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Nelson Maya Adventures

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

"Explore More, Worry Less!"

Belize Maya Temple Tour

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

Altun Ha - The City of the Jade Head​

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.

Altun Ha

Altun Ha is one of the most famous and accessible Maya ruins in Belize, located just 31 miles (50 km) north of Belize City. This ancient city was an important trading and ceremonial center, known for its well-preserved temples and the discovery of the iconic Jade Head of Kinich Ahau, the largest carved jade artifact in the Maya world. With its close proximity to Belize City and its rich history, Altun Ha is a must-visit destination for history buffs and adventure seekers alike.

Things to Do at Altun Ha

  • Explore the Archaeological Site: Altun Ha consists of two main plazas with 13 structures, including towering temples and pyramids. The most famous structure, Temple of the Masonry Altars, stands at 54 feet tall and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding jungle when climbed.

  • Learn About the Jade Head: Discovered in 1968, the Jade Head of Kinich Ahau represents the Maya sun god and is considered one of Belize’s national treasures. While the original is securely stored, visitors can learn about its significance and see replicas at the site and local museums.

  • Wildlife and Nature: The site is surrounded by lush tropical forests, making it a great spot for bird watching. You might see toucans, parrots, and even howler monkeys during your visit.

  • Shopping for Local Handicrafts: Near the entrance, local vendors sell handcrafted souvenirs, including wood carvings, jewelry, and traditional Maya art—perfect for bringing a piece of Belizean culture home.

The Journey to Altun Ha

Altun Ha is one of the easiest Maya sites to visit from Belize City. The drive takes about 1 hour along the Northern Highway and through scenic villages. The roads are well-maintained, making it accessible by car, taxi, or guided tour. Many visitors choose to visit Altun Ha as part of a day trip, often combining it with a tour of the nearby Belize River or the Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary.

History of Altun Ha

Altun Ha was a major city during the Classic Period (250–900 AD) and is believed to have been home to around 10,000 people at its peak. Unlike military-focused Maya cities like Caracol, Altun Ha was primarily an economic and religious center, involved in trade networks that stretched from the Caribbean to Central Mexico.

The discovery of the Jade Head in Tomb B-4 suggests that Altun Ha was a place of great spiritual significance, with elite rulers buried alongside valuable offerings. The presence of imported goods like obsidian and jade indicates that Altun Ha was a wealthy and influential city in the region.

Location to your destination​

Nearby Temples and Attractions

If you’re visiting Altun Ha, consider exploring these nearby destinations to make the most of your trip:

 

  • Lamanai: Another remarkable Maya site, Lamanai is located along the New River and is famous for its towering temples, including the Mask Temple, adorned with massive stone carvings of ancient Maya rulers.

 
  • Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary: Just a short drive from Altun Ha, this nature reserve is a haven for bird watchers and nature lovers. It’s home to over 300 bird species, including the majestic Jabiru Stork, the largest flying bird in the Americas.
 
  • Belize City: If you’re heading back to Belize City, take some time to explore its historic sites, such as St. John’s Cathedral, the Swing Bridge, and the Museum of Belize, which showcases Maya artifacts and Belizean history.

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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