Belize has literally hundreds of ruins, many still undiscovered or unexcavated. Of the dozen or so "major" ones, the wonderful thing about them is that they are almost totally untouristed. Unlike in the Mexican Yucatán or even at Tikal, where hordes of visitors swarm over the ruins, in Belize you may be alone with the caretaker, or one of only a handful of visitors, at an ancient Mayan city.
# 1 Caracol
The largest known site in Belize, and larger in area even than Tikal, this Classic Maya city-state was rediscovered in the 1930s but only since 1985 has excavation been underway. With an improved access road, and less bureaucratic red tape, it is now easier than ever to visit this awe-inspiring place. Caracol's highest pyramid is still the tallest man-made structure in Belize. The drive to Caracol is beautiful and not difficult, except in wet weather.
# 2 Lamanai
Lamanai was an important Maya community for three millennia, and this site has buildings dating back to 700 B.C. The setting is beautiful, at the edge of the New River Lagoon. You can drive here, via a newly improved all-weather road, though the approach by boat is inspiring.
# 3 Xunantunich
This Late Classic site is small but impressive. Don't miss the view into Guatemala from El Castillo, a 135-foot tower that is the second-tallest structure in Belize. A plus is its easy access from the Western Highway -- you cross the Mopan River on a small hand-cranked ferry. A new visitor center is open.
# 4 Lubaantun
Not by any means the largest, most important, or most impressive site, Lubaantun has a mysterious appeal. One reason is its setting, near the remote villages of Toledo with their population of present-day Mayans, some of whom may shyly offer to sell you crafts or small trinkets at the Lubaantun site. Another is the famous Crystal Skull, which may or may not have been discovered here in 1926 by the daughter of archeologist F. A. Mitchell-Hedges, and which may or may not be authentic. A third is the style of construction, of carefully hand-cut limestone blocks laid without mortar. Lubaantun is on an isolated ridge near the village of San Pedro Columbia off the Southern Highway.
# 5 Chechem Ha Cave
Many caves in Belize contain Mayan relics. This one, on private land in Cayo District, can be visited on a guided tour. Most who make the effort to see this come away awed by the pottery which dates to the time of Christ. One access is via a long drive on the "hydro road" from Benque Viejo.
Honorable Mention:
El Pilar
Altun Ha
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