About this experience
Xunantunich is a spectacular ruin perched atop a hill overlooking the Mopan River and the Cayo District, near the border with Guatemala. Cross the Mopan River west of San Ignacio on a ferry to reach Xunantunich or Maiden of the Rock. The main pyramid known as El Castillo is one of the tallest buildings in Belize rising 130' above the jungle canopy. The reward for climbing to the top with your licensed guide is a spectacular view of the Cayo District and Petén Guatemala.
At a glance
- Duration: 12 hr
- Private experience
Plan your experience
Set aside 12 hr for the experience itself, with additional time to reach your meeting or pickup point.
Before you go
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Local guides to help you plan
Great Blue Hole Belize Guide
Plan a Great Blue Hole visit by dive boat, live-aboard, snorkeling excursion, or scenic flight. Compare the experiences, costs, safety questions, accessibility, and weather considerations before booking.
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
- Lunch
- Transport.
- Park Fees.
- Pick Up and Drop Off in Placencia Village.
- Tour Guide.
Not included
- Pick Up and Drop Off Outside of Placencia Village (can arrange)
- Gratuities.
- Alcoholic drinks.
Itinerary and highlights
Xunantunich has six major plazas with more than twenty-five temples and palaces. "El Castillo" (the Castle), the largest rises 130 feet above the plaza. El Castillo has carved friezes on the east and west sides. The frieze on the east has been preserved and covered with a fiber glass replica of the central mask representing the sun god.
Depart Placencia at for the drive talongthe majestic Hummingbird Highway with karst limestone topography intermixed with orange groves. Turn west at Belmopan toward Guatemala and Xunantunich. Cross the Mopan River on a ferry to reach the temple. On the way home, stop to enjoy a refreshing swim in Blue Hole National Park. Wear a long sleeved shirt, long pants and a hat and bring a swim suit. Bring a camera, binoculars, insect repellent, and sunscreen.
Fitness level required: low to moderate
Take a short hike to see the cenote known as the Blue Hole. Taking a quick dip will refresh you one your way back to Placencia after spending the day at Xunantunich
Meeting and pickup information
- Splash Dive Center is located in Peninsula Club marina at the north end of the village of Placencia across the road from Chabil Mar Villas. Watch for a marina with dive boats.
- We text guests to arrange time and place for pickup. We provide complimentary pickup and drop off along the main road in Placencia Village but charge US$ 10.00 per person for pickup/drop off north of Placencia Village.
Languages and tickets
- English — Guide
- Spanish — Guide
- Mobile Only
Tour operator
- Splash Dive Center Limited (but shown as Splash Dive Shop on Trip Advisor)
Meeting points and locations
Accessibility and practical details
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Children must be accompanied by an adult.
- Infant seats are available on request if advised at time of booking.
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Questions about this experience
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