Xunantunich Half-Day Tour from Placencia with Lunch

Placencia, Belize

Duration

6 Hours

Tour Type

Mayan Ruins

Group Size

15 persons

Location

Belize Tours from Placencia

Overview

Xunantunich Mayan Ruins Half-Day Tour | From Placencia

Step back in time as you leave the Caribbean coast for the ancient wonders of the Maya Mountains. This tour follows some of Belize’s most beautiful roads to the impressive "Stone Woman." You’ll ride a hand-cranked ferry across the Mopan River and climb to the top of El Castillo, making this the top cultural adventure from Placencia.


At A Glance

  • Departs From: Placencia Village, Maya Beach, or Seine Bight
  • Highlights: El Castillo Pyramid, Mopan River Ferry, Scenic Hummingbird Hwy
  • Duration: Half-Day Plus (Approx. 7-8 Hours)
  • Difficulty: Moderate (Includes climbing stairs)

The Experience

The Scenic Drive

Your trip starts with a drive along the Hummingbird Highway. You’ll leave the coastal savanna behind and head into the green Maya Mountains, passing citrus groves and the famous Sleeping Giant. Many people say this is the most beautiful drive in Central America.

The Ancient City

When we reach San Jose Succotz, we’ll take a ride on a hand-cranked ferry from the 1800s to cross the Mopan River.
1. The Climb: Climb El Castillo, Belize’s second-tallest structure, for a 360-degree view that stretches all the way to the Guatemalan jungle.
2. The History: Walk through the elite residential areas and see the large ball court where Maya athletes once played.

The "Private" Difference

Xunantunich is a busy place, but with a private tour from Placencia, we plan our visit to avoid the big cruise ship crowds from Belize City. You’ll have the plazas and photo spots to yourself, and you can stop at local markets for fresh fruit or take pictures at the Sleeping Giant lookout.

Itinerary Snapshot

  • 7:00 AM: Pickup in Placencia.
  • 9:45 AM: Arrival at Mopan River & Ferry Crossing.
  • 10:00 AM: Guided Exploration of Xunantunich.
  • 12:00 PM: Authentic Belizean Lunch (Rice & Beans) in San Jose Succotz.
  • 1:00 PM: Begin the scenic return journey.
  • 3:30 PM: Drop-off in Placencia.

Trip Essentials

What's Included What's Excluded
✅ Private A/C Transport
✅ Licensed Professional Guide
✅ Park Entrance & Ferry Fees
✅ Traditional Belizean Lunch
✅ Bottled Water & Sodas
❌ Breakfast (Optional stops available)
❌ Alcoholic Beverages
❌ Gratuities

What to Bring: Sturdy walking shoes (essential for climbing), Sunscreen, Insect Repellent, a hat, and a Camera.


Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is the climb to the top difficult?
Climbing El Castillo is steep but safe. There are stone steps and several spots where you can pause, rest, and enjoy the view.

2. How long does the drive take? The drive takes about 2.5 to 3 hours. Since we travel along the Hummingbird Highway, the beautiful scenery makes the time pass quickly.

3. Can we visit San Ignacio town?
Because this is a private tour, we can make a quick drive through San Ignacio or stop for souvenirs if there’s enough time.

4. Is there a lot The site is smaller than some others, but you’ll be walking on grass and uneven stones for around two hours. out 2 hours.

5. Can we see monkeys?
Yes, howler monkeys are common in the trees around the Xunantunich plazas. Listen for their loud calls, which sound like a roar.

Travel Styles

Nature & Adventure
Activities

Tour Location

Placencia, Belize
from $221

Extra prices:

({{ type.price_type }})
{{ type.price_html }}

Discounts:

{{ type.from }} - {{ type.to }} guests from {{ type.from }} guests
- {{ formatMoney(type.total) }}
({{ type.price_type }})
{{ type.price }}%
{{ formatMoney(type.price) }}
  • {{ total_price_html }}
  • {{ pay_now_price_html }}
Monday 07:00 - 00:00
Tuesday 07:00 - 00:00
Wednesday 07:00 - 00:00
Thursday 07:00 - 00:00
Friday 07:00 - 00:00
Saturday 07:00 - 00:00
Sunday 07:00 - 00:00
from
$221