Lamanai Maya Ruin

10+ Hours

Tour Duration

Moderate

Tour Intensity

Min of 2

Number of persons for the tour

Brief information

Lamanai can be reached by road or by river from Orange Walk. This would be a whole-day tour starting at 6 a.m. and returning at approximately 5 p.m.

Lamanai is the Maya word for “submerged crocodile” The site’s name – “Lamanay” or “Lamayna” was recorded by Franciscan missionaries in the seventeenth century. It is one of the only sites retaining its original name and is among one of Belize’s largest ceremonial Centre. The name Lamanai helps to explain the numerous crocodile motifs at the site. Crocodile effigies appear on figurines, vessel decorations, and on a large headdress on a limestone mask at one of the principal structures at the site.

Lamanai is located on the banks of the New River Lagoon and the most spectacular way to travel to the site is by means of water taxi up the river. The trip by river is also a nature-lover’s heaven for numerous species of water birds live along this rich and diverse waterway. You may even be lucky enough to view iguanas and crocodiles as they sun themselves on the river banks. There are also interesting flora and fauna to be seen at the Lamanai reserve.

Another way to reach Lamanai is via an all-weather dirt road (approximately 28 miles) which runs from Orange Walk through several villages including San Felipe and Shipyard. The site is located in the village of Indian Church.

What to bring/wear

  • Good Hiking shoes
  • Bug repellent
  • Camera 
  • Extra water
  • Snacks

What we provide

  • Transportation
  • Entrance fee
  • Lunch
  • Gear

Map

Our Clients Reviews

  • star rating  Orlando was our guide for the ATM caves. He was an excellent guide and the tour was a really fun and interesting experience. Would highly recommend booking.
    - He... read more

    Anna F
    August 2, 2023

    star rating  We had Orlando as our ATM cave guide. He was a wonderful guide, and happily answered all my questions, made sure the group was doing ok at every turn, and... read more

    avatar thumb RebeccaB375
    August 22, 2022

    star rating  Orlando took us on an amazing trip to the ATM caves!! We enjoyed the day with him learning about the jungle, caves and history of the Mayan people. Orlando was... read more

    K8599TEkatiee
    June 14, 2022
  • star rating  Have you ever walked away from something and said to yourself "WOW!! that experience could not have been any better and it's all because of the person who was gracious... read more

    joellenandjoe
    April 16, 2022

    star rating  Excellent! Orlando explained the history and cultural relevance of the site! Highly recommend this personalized tour of this Underground Maya Ruin

    Curiosity34833282414
    January 23, 2022

    star rating  We went on this adventure with an expert on the ATM cave who told us a lot of interesting facts and stories about its magical history. Any question we asked... read more

    ScaniaSt
    December 25, 2021
  • star rating  Our trip to the ATM cave with Orlando from Katz Witz Maya Tours was nothing short of mind blowing!

    Orlando’s knowledge of every detail in the ATM cave,... read more

    Jbrosious
    November 26, 2021

    star rating  The ATM cave tour was the highlight of our week in Belize! Our guide, Orlando, was very patient and informative, giving us direction on where to place our hands... read more

    Roving731607
    November 11, 2021

    star rating  We had an excellent time with Orlando exploring the ATM caves. He is a very knowledgeable tour guide and we felt extremely comfortable exploring the caves with him!! ... read more

    343karah
    November 2, 2021
  • star rating  My 18yo son and I were guided by our new friend Orlando into an experience we will remember for the rest of our lives. We learned and experienced so... read more

    Jackie M
    September 7, 2021

    star rating  We had a great time and best experience ever exploring the ATM cave with Orlando. Breathtaking views, lots of adrenaline, swimming and crawling, surreal stalactites, and million years of history... read more

    607martino
    September 6, 2021

    star rating  Orlando is super knowledgeable, funny, and has an amazing way of connecting you with the world he is showing. 10/10 will never use anyone but him in Belize.

    caseyam12
    May 26, 2021