Xunantunich
Home to the second largest Mayan pyramid in Belize, Xunantunich is one of the most impressive Mayan sites in Belize. The site is composed of three major ceremonial plazas surrounded by numerous temples, palaces, and house mounds. Xunantunich is located 8 miles (13 km) southwest of San Ignacio on the Western Highway.
The first studies of Xunantunich were conducted in the late 1800s, but a majority of excavations were carried out the 1900s by a team of researchers from American universities. The name Xunantunich translates into “stone woman” and stems from local historic legend about a stone-like female ghost that once occupied the site.
At its height between 250 AD and 900 AD, Xunantunich supported a population of up to 10,000 Maya, and evidence suggests that it was a major socio-political hub. Researchers also believe that it was one of the main burial sites for the elite.
The tallest building, El Castillo, is the second largest pyramid in the country, rising 135 feet (41 m) above the courtyard. Archeologists believe that this structure was built over the course of 2,000 years, beginning around 1200 BC and ending near 900 AD. Visitors to the site can climb to the top to get an expansive aerial view of the site and the surrounding jungle canopy. The Ceiba tree, still revered as the “tree of life,” is the tallest and most common tree in the landscape, growing to over 200 feet (60 m). The walls of the east and west sides of El Castillo contain unique reproduced stucco carvings called frieze that depict masks, the moon, and other important symbols from Mayan mythology. If you plan to climb to the top, wear sturdy shoes. The stairs are steep and can get slippery after rain.
To get to Xunantunich, travel 8 miles (12 km) southwest of San Ignacio on the Western Highway until you reach a series of handicraft stalls and a hand-cranked ferry. The ferry transports you and your vehicle across the river in less than 5 minutes. Once on the other side, it is 1 mile (0.6 km) down a well-maintained, hilly dirt road to reach the site. Those without a car can either walk or hire a horse to travel to the ruins. Licensed tour guides can also be hired at the ferry crossing. The ferry runs from 8:00 AM until the mid-afternoon. Before heading to the site, inquire with the ferry operator about the time of the last return ferry. The grounds of the site are extensive and well manicured. Visitors should give themselves several hours to thoroughly explore the site and the museum.
Xunantunich itineraries from local insiders
Explore hand-picked Xunantunich itineraries designed by local insiders who know every hidden corner. Each trip is completely flexible, customized to your pace, travel style, and budget.
Belize Round Two
From the great cities of the Maya to diving the Palancar Reef, Belize has a lot to offer and is highly recommended!
Belize Winter Escape
Belize was delightful we thoroughly enjoyed all the people that we met from drivers to tour guides to Hotel staff and just people we encountered along the way. Spending time both up in the jungle in the mountains and down on the coast was a wonderful contrast and I highly recommend doing both if possible. The weather was variable but over the time of our holiday we had opportunity to do all the things that we wanted, enjoy some tropical rain as well as some beautiful beach days The wildlife, history and scenery were spectacular. Both the lodge we stayed in and the hotel on the coast were well maintained with excellent, knowlegeable staff and good food My biggest negative would probably be that in being a less wealthy Nation their management of garbage and limited recycling capacity was quite noticeable in places.
Senior’s Vacation from Islands to Jungles
Belize is a good place to go if you want to stay in a resort or be in nature, like Pooks HIll and snorkeling and diving at Ambergris Caye. It's also a wonderful place to learn about and see Mayan culture from long ago.
An Unforgettable Belize Honeymoon
I would and have recommend Belize to others as well as Anywhere, they were very patient and easy to work with and came through on their part of every aspect of our trip. Thanks Anywhere!
A Belize Adventure to Remember
Such a great trip from start to finish. Our kids had such a great time and we did as well. Everything was planned so perfectly! Thank you Rodrigo!
An Above & Beyond Birthday
Love the options— the hotels were spectacular. I enjoyed having a non-event day to hang out at pool and wall into town to see local events. Drivers were coordinated well, and they served well as tour guides. This country is beautiful, the people are so kind and generous.
We had an UnBelizable Time
We always put our trip together and make out own plans. This time, we went with Anywhere and let you make suggestions. So glad we did. It was really worth the extra expense to know that everything was under control and we had someone to call on should things not go as planned. BUT, everything went as planned and it was better than expected!
Beaches to Jungles
I’ve been telling everyone about anywhere.com! Absolutely would not have had this great if an experience without you!
Family Time in Belize!
Embark on an affordable family adventure that swaps bustling city life for Belize’s wild blend of jungle mist, ancient stone, and turquoise coastal waters. From the hills near Cahal Pech you’ll ride to Xunantunich, dive behind a hidden waterfall on a pontoon tour, then sail to a sun‑kissed island for half‑day snorkeling. Friendly local guides share Maya legends and marine lore, letting your family soak up warm hospitality while creating memories of sunrise rides, cascading water mist, and colorful coral playgrounds.
Exploring Belize Solo
This thoughtfully designed solo Belize journey blends quiet coastal relaxation, gentle adventure, and laid back island time into one seamless, low stress experience. You will begin in the charming beach town of Placencia, where days unfold at your own pace with ocean views, jungle excursions, and time to simply unwind. Midway through the trip, you will transition to Ambergris Caye, where warm Caribbean waters, easy island rhythms, and sunset sailing create the perfect setting for reflection, exploration, and solo freedom.
8 Night Escape to Belize
This thoughtfully paced Belize journey blends jungle adventure, ancient Maya culture, and laid-back Caribbean island life into one seamless experience. You’ll begin in the lush Cayo District near San Ignacio, staying at a boutique jungle lodge surrounded by nature, with time for exploration, relaxation, and a guided canoe journey through the stunning Barton Creek Cave. Midway through the trip, you’ll transition from rainforest to reef, traveling by private transfer and water taxi to the easygoing island of Caye Caulker, where turquoise waters, snorkeling on the Belize Barrier Reef, and slow island rhythms set the tone for the second half of your adventure.
A Tropical Treat for the Family
Fun in the sun and epic adventures combine to create the perfect family getaway when you choose this Signature Trip to beautiful Belize.
Family Indulgence in Belize
The perfect combination of rest, relaxation, and adventure await you and your family on this grandiose trip. Indulge in the best of Belize's accommodations and activities.
Exploring Belize with No Barriers
Enjoy unlimited access to the best of Belize when you take yourself on a grand adventure. You’ll explore beaches, jungles, and even go on aquatic excursions. #VacationExcitement
Belize Fun for Everyone!
This vacation, treat yourself to accessible fun for everyone in the family –– no boring museums, no annoying lines, and especially, no bored children! Explore Belize better.
Experiences in Xunantunich
Explore hand-picked Xunantunich tours and experiences led by local insiders, from wildlife encounters to cultural deep-dives.
Mayan Majesty: Xunantunich & Big Rock Falls Excursion
Xunantunich on Horseback Riding Magical Tour
Xunantunich and Cave Tubing Expedition
Xunantunich and Barton Creek Caves by Canoe
Xunantunich Tour (GM)
Xunantunich and Cahal Pech Tour (GM)
Explore Xunantunich Mayan Ruin and Blue Hole Tour
Xunantunich and Barton Creek Cave Adventure
Xunantunich Magic Archaeological Site
Xunantunich and Cave Tubing Adventure
Archeological Day visiting Xunantunich and Cahal Pech
Xunantunich and Cave Tubing at St. Herman Adventure
Cave Tubing and Xunantinich Adventure
Where to stay in Xunantunich
From boutique lodges to luxury resorts, every Xunantunich accommodation is hand-picked by our local insiders for location, comfort, and character.
Chaa Creek Lodge
This lodge is in an untamed corner of Belize’s rainforest, near the misty foothills of the Maya Mountains. This resort has an impressive amount of activities on its grounds, and will pack your vacation full of the sites and sounds of the erstwhile kingdom of the Maya.
Cassia Hill Resort
Indulge in onsite massages and unwind by the outdoor pool at Cassia Hill Resort. Enjoy complimentary Wi‑Fi and convenient concierge services during your stay.
Table Rock Jungle Lodge
At this lodge you will experience a completely unique hotel setting. Located in the middle of the Belizean Jungle the combination of nature and luxury service is unparalleled.
Cahal Pech Village Resort
This resort is situated near some of the Cayo District’s most interesting natural and cultural attractions. Staying in the jungle will give you the chance to experience the landscape of the ancient Maya.
San Ignacio Resort
For a convenient and luxurious base camp in the Cayo District, this family-friendly resort offers everything travelers need to make adventure easy.
Midas Resort
This resort is conveniently located for visiting some of Belize’s most interesting Maya ruins and the small city of San Ignacio. It takes about 10 minutes to walk from the resort into downtown – you’ll stroll past the Macal River Park on your way to the local cafés, restaurants, and bars.
Ecolodge El Sombrero Yaxhá
This lodge is located on the outskirts of the Yaxhá-Nakum-Naranjo National Monument. It offers travelers a rustic experience in the heart of the Guatemalan jungle.
Insider-led Belize Design & Concierge
Your insider team designs the trip around what you care about, then supports you in-country with private logistics, vetted partners, and concierge help when plans change.
Get StartedPrivate drivers; English-speaking available.
Avoid the crowds in private day tours.
Better stays, better pacing, better reservations.
Insider-only experiences and exclusive local partners.
24/7 in-country support by phone, text, and WhatsApp.
Insider-led Belize Design & Concierge
Your insider team designs the trip around what you care about, then supports you in-country with private logistics, vetted partners, and concierge help when plans change.
