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Xunantunich Mayan Ruins, Belize: What to Know Before You Go (with Photos)

Posted on Published: October 20, 2021  - Last updated: July 11, 2023

You found it! The perfect mix of adventure and history within the jungle of Belize. Xunantunich Mayan Ruins is an ancient archeological site, and one that you absolutely must visit to learn the past and soak in the rich culture of this beautiful country.

This post may contain affiliate links. For more info, see my  disclosures .

Xunantunich is the tallest Mayan ruins site in Belize, located on the very western edge of the country, close to Guatemala. I visited this amazing site on a budget trip to Belize , and it’s a really fun adventure!

This guide will cover everything you need to know about visiting Xunantunich Mayan Ruins, from how long it takes to explore, the best way to see it, exact location, what to do nearby and so much more.

Let’s dive in!

Xunantunich Mayan Ruins quick guide

Location: Xunantunich Access Rd, San Jose Succotz, Belize Recommended stay: 2-4 hours Hours: 8am-5pm daily Best known for: the site’s largest temple, “El Castillo” Tour guide: highly recommended (find one here )

It’s one of the best things to do in Belize , and an adventure you won’t forget!

What does Xunantunich mean?

If you’re an English speaker or have limited knowledge of Mayan history, you may not even know how to say the name of this place. Don’t worry! I didn’t either until I hired a guide!

Xunantunich translates to “Stone Lady” in the Yucatec Maya language. More about the importance of this in a little bit.

To pronounce it, thinks of the ‘xu’ as ‘shoe’ and the rest just flows into place.

Feeling better, right? Let’s dive into the history next!

Xunantunich Map

If you’re a visual person like myself, this map will help you see where Xunantunich is located within the country of Belize. I’ve also added a marker for Belize City (east coast) and Placencia (southeast city) for easy reference.

And if you’re looking for a site map of Xunantunich Archaeological Reserve , here’s a photo of the map and layout. This includes the visitor center, plazas and other sites with historical significance.

Getting excited yet? Let’s keep going!

How to get to Xunantunich Mayan Ruins

The largest city near Xunantunich is San Ignacio, and is about 30 minutes drive. If you’re looking for a place to stay nearby, that’s a great town with hotels and vacation properties , with quick access to the Mayan ruins.

Alternatively, Xunantunich is about 2.5 hours drive via car (80 mi/125km) from Belize City. If you have a rental ca r you can drive there yourself! Being from the US, it’s very easy to drive in Belize and that’s what I did!

And by the way if you need to rent a car in Belize, I highly recommend the discounted rates on  Discover Cars . I routinely save 10% – 30% on rentals (using the most reputable car carriers)!

Or when you book a tour of Xunantunich , it will include a ride.

Crossing the Mopan River

Part of the adventure of this archeological preserve is crossing the Mopan River . Whether you’re driving yourself or taking another form of transportation, you’ll need to use the Xunantunich Hand Cranked River Ferry.

And – it’s exactly what it sounds like! You’ll drive your car onto a ferry which is operated by 2-3 people, who will take you across the river. The whole thing takes just a few minutes and is quite fun, especially if you don’t typically get to use a ferry.

Pro tip: it’s not required to tip the workers, but it’s customary to do so. A $10 tip should do it!

Xunantunich Tours

Real quick – if you really want to learn the most about this amazing site, you’ll want to book a tour . I used a tour guide and I’m so glad I did! He told me all kinds of interesting facts about the Mayan Ruins of Xunantunich that I wouldn’t have heard otherwise.

Many of the facts within this guide are from the knowledgeable tour guide!

Book a Xunantunich tour in advance to secure your spot. During peak season (summer and January/February), tours will sell out so be sure to reserve your time.

Just be sure to tip your tour guide, too.

History of this Mayan city

Diving into the history of Xunantunich Mayan Ruins, it’s got a little bit of a rocky one…but so many of these ancient cities do!

The exact date of Xunantunich’s discovery by western civilization is unknown. The first site reports were made by a British Governor, Sir Alfred Maloney, in 1881 and British medical doctor, Thomas Gann, in 1894 . Further documentation reported that residents of San Jose Succotz performed rituals here, indicating it was a sacred place.

Xunantunich is located in the Belize River Valley, which is home to several other medium-sized Maya Kingdoms. Often, these kingdoms were under control by one of the larger cites, such as Caracol, Calakmul, Naranjo or Tikal.

Because Xunantunich was perched on the river, it had the ability to control trade and the movement of goods, which allowed it to become more powerful.

Although a smaller footprint than nearby enemies, Xunantunich had victories over Caracol and Tikal during wars in 552 and 562 AD, respectively.

Xunantunich was at the top of it’s fame in 800-900 AD, when many other cities in the area were declining. It’s estimated the city was abandoned over 1,000 years ago.

By the way, if you’re looking for another ancient city to visit, I highly recommend a day trip from San Ignacio to Tikal in Guatemala .

Archeology details

Like many Mayan cities, Xunantunich is an archeological wonder! And although it’s been studied for over 130 years by modern archeologists, there’s still a lot we don’t know about this place.

El Castillo, the largest temple, is actually solid on the inside. There’s only a small area near the top that has doors and hallways to walk through. More about El Castillo in a bit .

Only a small portion of the city has been excavated. Xunantunich has 6 plazas and 32 structures. It’s large enough to house an estimated 20,000 people in it’s prime!

Fun fact: as you’re walking on the plaza, you’re actually standing on 6 layers of plazas below you, too!

It took the Mayans 300 years to build Xunantunich!

The temple, “El Castillo”

The shining star of this archeological preserve is El Castillo, Spanish for ‘the castle.’ It’s the second-largest building in Belize.

The pyramid demands your attention as you walk into the main area and plaza. It’s believed the pyramid was used as a shrine, dwelling and meeting place for the most elite rulers of the city. The top was used for star gazing, speaking and sacrificial events.

With 4 sets of stairs leading up to the top, visitors can climb the ancient stairs to oversee the plaza.

My guide in Xunantunich said the ancient rulers would stand on the top and talk down to everyone during announcements and ceremonies. The entire city was built for the sound to reflect and bounce off the structures, allowing those in power to project their voice easily.

Pro tip: if you arrive early and have the place to yourself, one person in your party can stand at the center of the plaza while the other climbs to the top. Test this theory as it did! It gave me chills!!

Standing at the top of El Castillo, you can see the river valley and into Guatemala. I highly recommend the walk to the top!

Carvings on El Castillo Xunantunich

On the east and west sides of the pyramid lies large carvings. The original ones are made of stucco and buried for preservation. Fiberglas replicas currently fill the space. They’re amazing to witness up close!

These carvings represent astronomical symbols of the moon god, world tree (Pax gods) and Venus. Furthermore, the Bacabs lie along the 4 corners. Here’s more, as taken from the visitor center at Xunantunich:

“In Maya mythology, there are four bacabs who served as skybearers. The bacabs were positioned along the four cardinal directions at the edge of the universe. Throughout Mesoamerica, the bacabs, or skybearers, were widely associated with rulers and are often depicted supporting celestial thrones. It is therefore not surprising to find bacabs on the stucco frieze at Xunantunich given that the Castillo served as the elevated palace of the site’s rulers.”

More about the Mayan Ruins of Xunantunich

The 2nd ruler of Xunantunich was a woman, which was rare of Mayan cities. Even more impressive, the empire was one of the most powerful cities for over 300 years in time while other Mayan cities were falling.

During excavation, archeologists found the tomb of the woman emperor. However in the early 1900’s, Gann’s crew used dynamite to try to search for valuables and they crushed parts of the body. But that ultimately led them to her discovery.

The Pok-ta-pok game

Within the city of Xunantunich, there was a court for Pok-ta-pok. While there are several variations of the game across ancient cities in Mesoamerica, the rules as the guide told me are as follows:

• It’s a cross between soccer and basketball, but much more difficult.
• The ball was 10 pounds and made of rubber from sap trees, mixed with cotton and very firm.
• Pak-ta-pok was played with elbows and hips.
• The goal was for players to hit the ball into a stone hoop at either end of the playing field.
• It’s believed that the players on the losing team were sacrificed. 😬

Not sure about you…but that’s not a game I’m looking to play anytime soon!

Can you climb Xunantunich?

Yes! Yes you can.

To get to the top of Xunantunich, you can climb the steep steps on the front and sides . This is different than other ancient Mayan cities, like Chichen-Itza in Mexico, although I was one of the lucky ones to climb them in the late 90’s as a teen before they closed it down.

Alternatively, there’s a less steep path on the back side of the pyramid. Once at the top, you can look out over the entire city, the Belize jungle and even into Guatemala at just 0.6 miles away.

Xunantunich ghost

Adding to the mystery of this ancient Mayan city is the Xunantunich ghost. She was originally seen in 1892 and has been sighted several times since then.

With red eyes that glow like fire and dressed in completely white, she has typically been sighted in front of El Castillo. She comes down the stone stairs and then disappears into the stone wall.

To be honest, I’m glad I didn’t know about her before visiting – it might have swayed my opinion to visit!

Visitor center and artifacts in Xunantunich Belize

One of the things that makes this archaeological reserve unique is the large collection of artifacts (and replicas) on display. It’s like a mini museum with tons of Mayan history!

The Mayan clock is one of the coolest things in the visitor center. You can see how they determined the time using the natural elements like the sun and stars.

See replicas of the pok-ta-pok game court, the stucco carvings (also known as friezes) and other interactive displays.

Nearby is a small gift shop as well. You can purchase artisan fabrics, crafts and other souvenirs to remember your visit to Xunantunich Mayan Ruins.

Other Belize Mayan ruins

Feeling even more adventurous? Well the country of Belize might be small, but it packs a punch! With so much history within the country, there’s more Mayan cities to explore.

• Caracol , located in the Chiquibil Forest Reserve
• Altun Ha , just north of Belize City in Rock Stone Pond
• Cahal Pech , located in San Ignacio on the western size of the country
• Cerros , in the very northern part of Belize on the Corozal Bay
• Lamanai , in Water Bank, in northern Belize
• Lubaantun , in San Pedro Columbia, in southern Belize
• Nim Li Punit , in Indian Creek, in southern Belize

Xunantunich vs. Tikal

Some of the coolest Mayan ruins I’ve ever visited have been Teotihuacan near San Martin Centro, Mexico, Chichen-Itza and Tulum in the Yucatan peninsula in Mexico and Tikal in northeastern Guatemala.

Because Xunantunich and Tikal are so close (within a 2 hour drive from each other), let’s compare the two!

Xunantunich vs Tikal – which is better?

• If less crowds are important to you, then Xunantunich Mayan Ruins is the right spot to explore.
• How much time do you have? Xunantunich can be done in as little as 2 hours, while Tikal takes at least 4 to see the highlights.
• If you want food options and a great selection of shopping, Tikal is your spot.
• Is bigger always better? You be the judge! Xunantunich has 32 structures while Tikal is a much larger city, with over 2,000.
• Both have been preserved and cared for differently. Tikal had a lot of looting early on and lost important artifacts. Meanwhile, Xunantunich is one of the longest continuous city to be excavated, with the ongoing process over 100 years!

So why not visit both? If you can make time on your trip to Belize to spend a day in Guatemala, I highly recommend it!

Book it now: day trip to Tikal.

Here’s a guide to everything you need to know about Tikal ruins in Guatemala.

Tips for visiting Xunantunich Mayan Ruins

First of all, you’re going to love seeing this ancient city! Here are a few more tips to help make the most of it:

• If possible, stay in San Ignacio and arrive when Xunantunich opens. Getting there early, before the cruise ship tours start will allow you to explore the site when it’s less busy.
• Wear shoes with good traction , especially if you plan on climbing El Castillo!
• Sunblock and bug spray are musts! In fact, just slather yourself in bug spray. You’re in a jungle in Central America, after all. 😊 By the way, this is my favorite natural bug spray I travel with (that actually works).
• Be prepared to walk a bit. From the entrance to the plaza is an uphill walk. You’ll be able to explore the whole area on foot so just keep that in mind.
• Remember to bring cash to tip . Your tour guide will be full of helpful info and he/she works hard at giving you a great experience! Book a tour here .
• You can shop inside the entrance or just before getting on the ferry to cross the river. You’ll find unique, handmade items perfect for souvenirs.

Nearby things to do in San Ignacio

Just 30 minutes from the Mayan Ruins of Xunantunich, San Ignacio is an underrated destination within Belize. So many tourists focus on seeing the gorgeous beaches along the Caribbean that they don’t look inland. Here are a few other things to do near Xunantunich and San Ignacio…

• Take a chocolate making class through AJAW Chocolate . Learn how to make chocolate like the ancient Mayans did centuries ago. (This is one of my favorite things in San Ignacio!)
• A really fun nearby attraction is touring the Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM) Cave . It’s an incredible adventure exploring another Mayan archaeological site.
• Go mural hunting. For a low-key afternoon, check out the fun street art in downtown San Ignacio.
• Day trip to Caracol Ruins . It’s a full-day adventure exploring another ancient city and Rio on the Pools.

There are so many more things to do in the area, but this post is getting long so let’s wrap it up already!

Xunantunich Mayan Ruins – that’s a wrap!

Xunantunich is an incredible site in Belize – and you’ll love exploring these Mayan ruins. You can feel the energy walking into the plaza in front of El Castillo and it’s truly a moving experience.

Nestled in the Belize jungle an adventure awaits – are you ready for it?

Related content to read next: 20 Epic Things to Do in Belize for an Amazing Vacation How to Visit Belize on a Budget: Money-saving Tips and Tricks Belize’s Secret Island: Laughing Bird Caye 17 Reasons to Visit Puerto Morelos, Mexico

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Info above is accurate as of the publish date of this post.

Wednesday 21st of June 2023

Also, was there a long line to get on the ferry, like was it a long process? Also, how were the roads getting to the ruins for San Ignacio?

There wasn't a line to the ferry when I went, but it was really early in the morning in the first 30 minutes they opened, before it was busy. I just showed up and they ushered me onto the ferry. I can imagine it would get busy in the peak of the day or if several tour buses arrived just before you. You could allow a little extra time if that's the case! The roads were mostly fine, as with most roads in Belize. Some are paved and others are dirt. The only really rough road I encountered in Belize was from Placencia to Belize City, when I took an unpaved road as a 'short cut' per Google's recommendation. It was not a good one 🤣

Hi there! I was wondering if the ferry actually had a cost to it besides the $10 tip you gave?

There was no fee for the ferry when I used it :)

Travel Mary

Thursday 23rd of December 2021

You have no idea how long I wanted to go to Xunantunich Mayan Ruins! I have loved history since childhood and the history of the Mayan tribe particularly fascinates me! Thank you for the beautiful article and the delightful photos!

Aww Mary I'm so glad you enjoyed this guide! Xunantunich is a gem. I hope you get to visit soon :)

simplyjolayne

Saturday 23rd of October 2021

This is timely as my mother in law is traveling to Belize in January. I'll be sure to pass this along to her. I love to explore ruins as well, so pinning for future reference.

Thursday 28th of October 2021

Oh fun! I hope she gets to Xunantunich! It's a really cool spot to explore :)

Wow, Xunantunich is so full of history - and I didn't realize we were allowed to actually climb the ruins! This seems like a great stop to learn more about Mayan culture :) thanks for sharing

Yeah Jill you can climb them and see the hallways where the ancient Mayans used to go. Pretty cool!

Xunantunich Mayan Ruins Tours

Tour highlights.

Xunantunich is an ancient Maya site in western Belize approx 70 miles west of Belize City. It is located above the Mopan River where at its highest temple of El Castillo 130’ one can overlook the Guatemalan town of Melchor De Mencos. The name Xunantunich Derives from the Yucatec Maya language which means stone woman.

Complimentary City Tour en route to Xunantunich!

Tour Guides

Jacobo Martinez

Tour itinerary, what to expect.

Depart for a scenic drive from Belize City heading due west to the town of San Ignacio, Cayo appx. (82 miles). As you proceed your tour guide will be interpreting the area you’re passing by and also talking about the History of Belize. Upon arrival in the parking area, you will have to alight from the vehicle where you and the vehicle will be boarding the hand-crank ferry that takes you to the other side of the “Mopan River”. On the other side, you board back the vehicle that takes you up 1 mile to the parking lot area for you to use the restroom. After rest room break you gather together for a site visit at the reserve. Your guide will lead you to and in the reserve interpreting local flora and fauna of the site trail as well as interpreting structures in situ. After touring local lunch and shopping in the area. (App.1 hr). after swimming, we depart for your connection to the hotel. Tour appx. (6.5 hrs)

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Tour Includes:

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• Guided Tour on Site

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Light clothing, water, medication (if necessary), bug repellant, and good hiking shoes.

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Xunantunich tours

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Xunantunich tour: explore ancient maya civilization.

Join us on our Xunantunich Tour for a captivating experience of the ancient Maya world. This tour, perfect for guests from Belize City, Caye Caulker, or Ambergris Caye, invites you to delve into the rich history and architectural marvels of a once-thriving civilization. Tour Duration: Approximately 8 Hours

Xunantunich Tour Journey

Your adventure begins when our expert guide picks you up directly from your accommodation or designated meeting points such as the municipal airstrip or water taxi terminals. Enjoy a scenic and relaxing drive to Xunantunich, an enchanting Maya city situated near Belize’s border with Guatemala.

Unveiling the Secrets of Xunantunich

Upon arrival, you’ll be struck by the stunning vista of this majestic ancient city. Guided by our knowledgeable staff, explore the site’s towering temples, intricate stone carvings, and sprawling ancient plazas. Learn about the Maya culture, history, and spirituality through fascinating stories and legends narrated by your guide.

A tour highlight is the ascent to the top of El Castillo, the main pyramid at Xunantunich. Standing as the second tallest structure in Belize, it offers panoramic views over the lush jungle and into Guatemala. Capture this breathtaking scenery and cherish these moments forever.

Delight in Local Flavors

After your Xunantunich tour we pause for a delightful lunch at a local restaurant. Enjoy the tastes of traditional Belizean cuisine and relax in the serene tropical ambiance.

Concluding the Experience

As the tour concludes, reflect on the historical wonders you’ve witnessed during the return trip to your accommodation, water taxi, or airstrip.

Discover More at Xunantunich

Beyond El Castillo, Xunantunich is home to numerous other fascinating structures:

• Ancient Maya ball court
• Various residential buildings and plazas
• Stelae, intricately carved stone monuments
• A unique hand-cranked ferry across the Mopan River, providing exclusive access to the site

Xunantunich Tour costs and discounts!

Embark on the Xunantunich Maya Ruins Tour and immerse yourself in a day filled with history, culture, and breathtaking natural beauty. Book now to secure your journey through time and create lasting memories of the mystic Maya civilization.

Note: Guests from San Pedro Ambergris Caye or Caye Caulker are responsible for their water taxi or local flight costs to Belize City.

US125 per adults US85 per child under 13 years of age.

2 to 8 adults US125 per person 8 to 12 adults 10% off 13 or more adults 15% off Discounts calculate automatically at checkout and are displayed in e ticket. After booking is made we email to gather your accommodation details.

Only a deposit is taken to reserve all tours balance is due in cash at the time of pickup in Belize City.

view all our Belize Excursions

This tour is also available for cruise ship guests docking in Belize City. Xunantunich Cruise Excursion

Xunantunich Info

Bulk discount (by Percent)

Bulk discount adult.

We pickup from your hotel, accommodations, AirBnB or homes in Belize City.

Transfer to Xunantunich

A short hour and a half drive west through the rolling foothills of the Maya Mountains brings us to the village of San Jose Succutz where we cross one of the only hand cranked ferries in the country, across the Mopan River to Xunantunich .

Arrival and Tour

Upon arrival at the park, use bathrooms, and its off to tour. guide will provide purified bottled water to keep you hydrated on tour.

At the end of your tour we make our way back to the parking lot re-board the van and make your way to our restaurant where we have lunch. Lunch is local Belizean cuisine of Rice and Beans, stew chicken and coleslaw. From time to time local game meats are available to sample if your brave enough.

Return to Belize City

After lunch we Re-board our van for your return to Belize city and your tour of the Old Capital of Belize.

Included/Excluded

• Air Conditioned Transfer
• Licensed Tour Guide
• All Entrance Fees
• Complementary Lunch
• Souvenirs/Gifts
• Alcoholic Beverages

Tour's Location

Wonderful Family Tour, Very Relaxing

Magnificent temples., family fun times at xunantunich, write a review, leave a review cancel reply.

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Xunantunich Mayan Ruins Tour and Cave Tubing at Jaguar Paw

Explore xunantunich mayan ruins & jaguar paw cave tubing combo tour.

Embark on the ultimate adventure from Hopkins or Placencia with a combination tour of Xunantunich Mayan Ruins and Cave Tubing at Jaguar Paw! Prepare to uncover the mysteries of ancient civilizations and immerse yourself in the wonders of the underground world.

First, journey back in time as you explore the impressive Xunantunich Mayan Ruins. Climb to the top of El Castillo, the towering pyramid, and be rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding jungle. Your knowledgeable guide will share fascinating stories and legends that bring this ancient site to life. 

After Lunch, get ready for an adrenaline-pumping cave tubing experience at Jaguar Paw. Float along underground rivers, surrounded by awe-inspiring limestone caves.

The combination tour of Xunantunich Mayan Ruins and Cave Tubing at Jaguar Paw offers the best of both worlds – history and adventure. It's a perfect blend of cultural exploration and exhilarating fun. Suitable for all ages, it's an ideal excursion for families, friends, or solo travelers seeking a memorable and diverse Belizean experience.

Xunantunich Mayan Ruins

Located on a scenic hilltop overlooking the Mopan River, Xunantunich boasts impressive stone structures that showcase the architectural genius of the Mayan civilization. As you make your way through the ruins, you'll marvel at the towering El Castillo pyramid, which stands as the centerpiece of the site. Climb to the top for breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding jungle and neighboring Guatemala. Xunantunich has more to offer than just incredible architecture. One of the highlights of the visit is crossing the Mopan River on a hand-cranked ferry. As you explore the site, keep an eye out for intricate carvings and glyphs on the structures, providing glimpses into the Mayan civilization's rich mythology and history. Xunantunich is a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and anyone captivated by ancient civilizations. It offers a perfect blend of exploration, education, and entertainment in a breathtaking natural setting.

Jaguar Paw Cave Tubing

Located in the heart of the Belizean rainforest, Jaguar Paw offers the perfect setting for an unforgettable cave tubing journey. Your adventure begins with a scenic drive through lush jungles and picturesque landscapes, setting the stage for an exhilarating day ahead. Upon arrival, you'll receive all the necessary equipment, including your trusty inner tube and a headlamp to light your way through the darkness of the caves. Led by experienced guides, you'll venture into a mesmerizing underground world where centuries of geological wonders await. As you gently float down the river, be prepared to be awe-struck by the natural beauty that surrounds you. Stalactites and stalagmites create stunning formations, while the gentle flow of the water carries you deeper into the heart of the cave system. Listen to the soothing sounds of nature echoing off the cave walls, creating an otherworldly atmosphere. But the adventure doesn't end there! After your cave exploration, get ready for a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters of the river.

Ready to book your tour?

Tour pricing from hopkins .

2 PAX: $180.00 USD Per Person (from Hopkins)

3 to 4 PAX : $160.00 USD Per Person (from Hopkins )

5 to 6 PAX : $150.00 USD Per Person (from Hopkins )

7 PAX & More : $130.00 USD Per Person (from Hopkins )

Tour Pricing from Placencia

2 PAX: $200.00 USD Per Person (from Placencia)

3 to 4 PAX : $180.00 USD Per Person (from Placencia)

5 to 6 PAX : $160.00 USD Per Person (from Placencia)

7 PAX & More : $140.00 USD Per Person (from Placencia)

What's included on the Tour?

Park entrance fee, water, lunch, licensed tour guide, transportation, Headlights and Equipment .

What to bring?

Bug spray, sun block, hat, camera, swim suit and a change of clothing & towels for after water activities.

Tour Duration:

Departs: 7:00 am Returns: 4:00 pm

Intensity: Moderate

Xunantunich and Jaguar Paw Cave Tubing Tour Photo Gallery

This Mayan Ruins and Cave Tubing combination tour will leave you with unforgettable memories, a deeper understanding of Mayan history, and a newfound appreciation for the natural beauty of Belize. Don't miss out on this epic adventure!

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Embark on an unforgettable adventure from Placencia with Private Belize Adventure, your trusted tour guide. This tour is a harmonious blend of Belize's rich Mayan history and the mystique of its subterranean wonders. From the majestic heights of Xunantunich to the serene depths of the caves, every moment is a testament to Belize's cultural history and natural beauty.

Why Xunantunich and Cave Tubing?

The enigma of xunantunich maya ruin .

Xunantunich, or the “Stone Woman” in Maya, stands tall as one of Belize's most impressive Mayan ruins. This ancient ceremonial center offers a deep dive into Mayan history and is located in the Cayo District near San Jose Succotz and San Ignacio. With a local guide, discover Xunantunich, the first Mayan Belize site opened to the public in 1954. The panoramic view from the top is stunning, revealing the lush landscapes of Belize and even parts of Guatemala.

The Allure of Cave Tubing at Jaguar Paw 

Experience the thrill of cave tubing in Belize's majestic cave systems. Glide through the caves branch river, with your headlamp revealing the limestone formations and the secrets of the subterranean world. Explore ancient passages and learn about the cave's formation and its significance in Mayan culture.

Tour Highlights

Starting with nature's best.

Your journey begins with a hike through the exotic rainforest to the mouth of the cave. This trek offers glimpses of Belize's diverse flora and fauna, setting the tone for future adventures.

The Depths of Belize

Upon reaching the cave's entrance, the cave tubing segment of the tour begins. Guided by an expert from Private Belize Adventure, you'll navigate through the cave's waterways, gaining insights into its geological wonders and its significance in Mayan lore.

Unraveling xunantunich Secrets

After the refreshing cave tubing experience, Xunantunich beckons. Here, you'll traverse through time, exploring the ruins and imbibing tales of this ancient site's ceremonies, rituals, and legends.

Customizable Experiences

For those seeking more, Private Belize Adventure offers add-ons like ziplining through the rainforest or indulging in chocolate-making sessions, a nod to the ancient Maya's love for cacao.

Essential Information

Cancellation policy.

Travelers should be aware that the tour might be canceled if the minimum participant count isn't achieved. In such cases, we’ll promptly notify you via email, and a full refund will be processed.

Payment Details

Payments are accepted in both US dollars and Belizean dollars. Ensure the confirmation of your payment is tracked to guarantee a seamless tour experience.

Feedback and Communication

After concluding the tour, Private Belize Adventure values your feedback. Your insights and suggestions are instrumental in enhancing the tour experience for future travelers. For any tour-related updates or queries, communication will be facilitated through the official channel of Private Belize Adventure.

The Xunantunich and Cave Tubing tour, curated by Private Belize Adventure and commencing from Placencia, is more than a mere excursion. It's a voyage through epochs, a descent into nature's marvels, and embracing Belize's profound historical and cultural legacy. Whether Belize is a new destination on your travel map or a cherished favorite, this tour promises memories that will resonate with you for years.

Included/Excluded

Travel styles, tour location, private belize adventure.

Member Since Mar 2023

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