Altun Ha
Archaeological Site Ancient Maya city with ceremonial plazas and pyramids
Altun Ha, north of Belize City, contains Maya temples and plazas, including the Temple of the Masonry Altars where the notable Jade Head was found; tourists make day trips from the coast.
Altun Ha is a Maya archaeological site in Belize’s northern lowlands, notable for its ceremonial architecture and tomb finds. The site contains ceremonial plazas and a series of pyramids and platforms that were important during Classic-period occupation.
The most visited structures include the principal pyramid complex where elite tombs and significant offerings have been excavated. The site’s artifacts, including a large carved jade head recovered from a tomb, have made Altun Ha one of Belize’s best-known ancient centers.
Altun Ha was occupied during the Classic Maya period and was a regional ceremonial and trade center. Excavations in the 20th century documented buildings, burials and material culture that illustrate the site’s role in ancient regional networks.
The ruins are located in the Belize District, inland from the coast and accessible by road from nearby towns and Belize City; the site is presented with walking paths and interpretive signage for visitors.
- Notable artifact: Archaeologists recovered a carved jade head from a tomb at the site, one of the most famous artifacts associated with this center.
What to See #
- Main Plaza: Central plaza and main pyramid complexes where ceremonial and civic activities were concentrated during the Classic period.
- Temple of the Masonry Altars: Temple of the Masonry Altars, the principal pyramid associated with elite tombs and important ritual burials.
- Residential & ritual areas: Outlying residential and ritual structures that show the settlement pattern and civic layout of the site's ancient community.
How to Get to Altun Ha #
The site is about 31 miles (50 km) northwest of Belize City. Most visitors reach Altun Ha by organized tour from Belize City (45-60 minutes by van), or by rental car via the Northern Highway (George Price Highway/Western Highway from Belize City, then signposts toward Altun Ha). From the Northern Highway, follow local signs; junctions are not heavily signed-ask locally if unsure.
Tips for Visiting Altun Ha #
- Arrive early (before 9am) to avoid mid-day heat and tour groups; morning light also brings out the limestone's contours for photos.
- Combine Altun Ha with a Belize City stopover-many tours pick up there; decline the fast, crowded midday group tours and ask for a slower, interpretive guide.
- Look up at the broken stucco masks on Temple of the Masonry Altars-wear a wide-aperture lens for close-ups, and step carefully on worn stone steps.
Best Time to Visit Altun Ha #
Best visited in the dry season for easier walking and clearer skies; mornings are cooler and less crowded.
Weather & Climate near Altun Ha #
Altun Ha's climate is classified as Tropical Monsoon - Tropical Monsoon climate with consistently warm temperatures year-round. Temperatures range from 19°C to 32°C. Abundant rainfall (1771 mm/year), wettest in September.
January
January is mild with highs of 28°C and lows of 19°C. Significant rainfall (115 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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February
February is warm with highs of 29°C and lows of 20°C. Moderate rainfall (56 mm).
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March
March is warm with highs of 30°C and lows of 21°C. Moderate rainfall (53 mm).
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April
April is warm with highs of 31°C and lows of 22°C. Moderate rainfall (46 mm).
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May
May is the hottest month, feeling like 31°C due to high humidity. Significant rainfall (109 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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June
June is the hottest month, feeling like 31°C with oppressive humidity. Heavy rain (227 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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July
July is hot, feeling like 31°C with oppressive humidity. Heavy rain (222 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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August
August is hot, feeling like 31°C with oppressive humidity. Significant rainfall (171 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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September
September is hot, feeling like 31°C with oppressive humidity. The wettest month with heavy rain (259 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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October
October is warm with stifling humidity (dew point 24°C). Heavy rain (228 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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November
November is warm with muggy conditions (dew point 22°C). Significant rainfall (159 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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December
December is mild with highs of 28°C and lows of 19°C. Significant rainfall (126 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
