Lamanai Mayan Ruins

Situated on the banks of New River Lagoon, the largest body of fresh water in Belize, the impressive pyramids are surrounded by a 950-acre archaeological reserve. Over seven hundred structures have been identified, though many remain unexcavated. Numerous representations of the crocodile can be found throughout this site, whose name means “submerged crocodile” in Mayan. There are also a museum and the remnants of two 16th century Spanish churches, and nearby is the popular, well-run Lamanai Outpost Lodge, the only accommodation in the area. The area is inhabited by Menonites, a religious sect similar to the Amish who grow much of Belize’s food, who can sometimes be seen in their horse-drawn carriages coming down to the lagoon.