About this experience
The Xunantunich Archaeological Site and the Blue Hole National Park are two fantastic places where you may spend a day filled with adventure, Maya archaeology, and nature.
Xunantunich is a Maya city that existed in the classic period from 200-900 A.D. and reached an occupation of approximately 10,000 people. This site is very close to the border with Guatemala and when you climb to the top of the largest building of the site you will be able to observe from the heights all of Xunantunich and see the Guatemalan territory in the distance.
We will continue to the Blue Hole National Park after exploring this wonderful city. It is important to distinguish this tourist destination from the Belizean Caribbean's Great Blue Hole. It is a location that will leave you dumbfounded in either case.
You can go trekking, unwind in the great outdoors, or cool off in its alluring natural cenote with its brilliant blue water. This is an adventure you simply must not miss.
At a glance
- Duration: 12 hr 30 min
Plan your experience
Set aside 12 hr 30 min 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
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.
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.
Laughing Bird Caye National Park Guide
Plan a day at Laughing Bird Caye National Park from Placencia, Belize, with practical advice on boat trips, snorkeling, tour choices, costs, packing, and booking questions.
What is included
- Entrance fee to Inland Blue Hole National Park
- Lunch
- Entrance fee to Xunantunich Archeological Site
- Air-conditioned vehicle
- Certified tour guide
Not included
- Gratuities
Itinerary and highlights
We will depart from Placencia. You will delight in both the journey and the scenery. Prepare for a day filled with knowledge, adventure, and the natural world by unwinding in your seat. You'll adore it!
In the Yucatec Maya language, the name Xunantunich translates to "Stone Lady." This term derives from a tradition that claims that a woman wearing nothing but black materializes in the largest structure of the archaeological site known as El Castillo, ascends the stairs, and vanishes behind its walls.
Leaving the myths aside, this archaeological site was very significant during the Classic Maya period (200–900 A.D.), and it is estimated that more than 10,000 people lived there at one time.
The property comprises more than 25 temples and palaces surrounding 6 plazas. It is 2.6 square kilometers in size. To go to Xunantunich, which is close to the Guatemalan border, we'll take a ferry across the Mopan River, which has long been significant.
Additionally, you will have the chance to ascend to the top of the El Castillo structure, from which point you will enjoy a bird's-eye view of the entire archaeological site and a portion of the neighboring country of Guatemala.
This natural landmark should not be confused with the Caribbean's Great Blue Hole. It takes less than two hours to get to this national park from Xunantunich.
We may hike, cool off in the beautiful cenote-type attraction with fully blue and crystal clear water, and take in the rich biodiversity of this lovely country here. This is part of a system of subway caverns.
More than 200 bird species, including rare tropical species, can be seen in this 575-acre park, making it a great place for birdwatchers.
We'll return to Placencia.
Meeting and pickup information
- We meet our travelers along the main road of Placencia
Languages and tickets
- English — Guide
- Mobile Only
Tour operator
- Guat2do Travel Experiences
Accessibility and practical details
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Cancellation policy
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
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