Xunantunich and Cave Explore, Pickup From Ambergris Caye

Exploring the ancient Maya ruins of Xunantunich and the captivating Caves Branch reserve is a must-do adventure for visitors to Belize. This guided tour from Ambergris Caye offers a unique opportunity to take in the country’s rich cultural and natural heritage. From marveling at the impressive El Castillo temple to navigating the thrilling cave system, this excursion promises an unforgettable experience. With convenient transportation, park admissions, and all necessary equipment included, all that’s left is to embark on this captivating journey and uncover the wonders that lie in store.

Good To Know

• Guided tour from Ambergris Caye that combines visits to the ancient Maya ruins of Xunantunich and the Caves Branch cave system.
• Tour includes pickup/drop-off, park admissions, and necessary equipment for the cave exploration.
• Opportunity to climb the 130-foot tall El Castillo at Xunantunich for panoramic views of the Belize countryside.
• 2-hour cave experience at Caves Branch, with tubing or kayaking options to explore the limestone cave system.
• Air-conditioned transportation, gratuities, and contingency plans for high water levels are included in the tour.

Tour Overview

This guided combination tour from Belize City allows visitors to explore the ancient Maya ruins of Xunantunich and the underground cave system of Caves Branch in a single day.

The scenic drive through the Belize countryside sets the stage for two distinct attractions. At Xunantunich, guests can marvel at El Castillo, one of the tallest ancient buildings, adorned with stucco friezes and other archaeological wonders.

Later, they’ll experience the thrill of tubing or kayaking through the limestone caves beneath the Maya Mountains.

The tour includes pickup and drop-off, park admissions, and all necessary equipment, making it a convenient and inclusive way to discover Belize’s natural and cultural treasures.

Xunantunich Attraction

The ancient Maya ruins of Xunantunich stand as a testament to the ingenuity and artistry of the region’s past inhabitants.

Perched atop a high hilltop, the site’s centerpiece, El Castillo, rises an impressive 130 feet, making it one of the tallest ancient structures in Belize.

Visitors can explore the site’s well-preserved stelae, ball court, temples, and residential areas.

The highlight of the tour is the opportunity to climb to the top of El Castillo, offering sweeping views of the lush Belize countryside.

Xunantunich’s well-preserved ruins and stunning vistas make it a must-see destination for any visitor to Belize.

The tour includes:

1. Guided exploration of the Xunantunich ruins
2. Climb to the top of El Castillo
3. Examination of stelae, ball court, temples, and residential areas
4. Scenic drive through the Belize countryside

Caves Branch Reserve

Beneath the ancient Maya mountains lies the Caves Branch Archaeological Reserve, a captivating subterranean world waiting to be explored. This tour offers visitors the opportunity to experience the beauty of the limestone caves through either tubing or kayaking. The duration of this experience is 2 hours, and admission is included in the tour package.

Activity	Duration
Tubing	2 hours
Kayaking	2 hours

Visitors can expect to be provided with all necessary equipment, including helmets and jackets, ensuring a safe and comfortable adventure. The tour also includes pickup and drop-off, air-conditioned transportation, and gratuities, making it a hassle-free experience.

Tour Logistics

Pickup and drop-off services are available from San Ignacio and Belize City, with options for hotel, airport, or water taxi pickups.

The tour starts at 6:15 am, ensuring an early start to maximize the day’s activities.

The tour includes:

1. Air-conditioned vehicle transportation.
2. Admission fees to the National Parks.
3. Use of kayaks, tubes, helmets, and jackets for the cave exploration.
4. Gratuities for the knowledgeable guides.

Confirmation is provided at the time of booking, and the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.

A contingency option is available in case of high water levels, with an alternative visit to Cahal Pech and cave tubing.

Tour Inclusions

For this tour, the inclusions cover essential elements to ensure a seamless and immersive experience.

Travelers will be transported by an air-conditioned vehicle, with all national park admissions taken care of.

When exploring the Caves Branch Archaeological Reserve, the necessary equipment like kayaks, tubes, helmets, and jackets are provided.

Gratuities are also included, eliminating the need for additional out-of-pocket expenses.

This comprehensive package allows visitors to focus on the highlights of the tour – the impressive Xunantunich ruins and the captivating underground cave system – without worrying about logistical details.

The inclusions ensure a well-rounded and hassle-free adventure.

Additional Information

Although confirmation is received at booking, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and not recommended for travelers with back problems or serious medical conditions.

However, a contingency option is available due to high water levels – an alternative visit to Cahal Pech and cave tubing.

Free cancellation is offered up to 24 hours before the experience. The tour price starts from $469.00, with positive reviews highlighting knowledgeable guides and comfortable equipment.

The key additional information includes:

1. Contingency option for high water levels.
2. Not wheelchair accessible.
3. Not recommended for certain medical conditions.
4. Free cancellation up to 24 hours prior.

Tour Reviews

The tour has received overwhelmingly positive reviews, with an overall rating of 5.0 out of 7 reviews.

Travelers praise the knowledgeable guides who provide a wealth of information about the Mayan history and culture. The comfortable equipment, such as kayaks, tubes, helmets, and jackets, also receive high marks, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.

Many reviewers highlight the stunning natural scenery and the opportunity to explore the underground cave system, calling it a "must-do" activity.

The seamless logistics, including pickup and drop-off options, further contribute to the tour’s positive reception.

Booking Details

Travelers can book the Xunantunich and Cave Explore tour directly through the tour operator’s website or by contacting their customer service team.

The tour offers several convenient pickup and drop-off options, including from San Ignacio, Belize City, and even the airport or water taxi.

The tour starts bright and early at 6:15 am, and the price starts from $469 per person.

Key inclusions are:

1. Air-conditioned transportation
2. Admission to both Xunantunich and the Caves Branch Archaeological Reserve
3. Use of kayaks, tubes, helmets, and jackets
4. Gratuities

Should weather or water levels require it, the tour operator offers a contingency option to visit Cahal Pech and the cave tubing site instead.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Guests can bring their own food and drinks on the tour, but the package includes gratuities and use of equipment like kayaks and tubes. Bringing extra snacks or beverages is allowed and can be convenient for the day’s activities.

Is There an Option for a Private Tour Instead of a Group Tour?

Yes, there’s an option for a private tour. Guests can arrange a private tour for an additional fee, which provides a more personalized experience with a dedicated guide and flexibility in the tour schedule.

How Strenuous Is the Hiking and Cave Tubing/Kayaking?

The hiking and cave activities are moderately strenuous. Guests will climb the stairs of Xunantunich and traverse the caves via tube or kayak, requiring a moderate level of fitness. However, the provided equipment and guides make the experience manageable for most travelers.

Can We Take Photos and Videos During the Tour?

Guests are generally welcome to take photos and videos during the guided tour at both Xunantunich and the Caves Branch Archaeological Reserve. However, it’s advisable to check with the tour guide for any restrictions or guidelines.

What Should We Wear and Bring for the Tour?

Wear comfortable, quick-drying clothing and sturdy shoes suitable for hiking and wading. Bring a swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, hat, and light jacket. Pack a small backpack to carry personal items during the tour.

The Sum Up

This guided tour offers a unique opportunity to explore Belize’s ancient Maya ruins and captivating cave systems. Visitors can marvel at the impressive El Castillo structure in Xunantunich, then embark on an exhilarating adventure through the Caves Branch cave system, with options for tubing or kayaking. The tour’s convenient pickup from Ambergris Caye and all-inclusive package ensure a hassle-free and memorable experience for cultural and nature enthusiasts.