Top Hopkins Day Trips - page 2

One of the best Mayan sites in Belize, Caracol, is deep in the heart of the Chiquibul Forest Reserve. The reserve is located at the base of the Maya Mountains in the Cayo District in Western Belize. Covering an area of nearly 25,000 acres, Caracol is one of the largest Mayan sites. Impressive not only in size, it also has an immense agricultural field system and elaborate city planning. Caracol is one of the most pristine and well-kept Maya sites in Belize. If you want to see an incredible piece of our history, head to Caracol in Belize. Numerous carved monuments establish that Caracol was a major player in the geopolitics of the Maya civilization. Caracol was an ally of Calakmul in Campeche, Mexico and engaged in several wars with neighboring polities, such as Tikal, Naranjo and Ucanal in Guatemala.

Descend into Actun Tunichil Muknal, the only place in Belize where you can walk among intact Maya ceremonial remains left exactly where they were placed over a thousand years ago. Pickup from your Hopkins Village hotel or rental at 7:00 am, then inland through the Maya Mountains. You hike 45 minutes through broadleaf rainforest, crossing the Roaring River three times on foot, before swimming a short stretch into the cave mouth. Inside, your licensed guide leads you past calcite formations, ceramic vessels and ritual offerings, up into the Cathedral where the skeletal remains known as the Crystal Maiden rest in place. This is an active archaeological site under government protection, and access is restricted to certified guides only. Please note: cameras and phones are strictly prohibited inside the cave, and this is enforced. Bring socks, closed-toe shoes you don't mind soaking, swimwear under your clothes, and dry clothes for the drive home.

Visit one of the most impressive Ancient Mayan temples on a day trip combined with a refreshing cave tubing experience at St. Herman's cave. This is an all-inclusive package that includes transportation from/to Hopkins, guided tours, drinking water, lunch, park admissions, and a stop for a swim at the Inland Blue Hole. Climb to the top of these high temples learn about this Ancient civilization, and look for local animals including birds, coatimundi, spiders, and howler monkeys. After visiting the Mayan temples, drive to the cave tubing area. Float relaxed inside these dark chambers on this full-day adventure away from the visiting cruise passengers to Belize.

Embark on the ultimate adventure in Belize with a combination tour of Xunantunich Mayan Ruins and Cave Tubing at Jaguar Paw! Prepare to uncover the mysteries of ancient civilizations and immerse yourself in the wonders of the underground world. Journey back in time as you explore the impressive Xunantunich Mayan Ruins. Climb to the top of El Castillo, the towering pyramid, and be rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding jungle. Marvel at intricate carvings and glyphs that provide insights into Mayan culture. Your knowledgeable guide will share fascinating stories and legends that bring this ancient site to life. After Lunch, get ready for an adrenaline-pumping cave tubing experience at Jaguar Paw. Float along underground rivers, surrounded by awe-inspiring limestone caves.

Prepare for a day filled with adventure on this guided tour from Hopkins. First, head to Xunantunich, located close to Belize’s western border. Here, catch panoramic views of the Cayo District and nearby Guatemala from atop El Castillo, the main temple of the archeological site. From there, travel to Caves Branch Archaeological Reserve for a cave tubing and ziplining adventure.

Venture deep into the lush Maya mountains to discover the marvels of Belize's ancient heritage on this full-day excursion. Explore the majestic Xunantunich Mayan ruin, renowned as the "Maiden of the Rock," and learn about the ancient archaeological site. Then, dive into the crystal-clear waters of the Blue Hole National Park, formed by the collapse of an underground limestone cave.