was amazing experience with such a knowledgeable guide who provided so much information.

    44isballn
    October 25, 2022
  • star rating  We decided to arrange a private tour for a family of four to Tikal with Nelson Maya Adventures after reading a couple of reviews here and on a couple of... read more

    ViajeroIndiana
    August 8, 2022
  • star rating  We decided to arrange a private tour for a family of four to Tikal with Nelson Maya Adventures after reading a couple of reviews here and on a couple of... read more

    ViajeroIndiana
    August 4, 2022
5/5

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