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Lubaantun

This is the largest Maya site in southern Belize, dating to 700-900 A.D., well known for its unusual style of construction. All structures were made of limestone blocks with no visible mortar binding them together. Lubaantun is situated on a tall ridge above a valley cut by the Columbia River, about 1 1/2 miles from San Pedro Columbia, the largest Kekchi Maya village in Belize. Nim Li Punit and Uxbenka are among other Mayan sites that can be found in southern Belize.

Mayflower Archaeological Reserve

Nestled deep in the jungle at the base of the Maya Mountains, this Mayan reserve comprises three post classic ruins: Mayflower (Mayflower Camp), Tau Witz (dwelling of a local god of the hill) and Maintzunum (hummingbird). There are two hiking trails leading through the rainforest to waterfalls. The falls have several "dipping" pools - ideal for cooling off. The area has myriad birds, orchids and wildlife. It's located off the Southern Highway between Dangriga and the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary.

Xunantunich

"The Maiden of the Rock" is the name given to the site by present- day Maya. Just three miles from San Ignacio, the site is accessible by a short ferry ride across the Mopan River. El Castillo is a 130-foot temple with elaborately carved friezes showing monkeys, warrior masks, and the Mayan symbol for spring. From the top of the temple, visitors can see the rangeland and jungle of eastern Belize, the lowlands of Guatemala to the west, and the impressive Maya Mountains to the south.

Cahal Pech

Cahal Pech, located in the Cayo District along the west bank of the Macal River, consists of 34 structures in an area covering about two acres. Cahal Pech was first developed during the preclassic period (1000 B.C. to 200 A.D.) and abandoned around 800 A.D. The site offers visitors a panoramic view of San Ignacio and the Belize River Valley.

Altun Ha

Archeologists believe Altun Ha was settled around 250 B.C., and continued into the 10th century. Some 10,000 Maya lived in and around Altun Ha, which was a significant trading center. Altun Ha, about an hour from Belize City, features two central plazas surrounded by towering temples that enclose a palm strewn area.

Lamanai

Located in the Orange Walk District of northern Belize, Lamanai is best reached by air or a boat ride up the New River. One of the longest occupied Mayan sites, Lamanai was settled around 1500 B.C. and was still inhabited into the 19th century. An incredible stone face etched into a temple here is widely included in many guidebooks to Belize.

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