Xunantunich Maya Temple

Explore One of Belize’s Most Spectacular Maya Cities     

Travel back more than 1,300 years as you explore Xunantunich, one of Belize’s most impressive Maya archaeological sites. Perched on a ridge overlooking the Mopan River near the Guatemala border, this magnificent city offers towering temples, remarkable stone carvings, and some of the finest panoramic views in Belize.

Your adventure begins with a scenic drive from Placencia along the spectacular Hummingbird Highway, widely regarded as Belize’s most beautiful road. Winding through the Maya Mountains, you’ll pass citrus orchards, rolling hills, limestone cliffs, and lush tropical rainforest before arriving in the Cayo District.

Cross the Historic Hand-Cranked Ferry

Before reaching the ancient city, you’ll cross the Mopan River aboard Belize’s famous hand-cranked ferry. Operated entirely by hand using a system of cables and wheels, this unique ferry has carried visitors, local residents, and vehicles across the river for decades. Although the crossing takes only a few minutes, it offers a memorable glimpse into one of Belize’s most unusual and enduring transportation traditions.

Discover Xunantunich

In the Maya language, Xunantunich (pronounced shoo-nan-too-neech) means “Maiden of the Rock.” According to local legend, the name comes from the ghostly figure of a Maya woman dressed in white who has reportedly been seen near the ancient city