Lamanai lies scattered along the lagoon of the New River within the tropical rainforest of central Belize. Lama'an'ain (submerged crocodile in Maya) was one of the longest continuously occupied cities—from about 500 BC to 1675 AD or later—probably in part due to its situation on a major trade route, the New River.

Excavated by David M. Pendergast of the Royal Ontario Museum during a series of field seasons beginning in 1974, its 718 mapped structures lie stretched out along the shore of the lagoon. Much of Lamanai's importance is reflected in the large, imposing Late Pre-Classic temple-pyramids which usually underlie Early Classic constructions.

Begin your day when you are picked up on the pier almost across the street from the villa. You will be served a continental breakfast of fresh fruit, cinnamon rolls and fresh squeezed orange juice as you make your way up the Northern River on the mainland. The early morning sights and sounds are plentiful.

At Bomba village, you will board a private air-conditioned van to Tower Hill. Along the way, you will pass through quaint villages and fields of sugar cane. Once at Tower Hill, your journey through the New River begins.

As you make your way towards the Lamanai ruins, you will encounter a rich variety of bird life including the rare Jabiru Stork.

You will also encounter animals indigenous to the area such as the river otter, turtles, crocodiles and monkeys. At Lamanai, your experienced guides will navigate you through trails of jungle to the temples, which majestically perch on the waters edge.

Lamani is a very popular ruin for our guests. It is assessable and great for walking around in the jungle where it is located. Your guides will take time to explain the history of the site, as well as the nature of the surrounding area. At the site you will also enjoy a lunch of local cuisine.

At the end of the day, as you return to San Pedro with snacks, sodas, beer and punch, you will realize that your experience at Lamanai was a truly unique and unforgettable one.