Lamanai, San Juan Belize is a hidden gem in Central America, offering a unique combination of culture, adventure, and natural beauty. Located in the Orange Walk District of Belize, this small town is home to ancient Mayan ruins, lush rainforests, and a vibrant culture. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an action-packed adventure, Lamanai has something for everyone. Here are 10 things to do in Lamanai, San Juan Belize.
1. Explore the Ancient Mayan Ruins
One of the most popular activities in Lamanai is exploring the ancient Mayan ruins. The ruins of Lamanai are the second largest in Belize and the third largest in the Mayan world. They are estimated to be over 3,000 years old and consist of several different structures, including a temple, an observatory, and a ball court. Visitors can explore the ruins on their own or take a guided tour with a knowledgeable guide.
2. Take a Boat Tour of the New River
The New River runs through the heart of Lamanai and is the perfect way to explore the area’s natural beauty. Take a boat tour of the New River to spot wildlife, including crocodiles, toucans, and manatees. You can also visit the nearby Lamanai Outpost Lodge, which is located on the banks of the New River and offers a variety of activities, such as kayaking, birdwatching, and fishing.
3. Visit the Lamanai Museum
The Lamanai Museum is a great place to learn more about the area’s history and culture. The museum houses a collection of artifacts from the ancient Mayan civilization, including pottery, tools, and jewelry. The museum also has a variety of interactive exhibits and educational programs for visitors to enjoy.
4. Sample the Local Cuisine
Lamanai is known for its delicious local cuisine, which is a mix of traditional Mayan dishes and international flavors. Sample some of the local favorites, such as tamales, rellenitos (stuffed plantains), and pollo enchilado (chicken in a spicy sauce). Wash it all down with a cold Belikin beer, the national beer of Belize.
5. Go Birdwatching
Lamanai is a birdwatcher’s paradise. The area is home to over 350 species of birds, including toucans, parrots, and oropendolas. Take a guided birdwatching tour to spot some of the area’s rare and exotic species.
6. Take a Jungle Tour
Explore the lush rainforest surrounding Lamanai on a guided jungle tour. The tour will take you through the jungle, where you’ll spot exotic wildlife and learn about the area’s unique ecology. You might even spot a few howler monkeys or a tapir.
7. Go Caving
The area around Lamanai is home to numerous caves, some of which are open to the public. Take a guided caving tour to explore some of the area’s most beautiful and fascinating caves. You might even spot a few bats or ancient Mayan artifacts.
8. Visit the Local Markets
Visit the local markets in Lamanai to pick up some souvenirs or sample some of the local dishes. The markets are full of stalls selling everything from traditional Mayan handicrafts to fresh produce. You can also find a variety of street food, such as tacos and tamales.
9. Go Fishing
Lamanai is a great place for fishing. The area is home to a variety of freshwater and saltwater fish, including tarpon, snook, and barracuda. Take a guided fishing tour to catch some of the area’s most sought-after species.
10. Relax on the Beach
Take some time to relax on one of the area’s beautiful beaches. The area is home to several secluded beaches, where you can take a dip in the crystal-clear waters or just relax in the sun.
Whether you’re looking for an adventure or a relaxing getaway, Lamanai, San Juan Belize has something for everyone. From exploring the ancient Mayan ruins to sampling the local cuisine, there’s no shortage of things to do in Lamanai. So what are you waiting for? Plan your trip to Lamanai today!