Xunantunich And Belize Zoo Tour
Belize City, Belize
Duration
8 Hours
Tour Type
Ecotourism
Location
Belize Tours from Belize City
Overview
Xunantunich Ruins & The Belize Zoo | The "Best of the West."
Ancient Temples & Native Wildlife. Experience the two most famous attractions on Belize's Western Highway in a single day. This tour offers the perfect balance of history and nature. In the morning, you will scale the massive El Castillo pyramid at Xunantunich. In the afternoon, you will wander the tropical savanna of the Belize Zoo to meet the Jaguars, Tapirs, and Toucans that call this forest home.
At A Glance
- Departs From: Belize City (Hotels, Water Taxi, or Cruise Port)
- Route: The George Price (Western) Highway
- Duration: Full Day (Approx. 6-7 Hours)
- Intensity: Moderate (Climbing ruins & walking zoo trails)
The Experience
Morning: The "Stone Woman" (Xunantunich)
We head west to the Cayo District, enjoying the scenic drive through rolling hills and farmland. Upon reaching the Mopan River, we cross on the historic hand-cranked ferry.
The Climb: Explore the ancient plazas and ball courts before ascending the 130-foot "El Castillo." From the top, you get a 360-degree view of the Belize River Valley and the Guatemalan border.
Afternoon: The "Best Little Zoo in the World"
On the return leg, we stop at mile 29 to visit the Belize Zoo. This isn't your typical city zoo; it is a cageless education center and sanctuary for rescued native animals.
The Animals: You will see only animals native to Belize. Stand face-to-face with a Jaguar, watch the acrobatic Spider Monkeys, and meet "April" the Tapir (our national animal). The enclosures are woven into the natural forest, giving you a true jungle experience.
The "Private" Advantage
Your Time, Your Pace. The Belize Zoo is fascinating, and some families want to spend 2 hours reading every sign, while others want a quick 45-minute walk-through. On a big bus tour, you are stuck on their schedule. On our **Private Tour**, we stay as long (or as short) as you like.
Itinerary Snapshot
- 8:00 AM: Pickup in Belize City.
- 10:00 AM: Ferry Crossing & Xunantunich Tour.
- 12:30 PM: Lunch (Included) at a local Cayo restaurant.
- 2:00 PM: The Belize Zoo Tour.
- 3:30 PM: Return Drive.
- 4:30 PM: Drop-off in Belize City.
Trip Essentials
| What's Included | What's Excluded |
|---|---|
| ✅ Private A/C Transport ✅ Licensed Tour Guide ✅ Entrance Fees (Ruins & Zoo) ✅ Lunch & Refreshments ✅ Ferry Fees |
❌ Breakfast ❌ Souvenirs ❌ Gratuities |
What to Bring: Comfortable walking shoes (sneakers are best), sun protection, bug spray, and a camera.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is the Zoo wheelchair friendly?
Mostly, yes. The Belize Zoo has gravel paths throughout the facility. While some areas are a bit bumpy, it is generally accessible for sturdy wheelchairs and strollers.
2. Can we touch the animals?
No, for your safety and theirs, touching is not allowed. However, the unique design of the habitats allows you to get incredibly close to the animals safely.
3. Is this a good tour for small children?
Yes. This is our top recommendation for families. The mix of activity (climbing) and animals keeps kids engaged all day.
4. Will we see a Jaguar?
Yes! The Belize Zoo is famous for its Jaguars. You are guaranteed to see them, unlike in the wild, where they are very elusive.
5. Is lunch included?
Yes, we stop for a sit-down lunch at a local restaurant (often "Cheers" or "Amigos") located right on the highway between the two sites.
Travel Styles
Nature & Adventure
Tour Location
Belize City, Belize
from
$195
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