As we arrived at the Mayan site of Lamanai, we found this baby howler monkey dangling upside down from a tree
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The Mask Temple at the Mayan ruins of Lamanai. The original masks have been removed for safe-keeping against the elements – this building now has a replica installed
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Lamanai means “submerged crocodile”, a creature that would have been seen regularly along the banks of the river.
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On this trip, I took each girl for a one-on-one excursion. Sloane’s was the trip to Lamanai. It meant an early start, following a night where she slept very poorly and felt ill during the day. Her perseverance though was incredible. She wanted to make the trip and even though she was far from 100% she managed to really enjoy the day.
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The High Temple at Lamanai. Unlike most Ancient Mayan sites, Lamanai wasn’t abandoned and still was inhabited in to the 20th century.
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The Jaguar Masks Temple. The front has been recovered from the jungle, while the back remains obscured from sight. If fully excavated, it’s expected that this would be the tallest structure in Lamanai.
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Boat ride back from Lamanai
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You know you’ve seen something rare when the boat captain who sails this river every day is excited at the sight. Our captain said this was only the second Baird’s Tapir he’s ever seen in over 10 years. Secretive and mostly nocturnal, these are the largest land mammal in Central America, growing to 250 kgs.
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The stunning Collared Aracari
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Leighton & my solo adventure was a morning trip back in to the ruins at Cahal Pech. She helped me look for wildlife as we climbed around the ancient buildings.