Altun ha is situated 31 miles north east of Belize City and 6 miles from the coast of the Caribbean Sea. Guests will learn about Belizean culture, history, industries and coastal areas as we travel through the countryside towards the Maya site. Altun ha was occupied from 250 BC until 900 AD, with a population of approximately 10,000 ancient Mayan inhabitants. Its name derives from a village named Rockstone Pond which is the modern translation of “Altun ha”.

 

Excavated from 1964 until 1971, there are two elements that make Altun ha special. First, it has two plazas where guests can enjoy several ancient temples without lots of walking. Moreover, the largest jade Maya artifact was found at the altar inside the Temple of Masonry on March 12, 1968. This jade artifact is carved in the shape of a head representing the sun God Kinich Ahau; it weighs about 9 3/4 lbs and is 6 inches tall by 4 inches wide. Jade was the most PRECIOUS and PRICELESS stone of the ancient Mayas. 

 

Altun ha is a remarkable site to visit for all ages: couples, families and groups, and is well suited for guests with limited mobility.