Belize 2012 - The Maya Heartland

Altun Ha

Altun Ha – "Rockstone Pond" (44 acres)

Altun Ha is located 31 miles north of Belize City on the Old Northern Highway. A two-mile dirt road connects the main road to the site. The area around the Altun Ha is rich in wildlife including armadillos, bats, squirrels, agouti, paca, foxes, raccoons, coati, tyra, tapir and the white-tailed deer. Two hundred species of birds have been recorded and there are large crocodiles that inhabit the Maya-made water reservoir.

Altun Ha was a wealthy ceremonial center boasting two main plazas, thirteen structures (including the Temple of Sun God or the Temple of the Masonry Altars). Altun Ha is not very far from the Caribbean Sea and it formed part of a unique cultural zone along with other coastal sites. There are also no stelae at Altun Ha but the discovery of rich tombs indicates that the ruling elite enjoyed access to substantial amounts of exotic goods.

Another interesting part of this site is the presence of a large, water reservoir called "Rockstone Pond". The bottom of this reservoir is lined with yellow clay giving the bottom firmness capable of retaining water.

Directions

From Belize City, take the Northern Highway for about 1/2 hour just after passing the Sandhill Village. Take the Old Northern Highway on your left for 14 miles. On your left, take the Rockstone Pond Road towards the reserve for 2 miles.

Opening Hours

365 days in the year from 8 am – 5:00 pm

Fees & Reservations

Belizeans: BZD $5.00
Non-Belizeans: BZD$10.00
Belizeans enter FREE on Sundays and Public and Bank Holidays
School, Church and Government Groups need to contact the IA office for official Pass to visit this site.