Nestled approximately 20 miles from the coast, on the foothills of the Maya Mountains near the Columbia River in the Toledo District, lies the ancient city of Lubaantun, also known as the “Place of Fallen Stones.” This fascinating site is renowned for its large stone platforms that once supported wooden and thatch structures.
Lubaantun boasts five main plazas, featuring religious buildings, ballcourts, and residential areas. The structures are meticulously shaped and faced with stones, giving them a striking vertical appearance. The only carved monuments at the site are three ballcourt markers, adding to its unique charm. Lubaantun was explored in the early 1900s, revealing a glimpse into the rich history of the Maya civilization.
Meaning “Big Hat” or “Headdress,” Nim Li Punit is another gem in the Toledo District, located within the community of Indian Creek along the Thomas Vincent Highway. This site is famous for having the most stelae in Belize, with over two dozen, including eight well-preserved carved ones. These features suggest that Nim Li Punit was once a significant religious and political community.
Occupied around the Middle to Late Classic period, possibly extending into the Post Classic period (400 A.D – 1000 A.D), Nim Li Punit is home to three major plazas. One of the highlights is the Astronomical Plaza, used to study celestial bodies like the sun, moon, stars, and planets such as Venus. Discovered in the mid-1970s by an oil exploration company, Nim Li Punit continues to captivate visitors with its historical and cultural significance.
Both Lubaantun and Nim Li Punit offer a captivating journey into the past, showcasing the incredible engineering and architectural prowess of the ancient Maya. Whether you’re an avid history buff or simply looking for an enriching experience, these sites provide a unique window into a world long gone but never forgotten. Come and explore the mystical wonders of Lubaantun and Nim Li Punit, and let the stories of the Maya civilization unfold before your eyes.
Intensity Level: Moderate
Getting There: We primarily depart from Hopkins (approximately 1.5 hours), Dangriga (approximately 2 hours), and Placencia (approximately 1,5 hours). Flexible pickup options available throughout Belize. Pickup from locations outside of our primary departure points will incur an additional fee.
Tour Duration: Approximately 3 hours total for both sites (excluding travel time)
There are 5002 Tours available in popular destinations on TravelWP.
There are 5002 Tours available in popular destinations on TravelWP.
There are 5002 Tours available in popular destinations on TravelWP.
There are 5002 Tours available in popular destinations on TravelWP.
There are 5002 Tours available in popular destinations on TravelWP.
From $150.00
From $150.00
Tour Categories
Information
There are no reviews yet.