ShoreTrips says...

Get away from the crowds and embark on a true adventure as you take a scenic boat ride down the New River en route to the third largest archaeological site in Belize.

Your tour begins with a 45-minute ride into the interior of Belize, where you'll pass by neighborhoods you might see in your own hometown, as well as areas that are a little more foreign.

As you approach the ancient area called Orange Walk, you'll board a boat to take you on the river portion of this tour. The riverboat travels on the New River, which winds southward past an old rum factory, deserted farms, and Mennonite villages. At the entrance to the New River Lagoon, the ruins of Lamanai rise into view. Lamanai means "submerged crocodile," a name befitting a city sprawled on the edge of a gorged lagoon.

Along the way, keep an eye out for indigenous birds and natural growth not found in the United States. As the river becomes a large lagoon, you'll notice thatched buildings gathered at the water's edge. Some 720 buildings are sprinkled between massive trees and vines, and spread across 950 acres. Paths wind between Lamanai's buildings, many of which tower above the jungle canopy. Noises of the jungle will follow you.

Your guides will narrate the history of the area as you circle around the structures. Some of the buildings have access for climbing, if you wish, to get an overview of the area. The water-thatched buildings, as well as a mini museum, are left over from the days of archaeologist David Pendergast, who excavated the area during the '70s and '80s. During your visit, you'll see four different construction phases, beginning in 200 BC and ending 1,500 years later.

You'll have a beautiful lunch during your day, as well as bottled water to cool you in the heat. This is a trip you'll remember forever.