Half-Day Altun Ha Temple & Belize City Tour in Belize City: Discover Belize’s Ancient History

If you’re looking for an exciting and educational experience in Belize, a half-day Altun Ha Temple and Belize City tour is an ideal way to explore one of the most fascinating regions in Central America. The Altun Ha Maya Ruins are some of the most spectacular archaeological sites in the Caribbean, and the tour also includes a drive through the bustling city of Belize City.

Explore the Remains of an Ancient Maya City at Altun Ha

Altun Ha is located about 30 miles north of Belize City and was once a bustling Maya city. It is believed to have been occupied from the 2nd century BC until the 9th century AD. The ruins at Altun Ha include two large plazas and two imposing temples – one with a replica of “The Sun God,” a 6 ½ pound jade head statue – as well as several other structures. You can easily spend a few hours exploring the site and learning about the Maya culture and history.

Discover Belize City

Following your visit to Altun Ha, you’ll be taken on an informative and exciting drive through Belize City. Belize City is the largest city in the country, with a population of over 50,000 people. The city is located on the Belize River, and there are many points of interest along the way, including the oldest Anglican church in Central America. You’ll also get to visit the famous Swing Bridge, a unique pedestrian bridge that swings in order to let boats pass through.

Experience Local culture and cuisine in Belize City

Your tour of Belize City will take you past some of the city’s most iconic landmarks and will also include a stop at a local restaurant where you can sample some of the country’s delicious cuisine. Local dishes such as tamales, rice and beans, and stewed chicken are favorites, but you can also find international fare such as pizza and pasta at many of the city’s restaurants.

Enjoy a Relaxing Day Tour

A half-day Altun Ha Temple & Belize City Tour is an ideal way to experience the best of both worlds – enjoy a fascinating and educational drive through Belize City and explore one of Central America’s most impressive Maya sites. This tour provides an excellent balance of history and culture, making it perfect for those who are looking for an educational experience during their trip to Belize. The tour is conducted by an experienced local guide who will provide valuable insight into the culture and history of the area. The guide will also be able to answer any questions you have about Belize’s past and present.

Make your Half-Day Altun Ha Temple & Belize City Tour an Unforgettable Experience

If you’re looking for an exciting way to explore some of Belize’s ancient sites and bustling cities, a half-day Altun Ha Temple & Belize City Tour is an excellent option. From the impressive remains of an ancient Maya city to the bustling streets of Belize City, this tour covers all you could want to see during your stay in this beautiful country. For a truly unforgettable experience, book your tour today with GetYourGuide and explore history and culture at its best!

An Insider’s Guide to Belize City, Belize

Belize City is the largest city in Belize, and it is the gateway to the country’s stunning natural attractions and ancient cities. The city is peaceful and laidback, with a rich blend of cultures, a thriving arts scene, and plenty of delicious cuisine. Whether you’re looking to learn more about history, have an adventure, or just soak up some Caribbean sunshine, Belize City has something for everyone. Here is an insider’s guide to help you make the most of your time in Belize City.

Local Attractions

Belize City has numerous attractions to explore, including museums, parks, and cultural landmarks. One of the most popular places to visit is the Museum of Belize, which is located in a former prison. The museum showcases exhibits focusing on the diverse cultural heritage of Belize, including the ancient Mayan civilization, colonial periods, and more recent political history. The onsite gift shop sells local handicrafts and souvenirs.

For nature lovers, a visit to the Belize Zoo is a must. The zoo is home to over 150 species of animals, including jaguars, macaws, and tapirs, all in their natural habitats. The zoo has a fantastic trail that takes you through the animals’ homes and plenty of educational materials throughout the property. The best time to visit is early in the morning, when the animals are most active.

Another popular attraction is the Altun Ha Maya Ruins, which is a short drive from Belize City. These ancient ruins were once a trading center for the Mayan civilization and are now a popular tourist destination. Visitors can climb the pyramids to get a firsthand sense of the history—the view from the top is worth the climb.

Dining Spots

Belize City has a thriving food scene, with a wide range of cuisines on offer. The seafood is particularly fresh and tasty, and often includes local specialties like conch fritters and coconut shrimp. There are plenty of restaurants to choose from, but some local favorites include:

– The Riverside Tavern, which is located on the banks of the Haulover Creek and serves up authentic Belizean cuisine, including rice and beans and stewed chicken. The seafood options are equally impressive.
– The Smoky Mermaid, which is a popular spot for seafood, famous for its conch ceviche and seafood chowder. They also offer rum tastings, both local and imported from other Caribbean countries.
– BTB’s Food Court, located near the Museum of Belize, is a great option for visitors on a budget. You will find many local street foods such as tacos, rice and beans, BBQ and more.

Cultural Experiences

Belize City is a melting pot of cultures, with influences from both indigenous peoples and European colonizers. One of the best ways to experience this cultural diversity is by attending one of the many festivals held throughout the year. In September, Belizeans celebrate Carnival, with colorful parades and traditional music, and in November, there is the Garifuna Settlement Day Celebration, a tribute to the country’s Garifuna culture.

Another great way to experience the local culture is by visiting the artisan markets in the city. The Belize City Artisan Market is the perfect place to taste the region’s traditional food and local arts and crafts. More than 20 vendors offer a range of products, including handicrafts made from wood, fabrics, and seeds.

Local History

Belize City has a fascinating history, dating back to the Mayan civilization. There are plenty of historical landmarks and sites to explore, including:

– St. John’s Cathedral, which is the oldest Anglican cathedral in Central America. It was built in the 19th century and is still in use today. The interior is stunning, with beautiful stained-glass windows and an impressive limestone structure.
– The Belize Sign Monument, located in BTL park, is a giant sign spelling Belize in colorful letters. The sign has become a popular spot for tourists to take photos.
– Government House, located in the city center, is a beautiful colonial-era building that now serves as the Governor-General’s residence.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

While there is plenty to see and do in Belize City, there are also many off-the-beaten-path destinations worth exploring. These include:

– The Swing Bridge, which is the only manually operated bridge of its kind in the world. It swings open to allow boats to pass before swinging back into place to connect the two halves of the city.
– Old Belize Museum, which explores the country’s colonial and maritime history and is located at the mouth of the Belize River. It has exhibits on the forestry industry, the Mayan civilization, and the Garifuna culture as well.
– Cucumber Beach is a perfect place to cool off on a hot day and enjoy a swim or sunbathe on a white sand beach. It has clear water and plenty of water activities to enjoy.

Belize City is a fascinating destination with a rich history and culture. Whether you are interested in exploring ancient ruins, admiring the local handicrafts, or just soaking up some of Belize’s laid-back atmosphere, there is something for everyone in this vibrant city.