Discover the captivating ruins of the ancient Maya civilization at Xunantunich. Perched atop a natural limestone hill, the iconic El Castillo pyramid commands breathtaking vistas into neighboring Guatemala. Enjoy the rich cultural history as you explore the site with a knowledgeable guide. Afterwards, revitalize in the serene waters of St. Herman Blue Hole, a natural sinkhole surrounded by lush vegetation. This unforgettable tour combines the marvels of the past with the beauty of the present, leaving you eager to uncover more.
Key Points
- Explore the ancient Mayan ruins of Xunantunich, including the 130-foot tall El Castillo pyramid with views into Guatemala.
- Enjoy a refreshing swim in the natural pool of St. Herman Blue Hole after touring the archaeological site.
- This day trip from Placencia includes transportation, park fees, a guided tour, and lunch.
- The tour is private, not wheelchair accessible, and has an overall rating of 4.3 out of 5 based on 3 reviews.
- Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, and children must be accompanied by adults.
Overview
The Xunantunich Maya Ruin & St Herman Blue Hole tour offers visitors a chance to explore ancient Mayan ruins and swim in a natural pool within Belize’s Cayo District.
This day trip from Placencia allows travelers to experience the highlights without the need for a rental car. Visitors will stand atop the El Castillo temple and gaze towards Guatemala, while also learning about the daily life of the ancient Maya through a guided tour of the Xunantunich archaeological site.
The tour also includes a refreshing swim in the St Herman Blue Hole National Park.
Looking for more options in Placencia? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Highlights of the Tour
Visitors atop El Castillo temple can gaze across the border into Guatemala, offering a breathtaking panoramic view of the surrounding landscape.
The guided tour of the Xunantunich archaeological site provides insights into ancient Mayan life and culture. Travelers will learn about the history and significance of this important pre-Columbian Maya civilization.
The guided tour of the Xunantunich archaeological site offers insights into ancient Mayan life and the significance of this pre-Columbian Maya civilization.
After exploring the ruins, visitors can swim and cool off in the natural pool at Blue Hole National Park, a stunning natural wonder.
This tour offers a unique blend of cultural discovery and natural beauty, creating an unforgettable experience for those visiting Belize’s Cayo District.
Xunantunich Archaeological Site
Xunantunich is one of Belize’s most impressive and well-preserved ancient Mayan ruins, situated on the western border with Guatemala.
Visitors can climb to the top of the 130-foot-tall El Castillo pyramid, the second-tallest structure in Belize, for sweeping views across the Mopan River valley and into neighboring Guatemala.
The guided tour explores the site’s plazas, temples, and palaces, providing insights into the daily life and rituals of the ancient Maya who once inhabited this important political and religious center.
Guests learn about the site’s long and fascinating history, dating back to the Classic period of Mayan civilization.
St. Herman Blue Hole
St. Herman Blue Hole is a natural swimming pool located within the St. Herman’s Cave National Park.
After exploring the Xunantunich ruins, visitors get to take a refreshing dip in the cool, clear waters of the Blue Hole.
After exploring the Xunantunich ruins, visitors get to take a refreshing dip in the cool, clear waters of the Blue Hole.
The park features a scenic trail leading to the natural pool, which is surrounded by lush vegetation.
Guests can swim, relax, and take in the tranquil atmosphere.
The Blue Hole offers a perfect respite from the day’s activities, providing a peaceful oasis to enjoy before returning to Placencia.
It’s a highlight of the Xunantunich and Blue Hole tour.
Logistics and Inclusions
The tour includes pick-up and drop-off at the Placencia Village, as well as transportation, park fees, a tour guide, and lunch.
Travelers can request additional pick-up and drop-off service outside of Placencia Village for an extra $10 per person.
The meeting point is at the Splash Dive Centre on Placencia Peninsula Road, with complimentary pickup along the main road in Placencia Village.
Guests will receive text communication to arrange pickup time and location.
The private tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and children must be accompanied by adults.
Infant seats are available upon request.
- Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary and Jaguar Preserve
- Combine 2 of Belizes Most Popular Activities Into 1 Great Package From Placencia
- Cave Tubing + Xunantunich
- Belize International Airport – Placencia PRIVATE SHUTTLE
- ATM Caves From Placencia
- Zip Lining + Tubing +Waterfall 30 Minutes Away From Palcencia
Meeting and Pickup Details
The meeting point for the tour is at the Splash Dive Centre on Placencia Peninsula Road.
Complimentary pickups are available along the main road in Placencia Village. Travelers should text to arrange the pickup time and location.
The tour starts at 6:00 am, so it’s important to coordinate the pickup details in advance.
The tour is private, so only the participants’ group will be present.
Pickup and drop-off outside Placencia Village are available for an additional $10 per person.
Key Information
Tour starts bright and early at 6:00 am.
This private tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and children must be accompanied by adults. Infant seats are available upon request.
The tour includes pickup and drop-off in Placencia Village, with an additional fee of $10 per person for pickups/dropoffs outside the village. Entrance fees, transportation, a guide, and lunch are all included.
The tour has an overall rating of 4.3 out of 5 based on 3 reviews, with no 5-star ratings.
Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, allowing for flexible reservations.
The Sum Up
The Xunantunich Maya Ruin & St. Herman Blue Hole tour offers a captivating experience blending ancient history and natural wonder. Visitors can explore the impressive Mayan ruins, including the towering El Castillo pyramid, and then rejuvenate with a refreshing swim in the serene St. Herman Blue Hole. This tour provides an unparalleled opportunity to take in the rich cultural heritage and natural beauty of Belize.
More Workshops & Classes in Placencia
More Tour Reviews in Placencia
- Private Fishing With the Family in Placencia Belize
- Full-Day Fishing Adventure at Belize
- Xunantunich Cave Tubing and Zip Line Triple Tour From Placencia
- Actun Tunichil Muknal From Placencia
- Private Actun Tunichil Muknal (Atm Cave) Tour
- Nim Li Punit Mayan Ruin and the Living Maya Experience From Plancencia
Still browsing? Here are more Placencia experiences we've covered recently
- Private Fishing With the Family in Placencia Belize
- Full-Day Fishing Adventure at Belize
- Xunantunich Cave Tubing and Zip Line Triple Tour From Placencia
- Actun Tunichil Muknal From Placencia
- Private Actun Tunichil Muknal (Atm Cave) Tour
- Nim Li Punit Mayan Ruin and the Living Maya Experience From Plancencia
- Scuba Diving for Beginners
- Xunantunich and in Land Blue Hole From Placencia
- Cocktail Class With the Belizean Bartender
- PRIVATE Cave Tubing & Zipline Tour With Lunch From Placencia
- Xunantunich Maya Ruin & St Herman Blue Hole
- Private Charter -Inner Reef Trolling/Spin Casting + Island Stop