LAMANAI - THE ANCIENT MAYA SITE
$89 Per Person  7 1/2 Hours

You will enjoy the ride into the interior of Belize as it's filled with both the neighborhoods you might see in your own home town as well as areas that seem foreign and a bit downtrodden. One of my favorite photos shows one of many washing machines that are located smartly on covered porches. Why take up space in the house?

As you approach this ancient area called Orange Walk, you will board a boat to take you on the river trip which brings you to the entrance. Lamanai means "submerged crocodile", a name befitting a city sprawled on the edge of a gorged lagoon. The river boat travels on the New River, which winds southward past an old run factory, deserted farms, and Mennonite villages.

Along the way you will be able to see many of the indigenous birds and natural growth not found in the United States. The surreality of the river is almost enough of a tour, but, as the river becomes a large lagoon, you will see several thatched buildings gather at the edge of the water. Some 720 buildings spread across 950 acres, in between massive trees and vines. Paths wind between Lamanai's buildings, many of which tower above the jungle canopy. Noises of the jungle will follow you.

Your guides will narrate the history of the area as you circle around the structures. Some of the buildings will have access for climbing, if you wish, to see the overview of the area. The water-thatched buildings as well as a mini-museum are left over from the days of archaeologist David Pendergast, who excavated the area during the 70s and 80s. During your visit, you will see four different construction phases, from 200 BC to the end about 1500 years later.

You will have a beautiful lunch during your day, as well as liquid refreshments to cool you in the heat. This is an awesome trip, one to remember forever.