This guide-led experience brings travelers together for a well-paced look at the places and activities in the itinerary. At Xunantunich, walk through the ceremonial plazas, learn how the ancient city developed, and take in the wide Cayo District views around El Castillo. A hands-on chocolate-making experience introduces the cacao process and its long connection with Maya culture.
Allow about 8 hours for the full experience. This is a shared experience with a listed maximum of 16 travelers. entrance fees, transportation, and bottled water are included. lunch is not included. The experience is not wheelchair accessible. It is not recommended for pregnant travelers, travelers with back problems, and travelers with heart problems or other serious medical conditions.
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.
In San Ignacio, take part in an approximately 1 hour 30 minute hands-on chocolate-making activity. Learn how cacao is prepared, roasted, ground, and transformed into chocolate while the host explains its importance in Maya culture and the traditional process behind the finished product.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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