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Xunantunich

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Xunantunich

Xunantunich Maya Ruins

Xunantunich is a Maya archaeological site located on a ridge overlooking the Mopan River in western Belize. Visitors go here to explore the remains of a city that served as a regional center during the Late Classic period, featuring stone structures and plazas.

Getting There

The site is located near San Ignacio. To reach the ruins, travelers must first travel to the river bank and cross the Mopan River via a hand-cranked ferry. From the ferry landing, a short drive or walk leads to the site entrance. The total transit time from the San Ignacio city center is approximately 20 to 30 minutes.

Planning Your Visit

Allow between 2 and 4 hours to walk through the site and climb the main structures. The time required depends on how much of the ridge you intend to explore.

Timing and Crowds

Arriving early in the morning is recommended to avoid midday heat. The site can get crowded during peak tourist seasons and on weekends. The region experiences a rainy season from June to November, which can affect trail conditions.

Nearby Attractions

You can combine a visit to the ruins with other nearby points of interest:

  • Actuncan: 1.9km
  • Belize Botanic Gardens: 8.1km
  • Hawkesworth Bridge: 10.8km
  • St. Andrew's Anglican Church: 10.8km

Updated September 8, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors

Tickets & tours

Admission prices and opening hours change often, so we don't list them here. Check what's on sale and at what price below — booking ahead can cut the queue at some places.

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Stays near Xunantunich

Sorted by distance, walkable ones first. Distances are straight-line.

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Xunantunich Nearby stays

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Itineraries including this place

2 nights, 3 days

San Ignacio 3-Day Itinerary (2 Nights)

A 3-day route through San Ignacio grouped by daily travel distance for optimal sightseeing.

Good to visit alongside

Actuncan

Heritage & monuments

Actuncan

An ancient Maya archaeological site along the Mopan River in western Belize. Traces of habitation spanning roughly 2,000 years, dating back to before the Common Era, can be seen here.

1.9 km away
Belize Botanic Gardens

Zoos & aquariums

Belize Botanic Gardens

Belize Botanic Gardens is set in a valley along the Macal River, showcasing both native Belizean plants and a variety of exotic species. Surrounded by the foothills of the Maya Mountains, it's a relaxing spot for a walk through nature.

8.1 km away
Hawkesworth Bridge

Views & landmarks

Hawkesworth Bridge

Hawkesworth Bridge is a suspension bridge spanning the Macal River, connecting the towns of San Ignacio and Santa Elena. It is known as the only suspension bridge in Belize that vehicles can cross.

10.8 km away
St. Andrew's Anglican Church

Temples & religious sites

St. Andrew's Anglican Church

An Anglican church built in 1905, located on Burns Avenue in downtown San Ignacio. It remains a modest, active local church that still holds regular services.

10.8 km away
Cahal Pech

Heritage & monuments

Cahal Pech

A Maya archaeological site atop a hill near San Ignacio, Belize. Its history dates back to 1200 BC, making it one of the oldest Maya sites in western Belize.

11.3 km away
Mopan River

Nature

Mopan River

A river flowing through the Cayo District of Belize, joining the Macal River to form the Belize River before reaching the Caribbean Sea. It's a pleasant spot to relax while taking in the natural scenery along its banks.

11.7 km away