Is Xunantunich Worth Visiting?
Jose's Honest Take
Yes, I think Xunantunich is absolutely worth visiting. I say that not just because I’m a tour guide, but because I’ve been taking people there for years and I get to see their reactions every time. The part I enjoy most is watching someone go from, “Okay, we’re going to see some ruins,” to standing at the top of El Castillo with a big smile on their face. The ferry ride, the walk up, the history, and especially the view all come together to make Xunantunich a very special place.
The Journey starts with a hand-cranked ferry. One of my favourite things about taking visitors to Xunantunich is that the adventure starts long before you reach the site.
To get there, you cross the Mopan River on a small hand-cranked ferry. There is no engine - the ferry moves across the river by hand. It is a simple thing, but for visitors it is often one of the most memorable parts of the day.
Once we cross the river we drive up towards the archaeological site, which sits on a natural limestone ridge above the surrounding landscape.
And this is where you really start to understand why the Maya chose this location.
Is the climb to El Castillo difficult?
I’ll be honest there is some climbing involved - especially if you want to reach the top of El Castillo (which you should really do).
Xunantunich is built on a hill and El Castillo rises around 130 feet above the main plaza. You will need to walk uphill and climb a number of stone steps, so it can be tiring in the Belizean heat.
But you don’t have to rush. You can take your time. Go at your own pace.
Stop for photographs, drink some water and take in the surrounding area. I always tell my guests that the climb is part of the experience. When we reach the top you’ll understand why it is worth it.
That’s when most people forget about the climb.
The view from El Castillo is the best part of the day.
I’ve been to Xunantunich hundreds of times, but I still enjoy taking people to the top of El Castillo. You look out over the green landscape of western Belize, with the forest stretching in every direction. On a clear day you can see toward Guatemala and the surrounding Maya mountains.
Imagine being a Maya person standing in this same spot hundreds of years ago. Of course, the landscape has changed, but that feeling of looking out over the valley is still there.
And then there is the structure itself.
El Castillo is not just something to photograph. There are details carved into the structure and stories behind the architecture that are easy to miss if you walk around without a guide.
That’s where I come in.
With over 10 years experience I won’t just point at a building and tell you it’s name. I want you to understand what you’re looking at and why it mattered.
How does Xunantunich compare with other Maya ruins?
Belize has some incredibale Maya sites, but each one offers something different.
Caracol is much larger and more remote and the journey to get there is an adventure in itself. If you want to experience one of the largest ancient Maya cities in Belize, Caracol is remarkable.
Cahal Pech, is close to San Ignacio, it’s smaller and very convenient if you are short of time.
For me Xunantunich sits somewhere in the middle. It is easy to reach from San Ignacio, the ferry crossing makes the journey to get there memorable, the site has impressive structures to explore and the views from the top of El Castillo are difficult to beat.
It is also one of the few Maya sites where you can still climb the main pyramid, which makes the experience particularly special.
So, is Xunantunich worth visiting?
My answer is definitely yes.
If you only have time for one Maya site whilst visiting San Ignacio I would say Xunantunich would be the one to choose. If offers ancient Maya history, an impressive pyramid, spectacular views, a little adventure and the unique experience of crossing the Mopan River on an hand-cranked ferry.
And if you come with me, I wont’ just show you the stones. I will tell you the stories behind them and help you understand what you are actually looking at.
Ready to see Xunantunich for yourself?
Then book on our website belizemayaheritagetours.com
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