Hopkins , Belize

Xunantunich and Inland Blue Hole Tour

Active

(69 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Xunantunich is one of the largest ancient Maya cities ever built, the rulers of Xunantunich clashes with other powerful rivals in the area, including Tikal. In 2016, the largest Maya royal tomb ever discovered was excavated in Xunantunich, and the site remains an impressive display of pyramids, palaces, and other grandiose buildings.

Available options

Xunantunich and Inland Blue Hole Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Entry/Admission fee to Site

Lunch

All Fees and Taxes

Air-conditioned vehicle

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

This tour includes a visit to two of the most incredible attractions in Belize, the ruins of the ancient Maya city of Xunantunich and the sapphire waters of the Inland Blue Hole.

Xunantunich Maya Ruins

One of the largest ancient Maya cities ever built, Xunantunich is located approximately 70 miles (110 km) west of Belize City. Constructed on a ridge overlooking the Mopan River, Xunantunich was once home to nearly 100,000 people.

The original name of the site is unknown, but its modern name derives from a Maya term that means “Stone Woman.” First rediscovered in 1892, many visitors to the site reported seeing a ghostly woman who was reported to haunt the structure known as “El Castillo” (The Castle).

Still the second-largest manmade structure in the country, El Castillo measures 130 feet (40 meters) tall. Built as a temple pyramid, El Castillo is located in the exact center of the town.

Today, Xunantunich is located approximately one mile from the Guatemalan border. During its heyday during the Classic Period of the Maya civilization (around 600-700 AD), Xunanutinch competed with nearby cities, including Naranjo, Caracol, and Tikal (which lies just a few miles over the border in Guatemala).

The Inland Blue Hole

Not to be confused with the Blue Hole that lies on the offshore reef, the Inland Blue Hole is located in the St. Herman’s Blue Hole National Park near the capital of Belize, Belmopan.

First designated a national park in 1986, St. Herman’s is managed by the Belize Audobon Society as it sits in the middle of one of the most ecologically diverse areas of the country. Over 200 species of birds have been recorded in the area, including the red-legged honeycreeper and the piratic flycatcher. There is also a wide selection of wildlife in the park, including three big cat species.

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.7

21 reviews

5★

4★

3★

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1★

Tripadvisor 4.9

48 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Specialized infant seats are available

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

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.