Xunantunich Maya Ruin

3 Hours

Tour Duration

Easy

Tour Intensity

Min of 2

Number of persons for the tour

Brief information

Xunantunich can be reached daily on a crank ferry at any time from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. This site is located in the Cayo District, less than 1 mile from the lovely refreshing rapids of the Mopan River. It is approximately a 5-minute drive or 15-minute walk from the beautiful village of San Jose Succotz to the Visitors center of the site.

Xunantunich means “maiden of the rock” or “stone woman” in Maya, and is situated on the Western Highway across the river from the village of San Jose Succotz.

Xunantunich is a Classic Period ceremonial center. The site core occupies only 300 square meters but the periphery covers several square kilometers. Recent investigations by Dr. Richard Leventhal of the University of California, Los Angeles and Dr. Wendy Ashmore from the University of Pennsylvania indicate that the site may be even more extensive than previously thought.

In Group A, Structure A-6 (El Castillo) rises 130 feet above plaza level making it one of the tallest buildings in Belize. On this structure there are two temples.  The lower temple is famous for its large stucco frieze. A mask with larger ears probably represents the sun god. Next to this mask, there is a moon sign with a border of signs representing Venus.

What to bring/wear

  • Good Hiking shoes
  • Bug repellent
  • Extra water
  • Snacks
  • Camera

What we provide

  • Transportation
  • Entrance fee
  • Lunch
  • Gear

Map

Our Clients Reviews

  • star rating  Orlando was our guide for the ATM caves. He was an excellent guide and the tour was a really fun and interesting experience. Would highly recommend booking.
    - He... read more

    Anna F
    August 2, 2023

    star rating  We had Orlando as our ATM cave guide. He was a wonderful guide, and happily answered all my questions, made sure the group was doing ok at every turn, and... read more

    avatar thumb RebeccaB375
    August 22, 2022

    star rating  Orlando took us on an amazing trip to the ATM caves!! We enjoyed the day with him learning about the jungle, caves and history of the Mayan people. Orlando was... read more

    K8599TEkatiee
    June 14, 2022
  • star rating  Have you ever walked away from something and said to yourself "WOW!! that experience could not have been any better and it's all because of the person who was gracious... read more

    joellenandjoe
    April 16, 2022

    star rating  Excellent! Orlando explained the history and cultural relevance of the site! Highly recommend this personalized tour of this Underground Maya Ruin

    Curiosity34833282414
    January 23, 2022

    star rating  We went on this adventure with an expert on the ATM cave who told us a lot of interesting facts and stories about its magical history. Any question we asked... read more

    ScaniaSt
    December 25, 2021
  • star rating  Our trip to the ATM cave with Orlando from Katz Witz Maya Tours was nothing short of mind blowing!

    Orlando’s knowledge of every detail in the ATM cave,... read more

    Jbrosious
    November 26, 2021

    star rating  The ATM cave tour was the highlight of our week in Belize! Our guide, Orlando, was very patient and informative, giving us direction on where to place our hands... read more

    Roving731607
    November 11, 2021

    star rating  We had an excellent time with Orlando exploring the ATM caves. He is a very knowledgeable tour guide and we felt extremely comfortable exploring the caves with him!! ... read more

    343karah
    November 2, 2021
  • star rating  My 18yo son and I were guided by our new friend Orlando into an experience we will remember for the rest of our lives. We learned and experienced so... read more

    Jackie M
    September 7, 2021

    star rating  We had a great time and best experience ever exploring the ATM cave with Orlando. Breathtaking views, lots of adrenaline, swimming and crawling, surreal stalactites, and million years of history... read more

    607martino
    September 6, 2021

    star rating  Orlando is super knowledgeable, funny, and has an amazing way of connecting you with the world he is showing. 10/10 will never use anyone but him in Belize.

    caseyam12
    May 26, 2021