Xunantunich Mayan Ruins & Cave Tubing Combo Tour: A Day of Belize’s Rich Heritage & Natural Wonders
Belize may be small compared to other vacation destinations, but what it lacks in size, it more than makes up for in diversity. From lush rainforests and stunning waterfalls to exotic wildlife and mesmerizing caves, Belize offers an experience unlike any other. The country is also home to large coral reefs, picture-perfect islands, and a rich cultural tapestry that reflects its multicultural heritage. With so many incredible things to explore, it can be hard to choose just one adventure while visiting this tropical gem.
That’s where our Xunantunich Mayan Ruins & Cave Tubing Combo Tour comes in. Offered by Untame Belize Tours & Shuttles, this tour offers the perfect mix of history, culture, & adventure, giving you a glimpse into the ancient past while enjoying Belize’s stunning natural beauty. If you’re visiting Belize, this is an experience you won’t want to miss.
Discover the Ancient Xunantunich Mayan Ruins
If you’re staying in Southern Belize, your day begins with a scenic drive along the Hummingbird Highway, one of the most beautiful & picturesque roads in Belize. As you make your way through lush landscapes, you’ll head toward the legendary Xunantunich Mayan Ruins in the Cayo District. Xunantunich is an archaeological wonder and one of Belize’s most iconic Maya sites.
As you arrive at the village of San Jose Succotz, you’ll take a hand-cranked ferry ride across the Mopan River, which will set the tone for a memorable adventure. From here, you’ll be greeted by the awe-inspiring sight of Xunantunich, an ancient Maya city that once played an important role in the region.
One of the highlights of this site is El Castillo, a massive pyramid that stands 130 feet tall. This pyramid is the second tallest Maya structure in the country, and when you climb to the top, you’re rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding jungle and, on a clear day, even the border with neighboring Guatemala. While exploring, keep an eye out for howler monkeys in the treetops and the occasional tarantula spider on the ground—both are native to the region and make for unique photo opportunities.
The name Xunantunich comes from the Yucatec Maya language and translates to “Stone Woman.” The name stems from a local legend about a man who, while hunting near the ruins, saw the apparition of a beautiful Maya maiden standing by the mouth of a cave. The woman, dressed in traditional Mayan clothing, dazzled in the sunlight but disappeared when others attempted to follow her. This eerie legend adds an air of mystery to an already fascinating site.
Cave tubing at Jaguar Paw
After soaking in the rich history of Xunantunich, it’s time for some refreshing adventure at Jaguar Paw. The next part of your day involves a cave tubing experience that’s as unique as it is thrilling. At Jaguar Paw, you’ll float down the Caves Branch River through a network of ancient, mystical caves.
As you drift lazily along the crystal-clear water, you’ll pass through dramatic limestone formations and lush jungle surroundings. The tranquil pace of the tubing adventure makes it suitable for people of all ages, and it’s an excellent way to take in the beauty of Belize’s underground world. You’ll feel like you’re gliding through a hidden realm, with only the sounds of the river and the jungle echoing around you.
Your guide will be with you every step of the way, ensuring your safety while offering interesting insights into the geology of the area and the ecosystem surrounding the caves. The guides at Jaguar Paw are experienced, making this a fun and informative experience for anyone.
Why this combo tour is a must-do in Belize
There’s no better way to experience the best of both worlds—ancient history and natural adventure—than with the Xunantunich Mayan Ruins & Cave Tubing Combo Tour from Untame Belize Tours & Shuttles. Here’s why this tour is so special:
- Cultural Immersion & Natural Adventure
The combination of exploring an ancient Mayan city and tubing through underground caves offers a diverse experience that’s hard to match. You’ll get to step back in time to understand the rich history of the Maya people, followed by an exhilarating journey through Belize’s unique natural landscapes. - Spectacular Views & Scenic Landscapes
Whether you’re climbing to the top of El Castillo or floating through the caves, the tour offers stunning views and a chance to connect with Belize’s untouched beauty. - Perfect for Families, Couples, and Solo Travelers
This tour caters to all types of adventurers. Families with children will love the blend of education and fun, while couples and solo travelers will enjoy the peaceful cave tubing and the chance to explore one of the most important Maya sites in Belize. - Expert Guides & Safety First
The guides at both Xunantunich and Jaguar Paw are knowledgeable, friendly, and passionate about sharing Belize’s history and nature. They’ll ensure you have a safe and enjoyable experience, providing you with plenty of insights along the way.
What to expect during this combination tour
Here’s a glimpse of what your day might look like:
- Pick-Up and Scenic Drive
You’ll be picked up from your hotel or a designated location, and then embark on the beautiful drive to Xunantunich, taking in Belize’s diverse landscapes along the way. - Exploring Xunantunich Mayan Ruins
Your guide will walk you through the site, explaining the history and significance of the ruins. After you explore the various structures, you’ll climb to the top of El Castillo for incredible views. - Lunch & Relaxation
After your tour of Xunantunich, you’ll stop for a delicious Belizean lunch to recharge before your next adventure. - Cave Tubing at Jaguar Paw
Once at Jaguar Paw, you’ll gear up for your cave tubing adventure. After a short hike to the river, you’ll hop into your tube and float through the caves, soaking in the beauty of the natural environment. - Return to Your Hotel
After a fun-filled day of exploration and adventure, you’ll return to your hotel, reflecting on the amazing experiences you’ve had.
Book your Xunantunich Mayan Ruins & cave tubing combo tour today!
Our Xunantunich Mayan Ruins & Cave Tubing Combo Tour is one of the best ways to experience the heart of Belize. From exploring the ancient temples of the Maya to floating through hidden caves, this is an adventure you’ll never forget. So why wait? Book your tour with Untame Belize Tours & Shuttles today and get ready to explore the wonders of this amazing destination.
Get ready to experience Belize like never before—history, adventure, and natural beauty all in one unforgettable day!
