Xunantunich Mayan Ruin and Cave Tubing From Placencia

Exploring the ancient Mayan ruins of Xunantunich and embarking on an exhilarating cave tubing adventure make for an unforgettable day trip from Placencia. This guided tour offers a unique blend of history and adventure, as visitors traverse scenic landscapes, cross the Mopan River, and enjoy the captivating ruins before floating through enchanting underground caves. With a balance of cultural discovery and outdoor excitement, this excursion promises an enriching experience that leaves one longing to uncover more of Belize’s remarkable heritage.

Key Points

• A full-day tour from Placencia that visits the ancient Mayan ruins of Xunantunich and includes an exciting cave tubing adventure.
• The tour is priced at $295 per person and has a 5.0-star rating based on 5 reviews.
• The tour includes hotel pickup/drop-off, a professional guide, and lunch at a local restaurant.
• Highlights include hiking to the top of the Xunantunich ceremonial pyramid and spotting howler monkeys during the excursion.
• Minimum of 2 participants required, and age and mobility restrictions apply for this tour.

Tour Overview

This full-day tour from Placencia allows visitors to explore the ancient Mayan ruins of Xunantunich and embark on an exhilarating cave tubing adventure in the Cayo district of Belize.

Priced from $295 per person, the tour earns a 5.0-star rating based on 5 reviews. Guests can expect a scenic 3.5-hour drive, a visit to the impressive ceremonial pyramid at Xunantunich, and a tranquil float through underground caverns.

The tour includes hotel pickup/drop-off, a professional guide, and lunch. Age and mobility restrictions apply, and a minimum of 2 participants is required.

Highlights

Visitors can explore the ancient Mayan ruins at Xunantunich, where they’ll have the opportunity to hike to the top of a ceremonial pyramid for spectacular panoramic views, potentially spotting howler monkeys along the way.

The tour also includes a thrilling cave tubing adventure. Participants will hike through the jungle to reach the cave entrance, then float on inner tubes along an underground river, observing the remarkable rock and crystal formations.

Emerging from the caverns, they’ll be able to relax after the exhilarating experience and return to Placencia.

Itinerary

The tour begins with a morning pickup from the traveler’s hotel in Placencia around 6:00 am.

The scenic 3.5-hour drive along the Hummingbird Highway includes crossing the Mopan River on a hand-cranked ferry.

At the Xunantunich Mayan ruins, the guide leads an exploration of the plaza, royal palace, ball courts, and administrative buildings.

Travelers can hike to the main temple for panoramic views, possibly spotting howler monkeys.

Next, the group hikes through the jungle to a cave entrance and floats on inner tubes along an underground river, observing rock and crystal formations.

Finally, they relax after emerging into daylight and return to Placencia.

Xunantunich Visit

After arriving at the ancient Maya site of Xunantunich, the guide leads travelers on an exploration of the impressive ruins.

They’ll discover the remains of a grand plaza, a royal palace, ball courts, and administrative buildings. The highlight is the main temple, which visitors can hike up for panoramic views of the surrounding jungle.

Along the way, they may spot howler monkeys in the canopy. This important ceremonial center provides a glimpse into the once-thriving civilization that inhabited this region centuries ago.

Cave Tubing Adventure

After the Xunantunich visit, the group hikes through the jungle to the entrance of an extensive cave network.

They don the provided life jackets and inner tubes, then float along the underground river, marveling at the rock and crystal formations around them.

The cool, calm waters carry them through the enchanting caverns, a serene and otherworldly experience.

Emerging into daylight, they relax after their adventure before the return journey to Placencia, having experienced the highlights of the Cayo district in a single day.

Inclusions

This tour includes a professional local guide who accompanies guests throughout the day.

Hotel pickup and drop-off are provided for convenience.

Souvenir photos are available for purchase, allowing visitors to capture memories of their adventure.

Gratuities are included, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

Lunch at a recommended restaurant is also part of the package, giving travelers a chance to savor local cuisine.

With these comprehensive inclusions, guests can focus on seeing the exploration of Xunantunich Mayan ruins and the thrilling cave tubing experience without worrying about additional costs.

Additional Information

Travelers receive confirmation of their booking upon reservation, unless the tour is booked within 3 days of the travel date.

The tour isn’t recommended for those with back problems or pregnant travelers. A minimum of 2 people per booking is required. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible. However, most travelers can participate in the experience.

This is a private tour for the booking group only. Participants will explore the ancient Mayan ruins of Xunantunich and go cave tubing through an underground river system, making for an unforgettable day in the Cayo district of Belize.

Booking and Availability

When can travelers book this tour? The Xunantunich Mayan Ruin and Cave Tubing tour is available for booking anytime.

Travelers can reserve their spot online or by contacting the tour operator directly. The tour operates on a daily basis, subject to availability. Participants must book a minimum of 2 people per booking.

Travelers can cancel their reservation up to 24 hours before the experience starts without any penalties. The tour is popular, so early booking is recommended, especially during peak travel seasons.

Travelers will receive their confirmation details upon completion of the booking process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Yes, participants can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, a recommended restaurant lunch is included in the tour price, so bringing your own may not be necessary.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Cave Tubing Activity?

The tour doesn’t have any specific age restrictions for the cave tubing activity. However, it’s not recommended for travelers with back problems or pregnant women. Most travelers can participate in the cave tubing adventure.

What Happens if It Rains During the Tour?

If it rains during the tour, the cave tubing activity will still operate as the caverns provide shelter. The tour guide will adjust the itinerary if necessary to ensure guests stay dry and comfortable throughout the experience.

Can I Opt-Out of the Cave Tubing and Only Visit Xunantunich?

Yes, travelers can opt-out of the cave tubing and only visit Xunantunich. This activity can be booked as a standalone tour, allowing visitors to explore the ancient Mayan ruins without the additional cave tubing experience.

Is It Possible to Extend the Tour Duration for Additional Activities?

Yes, the tour duration can be extended for additional activities. Travelers can discuss customizing the itinerary with the tour provider to include more sights or experiences beyond the standard Xunantunich ruins and cave tubing.

The Sum Up

This full-day tour from Placencia offers an exhilarating blend of Mayan history and adventure. Visitors will explore the impressive Xunantunich ruins, hike for panoramic views, and spot wildlife. The adventure continues with an underground river cave tubing experience, creating an unforgettable journey through Belize’s natural and cultural wonders. With convenient transportation and expert guides, this tour provides a comprehensive and immersive experience for those seeking to discover the rich heritage of the region.