Explore the captivating history and adventure of Belize’s Xunantunich Maya Ruins and St. Herman’s Cave on this full-day excursion. Guided tours at the ancient Mayan city reveal the impressive El Castillo temple and insights into the civilization’s legacy. After a scenic jungle trek, the thrilling cave tubing experience takes you through stunning underground chambers. This well-rounded tour includes transportation, lunch, and necessary amenities – everything needed for an unforgettable adventure. Whether you’re a history buff or adrenaline seeker, this excursion promises to immerse you in the rich cultural and natural wonders of Belize.
Good To Know
- This tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the ancient Mayan ruins of Xunantunich and experience cave tubing in St. Herman’s Cave.
- The tour is based in Hopkins, Belize, and includes round-trip transportation, admission fees, a Belizean lunch, and alcoholic beverages.
- Highlights of the tour include climbing the 130-foot tall El Castillo temple and spending approximately 2 hours floating on inner tubes inside St. Herman’s Cave.
- The experience requires a moderate level of physical fitness, with a 10-minute jungle walk to the cave entrance and navigating uneven terrain at the Mayan ruins.
- The tour has received a 5.0 rating based on 18 reviews, with travelers praising the knowledgeable guides and the overall smooth organization of the experience.
Tour Overview
The tour offers an opportunity to explore the ancient Mayan ruins of Xunantunich and embark on a cave tubing adventure within St. Herman’s Cave.
Based in Hopkins, Belize, this full-day excursion is highly recommended by travelers, with a 100% satisfaction rate. The tour accommodates up to 14 participants and is priced from $230.77, with free cancellation up to 24 hours prior.
Highlights include visiting the impressive El Castillo temple, a 2-hour cave tubing experience, and a Belizean lunch in a scenic location.
Transportation, admission fees, and alcoholic beverages are all included, making this a hassle-free and immersive cultural experience.
Itinerary Highlights
Xunantunich Maya Ruins offer an immersive exploration of the ancient Mayan center, led by a licensed guide.
The highlights include:
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Discovering El Castillo, one of the largest Maya temples, standing an impressive 130 feet above the plaza level.
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Spending approximately 2 hours inside the St. Herman’s Cave system, floating on inner tubes and illuminated by headlamps.
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Enjoying an informative 10-minute jungle walk to the cave, learning about its archaeology and geology from the guide.
This tour provides a well-rounded experience, seamlessly combining the captivating Mayan ruins with the thrill of cave tubing.
Xunantunich Maya Ruins
At the heart of this captivating tour lies the ancient Mayan center of Xunantunich, where visitors can explore its rich history and architectural wonders.
Accompanied by a licensed guide, guests will spend 2 hours uncovering the site’s highlights, including the imposing El Castillo, one of the largest Maya temples standing 130 feet above the plaza level.
Guests will learn about the site’s archaeology and the significance of its remarkably preserved structures, seeing the fascinating Mayan civilization.
This inclusive experience ensures a seamless and informative adventure, providing a glimpse into the remarkable legacy of Xunantunich.
St. Herman’s Cave
Following the cave tubing experience at Xunantunich, travelers embark on a 10-minute jungle walk to reach the enchanting St. Herman’s Cave.
During the walk, an informative talk is given on the cave’s archaeology and geology.
Once inside, guests spend approximately 2 hours floating on inner tubes through the cave system, equipped with headlamps to illuminate the stunning rock formations.
The highlights of St. Herman’s Cave include:
- Exploring the vast underground network of chambers and passages.
- Observing the unique cave ecology and learning about its geological history.
- Experiencing the serene, otherworldly atmosphere of the cave’s natural beauty.
The admission ticket to St. Herman’s Cave is included in the tour, providing a well-rounded cultural and adventurous experience for visitors.
Transportation and Amenities
The tour includes hassle-free round-trip transportation from Hopkins Bay, with free pickup from all hotels in the Hopkins area.
Travelers will enjoy a Belizean lunch in a scenic location near the Mayan ruins. The tour package includes all fees and taxes, as well as bottled water and alcoholic beverages.
Stroller access is available, though the experience isn’t wheelchair-friendly. A moderate level of physical fitness is required, as the tour involves a 10-minute jungle walk and 2 hours of cave tubing.
Accessibility and Requirements
This tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but stroller access is available, and infant seats can be provided.
A moderate physical fitness level is required for this excursion. Here are 3 key requirements:
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Participants must be able to navigate uneven terrain, including steps and inclines, during the 2-hour exploration of the Xunantunich Maya Ruins.
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The 10-minute jungle walk to the entrance of St. Herman’s Cave involves some light hiking on natural trails.
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Guests must be comfortable floating on inner tubes and maneuvering through the cave system for approximately 2 hours.
Customer Experiences
Travelers overwhelmingly praise this tour, with an impressive 5.0 rating based on 18 reviews. The majority of reviewers, 17 out of 18, awarded the full 5 stars. One reviewer even described the experience as a "magical Christmas Day" with an excellent lunch and tubing. Travelers highlighted the knowledgeable and friendly guides, as well as the tour’s smooth transportation and organization.
| Reviewer | Rating | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Gina_A | 5 stars | Praised driver Dirk’s knowledge and humor; enjoyed the ruins and guide’s passion. |
| Ruth_S | 5 stars | Described the tour as a magical Christmas Day experience with excellent lunch and tubing. |
| Tammy_P | 5 stars | Highlighted Dirk’s friendliness and guide Junior’s local knowledge at the ruins. |
Booking and Details
Typically, travelers can book this tour through various online platforms or directly with the tour operator. The tour can accommodate up to 14 individuals, and the pricing varies based on group size.
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the experience starts, providing flexibility for travelers. Key details to consider:
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The tour includes round-trip transportation from Hopkins Bay, with free pickup from all hotels in the area.
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A Belizean lunch is provided at a scenic location near the Mayan ruins.
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The tour is suitable for moderate physical fitness levels, though it isn’t wheelchair accessible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is There a Minimum Group Size Required for This Tour?
There is no minimum group size required for this tour. The maximum group size is 14 travelers, allowing for more intimate and personalized experiences. Bookings can be made regardless of the size of your traveling party.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
No, you can’t bring your own food and drinks on the tour. The package includes a Belizean lunch at a scenic location near the Mayan ruins, as well as bottled water. All meals and beverages are provided.
Are There Any Additional Fees or Costs Not Included in the Price?
The tour price includes all necessary fees and taxes, as well as lunch, bottled water, and alcoholic beverages. There are no additional costs or fees beyond the tour price listed.
How Much Time Is Allocated for Each Activity During the Tour?
The tour allocates 2 hours to explore the Xunantunich Maya Ruins and about 2 hours for the cave tubing at St. Herman’s Cave. There’s also a 10-minute jungle walk to reach the cave entrance.
Can I Request a Private or Customized Tour Experience?
Yes, you can request a private or customized tour experience. The tour operator is typically willing to accommodate special requests for group size, itinerary, or other preferences if arranged in advance.
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The Sum Up
The Xunantunich Maya Ruins and St. Herman’s Cave tubing tour offers a captivating blend of history and adventure. Visitors can explore the ancient Mayan city, then embark on a thrilling cave tubing experience, all while enjoying transportation, a Belizean lunch, and necessary amenities. This full-day excursion provides a memorable way to discover Belize’s rich cultural and natural wonders.