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Nelson Maya Adventures

Alluring Mayan Site Tours and Outstanding Transfers Service for the Insightful Traveler.

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Belize Maya Temple Tour

With our team of expert travel agents and tour operators, we ensure your experience is truly unforgettable.

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, Water, and (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:

 

  • 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!

  • star rating  My husband Joe & I had a great tour with Josh as our guide. He took us to the Community Baboon Santuary to see the Black Howler Monkeys, the Belize... read more

    avatar thumb Tara S
    February 2, 2023
  • star rating  While visiting Caye Caulker with friends we decided to visit the Xunantunich ruins. Booking was seamless and our guide Auner met us at the water taxi. ... read more

    McGregor4
    October 25, 2022
  • star rating  We did a day trip from Belize City to Xunantunich with Auner as our guide and it was amazing experience with such a knowledgeable guide who provided so much information.

    44isballn
    October 25, 2022
  • star rating  We decided to arrange a private tour for a family of four to Tikal with Nelson Maya Adventures after reading a couple of reviews here and on a couple of... read more

    ViajeroIndiana
    August 8, 2022
  • star rating  We decided to arrange a private tour for a family of four to Tikal with Nelson Maya Adventures after reading a couple of reviews here and on a couple of... read more

    ViajeroIndiana
    August 4, 2022
5/5

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