Mayan Ruins and Inland Blue Hole Combo Tour
Active
8h - 9h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Our Mayan Ruins and Inland Blue Hole tour starts off with a scenic drive from Hopkins to San Jose Succotz in Cayo District. This 2 hours drive will take you on the famous Hummingbird Highway, through the capital city Belmopan and San Igancio Town, then on to San Jose Succotz, where we will be crossing over a river on a hand-cranked ferry to access Xunantunich Site.
After the Xunantunich Site, your guide/driver will take you to experience an authentic Belizean lunch at Hode's Place in San Ignacio Town.
After lunch, we will head to the Blue Hole National Park for a refreshing swim in the Blue Hole cenote, a one-hour drive from San Ignacio.
Your guide/driver will also give you the option to stop at gift shops near the ruins and stop at Country Barn Ice-cream on the Hummingbird Highway.
Tour Duration Time 8 to 9 hours:
Travel Time (round-trip) - 4 hours
Xunantunich Mayan Ruins - 2 hours
Hode's Place (lunch) - 1 hour
Blue Hole National Park - 1 hour
Available options
Mayan Ruins and Inland Blue Hole Combo Tour
Pickup included
What's included
Bottled water
Lunch
Air-conditioned vehicle
Parking Fees
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Xunantunich is located in the Cayo District near the village of San Jose Succotz just a few miles out of San Ignacio Town. From there a hand-cranked ferry will take you across the Mopan River. From the other side of the river, it’s a mile uphill to the site, which can be accessed on foot or in a vehicle.
From the parking lot we will then make our way to El Castillo, one of the three largest Maya Temples of Belize, and the largest structure on this site standing 130 feet above plaza level, with a panorama overlooking the surrounding area when you climb to the top if the temple. El Castillo is remarkable for a series of stucco friezes on its exterior that depict stories and events from Maya mythology.
2
We will be stopping at Hode's Place for lunch, this restaurant is one of the best local restaurant in San Ignacio Town.
3
Stop 3
The tour starts off with a 5 minutes walk from the parking lot down some stairs to the Blue Hole cenote. There you can get in the natural pool for a refreshing swim, photography, or to experience the rainforest of Belize.
The inland Blue Hole (cenote) is located at the Blue Hole National Park on the Hummingbird Highway. It was formed by the collapse of an underground limestone cave. In this case, the river running through the original cavern still flows through the cave system, and forms a sapphire-colored pool at the bottom of the sinkhole. The depression measures about 100 feet deep and 300 feet in diameter, with the actual blue hole at the depression’s base having a depth of about 25 feet.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
3.0
1 reviews
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Tripadvisor
4.9
11 reviews
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Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
About Hopkins
Hopkins is a charming coastal village in Belize known for its rich Garifuna culture and stunning Caribbean beaches. It offers a unique blend of cultural heritage, natural beauty, and adventure activities, making it a perfect destination for travelers seeking an authentic experience.
Top Attractions
Hopkins Beach
A beautiful stretch of white sand and turquoise waters, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
Beach
Half day to full day
Free
Garnett's Pastries and Bakery
A local bakery famous for its delicious pastries and bread, offering a taste of traditional Garifuna cuisine.
Cultural
1-2 hours
Budget
Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary
A unique wildlife sanctuary and the world's first jaguar reserve, offering hiking trails, waterfalls, and wildlife spotting.
Nature
Full day
Moderate
Sockton's Pines
A local craft shop and art gallery showcasing traditional Garifuna art and crafts, including handmade drums, jewelry, and textiles.
Cultural
1-2 hours
Budget
Marie Sharp's Farm
A local farm and factory producing Belize's famous habanero hot sauce and other spicy sauces.
Food and Drink
1-2 hours
Budget
Must-Try Local Dishes
Hudut
A traditional Garifuna dish made with fish cooked in a coconut broth, served with mashed plantains.
Main dish
Contains fish and plantains, may contain allergens.
Johnny Cakes
Fried dough balls, often filled with cheese or sweet fillings, a popular local snack.
Snack
Contains flour and may contain dairy or sugar.
Coconut Buns
Sweet buns made with coconut, a popular breakfast item in Hopkins.
Breakfast
Contains flour, sugar, and coconut, may contain dairy.
Popular Activities
Hiking
Fishing
Wildlife spotting
Beach activities
Sunbathing
Swimming
Garifuna drumming and dance
Local craft workshops
Best Time to Visit
November to April
This is the dry season with plenty of sunshine and lower humidity, ideal for beach activities and cultural events.
24-30°C
75-86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Spanish, Garifuna, Creole
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
Belize Dollar (BZD)
Time Zone
GMT-6
Electricity
110VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Hopkins is generally safe for travelers, with a low crime rate and friendly locals. However, standard precautions should be taken to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Use reputable tour operators and taxis.
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
- • Be cautious when using ATMs and avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
Getting there
By air
- Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport • 130 km (80 miles)
- Dangriga Airstrip • 5 km (3 miles)
By bus
Belize City Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are available to nearby towns but not within Hopkins itself. They are an affordable but less convenient option.
Taxis
Available • Apps:
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Hopkins Village
Sittee River
Day trips
Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary
90 km (56 miles) • Full day
A unique wildlife sanctuary and the world's first jaguar reserve, offering hiking trails, waterfalls, and wildlife spotting.
Sittee River
15 km (9 miles) • Half day to full day
A scenic river offering tours, fishing, and wildlife spotting.
Dangriga
5 km (3 miles) • Half day
A nearby town with a rich cultural heritage, offering local markets, historical sites, and cultural experiences.
Festivals
Garifuna Settlement Day • November 19
Hopkins Seafood Festival • June
Pro tips
- Visit Garnett's Pastries and Bakery for a taste of traditional Garifuna pastries.
- Explore the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary for a unique jaguar spotting experience.
- Try local seafood dishes, such as Hudut, at Innie's Restaurant and Bar.
- Support local artisans by purchasing handmade crafts at Sockton's Pines.
- Attend a Garifuna drumming and dance performance for an authentic cultural experience.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
