On November 1st we are open from 10am to 5pm

Excursion Xunatunich mayan ruins, marimba music and lunch tour at Belize City

Cruise line: Silversea
Difficulty:

Experience the spectacular natural splendour and ancient history of western Belize during this panoramic, full-day excursion to the Xunantunich Ruins.


Belize City, Western Belize, Maya Mountains, Tropical Rainforest

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately two-hour drive through the western Belizean countryside. Western Belize is considered the finest part of the nation's interior, as it is the gateway to the Maya Mountains and lush, tropical rainforest of Belize. Your guide points explains various aspects of the mountainous landscape, culture, history and lifestyle of Belizeans as you make your way toward Xunantunich (Maiden of the Rock).


Sucootz Village, Ferry-Ride, Mopan River, Xunantunich, El Castillo, Burial Chamber

Upon arrival at Sucootz Village, embark an historic, hand-cranked ferry across the Mopan River; the only way to access the sacred grounds of Xunantunich. Upon arrival at this ancient city, take a guided walking tour. Walk to the top of El Castillo, the main temple and tallest structure in the city, and marvel at the panoramic views of Belize and Guatemala in the distance. Next, proceed to the Burial Chamber. One of the most important sites discovered in this ancient Maya city, it is considered to be one of the largest Mayan burial chambers found within the last 100 years. When it was unearthed, archaeologists found a number of ceramic vessels, obsidian knives, jade pearls, animal bones, and other stone artefacts.


Cayo District, San Ignacio, Local Restaurant, Belizean Lunch with Live Marimba Music, Shopping

Following your tour, a comfort stop and an opportunity to browse for souvenirs, re-board your coach and head to the Cayo District. Upon arrival in the bustling town of San Ignacio, proceed to a local restaurant for a typical Belizean lunch accompanied by a cultural Mayan group playing live Marimba music. During your lunch break, you can browse the local arts, craft and souvenirs available for sale. At the conclusion of your visit, re-board your coach and commence the approximately 2.25-hour drive back to the pier.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Belize City, Western Belize, Rainforest, Ferry-Ride, Xunantunich, El Castillo, Burial Chamber, San Ignacio, Belizean Lunch with Live Marimba Music, Shopping

Note

Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of walking for approximately one mile (about 1.6 kilometres), at times over uneven, grassy, and natural surfaces and hills, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach and 120 steps at the sites visited. This tour is not suitable for pregnant guests, guests with back and/or neck problems, guests with heart and/or respiratory conditions, guests prone to motion sickness, guests with limited mobility, and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking or sport shoes, and bring sun protection, insect repellent and cash for purchases from the ship; sandals and high heels are prohibited. Videography, tripods and drones are not permitted at the Mayan site. The driving time between the pier and Xunantunich is approximately two hours in each direction. A signed waiver is required to participate on this tour. The tour sequence may vary.