Altun Ha and Baboon sanctuary from Belize City
6 Hours
Mayan Ruins
15 persons
Belize Tours from Belize City
Temples & Monkeys: The Perfect Half-Day Tour. If you want to see the best of Belize without spending all day in a car, this is the tour for you. Located just 45 minutes from Belize City, this combination takes you to the ancient trading post of Altun Ha (home of the famous Jade Head) and the Community Baboon Sanctuary, where you can get up close and personal with the loud Black Howler Monkeys in their natural habitat.
We travel north along the Old Northern Highway to **Altun Ha**. This site is famous for two things:
1. The Jade Head: The largest carved jade object in the Maya world was found here.
2. The Belikin Temple: You’ll recognize the Temple of the Masonry Altars immediately—it’s the icon on the label of every Belikin Beer bottle! You can climb to the top for a great view of the surrounding jungle.
Next, we head to the village of Bermudian Landing. This isn't a zoo; it is a community-led conservation project protecting the **Black Howler Monkey** (locally called "Baboons").
Your village guide will lead you on a nature walk into the gallery forest. These monkeys are wild but have been protected here for decades, so they often come down from the canopy to say hello. Hearing their roar—which can be heard for miles—is an unforgettable experience.
Better Monkey Encounters. When a bus with 50 people arrives, the monkeys often stay high in the trees. With our small, private group, the monkeys feel safer and often come much closer, giving you the best photo opportunities. Plus, we move at your pace—perfect if you have kids who need snack breaks.
| What's Included | What's Excluded |
|---|---|
| ✅ Private A/C Transport ✅ Licensed Tour Guide ✅ Entrance Fees (Ruins & Sanctuary) ✅ Water & Refreshments ✅ Port Pickup/Drop-off |
❌ Lunch (Can be added on request) ❌ Souvenirs ❌ Gratuities |
What to Bring:
1. Insect Repellent: Essential for the Baboon Sanctuary jungle walk.
2. Comfortable Shoes: Sneakers are perfect.
3. Sun Hat: Altun Ha is an open plaza with lots of sun.
1. Will we definitely see monkeys?
Yes. The Community Baboon Sanctuary has a 99% success rate. The guides know exactly where the troops are sleeping or feeding.
2. Can I do this tour if I have trouble walking?
Yes! Altun Ha is very flat (you don't have to climb the temples if you don't want to), and the monkey walk is on flat, easy trails. It is the most accessible tour we offer.
3. Are they actually baboons?
Technically, no. They are Black Howler Monkeys. However, in Belizean Creole, they have been called "Baboons" for centuries, so you will hear both names used.
4. Is this good for Cruise Ship passengers?
Absolutely. The total drive time is very short, meaning you have zero risk of missing your ship. We guarantee you'll be back with plenty of time to spare.