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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.

Santa Rita - The Birthplace of Modern Belize

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.

Santa Rita

Located near Corozal Town, Santa Rita is a fascinating Maya archaeological site that offers a glimpse into the rich history of the northern Belize region. Once a thriving trade and political center, Santa Rita played a key role in connecting the Maya civilization with other Mesoamerican cultures. Unlike the grand pyramids of Caracol or Xunantunich, Santa Rita is smaller but historically significant, as it is believed to be the ancient city of Chetumal, the capital of the region during the Postclassic period.

Today, Santa Rita is one of the most accessible Maya sites in Belize, making it an excellent historical stop for visitors exploring Corozal and the northern districts.

Things to Do at Santa Rita

  • Explore the Ancient Structures: Santa Rita features ceremonial temples, altars, and residential buildings, giving visitors an insight into Maya daily life, politics, and religion.

  • See the Well-Preserved Murals and Artifacts: Archaeologists have uncovered beautiful painted murals and intricate jade artifacts, including the famous jade mask of the Maya Sun God, Kinich Ahau.

  • Learn About the Maya Royal Wedding Tradition: Santa Rita is believed to be the site where a royal Maya princess married a Spanish conquistador, marking the first recorded intermarriage between the Maya and the Spanish in Belizean history.

  • Enjoy the Views of Corozal Bay: Santa Rita’s elevated structures provide stunning views of Corozal Town and the Caribbean Sea, making it a great spot for photography and relaxation.

The Journey to Santa Rita

Santa Rita is conveniently located just outside Corozal Town, making it one of the most accessible Maya sites in Belize. The Journey From Belize City to Santa Rita would be Approximately 1.5 to 2 hours with our shuttle, following the Northern Highway.

History of Santa Rita

Santa Rita dates back to the Preclassic Period (around 1200 BC) but reached its peak during the Postclassic Period (1000–1500 AD). It was one of the last major Maya cities to thrive before the Spanish arrival.

The city played a crucial role in trade and cultural exchange, connecting the Maya with Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula and Central America. It was a center for jade craftsmanship, cacao production, and maritime trade, with goods moving between Belize, Guatemala, and Mexico.

During the Spanish conquest, Santa Rita was one of the final strongholds of the Maya resistance, but it was eventually abandoned as European influence grew in the region. Today, much of modern-day Corozal Town is built over the ancient ruins of Santa Rita.

Location to your destination

Nearby Temples and Attractions

If you’re visiting Santa Rita, there are several other attractions nearby worth exploring:

 

  • Cerros: Located across Corozal Bay, Cerros is a stunning waterfront Maya site featuring temples and pyramids with breathtaking views of the sea.

 
  • Corozal Town: A charming town with a mix of Maya, Mestizo, and Caribbean cultures, offering local markets, seaside parks, and delicious Belizean food.

 

  • Chetumal, Mexico: Just across the border, the Mexican city of Chetumal is home to museums, shopping centers, and Maya heritage sites, making it an easy day trip.

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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