HOLY PLACES OF THE MAYANS IN THE JUNGLE
In ancient times, the Mayans built beautiful temples where they performed their – sometimes bloody – rituals. Over time, the jungle has covered many of these beautiful structures, but now some of these temples have been rediscovered and cleaned by archaeologists. You can wander here to your heart's content among the ancient stones and the proliferating jungle plants that house many touccans, (roar) monkeys and orchids. Climb the impressive pyramids of the once mighty Mayan empire and imagine yourself for a moment a Mayan priest, ready to sacrifice...
Xunantunich and Caracol are located near San Ignacio. Xunantunich reaches you with a crossing by boat, Caracol only after a long bumpy road through the jungle.
Lamanai, in the north of the country, is known for its impressive architecture: huge masks stare at you from the side of the temples. Impressive and a bit creepy!
Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM cave) can only be reached through and walk through the jungle, a short swim and an exciting trek through a beautiful cave set. Finally, you reach the Crystal Virgin: once a sacrifice for the ancient Mayan gods, now a skeleton at the bottom of the cave. A visit to the ATM Cave is not a trip for the faint hearted, but one that will stay with you for a long time!
