Xunantunich Day Trip
Description
We'll pick you up from your hotel in San Ignacio at 8 am before taking a scenic 15-minute drive with vast green pastures and towering hills to Xunantunich, an ancient Mayan city built on the slopes of a beautiful valley, whose name translates to “Stone Woman”. Then we'll hop on a ferry and sail along the river for about 15 minutes. On the banks, you'll spot the area's main inhabitants: iguanas and bats.
Crossing over to the city of Xunantunich will take us back to ancient times, as a hand-cranked ferry slowly floats us across to the other side of the mighty Mopán River. Once we reach the other side, we'll drive 1 mile, as we start our Mayan adventure.
While we walk through the understory, our guide will take us back in time with his extensive knowledge of Mayan Archeology. As we approach the heart of this thriving city the towering structure of “El Castillo” will emerge from the forest.
El Castillo, “the castle”, is approximately 130 feet tall (39 metres) making it the second tallest man-made structure in Belize. You'll have the opportunity to climb all the way to the top from where you'll have an unbelievable 360-degree view of the surroundings.
After walking through the Central Plaza, we'll head to explore the remainder of the city. We'll get to see the Ancient Mayan Ball Court where the Pok-A-Tok was played, residential areas, and the Astronomical Observatory which was fundamental in observing the celestial bodies which they used as an indication of when to harvest, plant, and reap.
At the end of our tour, we'll drive back to San Ignacio where we'll then drop you off at the office or at your hotel of choice. Arrival is scheduled between 12:30 pm and 1 pm.
More Information
Duration
5 hours.
Language
The activity takes place with a guide that speaks in English.
Included
Hotel pickup and drop–off
Transport by bus or minibus
English–speaking guide
Admission to Xunantunich
When to book?
You can book up to the tour start time subject to availability. Book now to guarantee your spot.
Type of voucher
Electronic. Show the voucher on your phone.
Accessibility
Not wheelchair accessible.
Sustainability
All services published on Civitatis are carried out in accordance with our Sustainability Code.
Our providers commit to:
- Provide a safe and satisfying experience.
- Reduce, reuse, recycle.
- Incorporate eco-conscious technologies.
- Uphold fair employment standards.
- Foster the growth of local communities.
- Preserve the integrity of local culture.
- Safeguard both cultural and environmental heritage.
- Ensure ethical treatment of animals.
- Operate with honesty and transparency.
- Encourage sustainable behaviors among customers and staff.
This particular activity contributes as follows:
- No printing of documentation required.
Provider
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Mayawalk Tours
Corporate name: Mayawalk Tours
Pets
Not permitted.
Frequently asked questions
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Q - Why do this activity with Civitatis?
A - At Civitatis we guarantee the best quality and prices, click here if you want to know how we select our activities.
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Q - How to book?
A - To reserve the activity, choose the date and complete the form on this page. You will receive your confirmation immediately.
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Q - Is a minimum number of participants required?
A - This activity requires a minimum of 2 participants. Should this number not be reached, we'll get in touch with you to offer alternatives.
If you have any other questions please contact us.