Depart San Ignacio for the famed archaeological site of Xunantunich, once a powerful center of Maya civilization that dates back to around 1000 BC. Cross the Mopan River on a vintage hand-cranked ferry, and ascend the hilltop site for a guided tour of ruins, including royal palaces, ball courts, and the El Castillo temple, the second-largest in all of Belize. Climb to the top for panoramic views over the Belizean jungle and into Guatemala.
Next, connect with nature as you venture into the Vaca Plateau forest reserve, a pristine tropical landscape that's off the radar of most tourists. Cruise across a river on an eco-friendly jungle pontoon boat, stopping to climb up waterfalls, cliff jump, swim, and float in inner tubes at the base of the falls.