Nim Li Punit Archaeological Reserve — Attraction in Toledo District

Nim Li Punit Maya temple is located about 3 miles in from the Southern Highway of Belize. This small archaeological site lies quietly beneath the lush wet tropical canopy of southern Belize. Also known as " The Big Hat", Nim Li Punit has a wide verity of ancient artifacts. Ranging from pots and pottery, to ball courts and shallow graves, the site has multiple stele at every position. These Stele are immensely important since it tells a deep story of the Mayan civilization during their livelihoods. Upon the reaching the site, the parking lot is right near the visitor center. Walking up a few steps, visitor will reach at the security desk to sign in, from which they will pay a fee or present a I.D (for Belizean). From there, the guide will take visitors through a mini museum, containing some major artifacts. One of the most interesting piece is a 30 ft long stella (to my guess), which contains a figure with various head-dressing. After the short inside tour, visitors will be taken through some forest trails, in order to approach the temples, grave and ball court. The surrounding is safe and beautiful, since you will have a view of the southern coast to the east. Bathroom is located on site, as well as snacks and water. You will definitely have a blast of exploration...

Low season in June-July-August. Barely a soul. We had the place to ourselves. Serene. Beautiful grounds. Stellae & artifacts well kept with just enough information. The road up to it requires a 4WD.

Reminds me of Lamanai up north.

Nearby recommendations: Belize Spice Farm cabins -- all teak, gorgeous, open in fall 2023. Cenaida'd Seaside Cafe in PG market Wed/Fri/Sat AMs in PG Living Maya Experience, $30/p Belize Spice Farm tractor tour, $45 bz/p, 1.5 hrs, very engaging, fun. artesania crafts @ Indian Creek Women's Art Group Oct-Feb (dry season): Rio Blanco, San Antonio, Blue Creek cave, etc. roadside tamale cafe near Pearldeen (aka Coleman's) lunch buffet buy what locals are selling along the highway--tasty fun. Eladios Cacao Farm a bit over-hyped & over-priced for what we experienced. But worth doing it once (without, or lower, expectations) & buy their cacao bars.

Had a blast in south Belize. Follow me for honest reviews.

Near Hopkins: Into horseback riding? +Outback Trails near Cockscomb. Fun, hip, chill eatery? +Ella's Chill Spot in Hopkins. Best waterfall to swim any season? +Maya King in Mayan World, $10/p to enter Volunteer? +Clean up the...

Reaching Nim Li Punit is very easy from the Southern Highway, and there is plenty of parking. The visitor's center, your first stop, is attractive and informative, and explains a lot about the history and culture at the time. A time line helps the visitor to put it all in context within world history.

The site itself is beautifully maintained. Paths and informative signs make it easy to do a self-guided tour. Unlike most archeological sites where structures are just marked with identifying numbers, signs here explain what the structures are and why they are significant.

Nim Li Punit is not a large site, and it is largely shaded, making it a good place to visit for those who can't walk a lot or tolerate long periods in the bright sun. While there are no giant temples to climb, the structures are interesting and the views of surrounding countryside are spectacular.

On your way out, be sure to stop at the pavillion to shop the local artisans and their handmade jewelry, baskets, carvings, and...