Join us on this fantastic day trip to Xunantunich and travel back to the time of the Mayan civilization. You'll walk among the fascinating remains of homes and temples which formed part of this pre-Columbian culture!
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.
