Xunantunich Maya Ruins and Chocolate Making Tour from Belize City
About This Tour
Combine two unforgettable Belize experiences in one day with our Xunantunich Maya Ruins and Chocolate Making Tour from Belize City. After morning pickup from your Belize City hotel, Airbnb, water taxi terminal, or municipal airstrip, journey inland to the Cayo District where you will climb El Castillo, the towering pyramid at Xunantunich, before heading to AJAW Chocolate in San Ignacio for a hands-on Maya cacao experience.
At Xunantunich you will cross the Mopan River on a hand-cranked ferry, explore six plazas of intricately carved temples, and stand atop the second tallest structure in Belize for sweeping views into Guatemala. Then at AJAW Chocolate, you will grind cacao beans on a traditional metate, taste pure chocolate as the ancient Maya did, and learn how cacao shaped Maya civilization.
Convenient round-trip ground transportation from Belize City is included. Minimum of 3 guests required.
- • Convenient pickup from Belize City hotels, Airbnbs, water taxis, and municipal airstrip
- • Climb El Castillo, the second tallest Maya structure in Belize
- • Cross the Mopan River on a hand-cranked cable ferry
- • Hands-on Maya chocolate making at AJAW Chocolate in San Ignacio
- • Grind cacao on a traditional stone metate and taste pure chocolate
- • Authentic Belizean lunch included
Tour Highlights
- Convenient pickup from Belize City hotels and water taxi terminal
- Climb El Castillo at Xunantunich for panoramic views into Guatemala
- Hand-cranked ferry crossing of the Mopan River
- Explore six plazas of carved temples and stelae
- Hands-on Maya chocolate making demonstration at AJAW Chocolate in San Ignacio
- Grind cacao beans on a traditional metate and taste pure Maya chocolate
- Learn the cultural and spiritual significance of cacao to the Maya
- Authentic Belizean lunch included
- Small group experience with knowledgeable local guide
What's Included
What's Not Included
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the minimum group size for this tour?
Where does pickup take place?
What is the AJAW Chocolate experience like?
How difficult is climbing El Castillo?
Is this tour suitable for families?
What is included in the price?
Itinerary
Pickup in Belize City
Your guide will pick you up from your Belize City hotel, Airbnb, water taxi terminal, or municipal airstrip in an air-conditioned tour van. Settle in for the scenic drive west toward the Cayo District.
Hand-Cranked Ferry & Xunantunich Maya Ruins
Cross the Mopan River on a hand-cranked cable ferry to reach Xunantunich. Climb El Castillo, the second tallest Maya structure in Belize, for panoramic views stretching into Guatemala. Your guide will walk you through six plazas, ball courts, and intricately carved stelae.
Belizean Lunch in San Ignacio
Sit down to an authentic Belizean lunch in San Ignacio. Typical dishes include stew chicken, rice and beans, and fresh local sides. Vegetarian options are available upon request.
AJAW Chocolate Making Experience
Visit AJAW Chocolate in San Ignacio for an immersive Maya cacao experience. Grind roasted cacao beans on a traditional stone metate, blend in spices, and taste pure chocolate the way the ancient Maya did. Your host will share the rich history of cacao in Maya culture, from sacred ceremonial drink to the modern chocolate we enjoy today.
Return Drive to Belize City
Relax in the air-conditioned van for the scenic drive back to Belize City.
Drop-off in Belize City
Arrive back in Belize City and be dropped off at your hotel, Airbnb, water taxi terminal, or municipal airstrip after a full day of Maya history and authentic chocolate culture.
Explore More Tours
Information on Belize
→ Official Belize Travel Information (travelbelize.org)per person
Exclusive vehicle and guide for your group only - move at your own pace
+$30/person (+$90 total)
Due to recent increases in fuel costs in Belize, tour prices may be adjusted. Current rates are locked in at the time of booking.