Xunantunich Mayan Ruins and Cave Tubing

This adventure tour only requires a short but scenic drive through San Ignacio in air-conditioned transport to Xunantunich.

Xunantunich Mayan Ruins

 A must-visit even during the shortest stays in Belize, Xunantunich Mayan Ruin is a national treasure and the second-largest ruin in Belize. The falls of the Mopan River wind beside the road through the village of San Jose Succotz.

 Locally crafted souvenirs, hammocks, and blankets are available from the many vendors waiting alongside the River where you board the hand-cranked ferry carrying thousands to and from the serene beauty of this Maya Temple. The climb/drive up to Xunantunich begins on the other bank of the River.

The panoramic aerial views from atop El Castillo can go on for miles and create the perfect opportunities for selfies and group photos. The wide-open ranges offer a lovely backdrop for proposals and weddings and have served as a location for a few films and telenovelas. The temples are nestled between lush rainforests whose trees may bloom vibrant red, yellow, orange, or pink in season.

Our next stop is Cave Tubing Adventure Jaguar Paw:

Once at the outpost, you will meet your tour guides, who will issue inflatable tubes, headlamps, and life vests, followed by a quick orientation and safety briefing.

A 30-minute hike is up next, which includes:

• Wading through calming water streams.

• Trekking beneath the thick rainforest canopy on flat terrain; and

• Viewing the exotic flora and fauna that live in the area.

You'll embark on an exhilarating tour through the mysterious Maya underworld at the cave system's entrance. Inside, at the heart of ancient history, you'll witness the crystalline stalagmites and stalactites lining the cave of Xibalba.

 As you are guided through the darkness, you will experience the sights, sounds, and smells that the indigenous Maya did centuries before. (In the end, if you're open to added adventure, ask your guide about visiting the mini waterfall and swimming area!)

 After leaving the falls, you'll emerge into the sunlight and free float gently downstream back to where the tour started. 

Cave Tubing Note: It's to use comfortable shoes and clothing that will air dry quickly if you don't want to bring along a change of clothing. If you opt to bring a change of clothes, bathroom facilities and showers are provided onsite, but it's a quick change as time doesn't permit the leisure of a long shower. It rinses and go! Nobody soap or rags were provided. Guides may also allow you to decide whether you want to zip first and cool off by doing the tubing last.