Uch'ben'kaj

Visitor Guidelines

As a cultural and historical site, visitors are encouraged to explore respectfully, avoid climbing on structures, and help preserve the site for future generations.

Cultural Experiences

While visiting Uch'ben'kaj, travelers can also explore the surrounding area, which offers opportunities for cultural immersion, traditional Maya experiences, waterfalls, swimming, caving, and jungle hiking.

Uch’ben’kaj (also known as Uxbenka) is an ancient Maya archaeological site located in the Toledo District of southern Belize. As the earliest-known Maya settlement in the region, it dates back to the Early Classic period (approximately 250–500 CE). Thought to have been originally settled by people from the Petén region, Uch’ben’kaj developed into a medium-sized Maya polity, covering approximately 40 square kilometers (15 square miles). The site emerged around the same time as the expansion of Tikal, one of the great Maya cities, highlighting its significance in the region’s early history.

Today, visitors to Uch’ben’kaj can explore its fascinating structures, which include ancient plazas, stone structures, and stelae that provide insight into the lives of its early inhabitants. Alongside other major sites such as Nim Li Punit and Lubaantun, Uch’ben’kaj offers a glimpse into the rich Maya heritage of Toledo, making it a must-visit destination for history and archaeology enthusiasts.

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