Xunantunich and Cahal Pech from San Ignacio
Active
5h - 6h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
7:30am - 8am pickup from hotels in SAN IGNACIO Town for 2 great Maya sites: Cahal Pech & Xunantunich, unique places to get yourselves familiar with Maya history. Climb, explore and fascinate yourselves with extraordinary structures built by mysterious Mayan people who continue to captivate our full attention and never ending questions as to who, where and what happened to them. Let yourself be pampered by the cool jungle settings, towering structures, let the Maya land whisper to you many of its secrets through your knowledgeable local guide, let time come to a standstill, while you admire breathtaking views of the forest-covered neighboring sites of Actuncan and San Lorenzo Valley before enjoying lunch at a local Restaurant.
TOUR STARTS from SAN IGNACIO town UNLESS arrangements are made with local provider PRIOR to tour date.
SPECIAL DIETS or ALLERGIES must be informed at time of booking.
EXTRA FEE (payable cash at pickup time) for any pickups & drop offs OUTSIDE SAN IGNACIO TOWN.
Available options
Xunantunich and Cahal Pech from San Ignacio
Pickup included
What's included
Professional local guide
Bottled water
Lunch
Transport by private vehicle
Hotel pickup and drop-off (select hotels only)
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Enjoy this tranquil & unique maya site: 1 - 2 hrs almost to yourself. Cahal Pech gives you a perfect start to maya history before heading to a bigger site - Xunantunich. Cahal Pech and Xunantunich both share an interesting history during the same time periods yet so different in setting.
2
Stop 2
You will explore the majestic Xunantunich maya site ( 1-2 hrs) hike, climb maya structures, enjoy amazing views of the countryside.
3
Stop 3
Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant. (Lunch may change venue/location only if necessary)
What's not included
Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)
Entrance fees and meals for infants
pickups & drop offs to hotels/resorts OUTSIDE of San Ignacio Town
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
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Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
10 reviews
5★
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Tripadvisor
5.0
23 reviews
5★
23
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Important information
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
REQUIRED: min of 2 people, Children must be accompanied with one paying adult
LOCAL PROVIDER must be informed of any vegetarran, vegan, gluten free or any other FOOF ALLERGY
Wheelchair accessible; please advise at time of booking if wheelchair assistance is required
Operates in all weather conditions; please dress appropriately as per local weather on day of tour
REQUEST FOR car seat must be done at least 24 hours before tour date
TOUR NOT AVAILABLE for CRUISE SHIP passengers due to duration of tour plus driving distance to & from cruise ship terminals
PICKUP time starts 7am OR EARLIER for any hotel outside of San Ignacio town as per arrangement with local provider - before tour date
Meeting point
The Welcome Center OR your hotel/resort in San Ignacio Town. PICKUPs/DROPOFFs to ANY location more than 20 minutes driving from San Ignacio Town may NOT be provided by St Leonard's, and you will be contacted after your name and address of your hotel is confirmed by local provider.
Important notes
• 7:30am pickup in San Ignacio Town or EARLIER if you staying OUTSIDE of San Ignacio town.
• Parents/adults with infants pay for infants entrance fees and lunch where applicable
• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended
• Not recommended for participants with back problems, pregnant women, heart complaints or other serious medical conditions
• Required: AGE of ever participant for booked tour
• If you will not be arriving at your destination please confirm with the local service provider prior to travel, or upon arrival at your destination. Please note that departure times and locations may vary slightly.
• Please advise local provide of ANY SPECIAL DIETARY NEED or allergy to any food or ingredient before tour date
• Local provider contact information is stleonardsbze@gmail.com or call +501 662 4801
About San Ignacio
San Ignacio is a vibrant town nestled in the Cayo District of Belize, known for its rich Maya heritage, lush jungles, and proximity to incredible natural wonders. It's a hub for adventure travel and cultural exploration, offering a mix of outdoor activities and historical sites.
Top Attractions
Cahal Pech Village Resort
A beautifully restored Maya site in the heart of San Ignacio, offering a glimpse into ancient Maya civilization.
Historical
1-2 hours
Moderate (entry fee around $10 USD)
ATM Cave (Actun Tunichil Muknal)
A challenging but rewarding cave system with ancient Maya artifacts and human remains.
Adventure
Full day
Expensive (tours around $150-200 USD)
Green Hills Butterfly Ranch
A sanctuary for butterflies and other wildlife, offering a peaceful and educational experience.
Nature
1-2 hours
Budget (entry fee around $5-10 USD)
Big Rock Falls
A stunning waterfall in the Mountain Pine Ridge area, perfect for swimming and picnicking.
Nature
Half day to full day
Free
San Ignacio Market
A bustling market offering local produce, crafts, and street food.
Cultural
1-2 hours
Free to browse, budget for purchases
Must-Try Local Dishes
Stewed Chicken
Chicken cooked in a rich, spicy sauce with tomatoes, onions, and peppers.
Main dish
Contains meat
Tamales
Corn dough filled with meat or vegetables, wrapped in banana leaves and steamed.
Snack
Vegetarian options available
Rice and Beans
A staple dish of red beans and rice, often served with fried plantains.
Side dish
Vegetarian
Garnaches
Small fried tortillas topped with refried beans, onions, and pickled onions.
Snack
Vegetarian
Popular Activities
Caving
Hiking
Zip-lining
Birdwatching
Nature walks
Spa treatments
Visiting Maya sites
Local markets
Best Time to Visit
November to April
The dry season offers the best weather for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Days are warm and sunny, with cooler evenings.
20-28°C
68-82°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Spanish, Maya languages
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
Belize Dollar (BZD)
Time Zone
GMT-6
Electricity
110VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
San Ignacio is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken to avoid petty theft and scams.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Use reputable tour operators
- • Avoid walking alone at night in less populated areas
Getting there
By air
- Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport • 120 km (75 miles)
- Maya International Airport • 25 km (15 miles)
By bus
San Ignacio Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Local buses are affordable and frequent. They are a good way to get around town and to nearby attractions.
Taxis
Available • Apps:
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Downtown San Ignacio
Bull Falls Area
San Jose Succotz
Day trips
Caracol
50 km (31 miles) • Full day
One of the largest Maya sites in Belize, featuring impressive ruins and a rich history.
Mountain Pine Ridge
60 km (37 miles) • Full day
A scenic area with waterfalls, hiking trails, and lush forests.
Xunantunich
13 km (8 miles) • Half day
A well-preserved Maya site with a towering pyramid and beautiful views.
Festivals
Battle of San Jose Succotz • September 10
Cayo Cultural Festival • Annual, dates vary
Pro tips
- Hire a local guide for a more authentic and informative experience.
- Visit the ATM Cave for a unique and adventurous experience, but be prepared for a challenging hike.
- Try local specialties like stewed chicken, tamales, and coconut candy.
- Explore the local markets for unique souvenirs and crafts.
- Be prepared for both hot and rainy weather, especially during the wet season.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
