BELIZE CITY, BELIZE

The site of Altun Ha, which once thrived as a trading post, was made world-famous by Dr David Pendergast of the Royal Ontario Museum on his finding the largest carved jade head depicting the sun god, Kinich Ahau. Weighing in at almost four kilograms (nine pounds), this has been Belize’s most valuable find.

Departing from the quayside we will board our bus and drive to Altun Ha (Maya for “Rock Stone Water”). The site of Altun Ha, which once thrived as a trading post, was made world-famous by Dr David Pendergast of the Royal Ontario Museum on his finding the largest carved jade head depicting the sun god, Kinich Ahau. Weighing in at almost four kilograms (nine pounds), this has been Belize’s most valuable find. (Please note that the head is no longer on-site.) A tour guide will accompany us as we walk around this ancient city complex. We may choose to climb to the top of a temple for a panoramic view of the surrounding area.We recommend that you wear sensible shoes for this tour, which involves a moderate amount of walking. Uneven ground and steps will be encountered during the visit to Altun Ha, which lasts approximately 1 hour. Bring sun protection and insect repellent. For reference the roads to Altun Ha are very bumpy.

DESCRIPTION CORRECT FOR 2007 CARIBBEAN SEASON