The ruined city of Lamanai can be found in the middle of the virgin forest and the name means “submerged crocodile” in the Maya language. The site is only accessible by boat and with a bit of luck you might actually get to see some crocodiles on the one-hour journey on the New River or in the lagoon on the western shore of Lamanai.
Boats can be rented at Toll Bridge, 4 miles before Orange Walk Town. Lamanai is one of the oldest Mayan settlements, the oldest findings date back to the Preclassic period. A 110 ft high pyramid forms the center of the site, and the ascent will reward you with a spectacular view of the city, the forest and the lagoon. Three temples made of wood and palm leaves once stood on the top platform of the pyramid. If you want to get an idea about Mayan life then visit the small museum which exhibits objects from various eras. Large tourist groups are rare.
