XUNANTUNICH MAYAN RUINS ON HORSEBACK

Belize Horseback Riding & Xunantunich Mayan Ruins Tour

Xunantunich is an ancient Maya archaeological site located in western Belize, near the Guatemalan border. It is renowned for its impressive Mayan ruins, including a towering step pyramid known as “El Castillo,” which offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding jungle and the Mopan River. Xunantunich was a significant ceremonial and political center in the Classic Maya period, with its peak influence between the 7th and 9th centuries AD. The site’s name means “Stone Woman” in Mayan language.

Riding through the jungle on horseback is an exciting way to discover the ancient Mayan city of Xunantunich. The tour begins at a local stable where you will meet your Riding Guide, mount your horse and depart. The ride to Xunantunich takes you along a well maintained trail through a large private farm, along the banks of the Mopan River, in the village of San Jose Succotz.

Here you will cross the river on an ancient (yet well maintained and very safe) hand-operated ferry and then ride your horse up to Xunantunich. When you arrive prepare to dismount and let your horse rest and you spend as much time as you desire exploring the Xunantunich temples and plazas on foot. The horseback ride includes lots of nature viewing of local birds and plants.

General information

Start time 7:30 AM

Tour Duration 4-5 hours

Amenities: Restrooms

Meeting point

MayaWalk Office at #19 Burns Avenue, San Ignacio, Belize

Check In

15 minutes before tour departure.

Endpoint

MayaWalk Office at #19 Burns Avenue, San Ignacio, Belize

The Tour makes its departure at 7:30 am from the MayaWalk Tours office at # 19 Burns Ave, San Ignacio. The tour begins at a local stable where you will meet your Riding Guide, mount your horse, and depart. The ride to Xunantunich takes you along a well-maintained trail through a large private farm, along the banks of the Mopan River, in the village of San Jose Succotz.

Here you will cross the river on an ancient (yet well-maintained and very safe) hand-operated ferry and then ride your horse up to Xunantunich. When you arrive prepare to dismount and let your horse rest and you spend time exploring the temples and plazas of Xunantunich on foot. The horseback ride includes lots of nature viewing of local birds and plants.

Intensity:

 
Easy. No previous horseback riding experience necessary. Riding helmets provided. Weight limit: 250 lbs per person.

1 Easy – Minimal physical exertion, mostly walking on even terrain with little to no obstacles.
2 Moderate – Some walking on uneven surfaces, navigating through occasional obstacles or rocky terrain.
3 Intermediate – Significant physical activity involving hiking, climbing, and maneuvering through uneven and slippery terrain.
4 Difficult – Demanding physical activity, including climbing over rocks, wading through water, and tight spaces.
5 Challenging – Extremely strenuous activity, requiring advanced physical fitness, agility, and endurance. May involve swimming, advanced climbing, and confined spaces.

Recommended Age:

 
5+

Duration:

 
4-6 Hours

What to Bring/Wear:

  • Long pants
  • Sturdy shoes
  • Bring reusable water bottles
  • Extra water
  • Bug spray
  • Hat
  • Camera
tour information

Maya Walk Tours recommends bringing reusable cups and bottles when coming in, to ensure responsible travel and consideration for our beautiful country’s environment. 

Min. # of Persons:

 
2

Not available on Sundays

Price:

US

$95

/per person

I have to say these guys go the extra mile to make people happy, Andrew in the office does an amazing job when he does his presentation of the activities he explains them very well in a way that makes you feel you are on the tour already.

– Tripadvisor review

I have to say these guys go the extra mile to make people happy, Andrew in the office does an amazing job when he does his presentation of the activities he explains them very well in a way that makes you feel you are on the tour already.

– Tripadvisor review