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Belize Maya Temple Tour

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Xunantunich - The Stone Woman’s Kingdom

Price

Price varies by location - Can be done during a transfer.

Difficulty / Requirement

Easy - Walking and Climbing

What's included

Guide, Entrance Fee, Round Trip Transportation, Lunch, and Water. (Full day tour).

What to bring

Bug spray, Hat and Sunglasses.

Xunantunich

Xunantunich, meaning “Stone Woman” in the Maya language, is one of Belize’s most impressive and well-preserved Maya archaeological sites. Located near San Ignacio, just a short distance from the Guatemalan border, Xunantunich was once a major ceremonial center and is home to the second-tallest Maya structure in Belize, El Castillo. With its stunning hilltop location, breathtaking views, and rich history, this site is a must-visit for anyone exploring Belize’s ancient past.

Things to Do at Xunantunich

Climb El Castillo: The 130-foot-tall pyramid, El Castillo, is the highlight of the site. Visitors who make the climb are rewarded with a panoramic view of the surrounding jungle, the Mopan River, and even parts of Guatemala. The structure also features intricate Maya friezes depicting gods, rulers, and astronomical symbols.
Explore the Plazas and Temples: Xunantunich consists of six plazas and over 25 temples, including structures used for ceremonial, administrative, and residential purposes. Wander through the ancient ruins and imagine life in this once-thriving city.
Wildlife Spotting: The area surrounding Xunantunich is home to diverse wildlife. Keep an eye out for howler monkeys, toucans, iguanas, and even jaguar tracks as you explore the site.
Cross the Hand-Cranked Ferry: To reach Xunantunich, visitors must cross the Mopan River on a hand-cranked ferry, an experience that adds to the adventure. This traditional ferry has been in operation for decades and is an iconic part of the journey.

The Journey to Xunantunich

Xunantunich is located just 8 miles (13 km) west of San Ignacio and about 80 miles (130 km) from Belize City. The drive from Belize City takes around 2 hours, while from San Ignacio, it’s only a 20-minute trip. After crossing the Mopan River via the ferry, a short uphill hike leads to the entrance of the site. Many visitors combine a visit to Xunantunich with other nearby attractions for a full-day adventure.

History of Xunantunich

Xunantunich flourished during the Classic Period (600–900 AD) and was an important regional power. The site was abandoned around 1000 AD, possibly due to warfare, natural disasters, or societal collapse. It was rediscovered in the 1890s and has since become one of Belize’s most studied Maya sites.

The name “Xunantunich” translates to “Stone Woman,” derived from local legends of a ghostly female figure seen near El Castillo. Whether myth or history, this story adds to the site’s mystique.

Location to your destination

Nearby Temples and Attractions

If you’re visiting Xunantunich, consider exploring these nearby destinations to make the most of your trip:

(Click on them to learn more)

Cahal Pech: Located in San Ignacio, this smaller Maya site features ancient residential structures and palaces, offering insight into the daily lives of the Maya elite.

Caracol: About 2.5 hours south of Xunantunich, Caracol is Belize’s largest Maya site and home to Caana, the tallest pyramid in the country. It’s worth the trek for those interested in seeing the grandeur of Maya civilization.

Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM Cave): A world-famous archaeological site, the ATM Cave is an underground cave system filled with Maya artifacts, skeletons, and impressive stalactites and stalagmites.

Testimonials

Good Service, Happy Clients!

Nelson Maya Adventures ( shuttles and tours)

4.8

Based on 58 reviews

review us on

MoeNight 21

2 months ago

I had a great experience with them. Highly recommended

Hossein Siadat

3 months ago

We got shuttle service from Belize airport to Guatemala and back to Belize airport. Extremely happy with the service, all of the drivers were friendly and kind. The service was exceptional. Jasmin was the coordinator and she was awsome and helpful.
If you get the service with them you will love it.

Shawnya Arthur

12 months ago

The best tour ever. From all the assistance Yasmin provided at booking to the actual activities top tier. We enjoyed the Mayan Ruins, ATV & Cave tubing. Our guide was a wealth of information regarding the Mayan Culture and Belizean culture. Warm, friendly and professional company.

Grant Welsh

12 months ago

We arranged multiple pickups and drop offs as well as a trip into Mexico to see Chichen Itza during a weeklong visit to Belize. The drivers were very good, on time and helpful. When in Belize there was constant communication and updates regarding our times etc. and our goals were met and our trip was great. Thanks to everyone at Nelson Maya Adventures for a great vacation.

PMA Wave

1 year ago

Private Transfer from Belize City (Water Taxi Terminal) to Belmopan

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Our private transfer from Belize City to Belmopan was absolutely smooth and comfortable. Upon arrival at the Water Taxi Terminal, we were warmly greeted.

The vehicle was clean, air-conditioned and very comfortable—an excellent relief after the boat ride. Our driver was not only punctual but also extremely friendly and knowledgeable. He shared interesting insights about Belize, its culture.

The ride itself was relaxed and safe. The driver maintained a smooth pace and drove very professionally, making us feel secure at all times.

Overall, this was the perfect choice for anyone looking for a hassle-free and comfortable transfer from Belize City to Belmopan. I highly recommend this service and would use it again without hesitation!

Jeriva Traylor

2 years ago

We went on the Lamanai tour and had an amazing experience! Our driver, Anthony, met us at the ferry and took us to the boat landing. There we boarded our boat and took the river to Lamanai. Our boat captain and tour guide, Brenda, was incredible. Her knowledge about the river, her community, and the Lamanai ruins made our tour so enjoyable. She was able to answer questions and provide us with a deeply enriching experience. After a delicious lunch (stewed chicken, rice and beans, coleslaw, and chips and pico de gallo) and some time at the museum and gift shops, we headed back to the boat landing where our driver awaited to take us back the the ferry. All in all, excellent day!

Ryan Wright

3 years ago

By far one of the best tour companies in Belize , we opted to book with them not only the AMT caving tour but also the shuttles from bc to San ignassio then San ignassio to Hopkins and then back to BC. We tried other shuttles but came up short either over charging or had sub par vehicle. Nelson maya had safe vehicals and Chris our driver drove very safe.

The staff where always amazing and Jasmine who booked everything was always checking in the night before to let us know we where booked the next day

The ATM cave tour is a must do if you come to Belize and are a adventurous person. I work as a firefighter professionally and on the tour I saw the tour guide was very experienced. He knew how to manage people even when they where either scared or nervous about some of the situations in the cave.

Highly recommend

Belize Maya Temple Tour