San Ignacio , Belize

Authentic Mayan Cuisine Cultural Tour

Active

(3 reviews)

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

Experience authentic Mayan cuisine while also learning customary pottery-making techniques. A full-day trip from San Ignacio to a Maya village of San Antonio takes you to the San Antonio Women’s Cooperative where you can uncover the surprisingly flavorful diet of the Maya and the techniques used to create their main dishes. Visitors have the opportunity to learn more about Mayan pottery and then enjoy a mouthwatering traditional local lunch. After lunch, we head back to San Ignacio to visit Ajaw Chocolate where we learn about the discovery of the world’s favorite comfort food, Chocolate. Discover how the ancient Maya became pioneers in the chocolate industry today.

Available options

Cultural Tour of Cayo District

Pickup included

What's included

Rum punch

Local guide

Transport by private vehicle from San Ignacio and back

Lunch with a drink

Detailed itinerary

San Antonio Village locally known as “Osh Multun Kakab” is a community of 3,500 people most of which share Mayan roots. The village currently practices subsistence agriculture, most farmers in the area grow crops such as peanuts, corn, squash, and beans, much like their ancestors, and sell their products at the San Ignacio market or local restaurants. A local Women’s Group made up of nine Mayan women formed the San Antonio Women’s Co-op, to support and empower women and youths of San Antonio by preserving culture and traditional arts and crafts. The women started the cooperative to find a way to earn an income, learn new skills, and share their traditional knowledge not only with the younger generation but also with visitors looking to know more about the Mayan world. This tour offers an Authentic cultural experience, from the women dressed in their traditional and colorful clothing to griding their corn using the tools of the ancient Maya, true to their heritage.

Located in San Ignacio Town, Ajaw Chocolate takes visitors back to the time of the ancient Maya when chocolate was served only to the elite. When we hear chocolate today, we think about rectangular chocolate bars or even triangular or heart-shaped pieces. However, the origin of chocolate stems from seeds found in a green, yellow, orange, red, purple, or maroon ellipse-shaped fruit (Cacao) that had to be fermented, ground, and made into a paste for tea. Visitors can experience true Mayan chocolate made using a traditional Mayan Stone. See how the seeds are ground into a paste and taste the rich chocolate drink with added spices just like the Elite of the ancient Maya consumed.

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

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1★

Tripadvisor 4.0

2 reviews

5★

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1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Vegetarian meal option available upon request

Comfortable walking shoes are recommended

Due to the nature of this tour and the safety of all guests, the tour operator reserves the right to refuse service to passengers who are intoxicated or show signs of intoxication. If, as a result, your tour is canceled, you will not be entitled to a refund

Children must be accompanied by an adult

Meeting point

Departure Point for most tours:
Address: MayaWalk Tours Main Office
19 Burns Avenue
San Ignacio Town
Cayo District
Belize, Central America

Directions: MayaWalk Tours Main Office located between Tandoor Restaurant and Belize Bank

Return point: Returns to original departure point

Important notes

• Please note: entrance tickets and transport included. This voucher will not be accepted if presented directly at the venue.
• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended
• Due to the nature of this tour and the safety of all guests, the tour operator reserves the right to refuse service to passengers who are intoxicated or show signs of intoxication. If, as a result, your tour is canceled, you will not be entitled to a refund.
• Minimum numbers apply. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there is not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund

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.