Xunantunich Maya Ruins and Chocolate Making Tour from Belize City
Last Updated: April 2026
About Your Xunantunich Maya Ruins and Chocolate Making Tour from Belize City
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
Highlights of Your Xunantunich Maya Ruins and Chocolate Making Tour from Belize City
- 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 in Your Xunantunich Maya Ruins and Chocolate Making Tour from Belize City
What's Not Included in Your Xunantunich Maya Ruins and Chocolate Making Tour from Belize City
What to Expect
Pickup
7:30 AM from Belize City (hotels, Airbnbs, water taxi terminal, municipal airstrip). 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.
Day Length
Plan for approximately Full Day (8+ Hours), with return around 5:30 PM.
Best For
travelers ready for a guided full experience with moderate walking and warm tropical conditions. Small group tour (minimum 3 guests, large groups welcome).
What to Bring
Comfortable walking shoes or sneakers (for climbing the pyramid), Light long-sleeve shirt and pants (sun protection), Sunscreen and insect repellent, Hat or cap for sun protection.
Realistic Expectations
- Full day tour: 7:30 AM pickup in Belize City, return approximately 5:30 PM
- Pickup available from Belize City hotels, Airbnbs, water taxi terminal, and municipal airstrip
- Minimum 3 persons required to operate this tour
- Moderate physical activity: climbing El Castillo pyramid involves steep steps
- AJAW Chocolate experience is hands-on and family-friendly
Information for Xunantunich Maya Ruins and Chocolate Making Tour from Belize City.
Reviewed by Belize Fun Tours Local Experts
20+ years operating guided tours and transfers across Belize. Licensed by the Belize Tourism Board. Family owned and locally based, with in house bilingual guides and a Belize City operations team.
Frequently Asked Questions About Your Xunantunich Maya Ruins and Chocolate Making Tour from Belize City
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?
Why Belize Fun Tours
- 20+ years operating tours and transfers across Belize
- Licensed by the Belize Tourism Board
- Locally owned and family operated, no third party intermediaries
- Free cancellation up to 7 days before
- Direct WhatsApp and email support from our Belize team
- Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
Plan the Rest of Your Belize Trip
Itinerary for Your Xunantunich Maya Ruins and Chocolate Making Tour from Belize City
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.
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Information on Belize
→ Official Belize Travel Information (travelbelize.org)Reserve Your Spot Today
Total Price Per Person
Exclusive vehicle and guide for your group only - move at your own pace
+$30/person (+$90 total)
RESERVE TODAY FROM ONLY US$106
US$53 per person · 2 guest minimum
Pay Remaining Balance on Tour Day
Pay US$158 now • US$370 on tour day
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