Altun Ha Mayan Ruins and River Wallace and Manatee Watch Tour

Exploring the ancient Mayan ruins of Altun Ha and encountering Belize’s diverse wildlife along the River Wallace make for an enriching cultural and natural experience. This 5-hour tour allows visitors to climb pyramids, learn about the Mayan civilization, and spot manatees and crocodiles during a scenic river cruise. Departing from Belize City, the tour offers a chance to take in the country’s rich heritage and ecology. Whether you’re a history buff or nature enthusiast, this adventure promises an unforgettable glimpse into the wonders of Belize.

This experience made our list of the 25 Best Tours In Belize City.

Good To Know

• This 5-hour Belize tour combines exploration of the Altun Ha Mayan ruins with a cruise along the River Wallace to spot wildlife like manatees and crocodiles.

• The tour is priced from $85 and includes a guided visit to the Altun Ha archaeological site, where visitors can climb pyramids for panoramic rainforest views.

• During the River Wallace cruise, travelers have the opportunity to observe a variety of wildlife, including howler monkeys, iguanas, and exotic birds in their natural habitats.

• The tour meeting point is at the Fort Street Tourism Village in Belize City, and a moderate fitness level is required for participation.

• The tour provides an immersive experience that showcases both the cultural heritage of the Maya civilization and the natural wonders of Belize’s rich ecosystem.

Tour Overview

The "Altun Ha Mayan Ruins and River Wallace and Manatee Watch Tour" is a 5-hour excursion that takes visitors to explore the ancient Mayan ruins of Altun Ha and observe wildlife along the River Wallace in Belize.

Priced from $85, the tour includes guided visits to the Altun Ha archaeological site, where travelers can climb stone pyramids for rainforest views.

Along the River Wallace, guests may spot howler monkeys, crocodiles, manatees, and exotic birds.

The tour offers a National Park fee, bottled water, a professional guide, and lunch.

Meeting at the Fort Street Tourism Village in Belize City, the tour isn’t wheelchair-accessible and requires a moderate fitness level.

Location and Duration

This 5-hour tour departs from Belize City, the largest city in Belize.

The tour takes visitors to the Altun Ha archaeological site, located about 30 miles north of Belize City. Altun Ha was an important Maya city-state that flourished from 200 to 900 AD.

The tour also includes a cruise along the River Wallace, where travelers may spot manatees, crocodiles, and exotic birds.

With a duration of 5 hours, this combination tour allows visitors to explore the rich cultural and natural heritage of Belize in a convenient and comprehensive way.

Included Experiences

On this Altun Ha Mayan Ruins and River Wallace and Manatee Watch Tour, visitors can expect an immersive experience that combines cultural exploration with wildlife observation.

The tour includes a cruise along River Wallace, where travelers may spot howler monkeys, crocodiles, manatees, and exotic birds in their natural habitats.

At the Altun Ha archaeological site, a guided tour takes visitors through the ruins of plazas, palaces, and stone temples, providing insights into the Mayan civilization.

Adventurous travelers can climb the stone pyramids to enjoy panoramic rainforest views.

Lunch, bottled water, and national park fees are all included, ensuring a well-rounded and hassle-free adventure.

Meeting Point and Pickup

The meeting point for the Altun Ha Mayan Ruins and River Wallace and Manatee Watch Tour is the Fort Street Tourism Village, Terminal 1, in Belize City.

Travelers should look for the Diamonds International store at Terminal 2 to find the tour representative.

Pickup is available upon request, but this must be arranged at the time of booking.

Cruise ship passengers must provide their ship name, docking time, disembarkation time, and re-boarding time when making their reservation to ensure timely coordination.

The tour departs from the meeting point, and participants are responsible for ensuring they arrive on time to join the excursion.

Mayan Civilization and Ruins

At Altun Ha, visitors explore the once-thriving center of the ancient Maya civilization.

The archaeological site features:

• Ruins of plazas, palaces, and stone temples that offer a glimpse into the Mayan’s advanced architectural skills and rich cultural heritage.

• Opportunities to climb atop pyramids and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding rainforest canopy.

• Insights into the Mayan’s sophisticated understanding of astronomy, religion, and trade, as evidenced by the site’s layout and artifacts.

Guided tours provide in-depth commentary on the site’s historical significance and the daily life of the Mayan people who inhabited this important ceremonial center centuries ago.

Wildlife Sightings

Travelers frequently spot a variety of wildlife along the River Wallace portion of the tour. Sightings may include manatees gracefully swimming in the calm waters, crocodiles basking on the riverbanks, and iguanas darting through the lush vegetation.

Overhead, exotic birds soar through the trees, filling the air with their melodic calls. The tour also offers the chance to observe howler monkeys, known for their distinctive roar that echoes through the rainforest.

This diverse array of wildlife provides a fascinating glimpse into the rich natural ecosystem of Belize. Guests are encouraged to keep their eyes peeled and cameras ready to capture these stunning encounters with the local flora and fauna.

Health and Safety

Certain health and safety considerations are important for guests to book this Altun Ha Mayan Ruins tour.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and it’s not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious medical conditions. A moderate level of physical fitness is required to navigate the archaeological site.

Key health and safety points include:

• Not wheelchair accessible
• Not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious medical conditions
• Moderate physical fitness level required

Guests should be aware of these restrictions and ensure they meet the physical requirements before booking the tour.

Customer Feedback

Guests have provided a mix of feedback on the Altun Ha Mayan Ruins tour. While some praised the knowledgeable guides and enjoyed the river portion, others reported issues with timing and communication.

Positive Feedback	Neutral Feedback	Negative Feedback
Guides praised for knowledge and experience	–	Some travelers experienced cancellations and lack of communication
River portion exceeded expectations	–	Issues with timing and coordination reported by some participants
Enjoyable exploration of ruins	–	–

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Cancellation Policy for This Tour?

The cancellation policy isn’t specified in the tour overview, so it’s best to check with the tour provider directly. They may have flexible policies or fees depending on the timing of the cancellation.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions for the Included Lunch?

The tour doesn’t mention any dietary restrictions for the included lunch. However, it’s always best to check with the tour operator in advance if you have any specific dietary needs or preferences.

Is Photography Allowed at the Archaeological Site?

Yes, photography is generally allowed at the Altun Ha archaeological site. Visitors are encouraged to take photos throughout the ruins, capturing the impressive stone pyramids and other ancient Mayan structures. However, some restrictions may apply, so it’s best to check with the tour guide.

Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Drinks on the Tour?

Visitors are generally allowed to bring their own snacks and non-alcoholic drinks on the tour. However, it’s best to check with the tour operator in advance to confirm their policies and any restrictions.

Is There an Opportunity to Purchase Souvenirs During the Tour?

Yes, there are opportunities to purchase souvenirs during the tour. The tour includes a visit to the Altun Ha archaeological site, where travelers can browse local vendors for Mayan handicrafts and other mementos of their experience.

The Sum Up

The Altun Ha Mayan Ruins and River Wallace and Manatee Watch Tour offers a unique opportunity to explore Belize’s rich cultural and natural heritage. Visitors can enjoy the ancient Mayan civilization, climb pyramids, and witness diverse wildlife along the River Wallace, creating an unforgettable and enriching experience. This tour is a must-do for anyone seeking to discover the wonders of Belize.