How to Plan Your Belize City: Lamanai Maya Ruins & River Boat Safari w/ Lunch Tour

If you’re planning on visiting Belize City, don’t miss the chance to tour the Lamanai Maya Ruins and River Boat Safari with Lunch. This is an excellent tour for those who love nature and history, and it’s a great way to learn about the Mayan culture while enjoying the beauty of Belize.

Highlights of the Tour

Here are some of the highlights of the tour:

• A boat ride with wildlife observation of birds, crocodiles, and turtles
• A walk on a forest path through lush rainforest trees
• Discovering the ancient temples and admiring panoramic views of the ancient city by the lagoon
• Exploring the onsite museum and learning about the Mayan culture
• Enjoying a picnic lunch

The Full Tour Description

The tour starts with a meet-and-greet at the Cruise Ship Terminal or in your hotel lobby, depending on the option selected. From there, you’ll board an air-conditioned vehicle and set off on a 1-hour road trip. Along the way, you’ll enjoy views of the old Belize river, rural villages, fruit trees, and birds. When you arrive at the dock, you’ll board your boat for the 1-hour cruise on the New River. While on the boat, keep an eye out for iguanas, crocodiles, turtles, birds, and water-lilies. At the Lamanai Maya Site, your guide will lead you on a walk through the rainforest scattered with ancient structures to arrive at the Mask Temple. Here, your guide will share in-depth archeological information about the site. The Mask Temple is one of the biggest structures at Lamanai, and it’s named for the carved mask that was found during excavations. At the High Temple, you’ll climb up to the top of the ruins, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the lagoon and the jungle. The High Temple is the tallest structure at Lamanai, standing at almost 34 meters tall. After exploring the ruins, you’ll head back to the boat for the return journey to the dock. Once you arrive back at the dock, it’s time for a picnic lunch. You’ll enjoy lunch in a beautiful setting with nice views of the river. Before returning to your hotel or the cruise ship terminal, you’ll have the opportunity to visit the onsite museum. Here, you can learn more about the history and culture of the Mayan people.

Booking Information

If you’re interested in booking the Belize City: Lamanai Maya Ruins & River Boat Safari w/ Lunch tour, you can book it online through GetYourGuide. The tour is approximately 6.5 hours long and is suitable for individuals, families, and groups. The tour includes round-trip transportation, all entrance fees, and the services of a knowledgeable tour guide.

Final Thoughts

The Belize City: Lamanai Maya Ruins & River Boat Safari w/ Lunch tour is an excellent option for those who want to learn about the Mayan culture while enjoying the natural beauty of Belize. With a knowledgeable guide and comfortable transportation, you’re sure to have a fun and educational experience. Be sure to bring sunscreen, comfortable shoes, and a camera to capture all the beauty that this tour has to offer.

Frequently Asked Questions about Belize City

Belize City is the largest city in Belize, and it’s the country’s main economic and cultural hub. If you’re planning to visit this vibrant city, you might have several questions in mind. Here are some of the frequently asked questions about Belize City to help you plan your trip better:

1. What is the best time to visit Belize City?

The best time to visit Belize City is between November and April, which is the dry season. During this time, you can enjoy lots of sunshine and pleasant weather. The rainy season, which lasts from May to October, can be quite humid and uncomfortable for some travelers.

2. What are the top tourist attractions in Belize City?

Belize City offers several tourist attractions that you can explore during your visit. The top tourist attractions in Belize City include:

• The Belize Museum
• The Bliss Institute and Cultural Center
• The historic St. John’s Cathedral
• The Belize Zoo
• The Old Belize Cultural and Historical Center
• The Government House
• Marine parks and reserves

3. What is the local currency in Belize City?

The local currency in Belize City is the Belize Dollar (BZD). Although many places in Belize City accept US Dollars, it’s always best to have some Belizean Dollars on hand. You can exchange your USD to BZD at currency exchange centers in the city or withdraw cash from ATMs.

4. Is Belize City safe for tourists?

While Belize City has a reputation for being unsafe, the city has worked hard to improve its reputation and reduce crime. That said, it’s still advisable to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings, especially in less populated areas or at night.

5. What is the local language spoken in Belize City?

The official language in Belize City is English, and it’s widely spoken throughout the city. Other languages that are spoken include Spanish and Creole.

6. What is the local cuisine in Belize City?

Belizean cuisine is a blend of different cultures and flavors, including Mayan, Caribbean, and Latin American. Some of the local dishes to try include:

• Fry jacks with refried beans and cheese
• Cochinita pibil
• Conch fritters
• Ceviche
• Gibnut (also known as “royal rat”)
• Rice and beans
• Corn tamales
• Belizean rum

7. What is the best way to get around Belize City?

Getting around Belize City is easy thanks to its well-developed public transportation system, which includes buses and taxis. You can also rent a car or bike if you prefer to explore on your own.

8. What are some cultural events and festivals in Belize City?

Belize City is known for its vibrant culture, and there are several festivals and events throughout the year that you can witness. Some of the top cultural events and festivals in Belize City include:

• The Belize Carnival
• The Costa Maya Festival
• The Garifuna Settlement Day
• The Pan Yaad Steel Band Festival
• The Belikin La Ruta Maya Belize River Challenge

9. What should I bring to Belize City?

When visiting Belize City, it’s advisable to carry the following items:

• Sunscreen and sun hat
• Bug spray
• Lightweight clothing and comfortable shoes
• Swimsuit and beachwear
• Waterproof camera or a waterproof bag for your camera
• Cash and credit cards
• Passport and other travel documents

10. Do I need a visa to visit Belize City?

Citizens of some countries may require a visa to visit Belize City. It’s best to check with the Belize Embassy or consulate in your home country to determine whether you need a visa or not. Most visitors to Belize City are allowed to enter the country with a valid passport for up to 30 days.

How to spend your time as a tourist in Belize City

Belize City is the largest city of Belize, the place where the country’s modern history began. The city is rich in culture, history, and natural beauty, making it a destination worth exploring for any traveler. If you’re planning a trip to Belize City, here are some tips on how to spend your time as a tourist.

1. Visit the Belize City Swing Bridge

The Belize City Swing Bridge is a historic bridge that connects the north and south sides of the city over the Haulover Creek. This manually operated bridge was built in 1923 and is the only manually operated swing bridge in Central America. A walk across the bridge is a unique experience as you get to see the boats passing through while the bridge swings to let them through.

2. Explore the Belize City House of Culture and Downtown Art Gallery

The Belize City House of Culture and Downtown Art Gallery is a museum that will take you on a journey through the history and culture of Belize. The galleries showcase a range of exhibits that give visitors a glimpse into the country’s past, present, and future. The museum also includes the Downtown Art Gallery which features art by local artists.

3. Marvel at the Belize Sign Monument

The Belize Sign Monument is a popular tourist destination located in the northern part of Belize City. It is a large concrete sign that spells out “Belize” and is painted in the colors of the Belizean flag. The monument sits on a hill and you can get a stunning view of the city and the Caribbean Sea from the top.

4. Take a tour of Belize City by boat

One of the best ways to explore Belize City is by taking a boat tour. You can see many of the city’s landmarks and attractions from the water, including the iconic Belize City Swing Bridge. You can take a tour at any time of the day, but the sunset tour is particularly beautiful.

5. Visit the Belize Zoo and Tropical Education Center

The Belize Zoo and Tropical Education Center is a unique attraction that serves as a sanctuary for native wildlife. The zoo features over 145 species of animals and plants that are native to Belize. You can see jaguars, tapirs, macaws, and many other animals. The zoo is also an educational center where visitors can learn about the local ecosystems and conservation efforts.

6. Go on a Mayan Ruins Tour

Belize City is surrounded by ancient Mayan ruins that are worth visiting. You can take a tour of sites like Altun Ha, Lamanai, and Xunantunich, which are just a short drive away from the city. Altun Ha features well-preserved pyramids and temples, while Lamanai is famous for its beautiful stone carvings. Xunantunich is located on a hilltop and offers stunning views of the surrounding jungle.

7. Visit St. John’s Cathedral

St. John’s Cathedral is a historic church located in the heart of Belize City. It is the oldest Anglican church in Central America and is a popular tourist attraction. The cathedral was built in the early 19th century and features beautiful stained glass windows and a bell tower that offers great views of the city.

8. Relax at Old Belize Adventure Cultural and Historical Center

Old Belize Adventure Cultural and Historical Center is a perfect place for those who want to have a relaxed experience. It features a wide range of activities and attractions that allow visitors to learn about the culture and history of Belize. You can enjoy the beach, go snorkeling, take a tour of the museum, and much more.

9. Try Belizean Cuisine

No trip to Belize City is complete without trying the local cuisine. Belizean cuisine has a unique blend of flavors and spices that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. Some of the must-try dishes include rice and beans, fry jacks, tamales, and ceviche.

10. Shop at the Belize Spice Farm and Botanical Garden

The Belize Spice Farm and Botanical Garden is a great place to explore the natural beauty of Belize. The garden features a wide range of tropical plants, and you can take a tour to learn about its organic farming process. You can also purchase fresh produce, spices, and herbs from the farm shop.

Book Your Tour Now

Belize City is a great place to visit, offering a unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. Whether you’re interested in exploring the city’s landmarks, learning about the local culture, or simply relaxing on the beach, there’s something for everyone in Belize City. By following these tips, you can make the most of your time as a tourist in this beautiful city.