About this experience
Small groups for a personalized experience.
Experience the ultimate contrast of ancient history and raw natural beauty on this spectacular full-day expedition. Your journey begins at the majestic Xunantunich Maya Temple, where you will cross a scenic river via a historic hand-cranked ferry and scale the monumental heights of El Castillo for panoramic jungle views
After unraveling the mysteries of ancient Maya history, you will refuel with a delicious, authentic sit-down local lunch. Next, we head deep into the landscapes of the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve. We access the breathtaking Big Rock Falls via the private San Miguel Camp Grounds, giving you exclusive entry to well-maintained restroom facilities and comfortable picnic areas. Here, you can hike down into the canyon, swim in massive emerald pools, and relax beneath a thunderous 150-foot waterfall. It is the perfect blend of cultural exploration, modern comfort, and refreshing jungle adventure.
At a glance
- Duration: 7 hr–8 hr
Plan your experience
Set aside 7 hr–8 hr for the experience itself, with additional time to reach your meeting or pickup point.
Before you go
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Local guides to help you plan
San Ignacio Travel Guide
Plan a rewarding stay in San Ignacio, Belize, with practical advice on transportation, trip length, the town market, ATM cave tours, Big Rock Falls, accessibility, costs, and active day trips across the Cayo District.
Xunantunich Mayan Ruins Guide
Plan a visit to Xunantunich in Belize, including the hand-cranked ferry crossing, current admission guidance, El Castillo, site facilities, safety, accessibility, and the choice between guided and independent visits.
Belize Maya Ruins Guide
Plan a rewarding Belize Maya ruins visit with a practical comparison of Xunantunich, Caracol, Lamanai, Altun Ha, and Cahal Pech, plus current advice on tickets, terrain, timing, weather, and responsible travel.
What is included
- Equipment
- Soda/Pop
- Professional guide
- Bottled water
- Lunch
- Towels
- Air-conditioned vehicle
- Park Entransce Fees
- Transportation
- Hotel pickup and drop-off (selected hotels only)
Not included
- Gratuities
Itinerary and highlights
Hotel pickups will begin at 7:30am. Free hotel pickup for hotels located within town limits (5km radius). Additional charges may apply for pickups at hotels that are out of town. Tours leaves San Ignacio Town at 8:30am.
This combination tour includes a visit to Xunantunich Maya Temple and a swimming/site seeing at Big Rock Falls. Our knowledgeable and friendly Belizean driver/guide will drive you to the beautiful village of San Jose Succotz. Here you will cross the Mopan River on a hand cranked ferry.
Xunantunich boasts Belize’s second largest Maya structures named El Castillo (the castle) standing 130 feet and offering an astonishing panoramic view of the Maya Mountains.
Here you will find yourself immersed in pristine jungle surroundings, home of howler monkeys, spider monkeys, birds and iguanas. While exploring along with your guide, you will learn about the history of this site and the Maya civilization that once inhabited it.
A scenic drive into the Mt. Pine Ridge Forest Reserve will lead you through a few Maya Villages, subsistence farms, pine forests, streams, natural cascading rapids. After lunch, there is a a forty-five minute scenic drive to the breathtaking Big Rock Waterfalls in the Mt. Pine Ridge Forest Reserve.
This combination tour is slow paced, educational, and fun for all ages.
After lunch, there is a a forty-five minute scenic drive to the breathtaking Big Rock Waterfalls in the Mt. Pine Ridge Forest Reserve.
This combination tour is slow paced, educational, and fun for all ages.
Things to bring along: Cool, Comfortable Clothing, Hiking / Tennis Shoes, Camera, Bug Spray, Sun Block Lotion, Swimwear.
Inclusive of: Transportation, park fees, equipment, professional guide, purified water, sodas and lunch
Meeting and pickup information
- The Cayo Welcome Center. Your driver/guide will have a sign with your name for easy recognition. He will meet you outside of the Cayo Welcome Center's office
- We provide complimentary pickup at place of accommodation within a 10km radius. Pickup at places located further away may be pre-arranged at a surcharge or a central meeting location can also be pre-arranged.
Languages and tickets
- English — Guide
- Mobile Only
Tour operator
- Cayo Inland Expeditions
Meeting points and locations
Accessibility and practical details
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- Child rate applies only when sharing with 2 paying adults
- Children must be accompanied by an adult
- A minimum of 2 (two) people per booking is required
- Subject to favorable weather conditions. If canceled due to poor weather, you will be given the option of an alternative date or the option to do a different tour (surcharges may apply)
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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