Belize shares a rich Maya heritage with its neighboring countries of Guatemala, Mexico, and Honduras, and is considered to have been the heart of Maya civilization during the classic period.

Although Belize's Maya occupation began as early as 1500 BC, it was during the Classic period of 250 AD to 900 AD that the population is thought to have exceeded one million people. Archaeological remains of the ancient Maya include pottery, skeletons, stelae, and tall palaces, temples, and ceremonial centers.

It is estimated that there are thousands of Maya Ruins in Belize. Only a few of these have been found and even fewer have been excavated by scientists. All of the following sites are available for public viewing.

Belize was once the center of one of the greatest civilizations of antiquity.

Evidence of the ancient Maya lie strewn about the country. Climb ancient temples for spectacular views of the surrounding jungle; view larger-than-life stelae and carvings of gods and rulers; marvel at the beauty and artistry of jade artifacts in museums and visitor centers; or indulge your dream of being an archaeologist through study programs or assisting with professional field research.

NOTICE TO ALL TOURISM INDUSTRY STAKEHOLDERS
 Please be informed that effective 1 November 2010, and in accordance with Statutory Instrument #40 of 2010, the Institute of Archaeology, National Institute of Culture and History will be introducing the following entrance fee structure to our archaeological parks:

SITE NAME	LOCAL VISITORS	FOREIGN VISITORS
Actun Tunichil Muknal	Bze. $50.00	Bze. $50.00
Altun Ha	Bze. $10.00	Bze. $20.00
Barton Creek	Bze. $10.00	Bze. $20.00
Cahal Pech	Bze. $10.00	Bze. $20.00
Caracol	Bze. $15.00	Bze. $30.00
Cerros	Bze. $10.00	Bze. $20.00
El Pilar	Bze. $10.00	Bze. $20.00
Lamanai	Bze. $10.00	Bze. $20.00
Lubaantun	Bze. $10.00	Bze. $20.00
Nimli Punit	Bze. $10.00	Bze. $20.00
Serpon Sugar Mill	Bze. $10.00	Bze. $20.00
Xunantunich	Bze. $10.00	Bze. $20.00
Nohoch Cheen	Bze  $10.00	Bze. $20.00

 

Entrance to the parks on Sundays and Public Holidays will continue to be free for Belizeans and permanent residents. Entrance for students also remains free at all times providing their schools request a waiver from the IA prior to their visit.

Proceeds from the new fee structure will contribute significantly to the continued growth, preservation and development of our archaeological parks.