About this experience
A Xunantunich Maya ruins tour from San Pedro is more than a temple visit; it is a journey from Belize’s Caribbean island setting into the heart of the Cayo District. The approach is part of what makes the site memorable. Cross the Mopan River on a hand-cranked ferry, climb the limestone ridge, and enter six ceremonial plazas containing more than 25 temples and palaces. At El Castillo, your guide explains carved friezes, Maya rulership, astronomy, ceremony, and the city’s connections across the region while wide views stretch toward Guatemala. The architecture becomes easier to understand when its position above the river and surrounding valleys is included in the story. This focused experience allows travelers to appreciate one important Maya city in depth instead of rushing between unrelated attractions. The combination of the ferry crossing, monumental architecture, elevated landscape, and local interpretation creates a strong sense of discovery.
At a glance
- Duration: 6 hr
Plan your experience
Set aside 6 hr for the experience itself, with additional time to reach your meeting or pickup point.
Compare the available options before choosing: their itinerary, inclusions and pickup arrangements can differ. Check the price for your date and whole group.
Before you go
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Local guides to help you plan
Belize Airport to San Pedro Transportation Guide
Compare the flight and water-taxi routes between Belize’s international airport and San Pedro, including travel times, transfer steps, live-fare cautions, baggage planning, and advice for late arrivals.
San Pedro Belize Travel Guide
Plan a stay in San Pedro, the lively town on Ambergris Caye, with practical advice on arriving from Belize City, getting around by golf cart, reef-based activities, Secret Beach, June celebrations, and choosing between S
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.
What is included
- Water, Soda and Juices
- Transportation
- Private Guide
- Entrance Fee
Not included
- Gratuities
Itinerary and highlights
A hand cranked ferry use cross transportation across the Mopan rive to gain access to Xunantunich.
A must-visit, even when on the shortest stays in our beautiful country. Xunantunich is a national treasure that fills its visitors with a sense of time travel. You’ll depart from your Hopkins where our guides will meet you before your drive to this temple.
Meeting and pickup information
- IMPORTANT — SAN PEDRO AND CAYE CAULKER GUESTS: This tour’s pickup begins in Belize City. We do not pick you up from your island hotel, and we do not escort you from the hotel to the water taxi terminal or airport. You must reach the terminal or airport, check in, and board independently. If your selected option says Self-Transfer, you must purchase your own ticket. If it says Water Taxi Included or Flight Included, we arrange only the specified ticket; transportation from your hotel to the departure terminal or airport is still not included. Water taxi arrivals: after collecting your luggage, meet your guide outside the main exit of the San Pedro Belize Express Water Taxi Terminal, 111 North Front Street, Belize City. Flight arrivals: the exact Belize City airport meeting location will appear on your voucher. Look for a guide holding your name or a Private Belize Adventure sign. Please arrive early enough to complete check-in.
Languages and tickets
- English — Guide
- Mobile Only
Tour operator
- Private Belize Adventure
Accessibility and practical details
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Questions about this experience
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Traveller reviews and photos
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