Lamanai Temple & River Safari | From San Pedro
A River Runs Through It. Leave the ocean behind and head for the New River Lagoon. This is one of Belize’s most adventurous day trips. You will fly to the mainland, travel north through the sugar cane fields, and then board a riverboat to speed through the jungle to the ancient Mayan city of Lamanai.
Logistics: Flight Highly Recommended
| ⚠️ Travel Tip: Lamanai is in Northern Belize. Taking the water taxi adds 3+ hours of travel time. We strongly recommend the 8:00 AM flight to maximize your time on the river and at the ruins. |
The Experience
Part 1: The New River Safari
Board a riverboat at Tower Hill. The 26-mile journey upriver is a nature tour in itself. Your captain will pause to point out “Jesus Birds” walking on lily pads, sleeping crocodiles, and spider monkeys crashing through the trees.
Part 2: The Temples
We dock at the foot of the ruins. Walk the jungle paths to see the Mask Temple and the massive High Temple. You can climb to the top for a view that stretches for miles over the canopy.
The “Private” Difference
Shared Lamanai boats can be crowded (20+ people). On our private tour, we secure a smaller, faster boat or a private guide to ensure you can get close to the wildlife for photos without fighting for a view.
Itinerary Snapshot (Flight Option)
- 8:00 AM: Flight from San Pedro.
- 8:20 AM: Pickup at Belize City Municipal.
- 9:30 AM: Arrive at Boat Landing.
- 10:00 AM: River Safari.
- 11:00 AM: Ruins Tour.
- 1:00 PM: Lunch (Included).
- 3:30 PM: Return to City.
- 4:30 PM: Flight to San Pedro.
Trip Essentials
| What’s Included | What’s Excluded |
|---|---|
| ✅ Private Ground Transport ✅ Boat Ride Fees ✅ Entrance Fees ✅ Lunch & Water ✅ Guide | ❌ Flight Tickets (We can book for you) ❌ Gratuities ❌ Alcohol |
What to Bring: Sunscreen, Hat (hold tight on the boat!), Bug Spray, Camera.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Will I get seasick on the river?
Unlikely. The river is very calm (flat water). The boat goes fast, which creates a breeze, but no waves.
2. Can I take the water taxi?
Technically yes, but you must take the 6:00 AM boat, and it makes for a very long day (return around 6:30 PM).
3. Are there mosquitoes?
Yes, Lamanai is deep in the jungle. Bug spray is mandatory.
4. Is lunch included?
Yes, a delicious local lunch (usually buffet style) is served near the river bank.
5. Can we climb the temples?
Yes, the High Temple is open for climbing. The view is spectacular.
6. Are there bathrooms on the boat?
No, but there are bathrooms at the boat landing and at the ruins entrance.
7. How long is the boat ride?
About 45 minutes to 1 hour each way, depending on how many wildlife stops we make.
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