Xunantunich Mayan Ruins

Start your tour with hotel pickup from San Ignacio, then take a 15-minute drive to Xunantunich. First, embark on a 2-hour guided tour of the Xunantunich archaeological site, which was a unique Mayan ceremonial center. Discover the 6 major plazas surrounded by more than 25 temples and palaces with time to climb the different structures. Admire the large El Castillo Pyramid which is well known for the frieze or band of stucco decoration which at one time extended around the entire temple. El Castillo rises 130 feet above the main plaza and offers an impressive panoramic view over the Mopan River valley.  After this, combine your visit with a range of optional activities to choose from. Cave Tubing:  Start your adventure at No'och Che'en National Park with a hike through the subtropical forest. As you sit and enjoy the tubing downstream, the journey will take you through a series of remarkable limestone caves, each filled with fascinating discoveries of the Mayan underworld. You can also jump into refreshing crystal-clear blue waters formed in-between the cave entrances. Float through some rapids, view sparkling cave formations, and learn about cave geology and Mayan History. River Tubing:  This adventure takes place along the Mopan River - a very important water source for the ancient city of Xunantunich. Start by clipping on your helmet and putting on your floating device. Then, jump into your tube and begin floating downstream on the easy flowing water. Just as you get comfortable, feel the adrenaline as you reach some class I rapids. After floating past the village, continue into a jungle area and admire the incredible native flora and fauna that Belize has to offer. Horseback Riding:  Alternatively, begin your experience on the outskirts of Succotz village. Ride a friendly horse along an ancient Mayan trail as you dodge low-hanging tree branches. If you are lucky, try to spot adorable Howler Monkeys jumping between the trees.

The Xunantunich Mayan Ruins are some of the finest Maya Ruins in Belize. The drive from Hopkins to the Blue Hole and Xunantunich Mayan site in western Belize takes you through the scenic Hummingbird Highway and the western villages of Belize. This is a cultural experience, sightseeing tours with first hand views of the countryside, Mayan Mountains, farms, colorful homes and San Ignacio farmers market. Experience an authentic Belizean lunch in the immediate area of the ruins. Along the way back, we will make a stop at the cenote at Blue Hole National Park on the Hummingbird Highway, this is a great place to swim or just take pictures an enjoy the nature. The Blue Hole cenote was formed by the collapse of an underground limestone cave. In this case, the river running through the original cavern still flows through the cave system, and forms a sapphire-colored pool at the bottom of the sinkhole. The depression measures about 100 feet deep and 300 feet in diameter, with the actual blue hole at the depression’s base having a depth of about 25 feet.

First, you will discover one of the jewels of Belize: the Maya Ruins of Xunantunich, know under the name of "Maiden of rock". From the top of its pyramid "El Castillo" you will enjoy a breathtaking view 360° of the jungle Then, You will drive for one hour to reach Barton Creek caves You will take a canoe and go inside the cave. The tour travels approximately 1 mile along a winding river that passes through the magnificent cathedral-like chambers and wide passageways of Barton Creek Cave. Discover one of the natural and cultural wonders of the Mayan people. The site was dedicated to ceremonies and sacrifices, offerings to the gods. In the cave, you can observe artifacts from this era An educational yet highly enjoyable experience where you can also enjoy waterfalls and a refreshing swim or relax amidst tropical beauty.

Explore the world of the ancient Mayan on a combo tour in Belize with included transportation from placencia. Your tour takes you from the heights of ceremonial temples to the depths of the Mayan underworld. Float through mysterious limestone archways beckoning you into the mouth of centuries-old caves, holding untold stories of Mayan rituals. Explore the many breathtaking formations designed by only nature and learned about the ancient rituals and ceremonies that are part of their mystique and magic.

Discover the wonders of Belize's Cayo District on a full-day tour from Placencia. Your adventure begins with a scenic drive along the majestic Hummingbird Highway, passing through lush landscapes of karst limestone formations and orange groves. Arrive at the Xunantunich archaeological site, where you'll cross the Mopan River on a vintage ferry to reach the hilltop ruins. Stand atop the massive El Castillo temple, rising 130 feet above the plaza, and peer into Guatemala. Your knowledgeable guide will lead you through the six major plazas and over twenty-five temples and palaces, revealing secrets of ancient Mayan life. Marvel at the preserved frieze on the east side of El Castillo, featuring a fiberglass replica of the central mask representing the sun god. After exploring Xunantunich, head to Blue Hole National Park for a refreshing swim. Take a short hike through the tropical forest to reach the cenote known as the Blue Hole. Cool off in the natural swimming pool before heading back to Placencia.