Everything You Should Know About Altun Ha (Rock Stone Pond) Before You Visit,Belize.
Altun Ha Mayan Ruins:
Former Residence of the Rich and Famous Come for the bats, foxes, white-tail deer, tapir, armadillos, and ancient structures at Altun Ha—Mayan for “Rockstone Pond”—if you’re keen to spot wildlife in addition to the amazing ruins. Altun Ha is also home to some of Belize’s best wildlife areas. 44 acres of archaeological history make up this site. When compared to other Belizean ruins that date back to 1000 BC, Altun Ha is a relative newcomer, but it is so distinctive that it is well worth visiting. It was first inhabited around 250 BC. Don’t forget to glance up when you arrive because the region is also home to over 200 different bird species.
Mayan Ruins at Altun Ha.
The Temple of Masonry Altars is one of 13 structures that make up this old ceremonial site that affluent, powerful Mayans attended. There are also two major plazas. Visit the Maya-built water reservoir where crocodiles now congregate if engineering fascinates you. You might be curious as to how rain came to accumulate here rather than seeping or draining away from a project that once delivered settlement water. Another example of Mayan innovation may be seen in how engineers sealed the earth to prevent water from escaping using yellow clay.
Why Should You go to Altun Ha?
Altun Ha is a relatively “new” village, so you may compare the architecture, symbolism, and progress to others and determine what distinguishes this era and place from them. Aside from witnessing the aforementioned plazas, buildings, and water retention pond that gave this settlement its name, Altun Ha is home to a number of other notable landmarks. Altun Ha’s geography differs from that of far-off ruins because of its proximity to the Caribbean Sea, which is probably why the wealthy and renowned congregated here along with elite Mayan society. Because famous people frequented this area, local graves were stocked with luxury items so the dead may dwell opulently in the afterlife.
Where is it situated in Belize?
Along the Old Northern Highway, Altun Ha is located 31 miles north of Belize City and about 6 miles west of the coast of the Caribbean Sea. If you’re driving, go past Sandhill Village for 30 minutes and then proceed two miles along Rockstone Pond Road to the reserve. A rocky trip is in store for you as these two miles are not paved.
What time of year is ideal for travel?
Altun Ha is open all year round, but as with any outdoor locations, you’ll be subject to the weather variations of the time of year. If you take advantage of low season’s cheaper lodging, travel, and attraction rates, you won’t only leave Altun Ha feeling awestruck but also with a full wallet.
1.The Most Effective Method of Transportation:
Is your car built to travel on muddy roads? You’re equipped for the journey. On the other side, if you allow someone else drive you here, you can live like the rich people of Altun Ha. Though formal trips with transportation can be arranged by tour operators, independent contractors, and resort personnel, tourists on a tighter budget who don’t mind a two-mile walk can take a daily bus from Belize City, get out at Lucky Strike hamlet, and then follow the signs to Altun Ha.
2.The Ideal Approach To Visit Altun Ha Mayan Ruins:
A guidebook that details the history, culture, and way of life of the Mayans who lived here from 250 BC onwards provides a solid foundation for your tour because it will help you comprehend what you see as you explore the site. Learn more about the geographic proximity that made this place a lucrative trading stop where jade, obsidian, flints, and skins were professionally swapped by imagining this area at its height when 10,000 Mayans roamed this town. The temples and tombs are remarkable, particularly the enigmatic Temple of the Green Tomb. To reach the top of the Temple of Masonry Altars, where community rites were held, wear comfortable shoes. If you are in awe of creative prowess, however, viewing the jade head of Kinich Ahau the Sun God can excite you the most.
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