Horseback Riding to Xunantunich temples
Horseback Riding to Xunantunich temples
- Duration: 4–5 hours
- Age Restriction: 12+
- Time Frame: 7:30 AM – 1:00 PM
- Location: Xunantunich Archaeological Site, Cayo District
Experience the ancient Maya city of Xunantunich like never before—with a thrilling horseback ride through the scenic Cayo District! Starting from a charming local ranch, your horseback riding adventure leads you through beautiful, lush landscapes and along meandering trails, bringing you closer to nature. After the exhilarating ride, you’ll explore the impressive ruins of Xunantunich, home to one of Belize’s tallest pyramids, El Castillo. Climb to the top of the temple for panoramic views of the jungle and neighboring Guatemala. This unique and immersive adventure combines history, nature, and adventure in one unforgettable experience.
Your adventure begins at a local ranch just outside of San Ignacio, where you’ll meet your friendly, experienced guide and mount your horse. The first leg of the journey takes you through rolling hills and along trails that weave through the dense jungle. Along the way, you’ll experience the beauty of the Cayo District—vibrant birdlife, lush vegetation, and the chance to see howler monkeys, tropical birds, and other wildlife that call the area home. The horseback ride is leisurely, but you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy the natural surroundings and the occasional view of nearby rivers and valleys.
After approximately an hour of horseback riding, you’ll reach the base of Xunantunich—one of Belize’s most renowned Maya sites. Known as “Stone Woman” in the Maya language, the site features several monumental structures, and it was once a powerful city during the Classic Maya period (250–900 AD).
At the site, you’ll be led by a knowledgeable guide who will explain the history and significance of El Castillo, the Ball Court, Maya tombs, and other key structures. You’ll climb the famous El Castillo pyramid, which stands at 130 feet tall, to witness stunning views of the surrounding jungle and the nearby Guatemalan border. The views from the top are breathtaking and give you a sense of what the Maya civilization experienced as they dominated the region.
Before heading back, you’ll have time to explore the site’s plazas and structures, learn about the Maya’s astronomical practices, and take in the beauty of Xunantunich’s impressive carvings and architecture.
Afterward, you’ll mount your horse again for the relaxing ride back to the ranch, where you can cool off, take a break, and enjoy some refreshing drinks.
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Horseback Riding to Xunantunich temples
Experience the ancient Maya city of Xunantunich like never before—with a thrilling horseback ride through the scenic Cayo District! Starting from a charming local ranch, your horseback riding adventure leads you through beautiful, lush landscapes and along meandering trails, bringing you closer to nature. After the exhilarating ride, you’ll explore the impressive ruins of Xunantunich, home to one of Belize’s tallest pyramids, El Castillo. Climb to the top of the temple for panoramic views of the jungle and neighboring Guatemala. This unique and immersive adventure combines history, nature, and adventure in one unforgettable experience.
