Reserve today from US$68

    US$34 per person · 2 guest minimum

    Pay Remaining Balance on Tour Day

    US$114US$135

    per person

    Xunantunich Maya Ruins Tour from San Ignacio

    5.0(9 reviews)

    Last Updated: April 2026

    5.0 stars from verified travelers
    Free cancellation up to 7 days before
    Secure Stripe checkout
    Licensed by the Belize Tourism Board
    20+ years operating across Belize
    Small intimate groups
    Duration:3-4 Hours
    Departure:San Ignacio
    Transport:Air-conditioned vehicle
    Group:Minimum 4 guests required
    Instant booking
    Licensed tour operator
    Top-rated local guides
    Xunantunich Maya Ruins Tour from San Ignacio

    About Your Xunantunich Maya Ruins Tour from San Ignacio

    Journey to one of Belize's most magnificent Maya archaeological sites on this half-day adventure to Xunantunich, the "Maiden of the Rock." Rising 130 feet above the lush Belizean jungle, El Castillo pyramid stands as a testament to the architectural genius of ancient Maya civilization. Your adventure begins with a charming hand-cranked ferry ride across the Mopan River, followed by an exploration of this impressive ceremonial center. This tour requires a minimum of 4 persons to operate.

    • • Climb El Castillo pyramid — 130 feet tall with stunning views into Guatemala
    • • Cross Mopan River on traditional hand-cranked ferry
    • • Explore ancient Maya plazas and ceremonial structures
    • • See intricate stone friezes depicting Maya deities
    • • Perfect half-day tour for guests staying in San Ignacio/Santa Elena
    • • Expert local guide brings Maya history to life
    • • Minimum 4 persons required for this tour

    Highlights of Your Xunantunich Maya Ruins Tour from San Ignacio

    • Climb El Castillo pyramid - 130 feet tall with stunning jungle views
    • Cross the Mopan River on a charming hand-cranked ferry
    • Explore ancient Maya plazas and ceremonial structures
    • See intricate stone friezes depicting Maya deities
    • 360-degree panoramic views from pyramid summit
    • Learn about Maya civilization from expert guides
    • One of Belize's most impressive Maya sites
    • Perfect half-day tour for Cayo District guests

    What's Included in Your Xunantunich Maya Ruins Tour from San Ignacio

    Transportation from San Ignacio/Santa Elena hotels
    Professional licensed local guide
    Xunantunich archaeological site entrance fee
    Hand-cranked ferry crossing across Mopan River
    Bottled water throughout the tour
    100% Local Belizean Owned - Family business with 25+ years experience
    Fully Licensed & Insured - Belize Tourism Board Certified

    What's Not Included in Your Xunantunich Maya Ruins Tour from San Ignacio

    Lunch (tour returns before lunch time)
    Gratuities for guide (optional but appreciated)
    Souvenirs and personal purchases

    What to Expect

    Pickup

    8:00 AM from San Ignacio. Comfortable pickup from your hotel in San Ignacio or Santa Elena. Short scenic drive to the Mopan River.

    Day Length

    Plan for approximately 3-4 Hours, with return around 11:00 AM.

    Best For

    travelers ready for a guided full experience with moderate walking and warm tropical conditions. Minimum 4 guests required.

    What to Bring

    Comfortable walking shoes with good grip, Sunscreen and wide-brimmed hat, Insect repellent, Camera for photos.

    Realistic Expectations

    • Half-day tour: 8:00 AM departure, approximately 11:00 AM return (3-4 hours)
    • Minimum 4 persons required to operate tour
    • Moderate physical activity - climbing steep pyramid steps
    • Not recommended for those with mobility issues or fear of heights
    • El Castillo climb is optional - can explore plazas at ground level

    Information for Xunantunich Maya Ruins Tour from San Ignacio.

    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 Tour from San Ignacio

    How far is Xunantunich from San Ignacio?
    Xunantunich is located just 8 miles (13 km) west of San Ignacio, making it a quick and easy trip. The drive takes approximately 15 to 20 minutes.
    Can you climb El Castillo?
    Yes. Visitors can climb El Castillo, the 130-foot pyramid, for breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding jungle and into Guatemala.
    Where is pickup for this tour?
    Pickup is available from all hotels in San Ignacio and Santa Elena.
    How long is this tour?
    This is a half-day tour lasting approximately 3 to 4 hours from pickup to return, making it perfect for a morning activity.
    Is a guide included?
    Yes. A professional licensed guide accompanies you, explaining Maya history and the significance of the stone friezes and temple structures.
    How many people are needed for this tour?
    A minimum of 4 persons is required to operate this tour.
    Is this tour physically demanding?
    The tour involves moderate walking on uneven ground. The El Castillo pyramid climb is steep but optional. Guests can explore the plazas at ground level.

    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

    Itinerary for Your Xunantunich Maya Ruins Tour from San Ignacio

    1
    8:00 AM

    Hotel Pickup in San Ignacio/Santa Elena

    Comfortable pickup from your hotel in San Ignacio or Santa Elena. Short scenic drive to the Mopan River.

    2
    8:15 AM

    Hand-Cranked Ferry Crossing

    Cross the Mopan River on the unique hand-cranked ferry - a memorable experience in itself.

    3
    8:30 AM

    Arrive at Xunantunich

    Begin guided exploration of the ancient Maya site with your expert local guide.

    4
    9:00 AM

    Climb El Castillo Pyramid

    Ascend the 130-foot El Castillo for breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of jungle and Guatemala.

    5
    10:00 AM

    Explore Plazas and Structures

    Walk through ancient plazas, examine stone friezes, and learn about Maya civilization and architecture.

    6
    11:00 AM

    Return to San Ignacio

    Ferry crossing back and short drive to your hotel, concluding your Maya adventure.

    Reserve Your Spot Today

    US$114US$135

    Total Price Per Person

    Free cancellation up to 7 days before
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    RESERVE TODAY FROM ONLY US$68

    US$34 per person · 2 guest minimum

    Pay Remaining Balance on Tour Day

    Pay US$137 now • US$319 on tour day

    Pay TodayUS$137
    Remaining Balance on Tour DayUS$319

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