Xunantunich & Inland Blue Hole | From Hopkins

The "Coast to Cayo" Expedition. Experience the best of the Belizean mainland without the long haul. Because Hopkins is located closer to the mountains than Placencia, you save over an hour of driving time on this tour! This gives you a more relaxed day to climb the massive El Castillo temple and cool off in the refreshing jungle waters of the Inland Blue Hole.

At A Glance

• Departs From: Hopkins Village, Sittee River, or Jaguar Reef Area
• Destinations: San Jose Succotz (Ruins) & St. Herman's Park (Swim)
• Duration: Full Day (Approx. 8-9 Hours)
• Advantage: Shorter drive than from Placencia

The Experience

Morning: The Ancient City

We pick you up from your resort and head straight for the Hummingbird Highway. Upon arriving at the village of San Jose Succotz, we board the famous hand-cranked ferry to cross the Mopan River. Then, it's time to explore Xunantunich. Your guide will take you through the plazas and ball courts before you conquer the 130-foot "El Castillo," offering 360-degree views into Guatemala.

Afternoon: The Jungle Swim

After a hot morning of climbing and a hearty Belizean lunch, we head to St. Herman's Blue Hole National Park. This is a natural sapphire cenote surrounded by mossy rocks and lush jungle. The water is cool, fresh, and fed by an underground cave system—the perfect natural air conditioning.

Itinerary Snapshot

• 7:30 AM: Private Pickup at your Hopkins/Sittee River Resort.
• 9:30 AM: Ferry Crossing & Xunantunich Exploration.
• 12:00 PM: Authentic Local Lunch (Included).
• 1:30 PM: Swim at the Inland Blue Hole.
• 3:00 PM: Optional stop for Ice Cream or Photos.
• 3:30 PM: Scenic drive back.
• 5:00 PM: Drop-off in Hopkins.

Trip Essentials

What to Bring: Walking shoes (for the ruins), swimsuit, towel, change of dry clothes, bug spray, and sun protection.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is this the "Great Blue Hole"?
No. The Great Blue Hole is in the ocean. This is the Inland Blue Hole (St. Herman's), a freshwater swimming hole located in the jungle right off the Hummingbird Highway.

2. How long is the hike to the swimming hole?
It is very easy! It is only a 5-minute walk down a concrete stairway from the parking lot to the water.

3. Is the water cold?
It is refreshing (approx. 75°F/24°C). After hiking ruins in the sun, most guests find it absolutely perfect.

4. Can we combine this with Cave Tubing?
Yes! If you want to skip the swim and do the full Cave Tubing tour instead (or add it on), just ask us for the "Triple Tour" option.

5. Do you pick up from the Sittee River area?
Yes, we provide door-to-door service for all hotels, Airbnbs, and rentals in Hopkins Village and the Sittee River/Marina area.