Horseback Ride to Xunantunich Maya Ruins

Summary

Make your way to the meeting point in San Ignacio town on the morning of the tour, and enjoy transport to the nearby family-owned stables, where you'll be paired with one of more than 45 resident horses. Set off with your guide on a scenic trail ride that passes through a private organic farm and the traditional village of San Jose Succotz, keeping an eye out for native birds, monkeys, and plant species along the way. Cross the Mopan River on a historic hand-cranked ferry, and ride up to the hilltop site of Xunantunich. Dismount with the help of your guide and explore the impressive archaeological site by foot. Learn the long history behind the once-powerful city that served as an important trading and ceremonial site in Mesoamerica as you walk along the ruins of palaces, temples, a marketplace, a ball court, and bathhouses. If you like, climb to the top of the El Castillo stone pyramid — one of the tallest in Belize — for stunning panoramic views of the surrounding jungle. After getting your fill of archaeological adventure, climb back on your horse for the ride to local restaurant Benny’s Kitchen, and recharge with an included lunch of traditional Belizean cuisine. Give your horse a farewell pat back at the stables, and return to the original departure point in San Ignacio. The total tour time is flexible and typically ranges from 4–6 hours, based on the preferred pace of the group.

Tour info

Duration
4 hours
Group Size
Pricing (From)
Commentary
Meeting Point
Dropoff location

Why take this tour?

A pleasant half day ride through the Belize rainforest on the banks of the Mopan River and through a private organic farm to the Xunantunich Archaeological site. This is a fabulous way to tour the Maya ruins and also enjoy watching wildlife along the riverbanks and in the jungle. You also pass through the little village of San Jose Succotz.

What’s included?

  • Local taxes

  • National park fees

  • Round-trip transfers between stables and San Ignacio town

  • Entry/Admission - Xunantunich

  • Gratuities

Things to know

Before you book

  • Duration: 4h

  • Mobile tickets accepted

  • Instant confirmation

Covid Policy

  • Regular temperature checks for staff
  • Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas

Cancellation Policy

    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.

Operated by:

MayaWalk Tours

About operator:

Mayawalk Tours is an eco-friendly, family owned, local tour operator based in San Ignacio, Cayo, Belize. We have been operating adventure tours since 1997, and we offer over a dozen adventure tours in Belize, with special emphasis on caving and canoeing tours. Our local guides are more than happy to share their knowledge about the archaeology and history of the sites that you will visit. Whether you are in the mood for a leisurely tour or a more rugged adventure, Mayawalk Tours can help you plan a special trip that you will remember for a lifetime.

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