Lamanai Ruins & New River Safari | From Belize City

The "Jungle Cruise" of Belize. This is widely considered the best adventure tour in Northern Belize. Unlike other ruins where you simply drive up to the entrance, Lamanai (Submerged Crocodile) requires a thrilling boat expedition to reach. Departing from Belize City, we head north to the toll bridge, where you board a river boat for a scenic safari up the New River Lagoon to the ancient city hidden in the forest.

At A Glance

• Departs From: Belize City (Hotels, Water Taxi, or Cruise Port)
• Route: Northern Highway & New River Boat Ride
• Duration: Full Day (Approx. 6-7 Hours)
• Highlights: River Wildlife, Mask Temple, High Temple

The Experience

Part 1: The River Safari

The adventure begins the moment you step onto the boat at Tower Hill. For roughly an hour, your captain guides you up the winding New River. This is your chance to spot Belize’s "Big Three" river dwellers: huge Morelet's Crocodiles sunning on the banks, troops of Spider Monkeys in the trees, and the "Jesus Birds" (Jacanas) walking on lily pads. The scenery changes from open lagoon to tight, jungle-canopied creeks.

Part 2: The Lost City (Lamanai)

We dock right at the foot of the temples. Lamanai is famous for its jungle setting—the ruins are surrounded by towering trees and the roar of Howler Monkeys.
The High Temple: Climb 108 feet to the top for a view of the lagoon that will take your breath away.
The Mask Temple: Stand face-to-face with the massive, 10-foot tall limestone masks of ancient Maya kings.

Itinerary Snapshot

• 8:00 AM: Pickup in Belize City.
• 9:15 AM: Arrive at Tower Hill Boat Launch.
• 9:30 AM: Scenic Boat Safari (Wildlife Spotting).
• 10:30 AM: Arrival at Lamanai Ruins.
• 10:45 AM: Guided Jungle Trek & Temple Climbing.
• 12:30 PM: Picnic Lunch (Included) under the trees.
• 1:30 PM: Return Speedboat Ride.
• 3:30 PM: Drop-off in Belize City.

Trip Essentials

What to Bring: Sunscreen, hat, bug spray (essential for the jungle), comfortable walking shoes, and a camera with a good zoom for the wildlife!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Will I see crocodiles?
It is very likely! The New River has a healthy population of crocodiles. Our boat captains are experts at spotting them camouflaged in the reeds.

2. Is the boat ride rough?
No, the New River is a calm, flat-water river. The ride is smooth and scenic, not bumpy like the ocean.

3. Can we climb the temples?
Yes! The High Temple at Lamanai is one of the few remaining major pyramids in Belize that you are still allowed to climb. The view is spectacular.

4. Is it cruise ship friendly?
Yes. The total tour time is about 6 hours, which fits perfectly within most cruise ship schedules. We pick you up at the terminal.

5. Are there mosquitoes?
Because Lamanai is located on a lagoon in the jungle, mosquitoes can be present, especially in the rainy season. We highly recommend bringing repellent.