Xunantunich Mayan Ruins CHOCOLATE MAKING Tour
Description
This tour is uniquely designed to showcase Belize’s ancient past and rich cultural traditions in one unforgettable experience. At Xunantunich, guests climb the iconic El Castillo for panoramic jungle views while discovering the stories, temples, and legends that shaped Maya civilization. After exploring the ruins, guests dive into a hands-on chocolate-making workshop, learning how the Maya cultivated, roasted, and ground cacao to create the original chocolate drink known as the “food of the gods.” Combining archaeology, culture, flavor, and adventure, this tour provides an authentic Belize experience that is educational, delicious, and truly memorable. Ideal for travelers who want more than just sightseeing—this is a real cultural immersion.
Tour Options
Itinerary
In the western part of Belize, near the border with Guatemala, is Xunantunich, or "Maiden of the Rock". It is a Classic Maya archaeological site dating from 200-900 CE. This strategic location allowed traders to control trade along this important river, as well as through the adjacent valley. This is situated on a high ridge overlooking the Mopan River. Xunantunich is set within a tropical forest preserve with a compact core center. The site's total area is estimated to be about 3 square miles/7 square kilometers, but the core area can easily be visited. You can reach the site by driving to San Ignacio on the Western Highway from Belize City or Orange Walk. San Jose Sucozt is about eight miles away from San Ignacio. To reach the site, a hand-operated cable ferry crosses the river.
hands-on chocolate-making workshop, learning how the Maya cultivated, roasted, and ground cacao to create the original chocolate drink known as the “food of the gods.”
Highlights
What's included
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Reviews(1)
I walked the mile from the hand cranked ferry to the ruins. It was breathe taking. My tour guide, JR, provided lots of detailed information. I climbed the stairs, I took so many pictures. This memory will last a life time.
Thank you so much for sharing your experience! We’re thrilled you enjoyed your walk to the ruins—it’s definitely a beautiful and unforgettable journey. JR will be so happy to know his knowledge helped make the day even more meaningful. Climbing those ancient stairs and capturing the views is something truly special—we’re honored to have been part of a memory that will last a lifetime. On behalf of all of us at Private Belize Adventure, thank you for choosing us. We’d love to welcome you back for more incredible adventures!
