Altun Ha travel guide

Altun Ha travel guide

National Airports

Altun Ha is an archaeological site located in Belize, and it does not have a national airport. The nearest international airport to Altun Ha is the Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport (BZE) in Belize City. From there, you can travel to Altun Ha by road. It is approximately a 45-minute drive from Belize City to Altun Ha.

Trains in Altun Ha

Altun Ha, being an ancient archaeological site in Belize, does not have train services. Trains are not commonly used for transportation within Belize, and there are no train lines that connect to Altun Ha or other parts of the country. Visitors typically rely on other modes of transportation such as buses, taxis, or private vehicles to reach Altun Ha and explore the surrounding areas.

Buses in Altun Ha

Altun Ha is primarily an archaeological site and does not have regular bus services. However, you can take a bus to the nearby village of Lucky Strike, which is about 5 miles (8 kilometers) away from Altun Ha. From there, you can hire a taxi or arrange for a tour guide to take you to Altun Ha.

To reach Lucky Strike by bus, you can take a bus from Belize City’s main bus terminal. Look for buses heading to Maskall or Crooked Tree. Inform the bus driver or conductor that you want to get off at Lucky Strike, near Altun Ha. The bus ride takes approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the traffic and road conditions.

It’s recommended to check the bus schedule in advance as they may have limited frequencies. Additionally, it’s advisable to confirm the return schedule from Lucky Strike to Belize City to ensure you have transportation back.

Once you arrive at Lucky Strike, you can arrange for a taxi or hire a local tour guide to take you to Altun Ha. Taxis are readily available in Lucky Strike, and the journey to Altun Ha is short.

It’s important to note that Altun Ha is a popular tourist attraction, and many visitors choose to join organized tours that include transportation to and from Belize City. These tours typically offer convenient transportation, guided tours of the site, and sometimes include additional activities or visits to other attractions in the area.

Remember to bring comfortable walking shoes, insect repellent, sunscreen, and drinking water when visiting Altun Ha.

How to get to Altun Ha

To get to Altun Ha, you can follow these steps:

Start by traveling to Belize City, which is the closest major city to Altun Ha. You can reach Belize City by flying into the Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport (BZE) or by taking a bus or taxi from other parts of Belize.

Once in Belize City, you have a few options to reach Altun Ha. The most convenient option is to join a guided tour that includes transportation to the site. Many tour operators in Belize City offer half-day or full-day tours to Altun Ha, which typically include transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and sometimes additional stops or activities.

If you prefer to explore on your own, you can hire a taxi or arrange for private transportation to Altun Ha. Taxis are readily available in Belize City, and you can negotiate a fare with the driver for the round trip to Altun Ha. It’s advisable to discuss the duration of the wait and the return trip with the taxi driver in advance.

Another option is to take a bus to the nearby village of Lucky Strike, which is approximately 5 miles (8 kilometers) away from Altun Ha. From there, you can hire a taxi or local guide to take you the rest of the way. Buses from Belize City to Maskall or Crooked Tree pass by Lucky Strike, and you can inform the bus driver or conductor that you want to get off there.

It’s important to note that Altun Ha is a popular tourist attraction, and it’s recommended to visit during the day when it’s open to the public. The site has an entrance fee, and professional guides are available on-site to provide insights into the ancient Maya ruins.

Remember to wear comfortable clothing and footwear, bring insect repellent, sunscreen, and drinking water. Altun Ha is an archaeological site with a lot of walking involved, so it’s important to be prepared for outdoor exploration.

What is the best time to travel to Altun Ha

The best time to travel to Altun Ha is during the dry season in Belize, which typically runs from November to April. This period offers the most comfortable weather with lower chances of rain and more sunshine. The dry season is also the peak tourist season in Belize, so you can expect more crowds during this time.

If you prefer to avoid the crowds, you might consider visiting Altun Ha during the shoulder seasons, which are the months of May, June, October, and early November. These months offer a balance between decent weather and fewer tourists.

It’s worth noting that Altun Ha is open year-round, so you can visit at any time. However, during the rainy season (May to October), you might encounter more frequent rain showers and high humidity, which can affect the overall experience.

Regardless of the time you choose to visit, it’s important to check the weather forecast and be prepared for outdoor activities. Carry sunscreen, insect repellent, a hat, and comfortable walking shoes. Also, be aware of any current travel advisories or restrictions that may be in place due to factors such as weather conditions or public health concerns.

How to get around Altun Ha

Altun Ha is a relatively small archaeological site, and getting around within the site itself is quite manageable on foot. However, when it comes to getting to Altun Ha from other locations in Belize, the most convenient way is to arrange transportation by road. Here are some options:

Private Transportation: You can hire a private taxi or car rental service to take you to Altun Ha from your starting point. This allows for flexibility and convenience, as you can set your own schedule and explore the area at your own pace.

Guided Tours: Many tour operators offer guided tours to Altun Ha from popular tourist destinations like Belize City, Ambergris Caye, or San Ignacio. These tours typically include transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and sometimes additional stops or activities along the way.

Public Buses: While public buses do not go directly to Altun Ha, you can take a bus to the nearby village of Rockstone Pond, which is about 3 miles (5 kilometers) away. From there, you can arrange for a short taxi ride or hike to Altun Ha. Buses in Belize are inexpensive but may not always adhere to strict schedules, so it’s important to check the bus timetable in advance.

Once you arrive at Altun Ha, you can explore the site on foot. The main attractions, such as the temple pyramids and plazas, are easily accessible within the archaeological site. Remember to bring comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and plenty of water, as the Belizean climate can be hot and humid.

It’s also recommended to check the latest travel information, including any entry requirements or restrictions, before planning your visit to Altun Ha.

Accommodations in Altun Ha

Altun Ha is primarily an archaeological site and does not offer accommodations within its immediate vicinity. However, there are several lodging options available in nearby towns and cities that serve as base points for visiting Altun Ha. Here are some accommodation options in the region:

Belize City: As the largest city in Belize and the closest major urban center to Altun Ha, Belize City offers a wide range of accommodations. From luxury hotels to budget guesthouses and bed and breakfasts, you can find a variety of options to suit your preferences.

Ladyville: Located just a short distance from Altun Ha, Ladyville is a convenient place to stay for those visiting the archaeological site. There are a few hotels and guesthouses in the area that provide comfortable accommodations for visitors.

Crooked Tree: Situated near the Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary, Crooked Tree is another option for accommodations near Altun Ha. This serene village offers eco-lodges and guesthouses where you can enjoy a peaceful stay surrounded by nature.

Orange Walk Town: Located further north of Altun Ha, Orange Walk Town is a vibrant town known for its Mayan ruins and rich cultural heritage. Here, you can find a range of accommodations, including hotels, guesthouses, and lodges.

When searching for accommodations, consider factors such as your budget, preferred amenities, and proximity to Altun Ha. It’s advisable to book your accommodations in advance, especially during the peak tourist season, to ensure availability and secure the best rates.