Xunantunich Maya Ruins and Chocolate Making Tour from San Pedro by Boat
About This Tour
Combine two unforgettable Belize experiences in one day with our Xunantunich Maya Ruins and Chocolate Making Tour from San Pedro. Begin with an early morning water taxi from San Pedro to Belize City, then 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.
Round-trip water taxi from San Pedro is included in the tour price. Minimum of 3 guests required.
- • Round-trip water taxi from San Pedro included
- • 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
- Round-trip water taxi from San Pedro to Belize City included
- 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
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Itinerary
Arrive at San Pedro Water Taxi Terminal
Please arrive at the San Pedro water taxi terminal by 5:30 AM for the 6:00 AM departure. Your water taxi ticket confirmation numbers will be emailed to you 2 days before your tour date.
Water Taxi Departure from San Pedro
Board the water taxi from San Pedro to Belize City. Enjoy the scenic boat ride across the Caribbean as the sun rises over the Belize Barrier Reef.
Meet Your Guide in Belize City
Upon arrival at the Belize City water taxi terminal, your guide will be waiting to greet you. Board the air-conditioned tour van and head 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 the Belize City water taxi terminal.
Water Taxi Back to San Pedro
Board the water taxi for a comfortable ride back to San Pedro after a full day of Maya history and authentic chocolate culture.
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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.