What’s the best way to experience Xunantunich in Belize?

There are plenty of ways to experience Xunantunich. Looking at ratings and reviews previously given by customers, these are the best tours available right now:<ul><li><a href="/tours/San-Ignacio/XUNANTUNICH-and-CHE-CHEM-HA-cave/d5083-9165P12" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Xunantunich and Cave Tubing Combo Tour from San Ignacio</a></li><li><a href="/tours/San-Ignacio/Xunantunich-Horse-Riding/d5083-9165P1" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Xunantunich Horseback Riding Tour</a></li><li><a href="/tours/Placencia/Cave-Tubing-and-Xunantunich-Mayan-Ruins/d23725-240108P4" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Cave Tubing and Xunantunich (Mayan Ruins) from Placencia</a></li><li><a href="/tours/San-Ignacio/Half-Day-Trip-to-Xunantunich-Maya-Archaeological-from-San-Ignacio/d5083-7814P4" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Xunantunich Mayan Ruins Tour from San Ignacio</a></li><li><a href="/tours/Hopkins/Xunantunich-and-Inland-Blue-Hole-Tour/d24531-75946P4" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Xunantunich and Inland Blue Hole Tour</a></li></ul>

How much does it cost to visit Xunantunich in Belize in 2024?

The current entrance fee to Xunantunich is US$10 for adults and US$5 for children. Guided tours from San Ignacio and Placencia range from about US$75 for a half-day tour to over US$200 for a full day, depending on the duration and itinerary stops. Tours prices typically include admission to the ruins, as well as round-trip transportation.

How do I get to Xunantunich from Belize City?

The Xunantunich ruins are about 70 miles (110 kilometers) west of Belize City. You can reach the site by taking a public bus, taxi, or by joining a guided tour. It usually takes around 2 hours by car, depending on your starting point. Visitors must cross the Mopan River via a free ferry to reach the ruins, which can transport a limited number of cars each journey, too.

Can I climb the ruins at Xunantunich?

Yes, visitors are allowed to climb the ruins, including the main temple known as El Castillo, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding area, including Guatemala in the distance. It’s essential to wear sturdy, comfortable shoes and take caution while climbing, as there are multiple stairways that are steep and uneven in places.

What is the best time to visit Xunantunich?

The best time to visit Xunantunich is during the dry season, which runs from December to April. During this period, you’ll experience pleasant weather with less rain, ideal for exploring the site and enjoying the views. Visit in the morning to avoid the heat and crowds; it can get quite hot and humid, while early mornings are cooler and more comfortable.

Is Xunantunich accessible for people with disabilities?

No, Xunantunich is not accessible for wheelchairs or anyone with mobility issues due to its uneven terrain and steep steps. While the main pathways are relatively flat, and there is some basic infrastructure, the site’s ancient ruins involve climbing steps and navigating uneven paths.

Xunantunich Tours and Tickets

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Discover Xunantunich Mayan Ruins Tour from San Ignacio

Skip the confusion of navigating remote ruins on your own. Visit the Xunantunich Archaeological Reserve with ease on a guided tour from San Ignacio. Begin your journey by crossing the Mopan River on a traditional hand-cranked ferry—an experience in itself—before ascending to the hilltop ruins. Climb to the top for sweeping views that reach into neighboring Guatemala, and let your guide bring the ancient Mayan civilization to life with expert insights and stories.

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Discover Xunantunich Mayan Ruins Tour from San Ignacio

3 to 4 hoursFree Cancellation

Price varies by group size

Member Pricing

Xunantunich & Cave Tubing Day Trip from San Ignacio

Step back in time to the powerful peak of the ancient Mayan civilization with this guided 3-hour tour of the Xunantunich ruins. Let your imagination run wild as you explore the temples, plazas, and royal palaces of the famed archaeological site by foot. From the top of the imposing El Castillo pyramid, take in panoramic views of the surrounding Belize River Valley and the ancient city below. Round-trip transport from your San Ignacio hotel is included.

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Xunantunich & Cave Tubing Day Trip from San Ignacio

9 hoursFree Cancellation

Price varies by group size

Member Pricing

Combine the best of Belizean nature and culture on this combo tour that includes a visit to the Xunantunich ancient Mayan ruins and the Inland Blue Hole — a beautiful jungle lagoon. The ruins can be difficult to navigate on your own, but a guide explains the site’s fascinating history and helps you safely climb the highest stone temple in Belize. A picnic lunch and hotel pickup are included for a stress-free adventure.

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Xunantunich and Inland Blue Hole Tour

9 hoursFree Cancellation

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Head out on an adventure-filled day with this day tour from San Ignacio. First up, you’ll explore the Maya Temple of Xunantunich with a guide who can relay all the stories about the complex. After a delicious lunch on the way, you’ll get to spend the afternoon cave tubing in Noh Hoch Chen Archaeological Reserve. As you’re propelled through each cave, your guide will be able to fill you in on the ecology of the landscape.

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Xunantunich Maya Temple & Nohoch Che'en Cave Tubing Full-Day Tour

7 to 8 hoursFree Cancellation

Price varies by group size

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Xunantunich and Cave Tubing Combo Tour from San Ignacio

Explore the dominion of the ancient Maya in Belize on a full-day tour from San Ignacio. Climb to the top of sacred pyramids and learn about the once-mighty civilization at the archaeological site of Xunantunich, and enter a portal to the Mayan underworld on a cave tubing adventure that takes you splashing through the crystalline caverns of an underground cave system. Round-trip transport from San Ignacio Town and lunch are included on this tour.

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Xunantunich and Cave Tubing Combo Tour from San Ignacio

9 to 11 hoursFree Cancellation

Price varies by group size

Member Pricing

Ride a horse to the Maya ceremonial center of Xunantunich on this small-group tour from a riding stable in San Ignacio. Follow your guide along the gentle Mopan River, and watch for tropical birds and howler monkeys among the trees. Enjoy a sweeping view of the Xunantunich complex, then spend an hour at the fascinating site; take in the towering El Castillo pyramid and enjoy the serenity of the rural spot as you ride through the partially excavated ruins before returning to San Ignacio.

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Xunantunich horseback riding tour

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Explore the ancient Mayan site of Xunantunich, known as the 'Stone Maiden,' just a short drive from San Ignacio. This archaeological marvel features over 26 temples and palaces, boasting the second tallest structure in Belize. Following your visit, embark on an exhilarating paddle through Barton Creek Cave, where you’ll glide under stunning stalactites illuminated by a powerful spotlight. Discover ancient Maya artifacts while your guide shares fascinating insights about their beliefs surrounding the underworld, 'Xibalba.' Don't miss the chance to refresh with a swim in the cave-fed pool after your adventure. Visit the expansive Mayan ruins of Xunantunich, lasting a century longer than most sites Paddle nearly a mile into Barton Creek Cave and explore its remarkable formations Learn about ancient Maya culture and beliefs from your knowledgeable guide Option to swim in a cave-fed pool and jump from rocks after the tour

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Xunantunich and Barton Creek Cave Adventure Tour

8 hoursFree Cancellation

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Uncover the ancient mysteries of archaeological sites, Xunantunich and Cahal Pech, on an enriching tour from San Ignacio. Travel deep into the Belizean jungle with a guide and discover Mayan structures and exotic flora and fauna. At Xunantunich, gaze at spectacular views of the lush forest from El Castillo, Belize’s second highest man-made structure, and marvel at the intriguing limestone structures of Cahal Pech. Gain fascinating insight into the history and culture of the Maya empire from your expert guide on this educational tour.

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Xunantunich and Cahal Pech from San Ignacio

5 to 6 hoursFree Cancellation

Price varies by group size

Member Pricing

Xunantunich Mayan Ruin and St. Herman's Cave Tubing from Hopkins

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.

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Xunantunich Mayan Ruin and St. Herman's Cave Tubing from Hopkins

8 to 9 hoursFree Cancellation

5% savings

from

US$250US$238

Price varies by group size

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Private Xunantunich Mayan Ruin with local Lunch from Belize City

Explore one of the world’s most-visited Mayan sites at your own pace on a private tour that lets you dive deeper into the history of the Xunantunich ruins. Exploring the UNESCO World Heritage Site with a private guide means that you’ll have ample time to ask questions as can tailor your itinerary to only cover the areas that most interest you. Plus, your guide puts the 26 different temples into context with commentary.

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Private Xunantunich Mayan Ruin with local Lunch from Belize City

6 hoursFree Cancellation

Price varies by group size

Member Pricing

Private Xunantunich Maya Ruin Adventure From Belize City

Visit Xunantunich, known for its ancient Mayan ruins, on this private tour from Belize City. You'll take a roughly 3-hour drive out to the ruins in an air-conditioned vehicle, where you'll explore ruins and learn about ancient culture. Climb to the top of El Castillo, the second-tallest structure in the country, for views of Belize and Guatemala. Hotel pickup and lunch are included for your convenience.

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Private Xunantunich Maya Ruin Adventure From Belize City

8 hoursFree Cancellation

Price varies by group size

Member Pricing

Xunantunich Maya Ruins & Cave Tubing - St. Herman's Cave

Xunantunich Maya Ruins is one of Belize’s most famous archaeological sites, which can mean buses that travel there get crowded. Instead of looking up public transport schedules, enjoy this small-group tour instead. Travel seamlessly from Hopkins Bay to Xunantunich, explore the ruins with a guide, and then continue the trip to St. Herman’s Cave. Here you can try out cave tubing, with all required equipment provided for extra convenience.

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Xunantunich Maya Ruins & Cave Tubing - St. Herman's Cave

9 hoursFree Cancellation

Price varies by group size

Member Pricing

Xunantunich & Cave Tubing (fully inclusive) from Belize City

8 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

Member Pricing

The atmospheric ruins of Xunantunich are some of the most-visited Mayan ruins in the world. During your stay in Belize, ensure you don’t miss the ancient archeological site on this 6-hour tour of Xunantunich, including cave tubing. Ideal for adventurous travelers, this excursion allows you to explore the Mayan ruins, hike through exotic rainforest, and ride an inflated inner tube down rivers running through darkened caverns. Entrance fees and round-trip transport from your Belize City hotel are included on this small-group tour, limited to 15 people.

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Xunantunich Mayan Ruin And Cave Tubing from Belize city

6 hoursFree Cancellation

Member Pricing

Visit Xunantunich, one of Belize’s most impressive Maya sites, famous for its towering structures and Belize’s largest royal tomb discovered in 2016. Begin in San Jose Succotz, crossing the Mopan River on a hand-cranked ferry. Explore El Castillo, a 130-foot pyramid offering panoramic jungle views and glimpses of Guatemala. Watch for howler monkeys and learn the story behind the name “Stone Woman” from local legend. After the ruins, visit San Ignacio Market to browse fresh produce, crafts, and spices, then explore downtown San Ignacio, enjoying its vibrant streets, cafés, shops, and authentic Belizean culture.

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Xunantunich Maya Ruins and San Ignacio Market from Belize City

7 hoursFree Cancellation

Member Pricing

Private Cave Tubing & Xunantunich (Mayan Ruins) From Placencia

10 hoursFree Cancellation

Member Pricing

Explore the captivating Xunantunich Mayan Ruins and take a refreshing swim in the Inland Blue Hole on this exciting day trip from Placencia. Journey along the scenic Hummingbird Highway and witness the beauty of Belize's countryside, dotted with lush mountains and vibrant homes. After delving into the rich history of the ancient Mayan civilization with a knowledgeable guide, enjoy a delicious Belizean lunch before heading to the stunning Blue Hole National Park, perfect for swimming and relaxation. This tour combines cultural exploration with natural beauty for a memorable experience. - Visit the iconic Xunantunich Mayan Ruins and learn about Mayan history - Swim in the beautiful Inland Blue Hole within Blue Hole National Park - Enjoy a tasty Belizean lunch included in the tour - Depart from Placencia with transportation provided

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Xunantunich Mayan Ruins and Belize Inland Blue Hole Tour

8 to 9 hoursFree Cancellation

Price varies by group size

Member Pricing

Xunantunich: Echoes of the Ancients Mayan Civilization

Learn about the ancient Maya civilization on a private day trip to Xunantunich, one of the most significant archaeological sites in Belize. Travel there with a personal guide for ease of navigation and save time researching the guidebooks. Climb to the top of El Castillo for views over the jungle and discover hieroglyphics of Maya beliefs inscripted in the stucco friezes. A barbecue lunch in town is provided.

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Xunantunich: Echoes of the Ancients Mayan Civilization

5 to 6 hoursFree Cancellation

Price varies by group size

Member Pricing

As we embark on the Xunantunich tour, what sets it apart is the journey across the Mopan River, where we'll navigate using a hand-cranked ferry to reach the temples, a unique and adventurous start to our exploration. Before immersing ourselves in the grandeur of the main temples, we'll visit a museum showcasing skeletal and pottery remains, providing a fascinating glimpse into the ancient civilization. Scaling the towering El Castillo, the second highest Maya temple in Belize, promises an awe-inspiring experience, with its remarkable architecture offering panoramic vistas of the lush jungle and serene Mopan River below. This archaeological site not only boasts unparalleled historical significance but also serves as a vibrant tapestry of culture and wildlife, enriching our journey with every step. After this amazing experience, visitors will hike back to the parking lot along with their tour guides.

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Xunantunich Maya Temples (Half Day)

3 hoursFree Cancellation

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Walk in the footsteps of Mayan royalty at Belize’s magnificent Altun Ha ruins on this day trip from San Ignacio. A professional guide will lead you through the archaeological remnants of this ancient city, which was an important center of trade and religion during the Classic Mayan period. Among the complex of more than 500 excavated structures, you’ll visit grand plazas and ceremonial temples, including the discovery site of a famous carved jade figure of the Mayan sun god Kinich Ahau. Round-trip hotel transport is included.

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Adventure Sun Set Horse Ride from San Ignacio

6 hoursFree Cancellation

Price varies by group size

Member Pricing

The Ultimate Belize Combo: ATM Cave & Xunantunich Maya Temple

Enjoy a full day of adventure by exploring a cave and temple from San Ignacio. Begin by heading to San Jose Succotz, a Maya village, where you’ll board a ferry to cross the Mopan River. From here, you’ll be immersed in beautiful jungle surrounding the Xunantunich Maya Temple. After exploring the temple with a guide, head to Actun Tunichil Muknal where you’ll hike and explore this natural cave steep in Mayan history and culture.

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The Ultimate Belize Combo: ATM Cave & Xunantunich Maya Temple

8 to 9 hoursFree Cancellation

Price varies by group size

Member Pricing

Xunantunich Maya Temple & Big Rock Falls combo from San Ignacio

Step back in time at one of Belize’s most impressive Mayan sites, the ancient city of Xunantunich. Cross a hand-cranked ferry to reach the hilltop ruins, where you can explore former palaces, plazas, and ball courts with a guide and climb to the top of a ceremonial stone temple. After this archaeological adventure, head to the Mountain Pine Ridge region for a refreshing swim in Big Rock Falls.

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Xunantunich Maya Temple & Big Rock Falls combo from San Ignacio

7 to 8 hoursFree Cancellation

Price varies by group size

Member Pricing

Horseback Ride to Xunantunich Maya Ruins

4 hoursFree Cancellation

Member Pricing

Xunantunich Cave Tubing and Zip line from Ambergris caye

11 hoursFree Cancellation

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What are people saying about Xunantunich

Discover Xunantunich Mayan Ruins Tour from San Ignacio

ShaNia_S, Jun 2026

Unbelievable Views 🇧🇿⛰️

Shout out Pedro for being so kind and informative! This was an incredible experience learning about Xunantunich and Mayan culture! The ruins were breathtaking, and from the top, we could see everything. We discovered so much about different plants and their uses. We even got to see spider monkeys!

Xunantunich horseback riding tour

Daniel_E, Oct 2026

I proposed on top of el Castillo

Carla was absolutely amazing!!!!!! She made the entire experience worth while!! The horses were amazing and me and my fiancee ( which happened on top of el Castillo ) were able to take them for a little run since we were so experienced riding. The knowledge she has of the site made it great. Would absolutely recommend 10000/10.

Xunantunich Maya Temple & Nohoch Che'en Cave Tubing Full-Day Tour

jasmine_c, Aug 2026

Pedro the Goat

We had a wonderful time on this tour. Pedro was AMAZING!!!!! The best guide ever! He was very knowledgeable about the Mayan history and the cave! We love him! Book and make sure you get Pedro as your guide!

Xunantunich Mayan Ruins CHOCOLATE MAKING Tour

Akua_A, Aug 2026

SSS level hospitality

I enjoyed this experience. It ended up just being me and guide and we had a time. Paul answered all my questions, gave me the deets on Belize, and upgraded from water to coconut water (which was very delish!!). The chocolate making ended up not being available so did zip lining instead. I really enjoyed both our guides/instructors. They were chill and funny. But Paul did make a stop so I could still get chocolate from the store. Overall, went above and beyond!

Xunantunich horseback riding tour

Douglas_D, Aug 2026

The trip was great for...

The trip was great for the whole family! Jose and Carla were great with our kids who had never ridden a horse. Jose worked very hard to get our kids engaged with both the horse riding and the history. Our daughter was super scared at first, but they were patient and reassuring. Beautiful view from the top and super informative! Would not hesitate to recommend this trip to others. All of the staff for this trip were friendly, knowledgeable, and passionate about their work. Thanks!

Xunantunich Maya Temple & Nohoch Che'en Cave Tubing Full-Day Tour

Jeremy_S, Aug 2026

The activities were...

The activities were amazing and the guide was friendly, helpful, and very knowledgeable. One thing I didn’t realize was that there was a long drive between the archaeological site and the cave tubing and then back to San Ignacio, so a fairly large portion of the day was spent in the car. However, I enjoyed the drive and seeing the towns and countryside. Overall, I think the trip was worth the money, and I recommend it!

Xunantunich and Cave Tubing Combo Tour from San Ignacio

Hannah_W, Aug 2026

We were lucky and were...

We were lucky and were the only ones on our tour! Jose was our tour guide and he was absolutely incredible. He took our interests into consideration to customize the tour for us. He was extremely knowledgeable of all things Belize and it was so fun to spend the day learning so much with him! 12/10 recommend and I would gladly do another tour with Jose any day !

Xunantunich and Cave Tubing Combo Tour from San Ignacio

Denise_S, Jul 2026

Amazing!!!

Jose was our guide and he was awesome. First we did the tour of Zuantunich, and it was amazing. Jose explained the history of the Mayans and the site and knows so much about it, and the plants in the area. Then we did the cave tubing part. It was a beautiful cave, and we got out of our tubes and hiked around a lot in the cave, and we did some jumping not the water. Fabulous. Jose was a great guide; very knowledgeable and fun!! Highly recommend!

Discover Xunantunich Mayan Ruins Tour from San Ignacio

CHRISTINA_T, Jun 2026

This was a really cool...

This was a really cool experience and totally worth it. The tour was 3 hours long but it was plenty to see the Mayan ruins. Xunantunich has so much history and our guide was very knowledgeable and gave us a lot of information about he Mayan culture. The views are also beautiful. We also saw spider monkeys and Iguanas.

Xunantunich

5.0

(1 591)

Belize City

Know before you go

Mayan ruins at Xunantunich site in San Ignacio, Belize.

Xunantunich is fully excavated, and visitors are allowed to climb all the buildings on the site.
Look out for howler monkeys in the surrounding trees.

Xunantunich Tours and Tickets

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What’s the best way to experience Xunantunich in Belize?

How much does it cost to visit Xunantunich in Belize in 2024?

How do I get to Xunantunich from Belize City?

Can I climb the ruins at Xunantunich?

What is the best time to visit Xunantunich?

Is Xunantunich accessible for people with disabilities?