Detailed Maps of Maya Sites in Belize

Detailed Maps of Mayan Sites in Belize

An Ancient Mayan Empire

Archaeologists believe that Belize was at one time the center of the lowland Mayan Empire, two thousand years ago a million people could have been living in what is present-day Belize. Many of these sites still remain unexplored and buried. They range from small mounds to ceremonial caves which are still being discovered to this day. Of the sites that have been discovered, here is a list of the major ones that travelers can visit today.

The Ultimate Bucket List of Mayan Ruins

Actun Tunichil Muknal — ACTUN TUNICHIL MUKNAL (ATM) -Archeological Cave of great significance. Many artifacts still remain including evidence of human sacrifice - the most famous being the "Crystal Maiden"

Altun Ha — ALTUN HA - The closest and most accessible Mayan ruin site from Belize City. The famous "Jade Head" was discovered at this but is now held at the national archives in Belize City

Cahal Pech — CAHAL PECH - The closest site to the town of San Ignacio. This site can be accessed by a short (but steep) walk directly from the town core.

Caracol — CARACOL - Believed to be the largest site in Belize, it still remains mostly un-excavated. Its remote setting makes it one of the more adventurous sites to explore and one of the most popular day trips from San Ignacio.

Cerros — CERROS - One of Belize's northernmost sites. There is an impressive relief that has been restored - overlooking the bay of Chetumal

Lamanai — LAMANAI - Both an ancient Maya site and a colonial history site, making it a fascinating day trip. The ruins can be accessed by road, or by taking the more popular route down the New River to the banks of a lagoon that sits beneath the site.

Lubaantun — LUBAANTUN - Meaning the "Place of Fallen Stones. This site is famous for its collection of ceramic objects or charms that were found on the site. It's most infamous find was the Mitchell-Hedges Crystal Skull - which has drawn much controversy on whether it was actually found at the site.

Nim Li Punit — NIM LI PUNIT - A medium-sized site which has several pyramid structures. Located in Belize's far south, the sites most interesting artifacts include a range of stellae, which remain in both finished and unfinished states.

Xunantunich — XUNANTUNICH - This is the closest site to the Guatemala border and has the second largest pyramid in Belize. El Castillo has been refurbished with a very impressive relief carving which appears in many photos of Belize's Mayan sites. The sites name means "Stone Woman" and refers to a ghost rumoured to inhabit the site.

Lamanai
Louisville
Lubaantun
Marco Gonzalez
Nim Li Punit
Nohmul
Nohoch Che’en
Pusilha
San Estevan
Santa Rita Corozal
Tipu
Uxbenka
Xnaheb
Xunantunich

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Belize School Trips

Every season, Island Expeditions hosts university and high school groups from across North America. Whether your school is looking for a research heavy "field course" or more of an "outdoor club" vibe - we can make it happen. Our expert team works closely with group leaders to build custom itineraries that suit your interests, activity level, and curriculum; from snorkeling vibrant coral reefs and exploring ancient Maya temples, to wildlife encounters in protected reserves - find out why so many schools trust Island Expeditions to safely run their annual expeditions. .

Custom Groups & Itineraries

At Island Expeditions, we specialize in crafting unforgettable group tours designed to match your ideal Belize adventure. Whether you’re organizing a university field course, a birdwatching expedition, a private paddleboarding retreat, or a multi-generational family getaway, we offer flexible and fully supported group travel options that combine comfort, culture, and wild natural beauty. Let us help you create a journey that brings your group together in the most un-BELIZE-able way.

Unsure of Where to Go?

Check out our suggestions of the

top places to go in Belize

Haven't Been to Belize with Us Yet?

If you’re dreaming of a Belize adventure but not sure where to start, our Trip Specials page is a great place to begin. Looking for a last-minute getaway? Give us a call at 1-800-667-1630 and ask about any remaining spaces — we often have exclusive last-minute deals waiting just for you!

Our Guests Have A Lot To Say

The only problem we ever have with IE trips is choosing which one to do. We love Belize

Duncan M.

London, Canada

If there were higher ratings I would give them. There are some many positive things to say - but one thing which really stands out is the care the local guides take to engage us in their culture and let us know what we are seeing on land and in the sea.

Peter S

Victoria, Canada

The food was incredible - both guides were top notch. Patient and flexible, fun and knowledgable. Extremely professional.

Luna Muller

Stittsville, Ontario

I was blown away by the staff on this trip and they felt like family by the end! I just wish I had more time here.

Samantha W

Winnetka, Illinois

The guides were superb and well organized with lots of activities planned

Susan N

Westminster, Colorado

We enjoyed the first so much we decided to return. We met some very nice folks and your staff are excellent. There aren’t many similar options out there.

Mark B

Red Deer County, Alberta

We loved that we stayed with the same group more or less for the complete time. We became close. Lounging places were great in both locations. We hope to come again.

Ingrid S

Ottawa, Ontario

A very special place. Snorkelling and reef were excellent. The sunset happy hour on the sandbar was phenomenal. A great start to the trip.

Michael D

Toronto, Ontario

Well-run travel company with great customer support, in-country knowledge and support, and awesome people. Highly recommended.

Joe K

Passekeag, New Brunswick

Both Alex and Matthew have been excellent. They took great care of us in planning a variety of activities based on our interest, comfort and fitness levels, and weather conditions. They were thoughtful, courteous, and put our safety and enjoyment as top priorities.

Andy T

Redwood City, California

Excellent food, loved it all, amazing what she can cook up on an island. Enjoyed learning about Belize, it's people & it's cultures. Felt safe & well taken care of.

Chris B

Cincinnati, Ohio

First experience was incredible. In fact we said it was the best holiday wed ever had. This time it was even better! Happy hour on the sand bar is so special. All my friends and family saw our Facebook posts and were blown away and everyone said they are tagging along with us next time.

Colin A

Calgary, Alberta

Both of these guides were professional, knowledgeable and courteous. They genuinely cared about your needs and concerns and answered all of your questions without making you feel like a burden. Linden actually sat and just talked with us for a long time one morning sharing stories and information about his life in Belize.

Christine W

Onancock, Virgina

Mel accommodated my dietary preference amazingly well. The food was so good that I looked forward to every meal .

Charlotte K

London, United Kingdom

The meals were varied and balanced - I didn't feel I needed more. I liked the the adventures you offered. I like everything about glovers reef. Thank you, we'll be back.

Fred V

Fernie, British Columbia

I'm very, very appreciative of the vegan meals that Mel and Elta provided. The food was delicious and filling and I felt very well looked after. Thank you! It's a trip I will be grateful for forever.

Alissa W

Victoria, British Columbia

After our first trip we were hooked, we have now returned 6 times!

Jenny B

Duncansville, Pennsylvania

Steve was wonderful at managing this large group and very personable and funny and entertaining and organized and knowledgeable about all of the nature on shore and in the water. Also other guides were just as helpful.

Patricia L

Ripley, Ontario

All meals were excellent. Really enjoyed the last night “special” dinner. Just an overall great trip. Well organized and just amazing environment to visit.

Kevin S

Brookings, South Dakota

Shannan and Mel made it super easy to line up what I wanted to do in my limited vacation time, and from the moment I touched down until the day I headed back to the airport the entire trip went seamlessly from one thing to the next. I'm extremely impressed with how efficiently everything was run. I've already been raving about this to all my friends, and I can't wait to come back!

Liz W

Petawawa, Ontario

My family really appreciated the way meals were laid out to allow everyone, including children to help themselves family style. Meant everyone could eat what they enjoyed! Eating the fish we caught was a real highlight!

Liz O

Calgary, Alberta

We have been using island Expeditions for many years because of the quality of services and expertise. Thank you for a wonderful experience.

Pamela F

Iowa City, Iowa

Overall it was an awesome trip. I was a little nervous, bringing 10 others besides myself, that they might not find it as exciting and delightful as I had the first time. I need not have worried - all in our group had an outstanding experience, and I've received nothing but gratitude for being the catalyst and organizer.

Rich S

Portland, Oregon

Had so much fun on our first trip and wanted to do it again. Love the guides, snorkelling and kayaking. It was another fantastic action packed adventure, with enthusiastic guides and participants

Suzanne A

Spruce Grove, Alberta

I had the most fantastic experience with Island Expeditions! I felt connected to the people and environment of Belize, learning more about its history, culture, wildlife, and geography every day. The island and its facilities were beautiful, and sleeping in my tent every night with the sea breeze blowing on me and the sound of the waves crashing was an unforgettable experience.

Safiya T

Ann Arbor, Michigan

They seemed to arrange the snorkeling so that the sites got better as we went rather than doing the best first. That is a good way to see lots but also make each new place the best. They answered all our questions and were also willing to talk about life in Belize. Which helped us understand the country and people better.

Lisa H

Harrison, Idaho

We chose Island Expeditions because we love the glamping and snorkelling and rustic luxury that they offer - AND longstanding relationship with their staff, their commitment to the environment and to Belize.

Katherine T

Vancouver, British Columbia

I think the actual service you provide is far beyond what you advertise. This really was a full-service tour company that didn't just help us set up a great vacation, but led all the important work to ensure the trip could logistically happen.

Veronica W

Pemberton, British Columbia

Your glamping camp systems and details are excellent, organized, comfortable and clean, so dialed. The whole team was very warm, cheerful, supportive and helpful. Lighthouse reef is a beautiful location with lots of adventure options.

Anne B

Argenta, British Columbia

Above and beyond our expectations!! You are doing an amazing job! The staff was truly fantastic!

Deborah Z

Hopkinton, New Hampshire

I have been travelling with IE for 10 years, on 5 separate trips. I initially found them when looking for a kayak trip to Belize. The IE SUP trips combine adventure, tropical weather and sun, skills development and snorkeling in a small group environment. Each day, the adventure is different and even better then the day before.

Kelly W

Sidney, British Columbia

We will definitely be recommending Island Expeditions to our friends. Your facilities and your guides are exceptional.

Robin T

Anchorage, Alaska

I have worked in the education field my whole life. I was blown away by the care, knowledge and professionalism all of these guides had for us. They bent over backwards to make us happy. Best experience ever.

Paula H

Flossmoor, Illinois

All the staff made our trip fantastic. They all work hard all day. Siri is new and her knowledge will grow. It’s great to see a female guide. Even though this was my fourth trip to Lighthouse Reef/Half-moon Caye I still learned new things from the guides.

Juanita O

Victoria, British Columbia

My trip will be forever remembered because it was special and outstanding. I enjoyed the happy hour also! Always delicious snacks and drinks.

Louise J

Tobiano, British Columbia

I felt the guides all had great qualities and they cared well for our safety - and all while guiding a large group with such varied abilities and strengths. I don’t know how you get such wonderful guides, but keep up the great work!

Diane R

Gaylord, Michigan

The setting was beautiful, the snorkeling and other nature on the island were wonderful but what really made the trip for us was the fabulous staff - each person we encountered (office staff and on the island) were professional, friendly and each added to our having a great experience.

Martha H

Verona, Wisconsin

We knew it was going to be a great trip, but the team exceeded expectations every step of the way. We underestimated the amount of time we would spend learning about the ocean - the daily chats about coral, fish, etc were such a cool thing for our 10-year-old to experience. Thank you for such a memorable vacation, I have no doubt we will be back one day!

Stacey D

Winnipeg, Manitoba

EXCEPTIONAL. The whole place was ran like clockwork. The manager Luis was extremely personable, knowledgeable, helpful, he created an environment that was close to paradise. Everyone else was superb as well. The guides were superior and I particularly liked how they interacted with guests. It felt like one big family and we were introduced to the other guests to create a community.

John H

Deep River, Ontario

The guides were all outstanding. Very knowledgeable, caring and considerate. They always did their best to make our experience top tier. Trip of a lifetime!

Hollie M

Pemberton, British Columbia

We chose Island Expeditions because of the small group sizes, unique experiences and care for the community and environment, This was the best trip we've ever taken - we look forward to traveling with you again.

Chhaya K

Kansas City, Missouri

Pedro was always ready with interesting information and stories. A wonderful person to lead the Maya Moho River trip.

Jane A

Vancouver, British Columbia

Crooked Tree is a very special place. So many birds! And staff who are committed to helping you find them. This was our first time to Belizian Mayan sites and those were very interesting.

Kerrie P

Canmore, Alberta

The guides were all so very helpful and fun, patient, knowledgable and kind. Love, Love, Love and am planning to return!

Patty T

Toronto, Ontario

Ben was very special for our family. He stayed with us the entire trip and became very close with the kids. Extremely positive and knowledgeable and kind. Hope we can see him again. One of our best family trips ever for the whole experience. Thank you for all the work and care in arranging our trip.

John K

Woodlands, Texas

The snorkelling was AMAZING. I have never seen water that colour before. So many fish. The guides were so competent and would tell us each kind they saw. You could tell that safety was a priority. We met so many participants that had taken trips with Island Expeditions a number of times and we could see why. We want to join their number.

Elaine B

Deep River, Ontario

I loved the area where happy hour took place, as well as the dining area. It really allowed people to get to know each other. The "culture talks" were a highlight. The staff (Louis, Ben, Garfield, Matthew, and the cooks and housekeeping staff) were fantastic!

Sibyl G

Glen Haven, Colorado

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John Doe

Designation

Detailed Maps of Mayan Sites in Belize

An Ancient Mayan Empire

The Ultimate Bucket List of Mayan Ruins

Belize's Most Prominent Archeological Sites

Explore Island Expeditions
Adventure Tour Packages

Belize Atolls, Cayes & Barrier Reef Tours