Xunantunich Maya Ruins & Cave Tubing Tour from San Ignacio
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Duration
Full Day
Departure
San Ignacio
Transportation
Air-conditioned van
Group Size
Small groups
Special Offer
Limited-time 15% off! Book now to save US$33 on this amazing tour!
About This Tour
Combine ancient Maya history with underground adventure on this full-day tour from San Ignacio. Cross the Mopan River by hand-cranked ferry to explore Xunantunich, where you'll climb the 130-foot El Castillo pyramid for views stretching into Guatemala. After a traditional Belizean lunch, float through sacred underground caves on inner tubes, drifting past glittering stalactites in cathedral-like chambers that the Maya believed led to the underworld.
• Climb El Castillo pyramid—second tallest structure in Belize • Cross the Mopan River on iconic hand-cranked ferry • Float through ancient underground caves on inner tubes • See stalactites and stalagmites in cathedral-sized chambers • Traditional Belizean lunch included • All cave tubing equipment provided • Expert guides share Maya history and cave geology
Tour Highlights
- Climb El Castillo pyramid - second tallest structure in Belize
- Cross the Mopan River on hand-cranked ferry
- Float through ancient underground cave system on inner tubes
- Learn Maya history and cave geology from expert guides
- Traditional Belizean lunch included
- Perfect blend of history, adventure, and relaxation
What's Included
What's Not Included
Itinerary
Pickup in San Ignacio Cayo District
Convenient morning pickup from all San Ignacio hotels, Airbnbs, and vacation rentals. Depart for short scenic drive to Xunantunich Maya ruins near Guatemalan border.
Hand-Cranked Ferry Crossing on Mopan River
Cross the Mopan River on charming traditional hand-cranked ferry - a unique and memorable experience transporting you from modern world to ancient Maya realm.
Explore Xunantunich 'Maiden of the Rock' Maya Site
Begin guided exploration of Xunantunich archaeological site with expert local guide. Walk through ancient ceremonial plazas, ball courts, and royal palace structures from Classic Period Maya civilization.
Climb El Castillo Pyramid - 130 Feet Tall
Ascend the 130-foot El Castillo pyramid, the second-tallest structure in Belize. Experience breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of Cayo District jungle canopy stretching into Guatemala.
Study Maya Stucco Frieze and Hieroglyphs
Examine well-preserved stucco frieze depicting Maya sun god masks, astronomical symbols, and intricate glyphs revealing ancient cosmology and royal history.
Traditional Belizean Lunch
Enjoy authentic Belizean meal featuring rice and beans, stewed chicken, potato salad, and fresh tropical fruit at local restaurant in San Ignacio area.
Scenic Drive to Nohoch Che'en Cave Tubing Park
Comfortable drive through Cayo District's lush rainforest and picturesque countryside to Nohoch Che'en Caves Branch Archaeological Reserve for cave tubing adventure.
Gear Up for Cave Tubing Xibalba Experience
Receive safety briefing, helmet with headlamp, and inner tube. Prepare for journey into Xibalba, the sacred Maya underworld through Caves Branch River system.
20-Minute Rainforest Hike to Cave Entrance
Leisurely jungle hike through pristine Belizean rainforest with guide explaining tropical flora, medicinal plants, and wildlife. Spot birds, butterflies, and learn about ecosystem.
Float Through Sacred Underground Caves
Settle into inner tube and drift through massive cathedral-like caverns on gentle Caves Branch River currents. Marvel at glittering stalactites and stalagmites formations illuminated by headlamp.
Exit Caves and Return to Base
Complete underground journey emerging into daylight. Short walk back to visitor center to change into dry clothes.
Return to San Ignacio Hotels
Comfortable air-conditioned drive back to San Ignacio with drop-off at your hotel or vacation rental, concluding perfect blend of Maya history and natural cave adventure.
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Information on Belize
→ Official Belize Travel Information (travelbelize.org)Customer Reviews
Ollie Rodriguez
Denver, Colorado
Perfect combination
Xunantunich and cave tubing from San Ignacio was excellent! The ruins are impressive - El Castillo is huge with amazing views from the top. Cave tubing was beautiful and peaceful - floating through the underground caves is magical. Guide was knowledgeable about both Maya history and cave geology. Great combination tour!
November 10, 2024
Lula Taylor
Portland, Oregon
Great day out
Loved this combination! Xunantunich is spectacular - the frieze on El Castillo is fascinating and the views from the top are incredible. Cave tubing was so peaceful and unique. The caves are beautiful with amazing formations. Guide was excellent throughout. Well-paced tour, highly recommend!
October 25, 2024
Alvin Martinez
Seattle, Washington
Excellent tour
Xunantunich and cave tubing was fantastic! The ruins are impressive with El Castillo dominating the site. Views from the summit are breathtaking. Cave tubing was beautiful - floating through the underground rivers surrounded by formations. Guide was knowledgeable and friendly. Great combination from San Ignacio!
October 12, 2024
Opal Wilson
Calgary, Alberta
Wonderful experience
This tour was great! Xunantunich ruins are beautiful - El Castillo is massive and the frieze is remarkably preserved. Cave tubing was so peaceful and unique - the caves are gorgeous. Guide was excellent, made both parts interesting and fun. Well-organized tour. Highly recommend!
September 28, 2024
per person
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