A Must-Do Belize Adventure: Xunantunich Maya Ruins & Cave Tubing
Belize is a small country when compared to other vacation destinations in the world, however, we are one of the most diverse destinations in the world. Belize is beyond bestowed to be home to pristine rainforest, mind-blowing caves, mesmerizing waterfalls, exotic wildlife, large and beautiful coral reef systems, picture-perfect islands, culturally diverse among many other things that make it a unique destination. With so much to offer, sometimes you might be indecisive about what Belize adventure to do when vacationing in our jewel. A must-do Belize adventure recommended by the leading tour company in Belize is the Xunantunich Maya Ruins & Cave Tubing tour.
If you’re vacationing in southern Belize, this tour begins with a drive-through the most beautiful and scenic highway in Belize, the Hummingbird Highway as you head to the legendary Maya city of Xunantunich.
As you arrive at San Jose Succotz Village in the Cayo District you get to enjoy a hand-cracked ferry ride over the Mopan River to finalize your Xunantunich Maya Ruins journey. As you get a glimpse of the Xunantunich city you’re immediately left in awe by the astonishing architecture and sizes of the ruins. Especially after climbing the huge statue of the 130-foot tall ruin of the Maya Sun God, ‘El Castillo’ which is the second tallest Mayan structure in the country. From the top, you’re even able to see the land border between Belize's neighboring country Guatemala. If you’re lucky enough while exploring this site you are able to spot howler monkeys on the trees or tarantulas spiders on the ground.
The name Xunantunich derives from the Yucatec Maya language and means “Stone Woman.” Local legend holds that around the end of the 1800s, a gentleman from the village of San Jose Succotz Belize went hunting near the site. Crossing the base of the Castillo, he was struck by the appearance of a beautiful statuesque Maya maiden, dressed in traditional “huipil” and “pik,”, and dazzling in the rays of the rising sun. The woman stood motionless by the mouth of a cave that extended beneath the large structure. Stricken by her appearance, the man threw his gun aside and ran downhill to the village. After recounting his tale several villagers led by their native priest returned to the site. Arriving at the large mound they found the mouth of the tunnel, but the stone maiden had disappeared. Thereafter locals claim that the woman has appeared to several others but none have been able to follow her into the cavern.
If you’re not familiar with the Maya history, no need to worry, Untame Belize guides are some of the most knowledgeable, friendly, and professionals in the country. They are more than happy to teach you everything you need to know and go beyond for you to have your perfect Belize adventure.
Before heading to your second Belize adventure of the day, you get to stop at San Jose Succotz Village to enjoy a delicious Belizean lunch. The cave tubing journey takes you through a cave that is filled with fascinating discoveries. Where you learn where the Mayans worshiped, sacrificed, and got their sacred water from. This adventure is filled with much humor and excitement as much as it is refreshing.
Cave tubing is one of the most unique and unBelizeable experiences in the country, as you drift downriver, tucked in an inflated inner tube while shining your headlamps onto the cave walls where there are various stalactites and stalagmites.
Book your Belize Adventure?
To have an unforgettable experience on your Belize adventures we recommend booking with the Premiere tour company in Belize, Untame Belize. Who strives to provide top-quality service to all its clients on every occasion whether it is an airport transfer or transport to an amazing site of Belize.
