Climb the Mayan Ruins of Xunantunich

(410 Reviews)
99% Recommended

Pam MacIntyre

Maple Grove, MN
Australia & New Zealand Specialist

New Zealand

In all my years as a Travel Professional, I’ve asked countless people, “What’s on your must-see list?” And without fail, New Zealand is always at the top! Honestly, who wouldn’t want to experience this majestic ...

Mayan Ruins

We knew when visiting Belize we had to check out some Mayan Ruins. I’d always heard that Xunantunich was one to experience. Ultimately Belize has several worthy of visiting.  


To get to Xunantunich you must take a ferry across the Mopan River. Be sure to do this tour early in your trip. If they get too much rain the river runs high and vehicles are unable to cross. You’ll then need to walk up the hill to the ruins. Although not common, there are times the river can become even too high for the ferry to cross. Therefore you will not be able to see Xunantunich.  


We ended up having to walk up the hill. It wasn’t too strenuous. Another reason to go early on this tour, as the day goes on it gets rather hot. 


You can go in to walk around Xunantunich without a guide, and just pay a minimal entrance fee. Which when my boyfriend saw this he regretted not simply paying the entrance fee instead of paying a guide. I said, trust me it’s worth it. In the end, he admitted it was worth every penny!  


The guide is able to share the history of Xunantunich in a way you just cannot get on your own. They can point out original vs. restoration stone and what different areas were used for. Our particular guide was able to point out several birds and other wildlife we would have never have seen on our own. He also talked about various rulers … where they came from, where they spread to, various battles, etc. Plus, he explained the areas currently being excavated.  As of October 2018 only about 20% excavated. 


Getting a guide is the way to go. It truly does enhance your experience! He also was able to take some pretty cool photos of us, given he knows the area inside and out.  


Eventually I foresee you no longer being able to climb many of the ruins in Belize as this country grows in popularity. Therefore I hope you’ll consider visiting here soon rather than later.  


Here are a few more Mayan Ruins to check out in:



  • El Pilar

  • Cerros

  • Barton Creek Cave

  • Lubaantun

  • Cahal Pech

  • Altun Ha

  • Lamanai

  • Caracol

  • Actun Tunichil Muknal 


I’d love to talk with you further to help you plan your adventure trip to Belize!

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