Xunantunich & Cave Tubing | From San Ignacio

The "Dynamic Duo" of Cayo. This is the essential Belize adventure. By combining the region's most impressive Mayan ruin with the most popular river activity, you get the perfect balance of "Sweaty History" and "Cool Relaxation." Because we depart locally from San Ignacio, we beat the long-haul buses from the coast, giving you a private, unhurried experience at both the temple and the caves.

At A Glance

• Departs From: San Ignacio Town, Santa Elena, or Benque Viejo
• Destinations: Xunantunich (San Jose Succotz) & Nohoch Che'en (Jaguar Paw)
• Duration: Full Day (Approx. 7-8 Hours)
• Intensity: Moderate (Stair climbing & River floating)

The Experience

1. The Stone Woman (Xunantunich)

We start the day with a short drive to the village of San Jose Succotz. After crossing the Mopan River on the hand-cranked ferry, we explore the ancient plazas of Xunantunich. Since we are local, we aim to arrive early. You’ll have the massive El Castillo temple mostly to yourself for that perfect summit photo looking into Guatemala.

2. The Cave Float (Tubing)

After the heat of the ruins (and a delicious lunch), it’s time to cool off. We drive to the Nohoch Che'en Archaeological Reserve. After a short jungle hike, you’ll grab a tube and float through the refreshing waters of the Caves Branch River, navigating dark limestone caverns filled with crystal formations and ancient Maya history (Xibalba).

Itinerary Snapshot

• 8:00 AM: Pickup at your San Ignacio Resort/Airbnb.
• 8:30 AM: Hand-cranked ferry & Xunantunich Tour.
• 11:30 AM: Authentic Belizean Lunch (Included).
• 1:00 PM: Arrival at Cave Tubing Outpost.
• 1:30 PM: Jungle Hike & Cave Tubing.
• 4:30 PM: Drop-off in San Ignacio.

Trip Essentials

What to Bring: Hiking shoes (for ruins), water shoes (for tubing), swimsuit, bug spray, and a towel.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why book this from San Ignacio?
Convenience. You are staying right next to the action! Guests coming from Placencia or the Islands have to drive 2-3 hours just to get here. You get the same adventure with half the travel time.

2. Do I need to be a strong swimmer?
No. The cave tubing is a gentle float on a slow-moving river. You are provided with a mandatory life vest, and the water is generally shallow.

3. Is lunch included?
Yes, we stop for a hearty local lunch (usually chicken, rice and beans, and plantains) to refuel between the ruins and the river.

4. Is it safe for kids?
Yes, as long as they are 40 inches tall. This is a very family-friendly tour because the ferry crossing and the caves are exciting for children.