AltunHa & Baboon Sanctuary w/ Lunch US $154.00

Lace up your shoes and prepare to get a workout on this Belize excursion as you explore the famous ruins of AltunHa. Translated as "Rocks-tone Pond" in the Maya language, this multi-structure archaeological site covers 44 acres and was occupied from B.C. 900 to about A.D. 1000.

This family-friendly, 45 minute tour is perfect for those who want to get a little exercise while visiting some of the area's must-see attractions. Wander through the structures to see the Central Precinct and the "Sun God" Tomb. See the round alter when you climb 54 feet up the Temple of the Masonry Altars - the site's largest structure and the logo inspiration for Belikin, Belize's leading brand of beer - for a bird's eye view of the entire site.

Excavations indicate that this center was part of a trade network that reached from the Caribbean coast to the central lowlands of Guatemala. The site covers an area of about five square miles. The central square mile of the site has remains of around 500 structures, the largest of which, the Temple of the Masonry Altars, is 54 feet high.

Note that there are large crocodiles inhabiting the Maya-made pond adjacent to the main Temple. This area is also rich with other wildlife including armadillos, bats, paca, foxes, raccoons, tapir and white tailed deer. Remember to snap some photos to grace the walls of your home or office. We will visit the museum and check out the artifacts then stop in one of the many small shops and pick up a souvenir or two before heading to the second Excursion in this Combo Tour.

We will take a half hour scenic journey through the beautiful Belizean countryside on your way to the rainforest. As the Savannah lands meld away to the jungle you will be greeted by the loud, guttural howls of over 2,000 Black Howler monkeys spread out in the Bermudian Landing Village.

The loudest of all mammals in the region, Black Howler monkeys have calls that can be heard up to five miles away and were used as the T-Rex call in the movie Jurassic Park. These endangered animals, lovingly referred to as Baboons by the locals, are vegetarian in nature and live in groups of 4 to 12 individuals.

Upon arrival, you will be given a short, 10-minute introduction and then you will be permitted to walk around the Community Baboon Sanctuary. Observe the Black Howler monkeys in the trees above you amidst iguanas, birds and other animals. Your knowledgeable guide will coax them down for food or even a photo with you! Find out fascinating monkey facts as you watch them nest and climb along the trees for food. Stop in the museum to view the informative displays and pick up a tee shirt or two in the gift shop. You will spend about 40 minutes at the sanctuary before heading back to our lunch stop and on to drop off point or the cruise pier.