Xunantunich Maya Ruin & St Herman Blue Hole

Xunantunich, a renowned Maya ruin, offers visitors a captivating journey into the past. Towering over the landscape, the impressive El Castillo pyramid provides sweeping vistas, inviting exploration of the site’s intricate carvings and rich cultural significance. Knowledgeable guides illuminate the ruins’ history, while a refreshing swim at the nearby St. Herman Blue Hole promises a serene respite amidst the tropical setting. Whether marveling at the architectural wonders or immersing oneself in the natural beauty, this excursion promises an unforgettable experience for those seeking to uncover the secrets of the ancient Maya civilization.

Good To Know

• Xunantunich site features impressive Mayan architecture, including the 130-foot tall El Castillo temple pyramid and intricately carved stelae, altars, and friezes.
• El Castillo provides panoramic views over the Mopan River, revealing the scale and complexity of the ancient Mayan city.
• A knowledgeable tour guide shares insights on Mayan civilization, highlighting impressive engineering feats and religious beliefs through stone carvings and hieroglyphics.
• The refreshing St. Herman Blue Hole offers a natural swimming pool surrounded by tropical beauty, providing a serene break after exploring the Mayan ruins.
• The tour includes pickup and drop-off from Placencia Village, transportation to the sites, a guided tour, and a picnic lunch, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

Xunantunich Architectural Highlights

The Xunantunich archaeological site boasts an impressive array of Mayan architecture.

The crown jewel is El Castillo, a massive temple pyramid that rises 130 feet above the surrounding plazas and structures. Visitors can climb to the top of El Castillo, offering stunning views across the Mopan River into neighboring Guatemala.

The site also features intricately carved stelae, altars, and friezes that provide insights into the religious and political life of the ancient Maya.

Exploring the winding causeways and stepping into the shadowy interiors of the structures gives visitors a tangible sense of what daily life may have been like centuries ago in this once-thriving Mayan city.

Panoramic Views From El Castillo

Atop the 130-foot El Castillo temple, visitors can enjoy panoramic views stretching across the Mopan River into the neighboring country of Guatemala.

This vantage point offers a unique perspective, allowing guests to survey the entire Xunantunich archaeological site. From here, they’ll witness the remarkable scale and complexity of this once-thriving Mayan city.

The view extends beyond the ruins, revealing the lush, verdant landscape that surrounds the area. This breathtaking panorama provides visitors with a deeper appreciation for the strategic importance and grandeur of the ancient Mayan civilization that once inhabited this region of Belize.

Mayan Life Exploration With Guide

A knowledgeable tour guide leads visitors through the Xunantunich ruins, bringing the ancient Mayan civilization to life. They share fascinating insights into the site’s history, architecture, and cultural significance.

Guests learn about the Mayans’ impressive engineering feats, intricate religious beliefs, and sophisticated agricultural practices. The guide points out the stunning stone carvings and hieroglyphics that provide a window into the daily lives and rituals of the Mayan people.

Refreshing Swim at St. Herman Blue Hole

After exploring the ancient Mayan ruins, visitors next journey to the lush, verdant forest surrounding the St. Herman Blue Hole. This natural swimming pool offers a refreshing respite from the day’s activities.

Visitors can:

• Take a dip in the cool, crystalline waters, surrounded by the beauty of the tropical landscape.
• Spot native wildlife, such as colorful birds and butterflies, as they flit through the foliage.
• Bask in the serenity of the secluded location, far from the crowds.
• Enjoy a picnic lunch by the water’s edge before heading back.

The St. Herman Blue Hole provides a perfect opportunity to rejuvenate and reconnect with nature after an immersive exploration of Belize’s Mayan heritage.

Transportation and Park Fee Inclusions

The tour includes pickup and drop-off from Placencia Village, as well as transportation and park fees.

You’ll be transported to the Xunantunich archaeological site and St. Herman Blue Hole in a comfortable vehicle. The tour guide and lunch are also included, making this a hassle-free day trip.

If you’re staying north of Placencia Village, there’s an additional $10 per person charge for pickup and drop-off. The tour also provides infant seats upon request, ensuring a comfortable experience for families.

With these inclusions, you can focus on exploring the Mayan ruins and swimming in the refreshing blue hole without worrying about logistics.

Pickup and Drop-off Arrangements

For your convenience, the meeting point for this tour is the Splash Dive Centre, located at 2287 Placencia Peninsula Road in Placencia, Belize.

The tour will return to this same location at the end. Pickup arrangements will be communicated to you via text message.

Additional pickup and drop-off options are available north of Placencia Village for an extra $10.00 per person.

This tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and children must be accompanied by an adult.

• Pickup and drop-off in Placencia Village included
• Additional $10.00 per person for north of Placencia pickup/drop-off
• Infant seats available on request
• Tour returns to original meeting point

Tour Pricing and Group Size Details

This tour is priced starting from $300.00, with the final cost varying based on the size of your group.

It’s a private tour, which means only your group will participate. The group size is flexible, allowing you to enjoy the experience at your own pace.

Pickup and drop-off are included in Placencia Village, and additional pickups north of the village can be arranged for an extra $10.00 per person.

Infant seats are available upon request.

Whether you’re a solo traveler or part of a larger group, this tour offers a personalized and convenient way to explore Belize’s Cayo District highlights.

Cancellation and Payment Policy

Customers can cancel their tour reservation up to 24 hours before the experience starts and receive a full refund. This flexible policy allows for last-minute changes in plans.

Payment for the tour can be made upon booking, or customers can choose the "Reserve Now, Pay Later" option, which requires no upfront payment. This provides flexibility for those who want to secure their spot without immediately paying.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and children must be accompanied by an adult. Most travelers can participate, making this tour suitable for a wide range of visitors.

• Cancellation Policy: Full refund up to 24 hours before tour
• Payment Options: Pay upfront or "Reserve Now, Pay Later"
• Accessibility: Not wheelchair accessible, children must be accompanied
• Participation: Most travelers can join the tour

Frequently Asked Questions

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

According to the tour details, lunch is included, but you’re welcome to bring your own food and drinks if you prefer. Just keep in mind that the tour doesn’t provide extra time for consumption of outside items.

Is There a Limit on the Number of People in My Group?

The tour is a private group experience, so there’s no limit on the number of people in your group. The size is flexible and can accommodate your party’s needs, according to the tour information.

Can I Request a Tour in a Different Language?

Yes, you can request a tour in a different language. The tour company offers private tours, so they can accommodate your language preference. Just let them know your preferred language when booking the tour.

Are There Any Additional Fees for Carrying Large Bags?

The tour does not mention any additional fees for carrying large bags. However, it’s always best to check with the tour operator directly to confirm their policies on baggage and any potential fees that may apply.

Is There an Option to Customize the Tour Itinerary?

The tour company offers a standard itinerary, but they may be able to accommodate customization requests. Customers should inquire about any additional costs or modifications when booking the tour.

The Sum Up

Xunantunich Maya Ruin and St. Herman Blue Hole offer an unparalleled opportunity to take in Mayan history and the natural splendor of Belize. Visitors can marvel at the grand El Castillo pyramid, discover the site’s cultural significance with knowledgeable guides, and cool off with a refreshing swim in the serene Blue Hole. This tour provides a well-rounded experience, making it a must-visit destination for any traveler seeking to explore Belize’s rich heritage and captivating landscapes.