Belize · Archaeology

6-Hour Xunantunich Maya Ruins Tour from Belize City with ferry crossing

6 Hours Round trip from Belize City Moderate pace

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The journey

Trip highlights

01 Explore the ancient Maya site of Xunantunich above the Mopan River
02 Take in views toward Melchor De Mencos from the 130-foot El Castillo
03 Cross the Mopan River on a traditional hand-crank ferry
04 Learn about Belize's history, flora, fauna, and archaeological structures with a licensed guide
05 Enjoy a local lunch and shopping time in the San Ignacio area

Xunantunich is an ancient Maya site in western Belize, approximately 70 miles west of Belize City. Set above the Mopan River, it is home to El Castillo, a 130-foot temple from which you can overlook the Guatemalan town of Melchor De Mencos. The name Xunantunich comes from the Yucatec Maya language and means "stone woman." A complimentary city tour is included en route to Xunantunich.

Set above the Mopan River, it is home to El Castillo, a 130-foot temple from which you can overlook the Guatemalan town of Melchor De Mencos.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 6 Hours

Tour type Private

Activity level Moderate

Accommodation Not included

Transport Included

Wheelchair access No

Cities Belize, San Ignacio, Xunantunich

Languages English, Spanish

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Xunantunich Maya Ruins and San Ignacio Experience

Depart on a scenic drive from Belize City, heading due west to the town of San Ignacio in Cayo, approximately 82 miles away. Along the way, your tour guide will interpret the areas you pass through and share the history of Belize.
Upon arrival at the parking area, you will alight from the vehicle and board the hand-crank ferry that takes both you and the vehicle across the Mopan River.
On the other side, reboard the vehicle for the 1-mile drive up to the parking lot area, where you can use the restroom.
After the restroom break, gather for a site visit at the reserve. Your guide will lead you along the site trail and through the reserve, interpreting the local flora and fauna as well as the structures in situ.
After the tour, enjoy a local lunch and shopping in the area for approximately 1 hour.
After swimming, depart for your connection to the hotel. The tour lasts approximately 6.5 hours.