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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

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Nim Li Punit​ - The City of the Big Hat​

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.

Nim Li Punit

Nestled in the foothills of the Maya Mountains in southern Belize, Nim Li Punit is an impressive Maya ceremonial center known for its towering carved stelae and breathtaking views of the surrounding rainforest. The name Nim Li Punit, meaning “Big Hat” in the Kekchi Maya language, comes from a depiction of a ruler wearing an elaborate headdress on one of its most famous stelae. This site offers a rich glimpse into Maya history, royalty, and artistry, making it a must-visit destination for those exploring Belize’s Toledo District.

Things to Do at Nim Li Punit

  • See the Tallest Stelae in Belize: Nim Li Punit is home to some of the largest and most well-preserved carved stelae (stone monuments) in Belize, with depictions of Maya rulers, gods, and hieroglyphic inscriptions. One stela stands over 30 feet tall, making it one of the tallest ever found in the Maya world.

  • Explore the Ceremonial Plazas: The site consists of three main plazas—the West Group, East Group, and South Group, which were used for religious ceremonies, elite gatherings, and political events.

  • Walk Through the Ball Court: Like many important Maya cities, Nim Li Punit has a ball court, where ritualistic ball games were played, often with deep spiritual and political significance.

  • Spot Wildlife in the Lush Surroundings: The surrounding jungle is teeming with colorful birds, butterflies, and even howler monkeys, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers and photographers.

The Journey to Nim Li Punit

Nim Li Punit is located 25 miles (40 km) from Punta Gorda and about 4 miles (6 km) off the Southern Highway, making it easily accessible for visitors to southern Belize. The journey from Punta Gorda takes about 45 minutes by car, while from Belize City, it’s a longer 5-hour drive.

The site is a great day trip when visiting Toledo’s cultural and natural attractions, often paired with nearby ruins like Lubaantun.

History of Nim Li Punit

Nim Li Punit was an important ceremonial and political center during the Classic Period (250–900 AD). The site is best known for its large carved stelae, which depict Maya rulers dressed in elaborate attire, performing rituals, or engaging with deities. These inscriptions provide valuable historical records of royal lineage and events, making Nim Li Punit a key site for understanding Maya history.

Archaeologists believe Nim Li Punit was a small but powerful city that maintained connections with larger Maya centers such as Caracol and Tikal (Guatemala). Like many Maya cities, it was eventually abandoned around 900 AD, likely due to climate change, resource depletion, or political instability.

Location to your destination

Nearby Temples and Attractions

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

 

  • Lubaantun: Just 14 miles (22 km) away, Lubaantun is known for its dry-stone construction and the famous Crystal Skull legend, making it an intriguing site to visit alongside Nim Li Punit.

 
  • Rio Blanco National Park: A stunning nature reserve featuring waterfalls, swimming areas, and jungle trails, perfect for a refreshing dip after exploring the ruins.

 
  • Blue Creek Cave (Hokeb Ha Cave): A mystical Maya ceremonial cave with crystal-clear waters, underground waterfalls, and ancient artifacts—great for adventure seekers.

 
  • Punta Gorda Town: The cultural heart of southern Belize, Punta Gorda offers Maya, Garifuna, and Creole influences, with delicious local food, markets, and easy access to marine adventures.

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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