About this experience
This Xunantunich and horseback riding tour from San Ignacio combines two close-up ways of experiencing the Cayo landscape. Cross the Mopan River by hand-cranked ferry and explore Xunantunich’s plazas, palaces, carved friezes, and El Castillo with a local guide who explains Maya rulership, ceremony, astronomy, and regional connections. At Banana Bank Lodge & Jungle Horseback Adventures, meet the ranch team, receive a safety orientation, and ride through tropical trails and riverside countryside on a horse selected for your ability. The transition from ancient ceremonial architecture to working Belize ranch country gives the day unusual depth and variety. Travelers first see how the Maya built above the river valley, then experience the surrounding countryside at trail level from horseback. Because both experiences are rooted in the Cayo District, they feel naturally connected rather than assembled as unrelated stops.
At a glance
- Duration: 7 hr
Plan your experience
Set aside 7 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
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.
What is included
- Water
- Sodas
- Juices
- Private Guide
- Entrance Fee
Not included
- Gratuities
Itinerary and highlights
A Hand Cranked ferry used to Cross vehicles,passenger and other mean of transportation to Xunantunich
Cross the Mopan River by hand-cranked ferry, then explore Xunantunich with your guide. Walk through the plazas, learn how the Maya city developed, and climb permitted structures for wide views across the Belize River Valley. The visit focuses on the site’s history, architecture, and archaeological importance.
At Banana Bank Lodge & Jungle Horseback Adventures, meet the ranch team and receive a safety orientation before being matched with a suitable horse. The guide leads the ride at a comfortable pace along ranch trails through tropical countryside and riverside surroundings. No previous riding experience is required, but guests must follow the ranch guide’s instructions.
Meeting and pickup information
- Meet your guide at the confirmed central San Ignacio meeting point. Exact instructions will be provided before the tour.
- Pickup is available only within central San Ignacio and nearby central hotels inside the listed pickup area. Please enter your accommodation name and address when booking. We do not pick up from remote lodges, including Chaa Creek, Black Rock Lodge, or Blancaneaux Lodge. Guests staying outside central San Ignacio must meet the guide at the confirmed central San Ignacio meeting point.
Languages and tickets
- English — Guide
- Mobile Only
Tour operator
- Private Belize Adventure
Meeting points and locations
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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