About this experience
Xunantunich is one of the largest ancient Maya cities ever built, the rulers of Xunantunich clashes with other powerful rivals in the area, including Tikal. In 2016, the largest Maya royal tomb ever discovered was excavated in Xunantunich, and the site remains an impressive display of pyramids, palaces, and other grandiose buildings.
At a glance
- Duration: 9 hr
Plan your experience
Set aside 9 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
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.
What is included
- Entry/Admission fee to Site
- Lunch
- All Fees and Taxes
- Air-conditioned vehicle
Not included
- Gratuities
Itinerary and highlights
This tour includes a visit to two of the most incredible attractions in Belize, the ruins of the ancient Maya city of Xunantunich and the sapphire waters of the Inland Blue Hole.
Xunantunich Maya Ruins
One of the largest ancient Maya cities ever built, Xunantunich is located approximately 70 miles (110 km) west of Belize City. Constructed on a ridge overlooking the Mopan River, Xunantunich was once home to nearly 100,000 people.
The original name of the site is unknown, but its modern name derives from a Maya term that means “Stone Woman.” First rediscovered in 1892, many visitors to the site reported seeing a ghostly woman who was reported to haunt the structure known as “El Castillo” (The Castle).
Still the second-largest manmade structure in the country, El Castillo measures 130 feet (40 meters) tall. Built as a temple pyramid, El Castillo is located in the exact center of the town.
Today, Xunantunich is located approximately one mile from the Guatemalan border. During its heyday during the Classic Period of the Maya civilization (around 600-700 AD), Xunanutinch competed with nearby cities, including Naranjo, Caracol, and Tikal (which lies just a few miles over the border in Guatemala).
The Inland Blue Hole
Not to be confused with the Blue Hole that lies on the offshore reef, the Inland Blue Hole is located in the St. Herman’s Blue Hole National Park near the capital of Belize, Belmopan.
First designated a national park in 1986, St. Herman’s is managed by the Belize Audobon Society as it sits in the middle of one of the most ecologically diverse areas of the country. Over 200 species of birds have been recorded in the area, including the red-legged honeycreeper and the piratic flycatcher. There is also a wide selection of wildlife in the park, including three big cat species.
Meeting and pickup information
- Airports or Centrally Located Hotels
Languages and tickets
- English — Guide
- Spanish — Guide
- Mobile Only
Tour operator
- UNTAME BELIZE
Accessibility and practical details
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Specialized infant seats are available
- 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
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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