Cayo Inland Expeditions

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Xunantunich Maya Temple

From USD $70.00

Duration: 3 Hours (approx.)
Location: Cayo, Belize
Product code: P1Y0LY

XUNANTUNICH MAYA TEMPLE – HALF-DAY TOUR

Level of Difficulty: Easy to Moderate, particularly for guests who choose to climb El Castillo.

Departure Time: 8:00 AM
Return Time: Approximately 11:30 AM

NOTE: All of our half-day tours can be combined with another half-day tour to create a full-day adventure.

Discover Xunantunich, one of Belize’s most impressive and easily accessible ancient Maya sites. Pronounced “Shoo-nan-too-nich,” its name means “Maiden of the Rock” and is associated with a local legend of a mysterious woman said to have appeared near the site beginning in the late 1800s.

Located just a short drive from San Ignacio in the village of San Jose Succotz, your adventure begins with a unique crossing of the Mopan River aboard a traditional hand-cranked ferry. From there, we make our way up to the archaeological reserve, surrounded by lush tropical forest.

Xunantunich flourished during the Maya Classic Period and features impressive plazas, temples, palaces, and other structures that provide a fascinating glimpse into ancient Maya life.

The highlight of the site is El Castillo, an impressive structure rising approximately 130 feet above the main plaza. Guests who choose to climb to the upper levels are rewarded with spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding Belizean countryside, the Maya Mountains, and across toward neighboring Guatemala.As you explore the site with your professional guide, you'll learn about Maya history, architecture, culture, and daily life, while keeping an eye out for some of the wildlife that inhabits the surrounding forest, including howler monkeys, spider monkeys, iguanas, and tropical birds.

With its fascinating history, impressive architecture, beautiful views, and convenient location near San Ignacio, Xunantunich is an excellent introduction to the ancient Maya world.