Xunantunich Maya Ruins and Chocolate Making Tour from San Pedro by Boat
Last Updated: April 2026
About Your Xunantunich Maya Ruins and Chocolate Making Tour from San Pedro by Boat
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
Highlights of Your Xunantunich Maya Ruins and Chocolate Making Tour from San Pedro by Boat
- 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 in Your Xunantunich Maya Ruins and Chocolate Making Tour from San Pedro by Boat
What's Not Included in Your Xunantunich Maya Ruins and Chocolate Making Tour from San Pedro by Boat
What to Expect
Pickup
5:30 AM from San Pedro (via water taxi). 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.
Day Length
Plan for approximately Full Day (10+ Hours), with return around 5:00 – 6:00 PM.
Best For
travelers comfortable with open water boat travel and sunny conditions on the Caribbean Sea. 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: 6:00 AM water taxi departure from San Pedro, return approximately 6:00 PM
- Please arrive at the San Pedro water taxi terminal by 5:30 AM
- Water taxi ticket confirmation numbers emailed 2 days prior to tour date
- Round-trip water taxi from San Pedro is included in the tour price
- Minimum 3 persons required to operate this tour
Information for Xunantunich Maya Ruins and Chocolate Making Tour from San Pedro by Boat.
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 San Pedro by Boat
What is the minimum group size for this tour?
What time do I need to be at the water taxi terminal?
Is the water taxi included in the price?
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 San Pedro by Boat
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)Reserve Your Seats 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$214
US$107 per person · 2 guest minimum
Pay Remaining Balance on Tour Day
Pay US$320 now • US$319 on tour day
Deposit required to secure boat tickets in advance
Secure checkout • Instant confirmation • No hidden fees