Xunantunich

The Basics

Xunantunich is dominated by the 130-foot-tall (40-meter-tall) El Castillo. At the top, you’ll have a fantastic view across the jungle canopy, the other ruins, and the Guatemalan border. While there, learn about the history of the Maya inhabitants, the excavations, and the environment on the site. Day trips to Xunantunich often combine a visit to the ruins with cave tubing, horseback riding, or other activities.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Xunantunich is fully excavated, and visitors are allowed to climb all the buildings on the site.

• Look out for howler monkeys in the surrounding trees.

How to Get There

As Xunantunich usually closes around 4pm, get an early start on your roughly 3-hour trip from Belize City. The easiest way to get there on your own is by bus—which makes requested stops only, so inform your driver where you’re headed. Next, ride the free ferry across the river, then walk about a mile (1.6 kilometers) to the site. Buses sometimes run from San Ignacio, too. Alternatively, opt for a tour that provides transport.

When to Get There

If you’re traveling on your own, go to Xunantunich early to beat the tour buses—and the afternoon heat. Late November to mid-April (the dry season) is considered the best time to visit Belize.

Cahal Pech

Although not as popular as Xunantunich, Cahal Pech is worth a stop, especially if you’re into bird watching. The archaeological site is about 6 miles (10 kilometers) from Xunantunich, and visits are typically combined with activities like canoeing. Certain tours take in both Cahal Pech and Xunantunich on the same day.

Ways to explore

Xunantunich is popular not only for its historic value, but also for its proximity to the Mopan River and the charming town of San Ignacio. Plan to spend around two to four hours exploring the archaeological site—you can do this by yourself, but it’s also included as a stop on many tours of the region. Having a tour guide may give you a better appreciation for the history, as the site itself has minimal signage outside of the visitor center.

Accessibility

Visitors with limited mobility should be aware that Xunantunich isn’t paved and includes some steeper hills.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Water, snacks, sunscreen, bug spray, cash

What to wear

Hat, sunglasses, walking or hiking shoes, comfortable clothes for walking

Not allowed

Don’t forget to tip your guide, and don’t pick up any hitchhikers on the road to the site.

Amenities

Bathroom, visitor center, gift shop, picnic area

Address 

Xunantunich is about a 30-minute drive from San Ignacio. Guided tours are perhaps the easiest and most convenient way to get to the archaeological site, but it is also possible to drive there.

Driving

From San Ignacio, take the George Price Highway to Benque. At the Mopan River, you will cross via a hand-cranked ferry, which only accommodates one car at a time. On the other side, continue until you reach the visitor center.

Public transportation

You will not find public transportation to or from Xunantunich. If you don’t have a car, plenty of guided tours that include transportation depart from Belize City, San Ignacio, and Placencia.

Best times to visit

Try to arrive early to experience the site and its surroundings without the crowds. The ferry typically operates between 7:30am and 4pm.

Best days to visit

Xunantunich is open every day of the week, but avoid visiting on Sundays, when local shops may be closed.

Best months to visit

February is an excellent time to visit, thanks to dry, sunny weather and reduced crowds after the Christmas rush.

Special events

While no events are held at Xunantunich, March brings La Ruta Maya Belize River Challenge, the longest canoe race in Central America. It begins in San Ignacio, bringing a celebratory energy to town.