35 Best Stops Between Guatemala City and Chichen Itza
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Wanderlog staff Updated • updatedApr 7, 2023
How long is the drive from Guatemala City to Chichen Itza?
The direct drive from Guatemala City to Chichen Itza is 700 mi (1,127 km), and should have a drive time of 15 hrs 29 mins in normal traffic.
If you’re going on a road trip from Guatemala City to Chichen Itza, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with Valladolid, Mahahual, San Ignacio, Bacalar, and Belize City, as well as top places to visit like Macaw Mountain and Semuc Champey Natural Monument, or the ever-popular Copan Ruinas.
Top cities between Guatemala City and Chichen Itza
The top cities between Guatemala City and Chichen Itza are Valladolid, Mahahual, San Ignacio, Bacalar, and Belize City. Valladolid is the most popular city on the route. It's 16 hours from Guatemala City and less than an hour from Chichen Itza.
San Ignacio is a town situated in the Cayo District of Belize, located by the Macal River and linked to Santa Elena via Hawksworth Bridge. The Mayan ruins of Cahal Pech are perched on a hill to the south of the town, with a small museum located amidst the plazas and temples. San Ignacio serves as the cultural-economic hub of Cayo District, characterized by rustic charm between two major rivers.
53% as popular as Valladolid
23 minutes off the main route, 47% of way to Chichen Itza
Belize City, located in the Central American country of Belize, is a bustling port city divided into north and south sides by Haulover Creek. The creek opens into the Caribbean Sea and features the manually operated Swing Bridge built in the 1920s that links both sides. The north side is home to various attractions such as the Museum of Belize which showcases Mayan artifacts and traces the history of the country. Meanwhile, local contemporary art can be found at Image Factory gallery.
46% as popular as Valladolid
22 minutes off the main route, 62% of way to Chichen Itza
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Mahahual, a charming village located on the Costa Maya in Quintana Roo, Mexico, has transformed from a traditional fishing village into a thriving tourist hub. Despite some negative portrayals online, it's actually a highly recommended stop along the Quintana Roo coast. The area offers more than just tacky souvenir shops and gringo bars; it's filled with local businesses that contribute to the unique tourism experience.
85% as popular as Valladolid
2 hours off the main route, 74% of way to Chichen Itza
Bacalar, a serene town in southeastern Mexico near the Belize border, is renowned for its stunning Lake Bacalar, known as the Lagoon of Seven Colors due to its mesmerizing blue and turquoise shades. Visitors can explore the 18th-century Fuerte de San Felipe, now home to a piracy museum showcasing colonial-era artifacts. The colonial San Joaquín Parish Church with its vaulted ceiling is also worth a visit.
51% as popular as Valladolid
23 minutes off the main route, 74% of way to Chichen Itza
Valladolid is a city situated in the Yucatán Peninsula, Mexico, featuring magnificent colonial structures such as the Convent of San Bernardino of Siena and the baroque-style San Gervasio Cathedral. The town also boasts cultural landmarks like Casa de los Venados, housing traditional Mexican folk art and furnishings. Visitors can explore Cenote Zací or venture to underground cenotes Samulá and X'Kekén for a swim.
Most popular city on this route
36 minutes off the main route, 95% of way to Chichen Itza
Best stops along Guatemala City to Chichen Itza drive
The top stops along the way from Guatemala City to Chichen Itza (with short detours) are Hol Chan Marine Reserve, Bacalar Lagoon, and The Belize Zoo and Tropical Education Center. Other popular stops include Reserva de la Biósfera Sian Ka'an, Copan Ruinas, and Maya Chan Beach.
Copán Ruinas is a town located in the Copán Department of Honduras, close to the Guatemalan border. It is an important tourist destination due to its proximity to the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Copán Archaeological site, which belongs to the ancient Mayan civilization. The town features charming colonial-style streets lined with numerous restaurants that offer tasty local cuisine. Despite being a small town, it is considered safe for solo travelers at night.
Tropical bird sanctuary in a natural mountain setting with trails, viewing platforms & dining.
This is one of my most favorite places on the planet. The macaw is a glorious bird and the work done here is just amazing. Go see some awesome birds up close. Be sure to buy some bird cookies to feed them from your hand.
As an added bonus, take a swimsuit and towel. They recently added a great little swimming hole on the river. If you pack a lunch, your trip could easily be 4 or 5 hours.
Kris Martin — Google review
Macaw mountain was beautiful! The river that runs along the exhibit is perfect all the birdlife look well taken care of. The keepers are well informed and knowledgeable of the macaws and you can tell they love the macaws.
christian barahona — Google review
Everything was amazing. I went from Florida and was very disappointed about not taking pictures with the birds !!!! They don't take pictures anymore since covid, and I understand, but I wish they would've updated that online.online, it says pictures at 1:00 pm. That's a LIE ! That's why I went ... the roads are quite hard, so make sure you take the right car 4x4 ...
Be_happy — Google review
Awesome bird rescue with a Macaw breeding program. The animals are beautiful to look at with an outdoor walking path. If you love animals or birds specifically check it out. We walked around for 2 hours and saw/read most of the park.
Ben Welton — Google review
If you're visiting Copan and don't visit "Parque de Aves" you'll be missing out. Here, you'll see a wide variety of different birds in cages and also outside. The Scarlet Macaw roams around by the dozen in the trees above. It's a beautiful site to see.
Oscar Enrique Arias Paz — Google review
They really care about the birds. Taking care of them. The park was good and proper. The staff is well educated and want to tell you everything about their job and the birds. Beautifull plants and the enviroment is also amazing.
Anniek Slinkman — Google review
Incredible rehabilitation center! Definitely worth the visit! They are doing incredible work!
Bhav Patel — Google review
Way way way better than expected. Set in a beautiful river canyon, this sanctuary and hatchery boasts very nice birds in a super nice layout. Seems thoughtful and well planned start to finish. Workers all very friendly. Felt very good about spending money here while in Copan Ruinas. Very informative with many infographics to let you know what is what. Recommend for sure.
Drew Kovacic — Google review
Well worth the visit. Beautiful location with aviaries set amongst tropical jungle. Also has free roaming scarlet macaws flying around. Well worth the 240 limpira entry.
Graeme Holroyd — Google review
Absolutely worth the time and money to visit especially if you are an animal lover! We had a wonderful time wandering among the birds and learning all about the wonderful work that is being done to revitalize the native bird population of Copan.
Lena Sterne — Google review
Excellent place! For the price it's quite reasonable.
Emma Britt — Google review
Such a neat place, and a sanctuary as well! You can learn a lot from the staff and all the signs... Nice walk through the forest, about 80+ birds, and even a few in an open courtyard for photos. Great coffee too!
Pete Birmingham — Google review
This place is awesome. You walk through a forest like atmosphere that allows you to see as well as interact with various tropical birds including macaws and toucans. You even get to hold them and take pictures. Definitely worth it to go to
Sus Paul — Google review
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4.5
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2 Km al Norte del Parque Central, Carretera a, 00504 Agua Caliente, Copán, Honduras
Semuc Champey is a lush tropical park with breathtaking jungle views, an abundance of caves, and numerous swimming holes. The limestone bridge, spanning 300m, is home to cascading pools filled with cool river water ideal for swimming. Despite its remote location and lack of luxury amenities, Semuc Champey remains one of the most beautiful natural monuments in the country. This makes it a perfect destination for adventurous travelers seeking a taste of paradise amidst rugged terrain and rugged roads.
Fantastic trip to Semuc and the caves. We went with Utopia hostel. I would recommend a tour as you cannot enter the cave without a guide, also you can walk it from hostels but it's up to an hour and more in 30+ degrees. We did the viewpoint and pools first then the cave and waterfall. It was fantastic. Make sure to do the couple of jumps by the water falls if the river is high enough. One in 5 metres and the other is 10 metres. We also tubed back to our hostel which was great fun. I think the river is low now and getting lower so tubing and diving may not be possible.
Andrew Cotter — Google review
Beautiful place, Worth the hike to the top, to see the amazing birds eye views below. About 30 mins hike to the top with small fruit shacks along the way by locals, for nibbling long the hike. Once the hike is done. Head down to the natural pools and enjoy the dip in them.
Sai S — Google review
Once in a lifetime experience! BRING CASH before entering Lanquin-Semuc. Cash only and not many locations for ATM. Enjoy the friendly Q’eqchi’ Mayan people and their culture, and the views!!! The pools offer a fun, exploratory and also lazy day on the river. Please make sure to be aware that if coming from Lake Atitlan or Antigua-Guat City, it’ll take between 7-10 hours shuttle ride each way (Guat is closest, with Atitlan being the farthest). We stayed at a private location, so we can’t attest to the Hostels. But get to Semuc early, hike the Mirador views (stunnning), then head to the other side of the mirador path, alllll the way down to the northern side of Semuc and slowly swim and chill your way down (some places offer deep enough spaces to jump and dive while others don’t so be mindful!). There’s tubing down the river, that we didn’t do. But we did the Kamba Caves (look around for Freddy, he was the best tour guide), and boy, what an experience. Follow directions carefully and bring strong water shoes. Smells a bit funky but go with the flow. Holding candles like the Mayans used to do, and go through some fun rituals (face painting). Having a waterproof phone case is great if you want pictures. Headlamps are okay but not really needed. Candle wax didn’t bother me too much but know it’ll burn on your hands and arms, so just move the candle down to let the wax melt into the water. Overall, a true one day experience is all you need here. 9-3pm is perfect amount of time. Don’t worry. You’ll get plenty of locals offering to sell you beers, drinks and food. A must experience, and worth the journey to some but not to others.
David S. — Google review
Super relaxing pools and waterfalls. Skip the guide and go yourself. The mirador is a nice uphill stair hike/climb. Bring a book, buy sliced mango once in the park and spend you’re day here. DO NOT EAT AT THE RESTAURANT AT THE YELLOW BRIDGE.
Alex — Google review
Definitely worth the visit! I would recommend going early in the morning so that you can avoid the huge crowds. I would also recommend going uphill first and then going downhill towards the lake after the hike, else you’ll be wet while hiking :).
There were 2 lovely dogs accompanying us up the hill, which was nice! At the top there were some locals selling some food/drinks if I remember correctly. The hike isn’t so challenging and the route is quite clear. Bring some food and water and you’ll be fine. Oh and make sure to bring a mosquito spray, these are terrible here..
Michael vd Berg — Google review
Beautiful place with fresh natural pools. The hike to the top is a 30mins one way uphill to see the top view of the pools. It’s nice to see the aerial view of the pools. I would not recommend this to someone not into hiking. Along the hike you will find locals selling fruit, soda and water. There are lockers for keeping the stuff safe while you swim across the pools. It’s great to chill in a pool even if you don’t want to swim.
Kavya Gorrepati — Google review
Absolutely beautiful place, if you take a tour here you'll start off by exploring the water caves with candles and you'll go about 1km inside (the total length of the caves is 11km- possibly can explore the rest if you go by yourself or arrange differently) and you'll be swimming and climbing at some points. After they'll take you to the waterfalls for a swim, lunch then a hike up to the viewpoint for an aerial view of the pools, then down to get fresh as you'll be very sweaty after the straight upward hike. The pools are very lovely to swim in and for photos, if you have a waterproof phone case/cover I'd recommend bringing it, especially for the water caves. Don't miss this place.
Sean Patterson — Google review
Very beautiful place! I like the very clear pools you can swim in. There's little fish 🐟🐠 that like to check you out😀 which I found disturbing trying to sit and relax as they are constantly nibbling at you 😎. Great experience otherwise!
Google User — Google review
It takes a long time to get here from Flores and Guatemala City - up to 12 hours by bus on very rocky roads!
When you arrive there are limited choices to stay but highly recommend Greengo’s. Semuc is a short walk up there hills.
The view is good and you are allowed in the water to swim. Take water shoes that have some grip. You can buy these from locals prior to entering.
There is a trek to a view point that is tough but rewarding.
Take plenty of water, there are locals selling coconut water and fruit on the way.
A long time travelling and I would question if it is worth it…
Cash only.
Micky Riddell — Google review
Definitely worth the visit. Super peaceful and a great way to enjoy the nature. Unfortunately it is full of tourists so it can get very busy so highly recommend getting there very early. You can enter park and go out to enjoy a buffet of great local food for lunch then Re-enter the park for the afternoon. Hike up to the top for a great view.
Laura C — Google review
Definitely a highlight of my trip to Guatemala. Stunningly beautiful from both the lookout and the pools themselves.
I did the cave tour/tubing before visiting the park and highly recommend, even if it's a little pricey at ~100Q. The only thing I'd skip is the rope swing into the river because it's not very deep and it's hard to not land awkwardly, plus there are a few other much nicer opportunities to jump into deeper water later in the tour.
The hike to the summit takes roughly an hour and has a bunch of places to stop and rest where you can buy cold drinks from the locals. Definitely do the hike before swimming because it's sweaty and you can cool off in the pools when you're done.
Joshua Varughese — Google review
This place is difficult to get to, but it's well worth it. It is a series of pools, interconnected by beautiful waterfalls. The scenery around it is beautiful, set between two high mountains. The water is crystal clear and not too cold to swim in. It's even possible to slide down some of the waterfalls into the pools on the next levels down.
There is a viewpoint that you can climb to up a long series of rock steps and wooden staircases. This takes around half an hour to climb and is really very demanding, but the views from the top are breathtaking.
At the entrance, there are vendors selling freshly prepared food, but if you want some, get it before you enter as there are none near the pools. There are toilets, changing rooms and even lockers to place your items, although it seems that you need to bring your own padlocks to lock them. Many people just leave their bags by the side of the pools though and although it's not guaranteed, it seems quite safe to do so.
Hidden Findings — Google review
It’s one of Guatemala’s top tourist destinations but quite off the beaten track so you don’t have to share it with too many. It’s pretty but in the end just a fancy river in the jungle… Excess road is rough but doable in a soccer mom 4WD SUV.
Jeroen Berghuis — Google review
Absolutely stunning! The natural pools are crystal clear and make for a lovely swim (and beautiful pictures). We went in by ourselves on day 1 and with a tour on day 2 which was perfect because it gives you the time to explore but also to combine with the caving (which was awesome) and tubing and be with a group. Tip: the shallow part right after the lockers is a great place for a natural fish spa, just put your feet in the water and the fish will come to you :)
Sanne V — Google review
Great place to visit on a sunny day. I think it is a little over hyped in the travel community. But the nature pools are really pretty and the water is clean to swim in. A steep 30 min hike to the view point. Recommend to avoid flip flops. 50Q entrance.
Sophia — Google review
Pretty cool place, would recommend going, clear waters and nice to chill in on a hot day, the hike is worth it although steep. 50 to enter per person, they are rebuilding the main road to the waterfalls so sometimes you might have to wait to enter the road
Hector Sherry — Google review
One of the best experience in Guatemala for sure! The road is very rocky, therefore I don’t recommed to go with your own car. Also, best experience with the guide. At first I was a bit sceptical, but once we started exploring caves and going to places I would never have found by myself I was absolutely over the moon. Guide Daniel is best +502 3227 4500
Ugnė Žiaukaitė — Google review
Nice Pools of Water and River to bathe. But the drive to get here is not worth the Views. It is highly over rated. Additionally please be Very Careful!! The Food Places often try to Rob Tourist! They will offer you one Price and after eating the Meal they will increase the cost on you! I suggest Do Not Participate in any of the Locals food or Dishes! Very Unsanitary and Dishonest people!! I do Not Recommend going here!!!
Visham Ramdhanie — Google review
Great place to relax where the Earth swallows the water... That's the literal translation. Walk up to the mirador and have a look. Walk down and swim in the pools. Find your way in a dark cave. Jump off the big rock at the waterfall. Tube down the river. Three days is plenty long enough to visit here. Stay at GreenGos for Internet and food. Stay at El Portal if you want to disconnect.
BJ Wallen — Google review
Wonderful place!
The road to arrive here is getting better and better, so far, it's already an easy ride!
Yuri Segalerba — Google review
Very beautiful place, a small entrance fee but well worth it. Great views from the lookout and lively spots to swim in. Really enjoyed my day here.
Carol Williams — Google review
Favorite place visited in all Guatemala! What a paradise this place is. If you go, I suggest to stay at Greengo’s which is only a 10-15min walk from Semuc Champey. We were able to visit it two days in a row which was amazing.
My partner and I did a sunrise tour of Tikal. Our guide, Marlon, we very kind and knowledgeable. We had a cute breakfast and lunch with him throughout the day, and got to explore so much of Tikal! We had an excellent time!
Erik Nickerson — Google review
Truly wonderful tour made possible only by Gemtrips. Marlon and Evelin are super nice, accommodating and knowledgeable (both in the archaeological and ecological aspects) of the Tikal area. The sunset tour with Marlon is one of my best time in Guatemala
Huopu Zhang — Google review
As the owner of an expedition company, I have experience of many tour operators and guides. I recently led a team of mixed ages to Guatemala that included a tour of Tikal and the surrounding Jungle with Gem Tours. Marlon and Gem Tours were exceptional and treated us throughout as though we were their only customers. As a guide Marlon was wonderful. His ability to manage groups, coupled with his friendly demeanour and exceptional knowledge of the park, its animals and the jungle made our trip. I would very highly recommend Gem Tours.
Venture Force Ltd — Google review
The sunset trip to Tikal was incredible.
Marlon was our tour guide. Great communication before the trip started. He picked us up at our hotel in Flores. Comfortable van with AC for just over an hour to the park.
Once at the park, we had a delicious lunch of traditional Belizean food. The chicken pepinazo was delicious and we had great service.
The tour included seeing so much wildlife including monkeys, crocodiles, turkeys, caterpillars, toucans, frogs and toads, tarantulas and more.
Marlon was very helpful for those of us who couldn't see them at first! We also leaves about different plants, trees and flowers, and even saw some plant that folded onto itself when you touched it.
The tour included walking through the archeological sites and climbing pyramids. There was always an opportunity to ask questions and Marion always knew the answers.
We ended at the Grand Pyramid to watch the sunset. Incredible and moving experience. Marlon was very helpful helping one of us who is afraid of heights to get down safely! Thank you!
A walk back in the dark and the ride home concluded the trip.
Thank you Marlon for an unforgettable experience!
Anne Renaud — Google review
Marlon is a one-of-a-kind, truly exceptional tour guide. He has decades of experience and in-depth knowledge of the area, animals, and Mayan ruins. He had adequate stops, engaging content, and diversified the content between ruins, animals, and history. He also had lunch lined up at the end of the tour, which was a welcome respite.
Separately, Marlon arranged transportation to and from the airport and our hotel in the park, which was seamless.
Jeff Cook — Google review
We did a sunrise tour with Marlon and it was an incredible experience! From the wonderful breakfast that was provided to the never ending knowledge that he shared with us it was all in all an A+ experience. He also kept a list of animals we encountered and took photos to send us after the trip. Marlon made this a unique and self tailored to our group needs/interests. If you want an authentic experience look no further than Gem Trips!
Andrew Gass — Google review
Marlon was an exceptional guide. He answered all of our questions about the Tikal ruins and more. He's truly passionate and knowledgeable. He even took amazing photos for us paparazzi style which was great for our group of 11 girls who love pictures! His genuine kindness is also very obvious. He was always picking up trash as he saw it and our group had fun helping him too as we also care about keeping things clean for others to enjoy. A very special person who I'll recommend to anyone to book with. We used him when we stayed in Belize but he had a helper on the Belize side to help us across the border stress free.
Amber Repensky — Google review
Marlon/GemTours are amazing. Of course Tikal and the wildlife was amazing, but Marlon's knowledge and overwhelmingly love of his history, country and wildlife is contagious. His sense of hospitality and teaching is of the highest grade. His dedication to his family, his craft and his heritage comes out as he guides you through this area. This was our first tour in Guatemala and we arranged pick up from Flores Airport. We travelled to Jungle Lodge with wonderful conversation (his English is great) and a great truck! We started first thing in the morning, 4:00 am and finished up before Lunch. We had arranged transport to Isla de Flores and finished our tour with Marlon/GemTours.
There is so much more of Peten to explore and wouldn't think of doing so without Marlon/GemTours.
Jim Judge — Google review
Tikal sunrise is a excellent experience. You can enjoy all natural sounds while the jungle wakes up. And this experience has the best guide…he is Marlon. Marlon is a very kindless guy, he explained every details about the maya’s history, traditions and nature. Definitely, I recommend him 1000%!
Mariana Obando Céspedes — Google review
Absolutely incredible experience with Marlon on the sunrise tour. It was everything we wished for and more. It started early with coffee and fruit before walking into the park in the dark to see tarantulas and frogs, with the surrounding howler monkeys to be heard in the distance. Once at the sunrise lookout, Marlon provided binoculars as he spotted so much wildlife including toucans, brown jays, parrots, spider monkeys, caotis, an eagle, and a rare anteater. He has such an amazing knowledge of the ruins and it’s inhabitants and a respect for its longevity. He takes care and picks up trash left by visitors while providing you with history and stories of the park and the ruins. Then to finish it off we had an amazing lunch together that’s as way better than we expected!! Thanks Marlon!
Shelby Willburn — Google review
Marlon was absolutely amazing. He contacted us a day beforehand and made sure we were ready to go, and was gracious and friendly even as early as we started the morning of. He was a very courteous guide, making sure everyone felt safe and enjoyed themselves on the hike, while maintaining a good pace for all involved. Our group was 4 people in total which was great. Marlon took his time explaining Guatemalan culture in general, the area of Tikal and its long past, and answer what seemed like endless questions from our group! He was very knowledgeable about local wildlife and we were able to see multiple types of monkeys, birds, and other local wildlife. He moved at our pace and we never felt rushed or in one place for too long. He even made a quick and kind detour to the bathroom while I wasn't feeling well during the hike.
I would suggest to anyone to seek out GEM trips for their Tikal tour. The sunrise morning hike is especially worth it, allowing you to see the sights before the park gets busier during the day, and waking up with the animals before the large crowds scare them away!
Julianna — Google review
An absolutely amazing experience! We had such a great time with Marlon on the sunrise tour of Tikal. His deep knowledge on Mayan culture, structures and biosphere filled our tour with such detail, it really made our experience. The rest & refuel spots he selected for our tour gave us excellent opportunities and vantage points from which to observe the plethora of wildlife from the rambunctious howler monkeys, various species of birds and down to the smallest... the ants. He explained how each one of these contributes to the health of the biosphere and how they would've been helpful to the Maya. Marlon was keenly attentive to our group as well as the surroundings (if another group was being too loud we would move on and revisit) catering the tour to suit our interests and create the best experience.
Toward the end of our tour we had a situation come up with our lodging for which he was very accommodating, going well beyond his duty.
An added benefit he is an excellent photographer, capturing candid moments that made our experience on the tour quite unique and awesome.
Carolina Contreras — Google review
We spent a magical time with Marlon on this tour. Saw lots of wildlife which we would not have spotted without Marlon. He has a great knowledge of the site and history which meant we felt we could begin to understand this fabulous place. The hours before it got light in the jungle were amazing. Snacks and coffee was just right and lunch was great. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend. Gracias Marlon!
Crust Family — Google review
We had the absolute pleasure of having Marlon as our private guide in Tikal and Yaxha for 3 unforgettable days.
Marlon is the best tour guide we had ever had in any country (Guatemala, Mexico, Costa Rica, Ecuador, etc.).
His knowledge and respect of the Mayan culture, pyramids, the fauna, and the flora is vast.
(Master Class Level)
Marlon is:
- Extremely Knowledgeable
- Speaks Excellent English
- Flexible
- Accommodating
- Friendly with a great sense of humor
- Punctual and
- Has reliable, safe, and comfortable transportation
I feel fortunate and honored to have met Marlon and look forward to many more adventures with him.
#Cabal #Calidad
JC Figueroa — Google review
This was one of the greatest tour experiences we have ever had. Marlon's knowledge and passion for Tikal and ability to genuinely share the experience with the group made for an unforgettable day. Our expectations were far exceeded as we explored the grounds and learned about the culture and the way of life of the Mayans. Especially nice was the small group. Marlon welcomed questions and enjoyed quality conversation. This experience will not be forgotten. I will visit Tikal again and only book with Gem Trips.
Papa Schenk — Google review
FIVE STARS! This was one of the best tours I've ever been on. Tikal is truly a special place and this tour is the best way to explore it. It really felt like getting to explore the park alone because our group was so small. You really get to soak up the natural beauty of the jungle and the magic of the Tikal ruins. Marlon knows everything there is to know about the ancient Mayans, every structure in the park and every animal in the park. He also really has the sunrise tour down in terms of timing everything and coffee, breakfast, and lunch. Plus the company is run by Marlon and his wife, which I really prefer to some other tour companies where you don't know whether your guides are well paid. I know this your is pricier than some others but I was so glad to be on this one and not one of the huge groups we saw walking around (and mostly avoided). Marlon is great at spotting wildlife and I really enjoyed watching the birds and monkeys and being there when the jungle wakes up. Can't say enough good things about Marlon and the sunrise Tikal tour. Thank you for a beautiful day ❤️
Katharine Voorhees — Google review
Had an amazing tour with Marlon! His positive energy, passion for his business, extensive knowledge and great organization made it truly remarkable. He brought me to the places where we spotted numerous wild animals and could enjoy fantastic views. I just loved the experience and will keep in my memory those unforgettable magical moments at sunset. Incredible adventure!
Nikolay Konstantinov — Google review
one of the best tours we've ever done!
From start to finish this tour was fantastic, as a small group the tour was personalised, we had a delicious and plentiful breakfast & lunch. Marlon was extremely knowledgeable and passionate about Tikal, he even picked up waste as we walked showing his respect for Tikal. Sunrise and listening to the jungle was very special, after this we explored the ruins on an arachaeological tour (most other large sunrise tours seemed to leave around 8am following a quick visit to the main temples however we were exploring until 11am). Marlon brought binoculars so we could spot wildlife and we saw plenty - toucans, oropendulas, parakeets, vultures, monkeys. Couldn't recommend this tour highly enough!
Clare Bowman — Google review
Marlon was the best tour guide we could’ve asked for as we spent 3 days touring Mayan ruins in/near Tikal. He was so knowledgeable and made our experience wonderful. The transportation to/from the airport and to sites was perfect, and our lunch spots each day were exceptional. We felt truly sad to part ways with him today and hope to return to Guatemala to continue learning about the beautiful culture and seeing more incredible sites with Marlon!! Thank you, Marlon!!
Cassidy Mattingly — Google review
From pick up to drop off, everything was great! Marlon is so knowledgeable and you can tell this is his passion. We learned so much history about Tikal and about the rainforest.
The food he provided was very traditional and perfect for the hike. It was what we needed for the boost of energy to keep trekking the forest!
It’s also worth getting there at sunrise when barely anyone is there. It starts getting crowded by the time you are done with the tour.
10/10 recommend Gem trips!
Valerie Ramos — Google review
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Esquina Bulevar y 16 Avenida, San Benito, Guatemala
Caracol Natural Monument Reservation is an ancient Mayan city, located near the Guatemalan border in Belize. It was once one of the most influential cities in the Maya world and covers an area of over 200 sq km. The site sits on the Vaca Plateau and is believed to have stretched over 70 sq miles at its peak around AD 650. There are around 40 miles of internal causeways that lead to large plazas and residential areas.
Absolutely amazing place to visit. Ruins are still being uncovered and the grounds are littered with shards of pottery. We visited the last week of June in the rainy season however it only rained heavily one day out of the whole week. There were scattered showers the rest of the week but mostly in the evenings. The rain kept the temps down so the days weren't ridiculously hot. We stayed at Blancaneaux Lodge, which is beautiful with the best staff. I highly recommend this lodge and the guided trip to Caracol.
Matthew McCune — Google review
The drive to get to these ruins took a little over two hours on mostly unpaved road. Time went by fast though as the scenery was very beautiful. The ruins themselves were great. It’s crazy to think only about 1% of the ruins there have been undiscovered!
Aiden Rodriguez — Google review
Words can’t describe how special it feels to be in a Mayan ruin like this all alone, surrounded only by the sounds of the forest and the feeling of being in the middle of nowhere with this place just to yourself.
If you hire your own 4x4 and arrive mid-afternoon when the small group tours have left, you’ll have a fun drive down and enjoy it in total solitude. They do seem to be upgrading the road, so maybe in a year or two the road will be paved.
James Robinson — Google review
We originally booked a tour with Belize Family Adventures to Tikal but last minute disputes between Guatemala and Belize over covid protocols and testing resulted in changing the tour to Caracol. From San Ignacio this was a 2+ hour drive each way on rough gravel and mud roads. Do not attempt to drive this route in a rental car. Our group was just our family of 4 plus our guide Leo who was fantastic. He had first hand experience with the excavation of the ruins making him a wealth of knowledge. The ruins are amazing and probably as a result of the bad roads there were very few other people there. Lunch was also very good. I'd highly recommend setting aside a day to see Caracol and using Belize Family Adventure for the trip.
Doug — Google review
Beautiful place, friendly staff around, its a challengeto climb to the top but it worth it.
Such a fantastic place full of history, you can hear lots of howling monkeys around too and visit the tree of life.
The only thing it's the way to get there.... the road still on construction and it's such a pain if you drive an small car, specially on rainy season 😑 the road are super bumpy and not the best.
Hoggustina — Google review
Definitely go with a guide or you're just looking at neat piles of rocks. If you're a bird lover, take some time to sit back and look because this place has some awesome ones including the collared aracari and the Montezuma oropendula.
Loan Chung — Google review
Superb. Remote location but worth the drive. Road is under construction but doable with any car in the dry. It’s getting a bit slippery when wet… very few visitors on a week day.
Jeroen Berghuis — Google review
What an incredible archaeological site, it was very special visiting Caracol. The drive to the site took us about 2 hours from San Ignacio and was mostly dirt road. There's about a 15km section towards the end that was pretty bumpy and rough but the drive was its own adventure. Make sure you have a vehicle that can handle off roading adventures.
This was the largest site we visited this trip to Belize and it really is just awesome in how massive and spread out it was. I was only here for about 2 hours and wish I had at least one more hour.
Brielle Soper — Google review
Amazing site and a must see in central America’s Maya’s land . A bit of a hard to get but you will have the ruins for yourself .
philippe fortunato — Google review
Great place to visit! Four stars only because of how difficult it is to get to! I drove my own vehicle, and the roads are just terrible! Need a high ground clearance 4WD vehicle to get there!
The ruins area is amazing! Just pay your entrance, and your free to roam as you please. It appears there are no restrictions on what you can climb and visit, etc. I went with my daughter, and we had no guide. We just explored and did lots of climbing!!! Perhaps a guide would have helped explain more, and it seemed that everyone else there had guides - or came with tour groups. It’s a full day with a tour group and guide. Half day if you drive yourself. Bring food and plenty of water - there’s nothing there! I will definitely go back if I get the chance!
Jeff deVita — Google review
Amazing experience. We stayed at the Crystal Palace Resort and did the tour through them. The guide was very knowledgeable and the ruins were amazing. We also got to see howler monkeys. The drive is pretty long to get there, about 2 hours from where we stayed. The roads can be bumpy though there was serious road work going on so probably in a couple years or so will be fully paved the whole way. They have excavated some amazing structures and you get to climb up to the tops. Seeing how the jungle had completely hidden things is amazing, some structures are only half exposed. Certainly worth the drive, maybe not for younger kids though. I
Our 14 year olds complained a bit but did enjoy it. 😀
Cyrus Bazeghi — Google review
A lil preview of my greatest adventure of 2023, in beautiful Belize. The largest temple at Caracol, known as 'Caana' or 'Sky Place,' truly took my breath away. Rising over 149 feet above the jungle floor, this massive pyramid is a sight to behold. But let me tell you, getting there was no easy feat! We had to conquer a 1.5-hour drive through a muddy, liquid sand jungle. I highly recommend a four-wheel drive for this epic journey! Can you believe this is the largest structure in all of Belize? 😱✨
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I had the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to climb this majestic pyramid, setting powerful intentions under its ancient walls. It was an extraordinary experience that connected me both physically and ethereally with the gods. Belize, you've stolen my heart forever! ❤️🌴 #BelizeBound #GreatestAdventure2023 #SeekingAncientWisdom
Brandie G — Google review
About 3 hours of drive on dirt road, lots of deep holes to drive through. Definitely you need a high clearance car. The view is spectacular and the ruins are the tallest in Belize. The park is well kept, very clean and friendly staff. Well worth it!
Suzy — Google review
Such a incredible, well preserved, and expansive mayan site. I would strongly recommend hiring a guide to drive you down there as the road is not well maintained or well marked, and once you're there the history and stories make exploring the sites that much more interesting.
575 sq km of jungle terrain with thousands of ancient Maya structures, including the city of Tikal.
Amazing experience visiting jungle and the biggest Maya lost city. I would advise exploring Tikal on your own during the day (entrance 150Q) and taking the sunset tour (+ 100Q) ( guide is obligatory in this case)
And advise staying in one of the hotels in the park. Unforgettable experience
Xenia Ershova — Google review
4 of 5 only because there isn’t organized shuttle back until he after dark tour. Also added they didn’t well disclose that you must purchase a site (day pass) with either your sunrise or sunset tour . If you stay at Tikal jaguar they are on a solar power grid so lights are all off by 8:00 pm & fans inside room turn off during night too .
No ATM cash only for guides , gifts . Guide is around $200 quetzal reservation plus 250 in the end . Must have passport to purchase entry tickets . It’s like 80%+ humidity so hydrate . Bring mosquito repellents.
Edith Melendez — Google review
One of the best places you must visit in Guatemala, Mayan ruins are the bestest in the whole world this was my 4th time visiting and every time is just amazing, remember locals pays Q25 and need to have your DPI'S Foreign pays Q150 and needs your Passport
E. Rojas Photography — Google review
Tikal was incredible. I definitely recommend getting a guide. They charged me $50 for 4 hours right at the entrance of the park. The park is huge and not having an experience person you will waste a lot of time. The park is very clean and well taken care of. The pyramids are beautiful. Buy the tickets before online if you can to
Save time. They are the same price.
Yandro — Google review
Very interesting to see. Took about half a day for me to feel like I had walked everywhere.
There is plenty of access to tour guides if you like. I made the mistake of dedicating 2 full days just to the ruins. I don't regret it, but would advise others to spend more time elsewhere on your trip. A full day was plenty
Adam Caplan — Google review
Absolutely amazing place. Visit early to see the animals and less people. Also avoid the heat!
John Russell-Smith (FamilyRussell-SmithTravel) — Google review
It's an amazing place. If you stay quiet you can listen to the wildlife. Spider monkeys hanging from the trees. Seeing the pyramid, it's a must. The view is spectacular
Mirta Najera vasquez — Google review
Everyone has to visit here at least once! We had a local tour guide take us around and boy am I glad. He was very knowledgeable, learning a lot of historical and interesting info about the people and structures. I am also glad for our tour guide because he knew the best temples to hike up to in order to whiteness a beautiful sunset as well as spot out dangerous snakes/spiders on our walk back once it was dark. The temples are amazing to be in the condition they are in for how old they are, you can even climb up to most of them if not closed off. (Climbing all the stairs can be exhausting so just a warning, I was sweating bad by the time I got to the top.) Great place to take pictures. Was very very hot and sunny so yes to brining water, snacks, bug spray and sunscreen. There are bathrooms periodically throughout the park. Talk about jungle, this was the epitome of jungle. Not even 15 minutes into the tour and I saw 3 spider monkeys in the trees and even more creatures. The sounds of the jungle around me were so relaxing so much better than those “jungle sound podcasts”. I believe it was temple #4 that had the great view of the sunset and temple #5 that has the view of sunrise. Just buy tickets at the door, wasn’t that busy around 15:00 when I purchased my tickets and would consider a tour guide especially if it gets dark (we had no idea which paths lead out of there.) Recommend bringing a headlamp/phone if you will be there when it’s dark. At dark I was able to get an amazing picture of the constellations with the temple.
Lissy “LuLu” Webber — Google review
We stayed at the Jungle Lodge which was literally 2min walk from the park entrance. We were inside the park right at 6AM and rushed straight to Gran Plaza. Despite not doing the sunrise ticket, we still caught sun rising behind Temple I which was absolutely incredible and we were the only people in the whole plaza! We then went to the Lost World pyramid where you could see the morning mist and dozens of toucans and parrots flying around. Basically whatever you do, get here early so you can enjoy the ruins and wildlife all to yourself. Between 6AM and 8AM we only saw one other couple.
Aleksandra Milewicz — Google review
Good park, good architecture
May 2023
Tikal is approximately 60 km from Flores . There is regular public buses from Flores station ( 50 GTQ one way ) . Entrance park 150 GTK.
You can book everywhere tour guides from Flores with shuttle included, but it’s expensive then ( 60 usd ). Not sure you can book a guide straight at the park entrance .
The Tikal compound is Amazing. It’s pretty spread out and can be done by foot in 3-4 hours . Easy level fitness can be done flawlessly. So count a small day with the trip . It is very beautiful and well maintained. What I really liked was that it was not crowded ! Not much tourists , different than Chichen Itza in Mexico. And I saw heaps of animals as this is really deep in the jungle ( Monkey , Birds etc …). So very green
Strongly recommended .
Won’t stay quiet long as I guess Guatemala will become more and more famous . 👍
Ric Abh — Google review
Walking through Tikal is amazing. Watching the sunset from the ruins is a must (you need a guide for this). You can buy your tickets online with credit card and when you arrive to the park you just have to show the confirmation email at the entrance.
José Carlos Loarca Hass — Google review
The top place to visit in Guatemala. A Mayan city with pyramids surrounded by jungle noises - how bad?! The guide makes you realise how advanced a civilisation they were for their time. You have to wonder how many other ancient cities like this in the region that were also claimed by the sprawling jungle. Its very remote and the drive is long but there is a special aura to this place. Aside from the impressive structures, there is also opportunity to see lots of wildlife. Make sure and climb up to the top of the tall temple (be careful, no safety railing) to get a spectacular panoramic view above the tree line
Alan Egan — Google review
Super beautiful structures. Recommend going with a guide so you can learn about the history. If you have yummy blood you’re gonna get water alive by bugs. BRING BUG SPRAY
Jesse — Google review
The oldest and the most important ancient city of Maya. Must see 👍 beautiful, magic and mystic place
Jerzy Anonim — Google review
We visited here on a day trip from Belize and it was definitely really cool to learn and see the temples and the stories behind it. Mayan culture is so cool!
I also loved that it's nested inside a jungle and is shaded for the most part. We saw a ton of wild life - including a pair of toucan!
Anna He — Google review
Experiencing a national treasure with Rudy Larios, my father in law. An archeologist who assisted in its restoration. Also. Where my wife spent her early childhood.
Randy Meador — Google review
The place is on quite the scale which is of interest
They overcharge foreigners 6 x the price as locals which is a bit of a scam (the majority of us do not have salaries 6 x the going rate ) and leaves a bad taste in the mouth
Impressive archaeological site featuring the ruins of a pre-Columbian Mayan city from ancient times.
Fantastic! The largest group of restored buildings at Yaxha. A complex of three huge pyramids and residential buildings. You can climb all of them, and I recommend that you scale at least one. the views are great. A truly magical place!
Robert Chomicz — Google review
The North Acropolis is perhaps the most impressive part of Yaxha. Due to its elevated position, this well-restored part of the city has that little bit more character than, for example, the Grupo Mahler.
Koen — Google review
Definitely I will come back
Ruldy Carrillo — Google review
Definitely worth the trip is you're visiting Tikal or Flores! Better than Uaxactun in my viewpoint!
Rob Delgado — Google review
Must go! Pre Classic 200 BC Mayan ruins. Amazing views and astonish temples, easy and relaxing trails compared to Tikal. Great historic site!
Aldrin R. — Google review
Had the site to ourselves. Compact site so you can see most of it in 3 hours.
Stan Savinkoff — Google review
An amazing place!
José Furlán — Google review
Get an incredible view of the ancient world around!
Jeremy Thomas — Google review
Beautiful place to admire the lonely pyramids of the north acropolis in Yaxha ... amazing spot
Visitors can climb this Mayan pyramid, built ~741 CE & the tallest of its kind, for sunrise views.
Beautiful view over the jungle with the peaks of some of the other temples visible between the sea of green!
Jakob Laurens Schroevers — Google review
It was an amazing experience; we took the 4 am tour with a guide, it was amazing be prepared to walk the terrain was rough and muddy since it rained the Night before; we saw the temples, ruins under the stars and saw the sunrise ! For the morning tour bring a small flashlight if you can, we used our phones but it's better to conserve the battery; apply lots of mosquito repellent! Lots of walking and climbing upstairs
sonia donan — Google review
Very beautiful and interesting temple complex, which is surrounded by a forrest. Here you can easily spend the whole day and immerse yourself in the life of the Maya. Chitzen Itza could be considered as the boring brother. Scenes from Star Wars: Episode IV were filmed here.
Robert Milankovic — Google review
Truly a great set of impressive Mayan ruins. Best done with a guide for the historical details. If you have time and a vehicle, also go on to Uaxactan ruins.
Keith Jonah — Google review
If you are interested in these keywords such as Maya civilization, historical sites, jungles, nature, history, and walking, I recommend you visit here. I chose an English guide because I can't speak Spanish. If you don't have enough historical knowledge, I hope you'll be with the guide. There is a way for people to walk, but walking alone is likely to risk getting lost. I went with four people, including a guide. If there is an employee you really want to see, it is recommended to tell him in advance before the guide starts explaining.
+ The view of climbing the highest temple gave me a new feeling. At that time, I can't believe and imagine that the Mayans built these buildings and climbed up to these heights using the stone steps. We, human in these days can climb up to the top through just wooden stairs…!
Eun Roh (blessingmoi) — Google review
For the morning experience you have to hire a guide guy.and be prepare to long walk and a lot of steps up, amazing...
jose solis — Google review
Sunrise tour was foggy....
But the park itself amazing.
mark reuss — Google review
Great place. You can see it from outside, from the highway. Very interesting and great ancient architecture and Mayan culture representation.
Angels Art — Google review
Such a cool place! It's absolutely worth going up all those steep stairs to see the view over the tree tops, where the temples peep out.
emmely christiansen — Google review
Tikal's Temple IV is known mostly for its height and the views from the top, people especially like to come here for the sunrise. It is one of the tallest Mayan pyramids discovered thus far and at 230 feet it is almost two and a half times taller than El Castillo at Chichen Itza. The pyramid is mostly unrestored and covered by vegetation, except for the very top, meaning the sanctuary itself, the roof comb, and part of the final terrace. If you wish to climb it, you may do so via a serpentine wooden staircase attached to the pyramid. Once you negotiate the 180+ stairs in the humid Guatemalan heat you'll be greeted by the iconic view that George Lucas liked enough to put in Star Wars, Episode IV: A New Hope. Sadly, there is not much shade on the terrace but the view is superb. At the bottom of Temple 4, there is a small rest area with a covered patio, a restroom, or a WC, and a vendor licensed to sell refreshments in the park.
Robert Chomicz — Google review
Wonderful beautiful view, the forest is easily spotted and it is wonderful sometimes you can see monkeys and cotimundis!
Eli Der — Google review
In the beginning of this year I visited Tikal, an impressive archaeological Maya site, located in the dense and mysterious jungle of Guatemala. 🇬🇹 It is one of Guatemala’s most famous destinations but still less visited than the Maya sites in Mexico. 📸
I loved going out with a guide of Tikal Go, as the ruins come to life and you learn about the Maya history. Besides that, you will discover the jungle environment around you so much better, with countless monkeys, coatis, butterflies and species of birds. 🐒🦋🦅
Enjoy the pictures and check out the article if you want to learn more about a trip to Tikal. Can’t wait to go on new adventures with Tikal Go to discover more Maya sites in this area. 😍
Noureddine HASSANI — Google review
Pictures from the top. But to see temple 4 from afar, climb The Talud Tablero Temple (Structure 5C-49). Great view of multiple Mayan ruins with jungle.
Xunantunich Mayan Ruins, located on a leveled hilltop and accessible by a hand-cranked cable ferry across the Mopan River in Belize, is an impressive archaeological site characterized by pyramid-shaped stone structures. The site may have been occupied as early as 1000 BC, but the large architecture seen today began to be built in the 7th century AD. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views from atop the pyramids and explore remnants of Mayan civilization.
Highly recommend this site. It's a quick bus ride from San Ignacio (20 minutes 2 Belize dollars per person). From the bus stop there's a free ferry to cross the river and then a mile walk to the site which is mostly shaded. The setting is beautiful. I recommend going early in the morning as it'll be cooler and you'll get better light for pictures. One of the top Mayan ruins we've seen especially due to the setting and the lack of tourists.
Jacqueline Lemaire — Google review
Not a far driving from San Ignacio and totally worth it. Make sure to give yourself a good 2 hours to explore as there is so much to see. To get there you need to take a hand crank ferry which closes at 430. On top of the Xunantunich ruins you can see stunning mountains all around. Next time I would maybe book a tour guide to get more historical information about the site.
Jennifer Bernard — Google review
What a cool experience. We joined via excursion from a cruise and it was a 2 hour ride to the site. We spent 3 hours at the site and had an incredible lunch. I didn’t even make it all the way up the ruins cuz of fear but my family had a blast.
Mindy B — Google review
A Journey Through Time at Xunantunich: A Must-See Mayan Marvel in Belize
My recent visit to Xunantunich, one of Belize's most prominent Mayan ruins, was nothing short of breathtaking. Nestled in the lush Belizean countryside near San Ignacio, this ancient site offers a fascinating glimpse into the Mayan civilization.
The journey began with a unique hand-cranked ferry ride across the Mopan River, adding an adventurous touch to the experience. The short trek to the site was filled with anticipation, and upon arrival, I was greeted by the majestic sight of El Castillo, the renowned pyramid that dominates the landscape. Standing at about 130 feet tall, it is one of the tallest structures in Belize and a testament to Mayan architectural ingenuity.
Climbing to the top of El Castillo was the highlight of my visit. The panoramic views from the summit were simply stunning, offering a 360-degree vista of the surrounding jungle and the distant hills of Guatemala. It's a physical climb, but every step is worth it for the breathtaking view and the feeling of history beneath your feet.
I was also impressed by the tranquility of the place. Despite its popularity, Xunantunich retains a serene atmosphere, allowing visitors to ponder the mysteries of the Mayan civilization quietly; barely anyone was there when we were on a Sunday early afternoon.
In conclusion, Xunantunich is a treasure trove of history, culture, and natural beauty. It's a must-visit for anyone traveling to Belize, whether you're a history enthusiast, an adventure seeker, or simply someone in love with the beauty of ancient civilizations. The blend of natural scenery, archaeological wonders, and the rich history makes it an unforgettable experience.
bkandel — Google review
Xunantunich is one of the best in Belize! It has got such a great view for you to experience and also there are many different ways to enter the site. One in particular is through horseback, which was a fun experience in San Ignacio! Loved it so much!
Shayak Chaudhuri — Google review
Spectacular place, it's one of my favorite in Belize. The site is super clean and well kept, the site is well preserved. Saw several monkeys up close which made the trip more interesting. It's a must see place if you're in Belize.
Suzy — Google review
An excellent day. We were there on our own without a guide, early - 8am. No crowds. Buses and people started arriving about 10. We took the city bus from San Ignacio ($2 ea) and explored for about two hours. Nicely kept and you’re able to climb and roam virtually everywhere. We also heard howler monkeys which is always a treat.
Mark Duncan — Google review
Breathtaking ancient Maya archaeological site! The site is slightly more than 1.5 hours car ride west of Belize city. Walking around the site took about two hours with some uphill climb (but not strenuous) to see the El Castillo pyramid which was amazing. It is an open area, so a cap/hat or an umbrella will provide some protection against the sun.
CK Cheong — Google review
Absolutely stunning place. There are several ruins to see, and a museum. The grounds are very well taken care of. I highly recommend checking it out. Upon can drive up and you pay a small entrance fee per person.
Angie Hanchett — Google review
What a wonderful historical lesson. Thanks to our guide Selvin from Sweet Songs Jungle resort for making this an amazing adventure. Loved the historical context, the beautiful views and just the tranquility of being in these ruins.
Mohammed Yusuf — Google review
Great site, Go very early. You will want to climb and explore a lot, and the heat and humidity will be a limiting factor as the day progresses. The little ferry crossing is charming.
Mike Haykin — Google review
Xunantunich was the second archaeological site we visitited this trip to Belize and it didn't disappoint. The structures were incredible to see. You do have a relatively small hike up to the site but it's not really anything compared to the hiking up the structures themselves. Make sure you bring a hat, some bug spray, and water.
Brielle Soper — Google review
This is a beautiful site. The view on top of the ruins is wonderful.
Not too busy. Easy to get to in our rental car.
Kelly McNamara — Google review
Amazing site! Beautiful ruins with all sorts of cool wildlife. Iguanas just chilling at the top of the complex and bats in the belfry. Spider Monkeys all over the place. Worth the visit and very easy to get to. You have to take a hand cranked ferry across the river but it doesn't take long at all.
Daniel Robinette — Google review
Absolutely worth it. It's a big site with lots of things to explore. The view from the highest structure was incredible.
It's rare that you get to climb historical structures, and it was incredible to stand where ancient Mayans stood.
Jodi Sharp — Google review
Climbing to the top of the temple although difficult was invigorating! The effort put out in the climb was rewarded by the view from the very top! You can see the jungles of Guatemala looking one direction and Belize in the other. The road we traveled from the Belize City port to the Ruins was completely visible from up top.
I loved our tour guides who were very knowledgeable as well as enthusiastic about sharing the wonders of their country and the mysteries of the Maya.
Heather Hale — Google review
Absolutely breathtaking! Our guide was very knowledgeable. We went on a day with lots of cruise ship tours, so it was pretty busy, but the crowds would come and go so we were able to have the ruins all to ourselves at points throughout the day. It was nice to go at our own pace! I would definitely recommend a visit! Plus it was neat to experience the hand cranked ferry!
Alyssa Yeik — Google review
Incredible experience! If you go, don't be rushed by your driver. Take your time and wander around. We didn't line up a guide and sorta regret it. But, we eavesdropped on several other guides, sometime noticing conflicting information. Historians aren't always accurate so, it isn't surprising.
The site is huge and the structures enormous.
We stayed 3 hours and at the end walked along the edge of the ruins in the jungle. We saw howler monkeys swing through the trees. The park had almost cleared out and we felt like we had it to ourselves.
Todd Morrison — Google review
Wow. What a sight to see. Although you can see the ruins on your own I 100% recommend going with a guide, the history and knowledge they have to share makes the ruins that much more breathtaking. Also, first thing in the morning!! I went middle of the day, and I'm positive I sweat more than I have my entire life 😆 bring lots of sunscreen, cold water, and enjoy history at it's finest!
Ashley B — Google review
Very cool experience and very cheap ($5usd/person). You can climb to the top of the Castillo. We went without a guide because we have a toddler, but still gathered plenty of info from the educational stuff throughout.
Nina Santarelli — Google review
Beautiful place. Very hot wandering around early may, but it was amazing to have so few other people around. Definitely worth seeing.
Breezy Bri — Google review
My 3rd visit. Still moves me. Incredible to see what was accomplished, built between 600 and 900AD. Amazing. We hired a guide prior to getting on the ferry. Highly recommend. $50 USD
Ed Rascati — Google review
Beautiful. We hiked on our own (no tour) and we had a blast! We saw a spider monkey and lots of birds among the ruins. It is truly spectacular.
Meika Hale — Google review
Great tour and views of the area from up top. Just be mindful that cruise tour groups come periodically, so be sure to either rush ahead of them or check out another area as they are going through. They don't spend much time.
Eric Mittelmann — Google review
These ruins are just incredible! If you can find Miguel from Belize Cave Tours he does an amazing job providing fascinating information.
Ryan Smith — Google review
Booked a tour to this site through our resort. Servin our guide was awesome. Very knowledgeable about the history. The climb 134 ft was crazy and some of the steps were very steep, but the views from the very top was beautiful. You can even see the border of belize and Guatemala. Lots of walking but plenty of shaded areas. I would go early to avoid the crowds. When we left there were crowds of tours arriving and seemed a bit chaotic.
A A — Google review
We drove and picked up a guide at the car ferry. Elvin was a fantastic guide, I highly recommend a guide to visit the ruins. Very informative and fun 3 hours!
Judy Bowman — Google review
Worth the visit. We were extremely lucky to visit on a day where there were just a few people, no crowds. We saw a few spider monkeys jumping through the trees next to El Castillo.
Lisa Michelle Houston — Google review
Man, by far the most amazing experience I've had in Belize this far! From crossing the beautiful river by ferry to climbing to the top of the ruins, you must experience this!
Sherman Mc Nicolls — Google review
We chose this ruin tour because it was very close to where we were staying and it also had great reviews. Most resorts offer tours here, but we had our own rental car and you can just drive to it, get on the ferry to cross the river and get a guide right there. Important to know 2pm was the last tour offered when we were there so don't wait til later in the day to go. We loved it. We learned so much and it was amazing to see.
The Cahal Pech Archaeological Reserve is a historical site with ancient Mayan temples and scenic views, dating back to 1200 BCE. Although smaller than nearby Xunantunich, the unexcavated parts of the reserve hold much promise. The excavated areas are well-preserved and tell compelling stories of the past. Visitors are advised to take note of significant structures such as the priest's area, children's quarters, and other notable features in the back of the reserve.
We drove from Placencia to San Ignacio for the day to see the city and visit the ruins. These were a great option because we had a 3 year old with us. We had the whole site to ourselves on a Thursday morning. The staff were friendly and doing a great job of maintaining the property. The ruins are gorgeous and so much fun to walk around in and climb up. My son enjoyed playing hide and seek. It was $5 USD per person and well worth it! This is a great alternative to the ruins that are a little bit farther away and less safe for younger children. They were stunning!
Sonja Miranda — Google review
Oh wow, this place is really impressive. A huge sports complex 1200's style. You can really feel the presence of a special energy here. Thousands upon thousands of people over all the years have left an impression on this place. I'm no hippie, but this place feels incredible. For 10 US and some exercise, you can really have an opportunity to experience something pretty special. Run around, play all over stuff and be respectful. Just take a min to feel the special sauce flowing from this place. 😌
Lucas Hebert — Google review
This site is Compact, easy to reach and a very manageable walk to see these fantastic ruins. It is super cool with many complete chambers that enable you to visualize how they lived. Fascinating and well worth the $5US per person entry fee. I say this site should not be missed and we have been to 4 ruins recently.
J P — Google review
This is a gem of a place, with far fewer visitors than the big Maya sites in the region. Apart from a couple of others we encountered, we had it pretty much to ourselves for an hour, which was not really long enough to enjoy all that was on offer. If it lacks some of the enormous buildings of the main sites, plenty has been excavated and it is a delightfully atmospheric place to explore, well worth the effort to visit.
Phil Bradford — Google review
This is wonderfully accessible sight, even if you don't have a vehicle. It is up the hill in San Ignacio and easily accessible by cab. It is well worth the time to wander around this amazing site. There are no artifacts to be seen in the structures themselves but the history outlined in the small museum you pass through gives you a good insight into what you are seeing when you arrive to the ruins. This is a site that is hands on accessible and very interesting to imagine what life might have been like there some 3000 years ago.
Glenn Baum — Google review
A short walk from town and 10 Belize dollars for foreigners to enter, 5 for locals. A beautiful site right outside the city. The ruins are perfect for exploring. Our kids loved being able to walk into and through most of the ruins which are very well maintained. The people working there are super kind, the grounds are beautiful and mostly shaded and the restrooms were very clean too. A must visit for anyone in the area.
Jacqueline Lemaire — Google review
Another day. Another Mayan ruin. Yet I can’t get enough of them. Having spent previous trips to South America and Mexico I thought I’d have had enough of them but no, each ruin has a story, a history and that many people lived here as a community once upon a time.
This set up is very good. Plenty of parking. Nice entrance, small fee to get in, rooms with descriptions of the site with maps, ceramic pots and artefacts. Toilets are located in this building. Then a short paved walk to the site itself. It’s not large but there was something magical here. Perhaps it was the lack of people. Or maybe the silence except for cicadas and birds. Or maybe even the symmetrical nature of the ruins which with courtyards that feel like a backyard.
I sat on my own for some time listening to the wildlife. Feeling the cool breeze rising as the sun went down. The waft of that rainy smell on its way.
Perhaps I like this ruin more than others because it’s so peaceful and I felt a humble connection with Cahal Pech.
Highly recommend.
Debi Slinger — Google review
Spectacular. If you want a very easy Mayan Ruin to climb, this is definitely your best choice. It is easy to get around, and it's very beautiful and unique . It is great for visitors with children.
Jashua Navas — Google review
Way bigger than we expected and well worth the time to visit.
This is the third largest Mayan site in Belize and is so accessible being right in San Ignacio. We visited in the afternoon and almost had the entire place to ourselves.
The ruins are fantastic and we also saw howler monkeys and toucans in the beautiful vegetation surrounding the site.
Chad Thomas — Google review
A smaller site than the nearby Xunantunich, but one worth visiting. Most of the site is unexcavated, from the parts you do see you can imagine how much more goodness lays buried. The parts that are excavated are in amazing condition, and contain great stories. After you enter on the left you'll see a half excavated home, standing there and reflecting is recommended.
Remember to checkout the kids quarters, the priest's area, and other notables in the back part. Your visit will be memorable if you are with a guide, they can make the stories come alive.
Mini Rag — Google review
Small ruin above San Ignacio, costs the same as Xunantunich even though it's much smaller. The museum on site has good information texts. Definitely a worthy stroll if you have time in the town.
Petr Vasicek — Google review
Very quiet and few people here. We walked from city center by walk about 20 mins, met nice people who wished luck!
Inside the ruins there are different zones to explore, about 30 mins is ok for everything. We saw big snake and bird toucan with colourful beak so it's half like mini zoo as well!
Tripi Me AroundTheWorldTrip — Google review
Sehr schöne Tempelanlage mit kleinem Vistor Center mit vielen Informationen. Es sind schöne Wege angelegt und man kann mit etwas Glück viele Tiere beobachten. Wir haben Tukane zwischen den Bäumen entdeckt. Man kann die Tempelanlagen gut begehen.
(Translated by Google)
Very nice temple complex with a small Vistor Center with lots of information. There are beautiful paths and, with a bit of luck, you can observe many animals. We spotted toucans between the trees. The temple complex is easy to walk around.
Isabel — Google review
Cool place. There's a small indoor museum and then you walk up a path to the ruins, which are surrounded by huge trees. We saw an aguti here!
This site is quite small and you can definitely expect to be through it in under an hour.
Ry Book Suraski — Google review
We just had to visit. We are stay at Lost Compass Cabin as, directly behind the National Park.
My first Mayan Ruins. I was slightly disappointed. I expected big blocks like they make the Pyramids in Egypt out of. Or Olaytantambo(sp?)
Still, it's an impressive "collection" of stones pilled up in a pretty good set set of buildings. That's an usual way to "👍"
James Goodwin — Google review
Very first Mayan archaeological site we visited in Belize and definitely was the smallest but still incredibly impressive. It was raining the day we went but it didn't pour on us and we had the entire site to ourselves. It was a very special experience and easily accessible for small kids (we have a toddler so these things are important to us)
Brielle Soper — Google review
Amazing archeological site that actually lets you walk inside and observe the ruins.
Fascinating views and interesting historical objects all around. Very beautiful entrance with lots of botanical beauty. Definitely want to come back and spend more time.
nathan lunday — Google review
Cahal Pech is the little brother to Xunantunich but is so much closer to San Ignacio. So if you are pressed for time, or don't have transportation out to Benque, or the ferry to Xunantunich is closed due to high river levels, this is a decent second option. Sure, it's not as grandiose nor impressive but it does have some qualities of its own. There is a small little museum in the house where you pay your admission, there is a nice trail, there is a pyramid of average size, some bats in the little rooms and alcoves, a couple of excavations, and some other mounds of rock. 60 - 90 minutes ought to do it. 4 stars.
Note: Google Maps is incorrect... do not follow it either by car or by foot... it will send you astray. From the roundabout go up the road toward Yellow Belly Backpackers Hostel, 50 m in at the fork in the road (just before the hostel) stay to the right and continue up that road to the parking lot. Do NOT, I repeat, do NOT turn left at any point in time.
Wong Family — Google review
This site is impressive, more for its age and its place in the span of Mayan history than for its size. Its more rugged, less developed nature is also appealing. An easy stop in San Ignacio, a steep walk up the hill from the traffic circle, or there's reasonable parking if you rented a car. Enjoy the butterfly garden, and if you're luck like we were, you might see (or maybe hear) a howler monkey!
Mike B — Google review
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4WWG+9CJ, W. Ford Young Drive, C.A., San Ignacio, Belize
The Green Iguana Conservation Project at the San Ignacio Resort Hotel is a unique initiative aimed at raising awareness and educating both visitors and locals about the endangered green iguanas. The program offers hands-on interaction with these fascinating creatures, providing insight into their entire life cycle from egg to rearing. Situated atop a hill amidst 14 acres of rainforest, the resort is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including 150 bird species and 70 types of trees and plants.
Great quick activity in San Ignacio. Seems like it would be especially fun for kids. We enjoyed learning about iguanas during the one-hour tour, and we loved being able to pet and hold them. The entire tour takes place in a small enclosure (I was expecting something larger), but it provided plenty of entertainment and information. Even with a larger group (12 or so), we had plenty of time and space to take pictures and interact with the iguanas.
Emily Fletcher — Google review
We did a tour 3 weeks ago while we were in San Ignacio. The Green Iguana Conservation Project was established in 1996 to protect the threatened Green Iguanas. It is located in the beautiful San Ignacio Resort. Our tour guide was very knowledgeable and we learned about the incubation, hatching, rearing, and releasing process. My husband and I were the only ones in the tour which was special since we had more quality time and experience with the guide and the iguanas. Highly recommend for families and a great learning experience for kids.
Catherine Hunt — Google review
Went to the iguana tour ($22) during the day and it was cool, beautiful animals to see up close and ask questions. But this was nothing compared to the night critters tour ($56). We saw so many cool things: bugs, opossums, kinkajoe, schorpion, many spiders that are so beautiful (you really should do the tour to figure out why). Lots of special credit to Santos, our tour guide. I hope you will keep your enthusiasm mate! And I hope you will visit Italy and Germany for the cars and nature :)
Mirjam D — Google review
I genuinely enjoyed this 1hr iguana tour. There were only 4 of us on the tour so maybe the small numbers made for a better experience. We could touch, hold, and carry handfuls of baby iguanas; our guide, George, just continued to pile more and more onto our shoulders and heads!
It was interesting to learn about iguanas, even though I'm not normally that interested in reptiles. This is a very small refuge that only accommodates about 100 new iguana eggs every year, but then releases the mature lizards when they're about 4-5 years old.
We paid $20-30BZE for 2 adults.
Sarina Collins — Google review
10/10 experience, definitely a must when visiting San Ignacio especially if you love wild life and love to learn about the different kinds of animals within the country your visiting, the tour is about 1 hour long and definitely worth the money you can also get food and drinks at the bar/restaurant while you wait for your tour. Very educational and fun 10/10
elijah — Google review
Loved this experience! We have seen iguanas all over central america but it was so awesome to learn about them, see them upclose and touch some of the residents that can't be released. The keeper runs the 12pm tour and he was amazing, very clear and informative. The tour runs every hour on the hour, for 10usd/20bze. You book it (on arrival, don't need to prebook but can online if you want) at the San Ignacio Resort front desk and wait for the tour there, don't let google maps lead you the back way! The tour is suitable for children as well, there was a little girl in pur group who loved feeding the iguanas. We saw an agouti and black howler monkey on the surrounding property as well!
M J — Google review
LITERALLY AMAZING!! wonderful experience for everyone, especially if you aren't afraid to hold them — i got to have a bunch of iguanas in my hands and on my hat, and our guide was very informative and friendly, totally receptive to our questions! amazing and totally totally recommend :)
we went for the 11 AM tour, which lasted around an hour.
Shriya Sankaran — Google review
Amazing experience getting to know more about Iguanas.
Its worth the 10us spent as you get to see iguanas and learn the difference between the black ones and the green ones.
The green iguanas are a specie that needs to be protected and thanks to the project of conservation they are on a successful path.
We got the chance to see, touch and even to take pictures with adult and baby iguanas!
Totally recommend going there and helping the project financially !
jean-marc riscale — Google review
Had a great time at the tour. It was short but I learned a lot. We took turns taking photos with the adult iguanas. They did not allow photos with the baby iguanas. They said iguanas become domesticated real quick and crave human attention once they have it. So the only ones we held were adults who were unfortunately kept as pets and the owners either gave them up or died before the iguanas. They said iguanas become domesticated real quick and not enough people who take them as pets are willing/able to commit to 30+ years of them craving attention since they cannot survive in the wild. The babies were about 3 months old and almost ready to be released into the wild.
There are some reviews and photos that show the baby iguanas being held and touched with human hands. I hope those are older reviews and they no longer do that. I visited 7 February 2023 and they only let us hold the adults who were already traumatized as pets. Our guide said they no longer allow humans to hold the babies. 😭
Hopefully one day less people keep iguanas as pets, so there'll no longer be adult iguanas who require petting here. And even more, hopefully less people eat iguanas ("bamboo chicken").
Tours are every hour or so. Mine was at 12:15 p.m. and finished around 1 p.m. Best to arrive early enough to use the toilet and wash any chemicals off your arms if you plan to touch any iguanas. They have wifi you can use if you arrive early.
Maddi Petro — Google review
I didn't know how much I didn't know about iguanas!
We had such a blast learning about and interacting with these beautiful creatures. Our guide knew so much about iguanas and clearly cared about all of the ones they had on the property. So glad to be able to support this great effort to save them!
Megan Swilley — Google review
Funny that I should see an iguana while walking to this conservation area. I bought a ticket to see the iguanas. It's always nice to see nature but I wasn't overly impressed. The guide mostly talked about the $10,000 fine if caught poaching them out of season. (They are supposed to taste like chicken). Apart from learning about their attempts at breeding and their different colours, not a lot was gained. The major thing was to be able to handle them and take pictures. What really surprised me was on top of the entrance fee ($16 BSD) I was also charged a $2 BSD iguana service charge and a $2 BSD donations payable fee. Small potatoes I know but I was surprised there was no notice of this. So all in all it was a meh experience.
Vernon Ashby — Google review
Insightful tour and introduction to iguanas and their situation here in Central America - I learned a lot. Our guide was super knowledgeable and approachable, and it was great to see what’s being done to support the species. Would recommend.
Anna Mitchell — Google review
I found the experience to be educational and fun. I learned that iguanas are threatened in Belize and what is being done to protect them. We interacted with some adult iguanas that cannot be placed in the wild for their own safety, and held with some babies too! Great excursion for the whole family!
Sarah Read — Google review
We were so happy to have visited the Green Iguana Conservation Project. It’s a great cause and we really enjoyed learning more about the animals. Gomez & Peach were friendly and it was so much fun to be able to hold them !
Thank you to the efforts of this project, the workers, and volunteers.
Shira Morrison — Google review
Better than I expected! We got to hold the iguanas,, I was totally scared but they’re very calm animals. Great tour as we learned a lot about the iguanas!
Karie TouchOfGlam — Google review
A really interesting tour that lasted 45mins or so. George was informative and the whole place seemed genuinely about the iguanas and their conservation - he was pretty passionate about it. We did hold several iguanas but only ones sadly unable to be returned to the wild.
Simon Melvin — Google review
Great cause and a very interesting afternoon spent at the Green Iguana Conservation project.
Brian was an incredibly knowledgeable guide and the one hour tour was a highlight of our trip to Belize.
The green iguana is prized for it's meat and you can help protect them by visiting and learning about this interesting species along the way. Very interactive and fun for all ages
Chad Thomas — Google review
Tours are every hour on the hour and we just missed it when we arrived. They let you wait in the air conditioned lobby or you can have a drink at the bar while you wait.
The tour itself was very good. It takes about 45 minutes but it goes very fast as there is a lot to see and they provide a lot of information. You get to see all the different stages from eggs to adult. He even pointed out some resident iguanas on the way to the enclosure and explained the differences in the species. It was very educational but fun as well to see all the different stages (the babies were my favorite). Well worth a stop if you are in the area.
Kristi Vesterby — Google review
Walked in to see about a tour and had perfect timing. Waited less than 10 minutes. Great presentation from George. He’s very knowledgeable and obviously cares a lot about helping the Green Iguana. Even stayed for a while afterwards to bird watch and enjoy a delicious drink from the resort’s bar.
ATM Cave, also known as Actun Tunichil Muknal, is an underground archaeological site located in Belize. Visitors can take guided tours to explore the extensive cave system which contains human sacrificial remains and other ancient artifacts belonging to the Mayan civilization. Cameras are not allowed in the cave after a tourist dropped one on an ancient skull. The full-day tour involves swimming, hiking, climbing and squeezing through tight spaces with all necessary equipment provided.
A lifetime experience, worth every single penny. Guide was excellent and helpful, the cave is huge. Lots of climbing, swimming and squeezing through tight places. The tour provides all the equipment. Don't miss it!
Suzy — Google review
A fun activity to do in Belize! We booked our tour with Yute Expeditions (guide Philip). Their tour starts early, so you are the first ones in the cave! Which means that it’s still quiet and not much traffic. I would recommend visiting the caves during your travels in Belize and go early! Lunch is included in the tour and vegan/vegetarian is possible.
Stefanie Vandeweyer — Google review
ATM Cave, also known as Skeleton Cave Belize because of the 14 skeletons found in its main chamber. ATM cave is considered a World Heritage Site and is known for its unusual sizs chambers. This tour offers mild challenge and can be done by most age groups. It's best to book with a tour company in advance because only a limited number of visitors are allowed in a single day.
Mara Burgess — Google review
Wow! What an experience. I have never done anything as exhilarating as this tour yet in my life. We went with Maya Walk out of San Ignacio. Jamir aka JamJam was our tour guide and he was excellent. He told us all kinds of history and information the entire tour. He didn’t rush us though and really let us experience this amazing place. There were other tour companies but some seemed to be in big hurries and their people were moving quickly. I was grateful for JamJam and his pace. I really wanted to enjoy the whole experience and he accommodated.
This tour is not one for anyone claustrophobic or faint of heart. That being said, if you are committed you can do it. We had a beautiful 1.5 mile forest hike to get to the cave where JamJam filled us in on a wealth of history. You have to cross three rivers with only one getting to shoulder level.
From the moment you enter the cave you know you are in for quite the experience. There was rock climbing, shimmying through tight spaces and swimming at times. Ending at the beautiful Crystal Maiden remains. The ambiance and historic beauty of this place is not to be missed if you are in the area. Fantastic fabulous trip ending with a delicious lunch back at the car park area.
We have a place on Caye Caulker so we came in for the day and spent the night in San Ignacio. Maya Walk did a wonderful job of arranging our transportation from Belize City water taxi to ATM, then to our Airbnb and return transportation to Belize City the next day. Great way to see some countryside.
Would highly recommend Maya Walk and Jamir aka JamJam.
Anne Kinley — Google review
ATM Cave isn't for the faint at heart, instead it's a place made for only the fit and adventurous. Before venturing off into the cave, you must know that the place is very sacred and it contributes a key factor for Belize's history; especially for the Mayan heritage. Do note that nothing of artifacts should be moved or touched and always listen to your guide. Hence, NO CAMERAS are ALLOWED! Commencing into the half hour hike, you will find yourself crossing 3 rivers, only one will require swimming. At the cave you will enter an extreme environment made of darkness and constant walking in water. Watch your foot steps and never stray away from the group. There will be a few parts where you will engage in rock climbing. Take a small snack, and sufficient water. On a personal note, use a black socks throughout the tour. All in all, you will have such an amazing time and you will definitely be traveling back in an ancient Maya world. The cave is intriguing and by the time you come out, you will certainly have a great story to tell. Have a terrific time out there folks.
Chief Witz — Google review
This was one of the coolest experiences of our week long trip to Belize. From the very beginning of the trip it's an adventure. River crossings, swimming in to the cave, climbing, crawling, etc. Then once you're in the cave chambers the artifacts and calcified human remains out in the open are incredibly cool.
You don't have to be an athlete or in incredible shape to do this, but it's also no walk in the park. Just bring proper shoes because you'll be walking in water for 80% of the cave
10/10 would recommend and would do this again
Cody — Google review
Wow what a tour! We had an amazing time but this is was no joke physically. We are in good shape but there was significant rock climbing and ankle breaking potential on the slippery rocks. All went well for us but we were exhausted by the end. Definitely a once in a lifetime excursion with Mayan ruins and stalagmites galore!
Gemma Hobbs — Google review
Amazing historic experience - MAKE SURE TO BOOK A GUIDE IN ADVANCE. You cannot enter the cave without one of the 20 something local guides.
Patrick Bradley (Belize Caves and Limpkin Tours) was amazing and had a wealth of knowledge about the caves, history and other fun facts. YOU WILL GET SOAKING WET AND MUST BRING SOCKS. Shorts or pants, long or short sleeve doesn’t matter but would recommend tevas/chacos as the shoe. If you don’t have them, running shoes are okay, don’t go out of your way to buy them. This is a long day and is physically taxing, climbing in the caves and swimming. Wear a life jacket if you are afraid of water or swimming - the guide will provide. No mosquitos to worry about and you cannot bring anything into the caves at all (no water, phones, cameras, literally anything).
Our group was small (5 people) and it took about 7 hours round trip. Very nice having a smaller group!
Would 1000 percent recommend if you are in San Ignacio!
Brina Moh — Google review
I've been caving and spelunking in many cave systems and this one is by far the coolest all around adventure. The walk though the jungle, swimming through the mouth of the cave, boulder climbing, and all of the artifacts make this place a real life Indiana Jones situation. You can't take cameras in side which is great. Ypu would spend 2 hours just taking pics and not enjoying the experience. You'd honestly either lose them or ruin them in many of the spots where you have to swim. Easy enough that the 9 year old and 70 year old both killed it yet both had fun.
Derek — Google review
Lots written elsewhere so succinctly:
Go before it gets closed to visitors. It was an intense experience which made me feel closer to understanding Mayan culture. The very end of the tour where you see the sacrifice of a young woman is moving. You can feel the desperation of the Mayan people as climatic and other changes ended their way of life in the region.
Bring trainer shoes or similar, towel (showers available) and dry clothes. Socks are useful as you walk without shoes in the archaeological site. You will get wet to your neck at least. No cameras allowed. Some scrambling, it's not slippery. Most difficult part was getting up the ladder right at the end. One bit of the cave on the way out is a bit of a squeeze but the guide went around it and I'm sure it's an alternative route for anyone not willing to squeeze through getting very wet!
Enjoy!
Aaron Corp — Google review
Definitely worth a visit when you're in Belize! You'll walk, swim, climb and squeeze through the cave - so better not be claustrophobic. You should wear clothes, socks and shoes (e.g., sporty sneakers, trekking sandals) that you can walk / climb well in and that can get wet. At the end of the tour inside the cave, you'll only walk in your socks. Also bring dry clothes and some water, to leave at the tour operator's van. There are restrooms and changing rooms at the parking lot. No sunscreen, bug repellent, sun glasses or hats needed; no phones, cameras or gopros allowed inside the cave. So you'll only come in what you wear and make photos with your mind :)
Jana M — Google review
We can Luis as our guide on the tour recently and it was amazing.
We were somewhat anxious about claustrophobia before we went in, and while there are parts that definitely get the adrenaline going, you never feel like you are in danger.
There's a short swim at the start into the cave of maybe 20metres, this was the only time I was out of my depth. There are parts of the cave where you need to be able to haul yourself up, maybe equivalent to climbing a ladder. I recommend good running shoes to make sure you get good grip.
Luis was great, we were being overtaken by other tours constantly who were rushing through to get you in and out of the cave, where Luis spent most of the day explaining the local flora and fauna, as well as more detail than I could ever imagine on the archaeology. The pace was slow and easy, we were the second group into the cave and the last out, which goes to show how much value you get compared to other tours
D L — Google review
Absolutely loved this place! The caves are beautiful and traversing then is incredible. The tour's are a bit pricey, but well worth it! Definitely a highlight of travelling Belize and Central America.
Hayden Pitman — Google review
Luis and Johnny are a dynamic duo. They are punctual and clear on expectations to ensure a safe and respectful trip to and from the tour (listen to their instructions!).
Luis is extremely knowledgeable of the rituals within the cave. If you are an ancient history buff, I highly recommend going with Luis and Johnny as the information they provide are much more in-depth than any other tour groups seemed to have attained. Luis also provides an objective perspective on what was happening within the Mayan civilizations at the time, and specifically points out the more sensational theories that others may spin to appease the imaginations of tourists.
His wife’s cooking is also delicious as that’s what’s for lunch!
hc92123 — Google review
Amazing place, went in 2008, from what I remember there's quite a walk and a few river crossings before you reach the cave. Once at the cave there are a couple of times that you have to swim before you reach the bones and the pottery. I went barefoot and my feet were really hurting on the walk back from the cave as the river crossings are quite rocky and stoney, I would recommend a pair of crocs or similar plastic sandals.
Lee Vally — Google review
Cool hiking through the cave up/through the river. Great cultural experience also. The human remains from history are incredible, not many places you can get within inches of archeological artifacts and skeletons.
Moderate+ physical activity. Have to do some climbing and water is deep enough in places we had to swim. Great Time!
Nozslo — Google review
Definitely a must see if you are in the area. It is a guided tour that you aren’t allowed to take photos and you will get completely wet, as you will have to cross the river multiple times. and after entering the cave you will have to swim in some areas and climb rocks. It was really spectacular but if you have bad knees or can’t balance it might be hard for you. The reasons cameras aren’t allowed was due to three incidents that damaged the artifacts caused by fallen cameras. We did really enjoy it and would do it again if I visited the area.
Ahmed Said — Google review
We booked this trip through our resort. By luck or design we got a great guide, Luis. He's like Indiana Jones crossed with Neil deGrasse Tyson. The more attentive you are the more in detail he will go. We wore sneakers with socks, swimsuit and swim shirts. You will get fully wet and maybe cold by the end. No photos allowed past the parking lot
pooch punter — Google review
Very cool cave and ability to get very close to artifacts. Be ready to hike a bit, go in and out of water and through a couple tight spots. It was a highlight of our trip to Belize.
Brady Franklin — Google review
The most intense caving experience I’ve ever done. It’s sad that you cannot bring any cameras or electronic with you on the tour but tour company email you some pictures. I enjoyed the adventure so much! Swimming, crawling, climbing are needed. The difficulty level was measured as 6 out of 10, but our group had two 70+ ladies who made through! Our guide was taking us to the more difficult routes where at one point we had to fit our neck through a rock gap. If you have time and chance, do not miss out on this!
Emma — Google review
Mind blown!! I feel honored to have seen and done this! We went with Maya Walk tours. Great group! comfortable transport. Very fun!!!!! and lunch was both tasty and plentiful.
Carla Coberly — Google review
The ATM cave tour was one of the top highlights of my trip through the Yucatan peninsula. This was an incredible experience and one of the most thrilling experiences I've ever had. If you have any sense of adventure, you will love this cave tour. Before starting the tour, my two main concerns were footwear and temperature. I ended up wearing socks with Teva sports sandals. This combination worked well for me. I found it was important to have good foot support and grip on the wet rocks in the cave and for the moderate walk up to the cave entrance. I moved my feet very carefully in the cave while walking through the water. There are some sharp rocks and you can't see them under the water. If you move slowly and carefully, you should be fine. The water was a refreshing temperature and for someone who gets cold easily, I was OK with a long sleeve rash guard and shorts. The life jacket provides some warmth. If you worry about getting cold, I'd add leggings.
Helen Ting — Google review
One of the best things you can ever do!!! Go here - you will not regret it. Seriously one of the best experiences of my life and in my travels. I have never seen anything like it!
You hike and then swim into a cavern. Then you spelunk (but it's pretty open - not claustrophobic). Eventually you climb up a ladder unto a perfectly preserved Mayan ritual chamber.
You will not regret doing this experience!!!
The Belize Zoo, established in 1983, serves as a sanctuary for native animals that are orphaned or have been rehabilitated. Unlike traditional zoos which operate as maximum-security prisons for wildlife, the Belize Zoo provides natural habitats to its many rare species such as tapirs, coatimundi and pumas along with other exotic animals.
Excellent experience, very friendly staff. It wasn't to busy when we're there, the majority of animals there are rescue ones, I think this is something amazing, well done to everyone who works at this Zoo, they do a very good job, the place is very clean and the animals are very look after. All are so happy to assist you if you need, its free wifi around the place.
Restaurant its a good option for a bite after the walk. The place is small but had a very good variety of animals.
Hoggustina Hoop — Google review
We really enjoyed our visit to the Belize Zoo!
It was our first day in Belize, journeying from the Airport to San Ignacio, and what a way to begin our adventure. You can clearly tell that the people of the zoo truly care about their animals from everything from the enclosures to their sweet signs.
It is a great way to get a taste of Belizean wildlife as all of the animals have been found within Belize and being rehabilitated.
Highly recommend!
Megan Swilley — Google review
The animals are well looked after here. They have huge enclosures and are given the opportunity to have some privacy from people. The staff at the zoo were also really informative and friendly. If you want to do something extra special you can volunteer to look after the animals giving you the opportunity to get up close and personal with them. I think this is probably the best zoo I've been to where the welfare of the animal is first and foremost. I highly recommend visiting this zoo.
Vanessa B — Google review
Fairly small but in the right ways 1.5-2.5 hours is sufficient. Very intimate. Loved the Jaguar bridge above the walkway! Admission would have been worth it just for seeing the Tapir during feeding.
Brady Franklin — Google review
We LOVED it. All the animals are being rehabilitated, which is so great. Unlike other zoos, this setting truly is jungle. Down to the bugs (wear bug spray). There are amazing animals all around. Of course you'll love the leopard, toucan, and the snakes. But you'll be surprised and delighted be the other birds, like the Harpy Eagle, and the ocelots (listen to them grunt!), Owls (they'll hoot), and the pelicans (flapping to their wings like crazy in the water). Do take the time to read the signs, they are both funny and informative.
Mini Rag — Google review
A very cool little zoo. We went from opening time til about noon. We got to see the tapirs eat. We paid for a meet and greet with one of the jaguar and it was 1000% worth it. It was awesome being able to read about each animal's story and how the zoo rescued them. The signs were also funny as heck.
Loan Chung (Pikaloan) — Google review
If this is on your way somewhere it’s a nice stop; but I would not go out of your way. It’s $15 USD per person. $5 for kids under 12.
It’s more of a refugee center than a normal zoo. Your admission goes towards feeding the animals which is nice. A few jaguars, lots of birds and lots of tapirs. Bring so much bug spray. There’s a gift shop that’s a bit overpriced and a small cafe with ice cream and drinks that are very affordable. Clean bathrooms.
Alessandra Camargo — Google review
Small zoo showcasing native Belize fauna in naturalistic settings. Needs better signage. Good food and drink. Has a gift shop.
Glen Jacobsen — Google review
We had a lovely morning at the zoo. It is packed with animals. It is much better if you get there for feeding time (10am-11am for us) as a lot of the animals are easier to see when they are being fed. We had lunch there. They have a good variety of local foods and cold drinks. Bring big spray as the zoo is like walking through a rainforest.
Matthew Henderson — Google review
This zoo is so cool, we came here to check out all the local wildlife and it did not disappoint, the gift shop is great, they've got a refreshments area and the zoo itself is built around the animals in their natural habitats. There's plenty of experiences to feed the animals and some get up close and personal. I had a great time and can't wait to go back.
Isabel Mastrangelo — Google review
Beautiful wildlife rescue and education centre. Very affordable activities like feeding the tapir and red macaws. Incredible animals, well looked after. Highly was seeing the Jaguar and harpy eagle - just amazing.
E R — Google review
Quite nice. Bring your water and cool wet towels. In addition to the animals, we loved the zoos down to earth and witty signage that made you laugh 😃! Can you find the "kitty kitty " in the photos with green foliage??
Thomas Reeber — Google review
Delightful! We loved that all the animals are rescued, not stolen from the wild, and you can often get great views of them. The clever signage explains more about each animal and how it came to the zoo. We were glad we had a guided tour; our guide was able to find and point out the shy animals, and he knew his way around the zoo's winding paths.
Linnea Crowther — Google review
Small but nice zoo for rescued animals. Paths between enclosures are well laid out, lush and beautiful to walk through. Staff are all very friendly and helpful. There's a restaurant and gift store on site. We didn't do a tour or animal encounter but there are some available. We spent about an hour here but it was hot and we were using the location as a rest stop
Donella Held — Google review
They call this the best little zoo. It really is. The animal habitats were very nice and represented their environment well. It was great seeing animals that I had never seen before.
Spacey J. — Google review
The Belize Zoo has always been an amazing place to visit ..even more so for young minds. Our children had a great time, and after a great walk about the grounds , the little restaurant serves affordable and delicious foods.
Absolutely worth the drive to see the animals of Belize .
stanley gideon — Google review
The zoo is absolutely incredible! Such an amazing origin story! You get to see animals all native to Belize, all of them are there because they were rescued and unable to be returned to the wild, so they get to live happy healthy lives and represent their species and bring awareness to the detrimental effects of deforestation and poaching.
The zoo was easy to get to on the local bus system, and there is a small cafe where you can get some food and drink.
Moriah Wilbur — Google review
All the animals are from Belize and have been relocated to the zoo due to extenuating circumstances. The enclosure are native to the animals environment and mostly large enough to hide from visitors if desired. For an extra fee we were given the opportunity to feed Edgar the jaguar chicken provided by his keeper at the zoo. He had lost his eye to cancer, but they have been able to save his life and provide the necessary care he requires. Looked healthy and had a beautiful fur pattern coat.
S Sorrick — Google review
We stayed in a pond house and did the night time tour. Amazing doesn’t even describe the whole experience. The night tour was 100% worth it. Everyone was so knowledgeable. It was great to hear the history of the zoo and of all the animals we saw. A definite must do when in Belize!
Christina Biggs — Google review
A must-do in Belize. Literally the best zoo I have ever been to. Very walkable and easy to fit in, only took a couple hours. The jaguar experience was my favorite part, reasonably priced to have a very up close experience that contributes directly to the animals. They care deeply about conservation and all animals were in large enclosures that seemed very natural and comfortable for them. Also they are all rescues/rehabilitated that couldn’t survive in the wild on their own making the zoo an opportunity for them to live in peace.
Kennedy Combs — Google review
The zoo was wonderful. It's like stepping into the jungle, without the risks. It's well worth paying extra to arrange the guided tour. The guide knows all the animal's favorite hiding places and where you can get the best views of them. He made sure we got to see everything. He also had a lot of insights to the animal's history and behaviors. I would absolutely do it again. I recommend bringing water, as the only place to get any is at the souvenir and restraunt area at the end. Also wear sturdy shoes as there is a lot of walking and a few uneven paths.
Samantha Coty — Google review
We stayed one night in Casita and did the nocturnal tour at the zoo. Everything was amazing and I wish we had planned more time here! The grounds are beautiful, the food was excellent, and our guest house was spacious and quiet. Juan Carlos was very helpful and a great birder. We were surrounded by wildlife and jungle sounds. I would have loved more time to explore the trails and relax in the hammock.
Sarah M — Google review
We enjoyed visiting a zoo that felt more 'natural' in the space and environment afforded to its animals. Not a huge area, but well worth a 1-2 walk. Especially appreciate that the animals here are either rehabilitated by the zoo, or are for some other reason unable to live in the wild
Campbell MacLean — Google review
The Belize Zoo was the highlight of our trip! We stayed at TEC which is just down the road from the Zoo and has a shuttle to bring you back and forth. They arranged our transportation from the airport and to our next destination. The staff members were very friendly and our 1-night stay included dinner and breakfast. They were able to accommodate a gluten allergy for someone in our group and the dessert with dinner was a hit! Our room had AC, our own bathroom, and no bugs. I would highly recommend both the VIP morning tour & night tour. You get unique and up-close experiences with animals you can’t get anywhere else. Everyone who works there is very knowledgeable and clearly cares about the animals.
Lily G — Google review
On our trip to Belize, we visited the Zoo. We enjoyed seeing the wildlife native to the region. Also, it was wonderful to read the stories of the many rescues of animals they had made throughout the years.
Jude Tegen — Google review
Coolest zoo I've ever been to. Read up about the history and mission of the zoo, it's definitely not your run of the mill zoo. It's quite small, but in the best way. Also, very affordable. Ask about the Jaguar experiences when you're purchasing your ticket!
Amanda Stanek — Google review
I stayed in a Forest Cabana, which is no A/C (but has a strong fan) and "shared" bathroom - it's 4 showers, 4 toilets, and 4 sinks for 10 cabanas. When I was there only other cabana was occupied, so it was fine!
Nadine, Carlos, Melvin and the rest of the TEC staff were all so kind and helpful. You ARE in the tropics - there are scorpions, etc but if you ask at the office, they will remove - no charge (haha!!). Dinner and breakfast were incredible, and they do make accommodations for veg/vegan, gluten, anything you need.
It was wonderful to take the night tour of the zoo (and I got to help feel Indy and the porcupine!) and then come back the next day to see all of the daytime friends as well.
Lisa Feinman — Google review
All rescued animals with great stories, you can get a GPS map on your phone to make sure to see everyone. We went in the hottest part of the day so everyone was sleeping and still but it was lunchtime too so got to see crocodiles eat!
Lamanai Archaeological Reserve is a site of ancient Mayan ruins, including temples and scenic vistas. The reserve is situated on the west bank of a breathtaking 28-mile-long lagoon, one of only two Mayan sites accessible by water. Visitors can explore the partially open city with the help of knowledgeable guides and even climb to the top of one temple using modern stairs.
Very interesting tour. We had a great guide who told us plenty about the ruins. We were able to climb to the top of one of the temples on modern stairs around the back. It’s a big city that hasn’t been fully explored and is only partially open to tourism. We reached it by water, but I’m not sure if that’s the only way to get there. We even saw howler monkeys resting in the heat.
Robert Schremmer — Google review
Historically rich Mayan site. There are 3 large ruins that really impressed our family. One round is about 150 feet high. You are able to climb the ruins but when we arrived the largest ruins public access broke and we were sadly unable to climb it. Although it took an hour shuttle ride and an hour boat ride from Belize City one way, it was hands down totally worth visiting!
Janet Couch Vong — Google review
We booked an excursion through St George Caye with Colin of Eco Tours. He was educational, informative, friendly, generous with his time, and kept us rapt amongst the ruins as he told us about them. He even got the howler monkeys going! And grabbed a tarantula for us. Best of all- he provided an authentic Belizean lunch. Colin was great!
As was Cornell from St George Caye.
The ruins are magnificent & the boat ride too!
Angie Kinsey — Google review
Absolutely fantastic time on our tour, we did the Lamanai adventure from Belize city and it was well worth the effort. The riverboat cruise down was super fun and we spotted tons of animals including crocodiles, toucans, various birds, huge iguanas and more. At lamanai we climbed the temples and got to observe a family of howler monkeys. It was capped off by a delicious lunch. The guides were extremely professional and kind. I would recommend it for sure!
Joe L. — Google review
The site is a must see when visiting the area! We took a riverboat tour with a guided tour of the Lamanai. upon arrival, we could hear howler monkeys, but unfortunately we were not fortunate enough to see in person. It was so impressive to learn more about the history and be able to climb a handful of the sites themselves. Truly amazing, we feel so fortunate to have been able to visit and experience.
Caitlin Moriarty — Google review
Absolutely breathtaking site. Long drive on dirt road but totally worth it. You can go by boat if you have no car. Had the site for myself, very clean and well kept as all the other sites in Belize. Totally worth it.
Suzy — Google review
Beautiful experience. EFTours in conjunction with Lamanai River Boat Tours. Maracus bar and Restaurant was very good too. Very very polite people and extremely professional.
Dean Myslivecek — Google review
This was an amazing, probably once in a lifetime visit to some fantastic Mayan ruins! We hood Lamanai Belize Tours for the day, and we’re very pleased with their service and knowledge of the grounds.
Amanda Kenyon — Google review
Boat ride through the jungle with many birds and animals along the way, then you arrive at Lamanai to see the amazing ruins. Walking the trails, you see many different plants and animals. You see and hear the howler monkeys up in the trees. Finished our visit with a Belizean lunch prepared by our tour guides wife and visited the shops of local Belize products. You don't want to miss this tour.
James McCabe — Google review
Booked tour via carnival cruise which included transportation and tour guides. Initial bus ride was about 1 hour with guides sharing culture and information about country of Belize. Made one stop to disembark, use bathrooms, purchase snacks or beverages before getting on boat to reach Mayan site. Boat ride was pretty cool with great lake views. Tour guide was very knowledgeable on Mayan culture and temple ruins. If you are up for an adventure I recommend booking this tour.
Nolvin Jimenez — Google review
Other than the on and off rain, which can and does regularly happen on any day of the year, this was a very cool Carnival excursion. The ruins are quite impressive and the tour guides very knowledgeable about Belize's history & culture.
ChrisPandHisFlyingV — Google review
Hot and humid, make sure to carry water and wear toe covered comfortable walking shoes. Amazed at what has been built by the people years back and only 5% of the ruins have been excavated up until now. Would certainly come back in couple of years.
Vinu Samuel — Google review
This was a nice group of ruins, very informative and immersive. There are several different pyramids and ruins with a little bit of walking in-between. Some of the pyramids you can climb to the top or partially. The high temple is closed for climbing at the moment but it is still great to look at. The view from the top of the Jaguar Temple is great and you can see for miles over the tops of the trees. It is a moderate climb but my husband and I were able to make it even with our bad knees. The ball court and Mask Temple still have amazing detail. There is also a short hike to an old sugar mill.
Spacey J. — Google review
First, the drive here from Orange Walk was easy, despite a couple locals warning us the road was bad. It's not great, but it's not terrible.
You'll drive through Mennonite country; be sure to slow down as you pass the horse and carriages.
Lamanai itself was decent. There's a good museum that summarizes the history of the area to help put into context what you'll see.
As for the ruins, there's not a lot to see here. The Mask Temple can be climbed, but the High Temple (one of the largest Mayan buildings) cannot.
Expect to do aot of walking. We spent probably 80 min walking around the site and 45 min in the museum (we read all the panels).
At $10 for the visit, you'll get your money's worth. We heard that there were howler monkeys in the area; we didn't see them, but we did see a Mexican Red Rumped Tarantula!
Michael Greer — Google review
It takes a bit of travel and effort to get here but well worth it. Awesome and knowledgeable guides. Was able to climb to the top of one of the Temples. Not allowed on the others.
Mike Flood — Google review
This is not just a place, it's an adve ture! Getting here in a fast river boat is half the fun. The ruins are magnificent! You can still climb on many of them. Very informative museum, restrooms and lovely affordable gift kiosks. We were lucky enough to see a few howler monkeys as well. Highly recommended!
Leigh Bowie — Google review
Amazing!!! The boat ride in was fabulous. The guide taught us about the wildlife and history of Belize. He maneuvered the boat to ensure we were able to see marine life when they appeared. The walk through the ruins was breathtaking. The guide had the ability to transport back in history with his storytelling. We had free time to explore and climb the ruins. In our trip, lunch was provided. Yummy! There were shops there you should make time for. The bathrooms were clean.
Kelly Christian — Google review
Great experience the staff is very welcoming. Having the opportunity to see a part of history definitely made the trip worthwhile.. However I would not recommend driving in to get there, roads are very bad. If I ever visited again, I would take the tour boat in..
Clayton Wilks — Google review
We enjoyed visiting the ancient Mayan ruins! Hearing the howler monkeys in the background really gave it a Jurassic park feel and wish I would’ve captured that part on video. Amazing what they were able to build so long ago. Wow! It takes a bus ride and boat ride to get there, but it was a great day altogether.
Heather McCray — Google review
We went with Exotic Cruises. Our guides were Jay, Liz and Alex. They were all excellent, very knowledgeable and keeping the group on track.
You can see from the photos that it is a fascinating place and very well maintained.
The cruise up the Belize River is very fast (about 40 mph or more). So that adds a lot of fun in each direction.
The food was good for lunch with an overall Creole theme
We loved it!
Thank you to everyone including our bus driver.
Kevin Pope — Google review
Wow. I have never had the pleasure of seeing Mayan ruins prior to my visit to Lamanai. The history is truly fascinating and the setting is the most beautiful lush jungle I’ve ever seen. Also my first time seeing monkeys in the wild. Sooooo cool.
Altun Ha is an ancient Mayan city located in a forested area, one hour north of Belize City. It is the most popular Mayan site in the country due to its numerous traces of Mayan culture, including multiple stone altars and a large expanse of grass. The site is also significant for being home to the largest carved Jade artifact, which depicts Kinich Ahau, the Maya Sun God.
This was the best experience I ever had. I recommend anyone who wants to learn more about the Mayan ruins to visit this place. I enjoyed myself so much. I stayed in Belize for a week and this was the highlight of my day. It's also helps to have a wonderful tour guide and a tour guide that's very knowledgeable which we had
All smiles Over Here Phenomenal — Google review
It was like the many other ruins you find in area. This one is in the middle. There are bigger and there are smaller. If trying to decide which one to visit, this is good choice. If limited on time, you can do this and something else all in 1 day. We were on a cruise and did this and cave Tubing through Royal Belizean Adventures (a local tour group).
Adina Thimm Long — Google review
This is a historic site that can be easily gotten to for disabled people. If you are able to climb, I highly recommend going to the top for the view! An archeologist excavated part of this temple and found the remains of some of the royals. They were buried with jewels which would allow the totals to keep their stature in heaven.
Bonnie Patterson — Google review
A really cool area to see some well maintained Mayan ruins. We spent about an hour there and saw all that's available. A couple short but steep climbs to get to tops of temples. We stopped here early before heading to airport which was perfect amount of time we thought - if you're staying in the southern part of Belize it probably isn't worth a full day trip.
Matt Quinn — Google review
First Mayan Ruins and would go again. It is a beautiful location and a non strenuous adventure. Our tour guide Wallace from Belize Exotic adventures was amazing and informative! He even helped with photos and told us to take as much time as we would like! It was not busy in the morning at all we had the place pretty much to ourselves.
A — Google review
This was one of the best hikes I’ve had. Just looking at these ancient wonders was remarkable. I would recommend waking up early and being one of the first because it gets full. I suggest climbing the pyramids to have a better view and definitely take the walk to the hidden lake just looking at the foliage is like a jungle like feeling. I climb all of them and took many pictures. This is a must go to spot as soon as you get to Belize.
nelson valla — Google review
Impressive Mayan site. Easy access for people who can't get around as much as they used to. Very clean. Our guide was fantastic. We enjoyed learning about Altun Ha. I did climb to the top of the Sun Temple, but it wasn't easy. There are railings to hold on to but, I kept thinking....what if I fall?
Anita Simmons — Google review
Truly epic!!! It felt like I was stepping back in time. Our tour guide was from the area and answered all our questions and gave an awesome retelling of history. 10/10 recommend. Wife said it was better than Talum.
Chris Benham — Google review
Visited this place in august which was off season and we were the only ones there! It’s not a huge place so not much walking. You can climb up some of the temples, really cool. It’s so hot so be prepared with water. Bring BUG SPRAY. They sell some there but probably at double the price. So many bites.
$5 usd per person to enter. No time limit.
We quickly saw it all in about 45 minutes, but you can go with a guide and learn about it all it can take a lot longer.
Some nice souvenir shops around. Very clean bathrooms!
Alessandra Camargo — Google review
You can climb the temples. I came on a tour and it was very informative learning about the Mayan history. The steps are steep though so maybe bring some comfy shoes and not flip flops. It’s also very hot so being sunscreen
Brittany Ibarra — Google review
Altun Ha was amazing. The energy there was magical. Our tour guide was the grandson of the man that discovered the Jade Head and he was both informative and entertaining. I will definitely be going back again.
Samar Gabourel — Google review
Very beautiful, relaxing and grand experience. We went in July, it was extremely quiet. Cheap to get in, very clean and well kept. The ruins were stunning, especially the large sun temple. Few stalls to buy knickknacks outside and a couple spots to get food after. 100% recommended
Travis Gordon — Google review
Beautiful location, one of the cleanest Mayan sites in Belize. Road to it is mostly paved as well which makes it more accessible than other sites. Worth the detour off the highway
Chris Leonard — Google review
Great experience.
Amazing history and impressive designs/ architecture.
The landscape is well kept.
Lots of flies but ir was no problem. It was expected.
Our tour guide was very informative and answer all questions presented.
The store/ shopkeepers all will want you to purchase items but all items are overpriced by at least three times its original BZ cost. They will want Dollars.
In some cases i notice 4 times expensive. And i understand that they want to make a profile but you will feel worse when you get to a store in the city and find the item you bought dor 10 Dollar is really 5 BZ ...
The experience overall was great.
Fenelix K Paulino Jr — Google review
I love visiting Altun Ha. We were surprised and didn’t know that it is free for Belizeans on Sundays. That was a plus. Several little gift shops to choose from. A couple of the ruins had ropes that we couldn’t clime. The weather was extremely hot when we visited. I suggest taking a backpack with water. We did get water right at the entrance though. Was a nice family trip.
Mel Skeen — Google review
Interesting to compare this larger (wider) lock compared to the original lock that we passed through in our cruise ship. Original lock had small tug-trains to pull the ship compared to the larger lock using only large tugboats to assist the large container ships.
Ray Glur — Google review
Alton ha is a small Mayan site in Belize. The ruins are well maintained. The site is only small because a small portion is only excavated and is available to public. If you want to understand what those different buildings were all about , it’s recommended to hire a knowledgeable guide. It’s possible to complete a tour of the complex within a couple of hours
Kaushik Ghosh — Google review
Altun Ha is a well-maintained ancient Mayan ruins. There are several very tall structures that can be climbed safely and easily. The views from the top are fabulous! You only need an hour or so to wander around and climb if you would like.
Leigh Bowie — Google review
Altun Ha was amazing! It was so mesmerizing looking at all the Mayan architecture and feel the spiritual energy surrounding you. It was truly an experience of a lifetime. Visiting has inspired me to go visit other ancient Mayan Ruins. Our tour guide was Onofre and he was superb! Very knowledgeable about the area and the surroundings of Belize city.
Shanta Buffington — Google review
Park, souvenirs shops, toilets were more than ok. Museum is great, its in English so it is easy to understand history of those Mayan buildings. No words for Altun Ha piramides - great. Tour guide was also great and helpful, ready to answer on all questions.
Milos Grujic — Google review
Nov 15, 2023: Visited the Altun Ha Ruins as an excursion offered through Carnival Cruise Line. It is located about 50k/30mi out of Belize City (the 45-ish minute bus ride is worth it). Upon entering the actual grounds for the pyramids, I felt a sense of calm/groundedness - I am really unable to convey the feeling as I have never felt it before. I was able to ascend and descend the multiple ruins fairly easily; it would be difficult for someone with a weak gait and if you utilize a wheelchair/buggy I do not think most of you would be able to access the top of the ruins. PLEASE NOTE that if it is raining the stairs are extremely slippery and they do NOT allow you to climb the ruins at that point (it started raining when we were about to leave, and while I was coming down one of the ruins I slipped a little). This is was my first experience with any type of ancient ruins and it certainly did not disappoint. As with any commercial travel area the vendors do try to hustle you, but I simply stated I was not interested with a firm "no thank you" and kept moving - there is no need to allow it to negatively impact your entire experience/rating.
Mitch H — Google review
This ancient site is just amazing. Our guide was full of knowledge and clearly as a connection to the site and its importance in Mayan culture and trade. The unique location relatively close to the coast and the artifacts discovered at the site are fascinating. I highly recommend a visit if possible. Additionally, this site is not fully excavated with the oldest section still to be explored. I look forward to hearing about future excavations and the knowledge that will be gained.
M Ahern — Google review
Loved the history of it!!! YES you get to climb the ruins if it's not raining. 45 minute bus ride, a few hours to explore and lunch on the way back. I highly recommend this excursion!!!
Phillip Elliott — Google review
Stay away from the food /snack areas.. Would have been 5 stars.. if the snack people weren’t such swindlers ..at one point I didn’t know who I was buying from they need to get it together. Took away from me and our friend’s experience. They will try to rip you off. Very grassy Mayan Ruins. No Cenotes or Bodies of water around.
Caye Caulker is a coral island with a bohemian past that offers opportunities for diving, snorkeling, and wildlife viewing. It is part of a Belize itinerary that also includes Ambergris Caye and the country's interior, where visitors can explore Mayan ruins, go caving, and stay in an eco-lodge in the jungle. Those who prefer to move around less can choose between the two islands.
Awesome island off mainland Belize. Easily accessible by water taxi or ferry from Belize City. Many good restaurants and excursions to keep yourself busy.
Derek — Google review
The kinda place destined to be enjoyed, lose one’s cultural identity, and fall in love with the greatest human opportunity: to protect and preserve our habitat shared in species diversity.
The trees 🌴 of Belize are reason enough to take pause and learn some 🌱 phytobiology! Look up how Cashews grow 🤯 🤩! Yet, of course the myriad blue shades in the sea 🌊 are the draw. To the East, the reef is healthy, as are the locals passionately protecting it and helping arrogance in tourists dissolve into the epic western setting sunsets.
Let go and go slow 🤙🏻
S P Fletcher — Google review
I really enjoyed my stay on this little island. Although my bungalow was very simple and a bit overpriced, it was all worth the trip. Super laid back atmosphere in the lovely and genuinely friendly company of the rasta crew from lazy lizard and raggamufin tours. The snorkeling trip was awesome as we got to see a bunch of wildlife : sharks, turtles, rays, all kinds of fish and coral. Too bad that day visibility wasn't optimal, but hey, nobody's fault
JustForFun KohPhangan — Google review
I went here fo snorkeling, it was amazing experience swimming with sharks. Its also pretty good to just walk on island from one end to other if you aren't into snorkeling
Chandra Kanth Reddy — Google review
So many positives. I first came here for a day trip and missed the last water taxi back to Belize city! It was terrifying to say the least but people living here on the island made sure me and my spouse were okay. We only visit here now and wouldn't change that scary situation one bit! Please come and enjoy this island and it's beautiful people. Just be sure you are respectful and humble when you do please. They have their own worries and don't need anymore from the outside! #BetterBelizeIt
CiCi Glasgow Brown — Google review
If you have children who loves nature, this is the place to bring them for a day of fun besides learning all about stingrays. You can feel and touch these beautiful creatures of the sea while learning about their way of life. A great learning experience for kids and children's
Tina Kay — Google review
Must see on your Belizean trip. My favorite place to take it easy. Enjoy the grilled lobster for sure.
Paul BigFire Roberts — Google review
Beautiful love the friendliness of the people - Iguana Reef where you can learn about sting rays and feed them as well as see the seahorse reseve, & feeding tarpin as well as the split
Ursula Illing-Vinson — Google review
Quaint little island yet it offers a variety of restaurants and bars.
Kathryn Dirkse — Google review
Had a fabulous day snorkeling at Hol Chan Marine Reserve off Caye Caulker. Plenty of fishes, marine life and clear water. The operator even arranged for the feeding of nurse sharks which was an amazing spectacle. There are many eateries, souvenir shops and tour operators peppered all over Caye Caulker. A great day of sun, sand and sea
CK Cheong — Google review
The water was marvelous and clear at the far end of island. Be prepared to climb down into the sea. We enjoyed the tour of the island narrated by “Jane” on her golf cart. The SPLIT is an incredible event cause by the destructive forces of nature!
D Eldemire — Google review
It such a go slow laid back 5 mile long little island with so much to offer like,
Snorkeling,fishing,kayaking,hand feeding magnificent friget bird and tarpon & diving.
alfonso magana — Google review
Great vibe on the island, which is split in 2. We stayed at the southern more backpacker vibe Island. The other has more trendy accommodations (I guess it's pricier).
Everything is in walking distance. Nice little food shops/trucks & restaurants, from local cuisine to Chinese, Italian and fast food.
You need to buy the local Belizian breakfast: Fry Jack, it's a flat bread stuffed with your liking at Jenny's for instance. She uses fresh ingredients and bake the bread also when you order.
Petra (Pitch) — Google review
If you would like a to visit a laid-back island, with friendly people, in a very relaxing atmosphere surrounded by exquisite blue green waters with a chance to pet stingrays, see sea horses, herons, and other shore birds, snorkel, and maybe dive, visit Caye Caulker!
Deborah Kehoe — Google review
Amazing place to visit. Mush slower and laid back from Ambergris Caye. Dirt roads and golf carts. Excellent restaurants and bars. And some of the best diving I’ve ever experienced. Would recommend staying at Weezies or Iguana Inn; both are excellent places.
Hol Chan Marine Reserve is a popular destination for diving and snorkeling in Belize. Situated at the southern end of Ambergris, this 6.5-square-mile nature preserve is home to diverse marine life and spectacular coral formations. Its name, which means 'Little Channel' in Maya, comes from the natural break in the reef known as Hol Chan Cut. The colorful corals on the walls of the channel support an impressive variety of fish species like black groupers and moray eels.
We went with Amigos del Mar. It was awesome. The coral and marine life at Hol Chan were spectacular, but swimming with and touching nurse sharks was probably a once in a lifetime experience for us. I highly recommend this location and Amigos del Mar.
dave church — Google review
We went for Hol Chan Marine Reserve and Shark/Ray Alley Snorkeling tour. Guided snorkeling helps to point out turtles, fishes and sharks. Enjoyed the 3-hour experience … the tour operators will register with the Marine Station. Good viewing possibilities.
Sa Sh — Google review
Snorkelled as part of our tour from Ridge & Reef Adventures. Lots of boats and each operator has to get their spot from the Marine Reserve office on a boat off to the side. The tides can be quite strong, but nothing serious for a good swimmer. Lots of marine wildlife to see.
Phil Ashman — Google review
We booked with Searious Adventures and it was great! We noticed on the way there that all of the boats had normal chairs and were in a rush to get to each location. Our tour let us lounge on beanbag chairs while the guides started by pointing out the different stingrays and marine life in the area so we knew what to look for. When we got to Hol Chan, they talked about the history of the location dating back to when the Mayans came there. Afterwards the prepped us up and let us go in. While trying our best to maintain a safe distance, it was insanely cool to see how amazing these creatures are. My favorite animal is a stingray so seeing them gliding around with the sharks was so beautiful.
Amarillo Doe — Google review
An abundance of marine life! Such a beautiful spot. Not a super deep diving area but it’s absolutely stunning. Good for diving or snorkelling. Shark ray ally was a really great experience.
Jennifer Bernard — Google review
Amazing. You will see so much wildlife here and the coral does look healthy. The main problem is how many boats are there at one time.
Michael Messenger — Google review
I followed a family of Spotted Eagle Rays here for around 15 minutes. 2 adults and 2 little ones. They did not seem to mind me swimming with them. I was at peace and hypnotised by their grace. Even though I also saw such a diverse range of wildlife here like manatees, sea turtles, sharks and lionfish - the Eagle Rays were the highlight. I saw more stuff here in Belize than the Great Barrier Reef in Aus. Paradise. Anyone into diving simply must come here
Alan Egan — Google review
My wife's favorite snorkel spot so far, swim with nurse sharks, I mean touching and all. Lots of sea life. Bit of a long haul boat ride but yes worth it.
Patrick Cates — Google review
Ok guys if you want an epic experience you have got to add this to your list of things to do. I have done this so many times in the past 5 years. I take every person I can out to do this as it is one of the best experiences ever. The guides are always amazing. It is worth every penny you will spend on this.
Scott Bell — Google review
Hol Chan was amazing and breathtaking! We did a guided snorkeling trip, and this was one of the stops. We swam with sharks and all species of marine life, got to see all the natural coral in the open sea. Definitely recommend this as an excursion if you're looking for something to do. The waters are clear and beautiful, it was amazing!
gualberto jr garza — Google review
An absolute fantastic experience snorkeling here. All kinds of tropical fish, rays, and we even saw a sea turtle. We also swam with the sharks. It was intense but awesome.
Darren Baker — Google review
We all went snorkeling here and were able to see a variety of sea life! We did a booking tour that brought us here. It was fun and busy!
chad ratigan — Google review
A must see and do when you are here. You see nursing sharks, stingrays, sea turtles and all kind of fish swimming along the coral reefs.. beautiful 😍
Susanne Morrison — Google review
I've been snorkeling more than a few times, and this was by far the best experience. The Coral was alive and there was an abundance of marine life. It can get a little crowded out there there are many resorts all coming to this particular reserve due to its quality morning is by far the busiest but the afternoon you may not have as clear of water or visibility. This is a must do if you're in the area there's also divers there but I would much rather recommend Blue Hole over Hol Chan period
Average Joe — Google review
Fantastic spot to snorkel and dive. We have seen many animals like sharks, turtles, sting rays etc. Very clean water and not too crowded. We made a snorkel trip and enjoyed it very much. Highly recommend
Thorsten Siering — Google review
This has been the best snorkeling experience of my life. Certainly trumped Hawaii and the Great Barrier reef in Australia. The way its set up and being able to see the slow yet steady decent of the reef was amazing. Still teeming with life and not but a 10 min boat ride from San Pedro coast.
Tyler liberatore — Google review
Our tour guide was Pepper, very knowledgeable of the sea life, awesome guide! Pepper explained everything to us before getting in the water. He made us feel comfortable. Although I didn’t stay in the water as long as the others, I can say that this was the best experience ever. Thanks Pepper!
(First time in Belize. First time snorkeling)
Cassandra Bou — Google review
Everything was perfect...from pick up to drop off. Kind, funny, professional staff. Bird pointed out sooo many different things and made swimming with sharks safe and exciting!!
I have only visited secret Beach, they have really great foods and drinks!!! They also have staff at the bars that will serve you on the beach so you can relax and enjoy the day!!!
Gwen Mefford — Google review
Very courteous and accommodating! Rooms are very nice. We stayed a whole week here and don't want to leave. The Cabanas bar also has great food and very kind operators. Always felt safe and well taken care of. Highly recommend staying at Secret Beach Cabanas.
Jeff Muskrat — Google review
That was by far the best part of our belize trip. Very friendly people there.
Patrick Greindl — Google review
We only stayed one night but it was a great experience. The room was clean and well kept. While there is no air conditioning, we were aware so it was not a surprise (you may want to consider this if traveling during the dry summer months). It is close to the popular bars that have the in-water seating and service so you can hit those places up during the day and head back here for little more laidback setting. The breakfast was both unexpected and quite honestly amazing…eggs, toast, breakfast meat, and fruit. Very hearty. Just be prepared that most places at Secret Beach close early (6-7pm) so you either need to make good friends with a bartender to make it worth their while to stay open for you, or you have some food/drinks that you brought.
Robert Sherman — Google review
We stayed in the green cabana at the end of May into the beginning of June. It was a great location for us to be able to spend time at Secret Beach, and then venture to San Pedro Town. The cabanas do not have air condition, but the caretakers provided a nice fan for us which helped make the evenings seem a little more comfortable. The food and drinks at Aurora‘s was excellent and they were all very hospitable and welcoming!
Edited to add that Aurora’s is no longer a restaurant/bar associated with services at Secret Beach Cabanas.
Nicole Nawman — Google review
We went back to Secret Beach with our group we had a great relaxing day. Great service, Selima was AWESOME!
Lynn Charles — Google review
My wife found the cabanas on Airbnb and what a find it was. The location is great, perfect for a chilled vacation. We stayed in the yellow cabana, and were treated like old friends by Rivaldo and Kathy who run the bar/restaurant. And their cooking was top shelf. Alexi and Giselle, the couple who oversee the cabanas were so friendly and accommodating. I could go on and on but it’s enough to say one of the best low key vacations we’ve ever had. Thanks to Aimee and Mike for a great stay
Alan Brown — Google review
The new owner Aimee is unprofessional with no customer service and just lies though her teeth to Make herself feel better. Please be aware of this person. Plus Food and drink are over price!!!! I tried reaching out to them and they’ve been dodging my phone calls. And the husband is a retired firefighter and has no morals because if he does, he would’ve told his wife to be more kind and nice and STOP WITH THE LIES!!!!
Joe Dick — Google review
The best area on the beautiful island of Ambergriscaye Belize for swimming, beach bars , casual dining and unbeatable sunsets. We stayed here in Aug. 2021 in the larger blue unit. If you are looking for full days sunshine in the most beautiful waters, multiple beach bars, friendly staff and really affordable nites stay . The magic of this place is when all the other tourist have to drive back miles on bumpy roads . You'll have the polar opposite experience of your evening. Just steps away from where you enjoyed your super fun filled day in sun . You can relax watching the most beautiful sunsets over Ambergris Bay, enjoy the quiet sounds of the water, unpolluted nite skys and have nearly entirely to yourselves, very few rental places at Secret Beach.
Corey Dyer — Google review
Stayed in the yellow cabana above the bar. This place is heaven on earth. The sunsets are killer, the drinks are tasty, and the views are spectacular. My only regret is that I only stayed one night.
Josey McGuire — Google review
4.7
(30)
•
4.0
(1205)
4.5 Miles NW of San Pedro Town at Secret Beach, San Pedro, Belize
We booked an AOW course for my wife with XTC and I joined the dives. The experience was wonderful thanks to Caeser and Jorge, our instructors and Guides.The course was very professional, and Jorge helped my wife develop good diving skills and helped us improve. We felt we were in very good hands. We did 5 boat dives along the mezoamerican reef, one of which was a night dive. We got to see a Manatee and a huge sea turtle!! Their restaurant on the beach is excellent and fair priced and the staff is extremely friendly and courteous. Thanks for the most excellent memories!
Michael Goren — Google review
What a great place! Friendly staff, great communication via WhatsApp. Got to see a manatee and there's tons of fish too. The dive routes and what to expect to see were very well briefed beforehand.
The town is very small and quiet. An excellent place to hang out free from any kind of noticeable tourism. Highly recommended even if you only drop by for a day like we did.
Leo Lindgren — Google review
This place is extraordinary. First off, the location itself is a dream. You're staying on a beach that is so beautiful it looks fake, with nobody else around, that has perfect weather, and is a stone's throw from mesmerizing reefs and incredibly rich marine life.
And the staff and accommodations at XTC and Casa Paraiso are equally amazing. Everyone is incredibly kind, and deeply experienced both regarding scuba generally and the particular region (and dive sites) itself.
This is the type of place you go where you end up thinking "I can't believe more people don't know about this place... and I sorta hope it remains a secret except that XTC deserves every bit of praise and notoriety given what they've built"
Christopher Murphy — Google review
We made good experiences with dive centers and tour operators all over the world, but this one stood out. We got all the detailed, specific informations we wished for and were able to set up the trip with two mails, one day prior to our visit and without a working mobile. Highly professional and service oriented, thx Holly!
Our guides Nic and Angel were great in every way (communication, knowledge, customer orientation, entertaining but not annoying) and made sure we had unique manatees encounter.
The place itself is probably the most inviting in town, clean and well organized.
Martin Stoll — Google review
I really enjoyed my dives with XTC! I got to see manatees, nurse sharks, mantas, and all manner of lovely fish. My only reason for docking a star is the weather in April was testy for diving and I would recommend to any considering Xcalak to travel outside of this month. The food at the cantina was simple and slightly overpriced, but the diving was very good and professional.
Maya Sorini — Google review
Ivan our dive instructor was wonderful. Did a discovery dive with our two teens. It was fabulous. He was very patient with everyone. The reef is spectacular. Liked the food too... especially the guacamole!
Carrie Crann — Google review
Hi, we booked with XTC to take a 3 hour snorkelling trip in Xcalak with our kids. It was fantastic, a really professional outfit. The captain of the ship was amazing and joined us for our final snorkel which was breath taking. We loved the boat trip through the mangroves and managed to spot a couple of manatees, rays and tarpons. No shade on the boat so remember sunblock and rash vests. Highly recommended. We’ll be back to do some diving!
sarah mcguire — Google review
Our family recently got their advanced certifications and XTC was very welcoming and made everyone feel comfortable. After our first dive, we boated to a rest stop to have a great lunch! then headed out for our second. we are coming back in a few months! very excited!!
Camille Running — Google review
This was one of the best experiences of my life. The whole xcalak city is the end of the world with no people. No ATM, no gas stations, no party, just chill.
We came directly to xtc and we were warmly welcomed and accomodated in the room with the view on the beach. Breakfast included.
We did a snorcheling tour which was a beautiful experience from the beggining to the end. With nice snack and beautiful real sea world only with other couple which is the beautiful change after all touristy tours.
We are going back for scuba diving for sure.
This place is what i call heaven on earth 🙏❤️
Arina Kuranova — Google review
AVOID XTC - FRAUD (JAVIER SALAS / CESAR SALAS)
I had booked a package with XTC for a trip in July 2023. A few days before I was supposed to travel, one of the co-owners JAVIER SALAS told me that due to issues with their local government, they were unable to carry out the trip and that I could cancel the trip with a full refund. This was in July 2023.
They told me the refund would take 3 weeks but did not meet the deadline. They then kept pushing the deadline.
The other co-owner CESAR SALAS then contacted me after a local friend helped to pester them for my refund and promised they would complete the refund by XX month. However they failed to meet the deadline again and pushed it once more. We are now in Apr 2024 and they have long since ghosted me (I have all the documentation and conversations kept still)
A quick search will show you that many other folks are facing the same issue but XTC is either continuing to ignore them or feeding the same story and telling people to continue wait for the refund. From their social media pages I can see they are still operating as per usual. Please avoid this unscrupulous business and its owners at all costs!
Koh Ke Han — Google review
XTC Dive Center and Owner JAVIER SALAS are a FRAUD - AVOID BUSINESS
As you can see from other reviews, I was also part of an expedition that was supposed to happen in August 2023. Additionally, I booked some extra solo dive days.
The owner, JAVIER SALAS, IS A FRAUD! Long story short, there was a change in government regulations of which Javier Salas and XTC Dive Center were aware. They constantly sent us information, such as our schedule, and confirmed that the trip would proceed as planned. However, about 5 days before the scheduled start, Javier Salas cancelled our trip but told us that we could either opt for a different diving trip with discounts or receive a FULL REFUND. I personally opted for the full refund, which I never received (plus, I lost money on flights, hotels, etc.).
I was extremely patient, gave them months to process the refund, and sought every possible peaceful settlement. However, Javier Salas and XTC Dive Center have completely ghosted me.
I am currently SUING JAVIER SALAS and XTC Dive Center, as they are both fraudulent and thieves. They stole a huge amount of money from many people.
I hope this information helps you, and I hope you never have to endure something like this.
Stalwart 1729 stone fort with a moat, a museum with artifacts & murals depicting area history.
Cool fort to see in Bacalar. We did a tour that included this so we got some history of the fort. There's a little bit of walking over uneven stones but should not be too difficult if you don't use a walker. Not suited for wheelchairs.
Christina Boone — Google review
Just off the main square is the fort of San Felipe. It's quite expensive to enter 110 mxn as of December 2023 but inside there is a small museum which details the history of pirates in the area. The fort was built to protect the town - in the Lagoon itself, there is a narrow channel called the Pirates' Channel through which ships could enter.
Joe Sidonio — Google review
Nice archeological place with a nice history about Bacalar.
It has a museum inside with a beautiful Mural and some stories about pirates 🏴☠️
The price is super reasonable same for foreigners and nationals.
Our favorite part was the nice views of the lagoon you can have from here.
Danichatz Travels (Danichatz) — Google review
The castle was ok. Nothing special. it looks like you are looking to the Caribbean Sea, but you are looking to a sweet water lake. You can do from the castle some nice pictures. But the little museum wasn’t special. You had to pay an entrance fee of 110 pesos.
zimmi zimmi — Google review
Very complete and explained. Loved the views
It started raining and rain was pouring inside through a window over important displays
marina rodriguez calvo — Google review
Amazing old 17th centenary fort that was built to protect the local town from pirate attacks. It’s small but we’ll preserved and includes a museum that has displays in both English and Spanish
J G — Google review
Not breathtaking or anything, but the price is fairly cheap (especially for Mexicans and kids), and the information is very interesting. I felt like I learned a lot about Mayan culture and the Spanish invasion from the visit.
Stephen R — Google review
This small fort has a museum that does a decent job in summarizing the history of the fort, the Yucatan peninsula and piracy in the region. 110 pesos for foreigners, less for nationals.
Nice view of the lagoon, and some of the resident iguanas (in the moat) are quite large.
Michael Greer — Google review
I've visited several old Spanish forts in Mexico and I thought this was a nice one. Although the fort is small, it is well preserved and there is a nice museum located in the central building. I would say it's definitely worth a visit if you are in the area.
Mark Goodwin — Google review
Nothing to do. The boats don't go out on Wednesdays. Dust and dirt everywhere. Roads are filled with trucks for construction of Tren Maya, which is seriously delayed. Big disappointment.
Tony Montano — Google review
It's an old fortress with a very small museum, not really exciting 😉 Did love looking at the very big leguano's living there tho 🥰 and the view over the lake is very nice.
The website said you pay 55 pesos to enter but the price is 110. I think the price is too high for what you get.
Silvia Bogers — Google review
Lots of plaques and information but it needs to be given some attention as the information plaques were peeling and falling apart, a few were hard or impossibleto read. The museum has an excellent timeline for the history of human habitation in Yucatan and covered a lot of topics from Mayan culture to colonisation and pirates. There's actually a human skeleton visible under the glass floor of the museum, no information was available. Interesting but sad place. No refreshments but the cafe's nearby are excellent, and watch out for iguanas riding cannons!
Cameron Southey — Google review
This is the only really historic building in Bacalar, hence its kind of a must when you're in town. Tickets are 110 pesos for foreigners, which is one of the more expensive tickets to historical sites that I've purchased in Quintana Roo. the inside of a fort is very plain, i mean its a fort, it had a military function only. The main building has been turned into a small museum that talks about the history of the area, from the pre-Columbian times to integration with Mexico.
Bacalar Lagoon, situated in the magical town of Bacalar, is a hidden gem known for its clear aqua water and white limestone bottom. It's a favorite spot for travelers looking to escape crowded Yucatan beaches. The lagoon offers over-the-water hammocks and swings at hotels and resorts along the shore. Its brilliant shades of blue and turquoise have earned it the nickname "Lagoon of Seven Colors.
I been to this place twice and it is a publo magico magical town. Just looking at the blue water and walking all the way in and still the water is at your waist. The beautiful turquoise crystalline beautiful water is astonish of the lagona of seven colores. This is must visit if you get a chance while in Cancun, you can either rent a car or take a bus from Playa del Carmen.
Marlondo Sanchez — Google review
Superó todas mis expectativas! De verdad que esta increíble !
Un dato que debes saber es que existen muelles públicos donde no tienen costo, tienen sus reglas pero son muy recomendables !
(Translated by Google)
It exceeded all my expectations! It really is incredible!
One thing you should know is that there are public docks where there is no cost, they have their rules but they are highly recommended!
Juan Carlos Navarro — Google review
Fantastic place for a swim - must do for Intrepid Travel folks on their way to Chetumal
russky — Google review
I have seen a lot of amazing lakes, from the Titicaca lake to lake Ohrid in Macedonia to lake Jheel Lulusar in Pakistan, which had been my undisputed favorite lake in the world for a long time. Well, it is no longer undisputed, since I got to witness the seven shades of the blue water of Bacalar gradually change hour by hour. I came from Belize and crossed the border to see the lake, but it is not that far from Tulum/Cancun and it is a must see.
Shahab Uddin — Google review
This 7 colour lagoon is amazing. Much nicer than ocean. Cristal clear, warm water. Every shade of blue you can imagine. Mangrove alley. Possibility to swim, take a boat tour, take a cajac. Place to make plans for some 2 to 3 days of true bliss
Iveta Stasulane — Google review
Legendary. Akalki hotel is especially amazing.
egor — Google review
Bacalar Lagoon is as breathtaking in real life as it is in pictures. I have a feeling it’s going to explode in tourism soon, so go before it does!
Taylor Locke — Google review
It's just wonderful! The blue in this lagoon is unlike any other I've seen before. I just hope they will take more action for conservation here as there are a lot of motorized boats, and it ruins the ecosystem and the peace of the place.
Benjamin Roy — Google review
Very beautiful lagoon.a boat trip is really a great experience in the incredible blue waters
Maria georgieva assenova — Google review
My 3rd third time in this area . it's been a very pleasant experience overall. Truly recomend. Just make sure you stay for couple days . It's and easier commute if you stop first in tulum Instead of driving directly from Cancun ...
Oscar Cabrera — Google review
There is no single word to describe this place!! Its the serenity you won’t find anywhere else, its the literally crystal clear water, its the delicious authentic Mexican food, and the extremely nice people. We were very lucky to see the lagoon’s 50 shades of blue. While we were on a sailing boat trip, we witnessed the crazy rain that came out of nowhere and added to the the magic and beauty if this lake, and it was such a fantastic experience!! So even if the forecast is saying it will rain cats and dogs there, just never cancel your boat trip, believe me you won’t regret it and it wont rain more than half an hour.If you’re visiting the Quintana Roo area, don’t hesitate to visit Bacalar Lagoon, its easily reachable from Tulum ( 2 hours by car)
NISRINE AMMOURY — Google review
Lake is beautiful. Boat tour was ok. I didn't have great time in Bacalar though. Entire beach privately owned, I felt terrible for local people, not only buildings blocking views/breeze water, it's just seem so unfair and sad. So if you want to have decent time you either have to pay expensive beachfront hotel/apartments or pay for private beach club day ( with terrible food and overpriced drinks. Public beaches sometimes overcrowded and don't have much shade. I personally didn't have good time also because locals complained that I have service dog with me. So security have to come and check my papers every time, then settle it with locals. The whole thing felt uncomfortable, so I had to pay for beach clubs. Also it was mistake to come in August. It's extremely hot. I mean it's more hot than Singapore. Most restaurants and stores also have no AC. Again blocked beaches making it feels worse. Plus children that walking around entire day and begging tourists buy souvenirs - heartbreaking. Immediately I remembered similar tough childhood. This is my personal experience at lake Bacalar.
I M — Google review
Best shore excursion ever. But it was not as good as I thought. In my case cloudy and shower so it’s depend on weather.
I think awesome place when sunny day.
Ps. Thanks Sofia our tour guide for amazing experience and wonderful time.
Sukil Yoon — Google review
That's really hidden gem of Mexico. It is not so crowdy, maybe cause its kinda far from tourist places. Much better then Tulum! And even more cheaper! The Lagoon is so, so so amazing!!! The colour is unbelievable. Also the Lagoon is not deep at all so you can swim as you want.
Alfonso deMucha — Google review
Beautiful place, they conserve the area with closing the lagoon on Wednesday. I recommend to go on a tour with a sailboat to preserve even more the lagoon.
Maya Chan Beach is an all-inclusive day resort that offers various water activities, comfortable sun loungers, and shower facilities. Additionally, there is a bar and buffet restaurant available to guests. The staff members are friendly and attentive, always willing to assist with anything needed. Visitors can enjoy the added convenience of having their own private hut for shade and reserved seating. The food served at Maya Chan Beach is exceptional, particularly the fish tacos which are highly recommended by guests.
This place was incredible. The service was top notch. I was literally laying out on a float in the water and one of the gentlemen brought me a replacement drink. The drinks were the best drinks I’ve had. I went down the list on the drink menu and EVERY SINGLE drink was delicious. The tacos were awesome. They have dogs there that are super cute and friendly.
Judith Martin — Google review
Oh my there aren't enough words to describe the staff and this little get away. We had two stops in Mexico on our cruise and Maya Chan is the only one I can say I truly loved. This place is outstanding!!! The staff is absolutely amazing and made our anniversary trip the best! The food was so fresh and delicious!!! The drinks were spot on and never ending. We had a little cabana area that was so relaxing and tranquil it lulled you to have a siesta after you ate. The staff made sure that you were back in plenty of time before your ship left. I will be back to Costa Maya and to Maya Chan. Cozumel has nothing on this little piece of paradise.
Sarah Tipton — Google review
We absolutely loved our time here! After a short walk we found staff that were awaiting our arrival to take us to the beach. The entire process was smooth and they explained the issues they were having with the seaweed and offered us a refund (of course we didn't take it). After checking in they then loaded us up and took us to the beach. The entire drive was around 20-30 minutes. Once at the beach we were welcomed and shown around. The dogs and cats there are great and all of the staff were so friendly. We were then shown our spot on the beach and began our stay. The service with drinks was amazing as there was always someone coming around seeing if you needed anything. The food was being prepared during the morning hours and was served at lunch time. They also showed us how to prepare guacamole which was really fun! Overall this place was fantastic and we can't wait to return! 1
Patrick — Google review
Absolutely do not miss an opportunity to visit here if in Costa Maya. I stumbled upon this while searching for day trips while on our cruise. SO glad we did it. The service was excellent and very accommodating. My daughter is a vegetarian and they prepared a special dish. The food and drinks were delicious. We've been talking about the fish, chicken and steak since we departed. Well, my daughter hasn't, but the other 3 of us have!
The palapas are a wonderful touch. A huge thank you to Maya Chan Beach for giving us a perfect experience!
Tim Darragh — Google review
We absolutely loved our time here! The service was amazing, all the employees seemed to really enjoy working there and wanted to make sure everyone was taken care of. If you reach for a water toy, an employee will literally run over and help you get it into the water. They were so helpful and always checking in on us. We even got our own private little hut to stay out of the sun, we enjoyed having our own reserved spot so we didn’t have to worry about saving chairs. The food was incredible, the best fish tacos I’ve ever had. The drinks were delicious and the employees had great drink recommendations. We will absolutely be going back!
Emily Seaton — Google review
We visited this beautiful place a couple of weeks ago. Although the water wasn't clear due to the recent storm, the staff and food made up for it. Manel, I think is her name, was absolutely amazing. The owners were so friendly and welcoming as well. When we first got there we started with the guacamole and then had the delicious tacos for lunch. We also had a massage that I would recommend everyone to add on this trip. Thank you again the owners and staff for making this an amazing experience.
Hilary Hill — Google review
My family & I spent the afternoon here during a cruise stop in Costa Maya. Maya Chan was very laid back & peaceful. The food was superb and the service was very friendly and fun. Our kids (ages 16, 15, and 10) had plenty to do on the beach and our private seating area was just right for us. I definitely recommend this place if you're looking for something low key and on the water.
Jenny Johnson — Google review
Nice spot. Amazing service! Beach a little small with lots of seagrass (they clean it throughout the stay) and some rocks inside water (caution). Food and drinks very enjoyable. Not far from cruise port but the street to get there is awful, never had such a bumpy ride and it takes around 30mins because of that.
Would come again! Service is the best!
Tom Seen — Google review
I would give them 10 stars if I could.
The staff and owners are incredibly friendly. The beach area is great as you get your own seating for the day. Smaller all inclusive which is great because you get dedicated service, wifi, kayaks, paddle boards, all the gear is included. Did was AWESOME, and the massages were a MUST DO. One of the best I have ever had. Per other reviews, yes there can be some seaweed, but they keep it very well managed. This is a must do if you are in the area. TRAVEL IS INCLUDED IN THE COST!
Ralph Browning — Google review
Amazing service and good food and drinks, overall super relaxing spot on our cruise. Would highly recommend. There was a lot of seaweed on the beach but they were very forthcoming with the situation and accommodated well. Quality massages for a very cheap price as well!
Casey McCool — Google review
When we arrived at the meeting point by the pyramid, we were offered a full refund due to excessive seaweed (sargassum) at Mayan Chan Beach. Management previously emailed the refund option to us but we were on a cruise and didn't notice. Waveringly we hopped on the bus for the 30 minute ride/back massage😉. The vehicle was very nice and the road was pretty bumpy but it was fun ride through Mahahual and then south along the coast.
The property flourishes with greenery and is enchanting in its beauty. They had a spot picked out for us which included two comfy chairs, a beach bed with a canopy right on the Caribbean Sea on the Mayan Coast.
The allure of our emplacement was only surpassed by the service we received. The chicos y chicas of Mayan Chan could not have been more attentive and engaging. The staff share in their responsibilities so requests were quickly and joyfully met.
The lunch served was fantastic as were the cocktails. The carnitas was supercalifragilisticexpialidocious!
This was an experience that we plan on repeating promptly and plentifully.
david allen — Google review
Wonderful little beach resort. Everything you would need for a relaxing day. They cater to the cruise lines and are very flexible about pickup and drop off times. Great value. David and Julieta are amazing hosts. Looking forward to next time.
Massages are available as well.
Steve Herron — Google review
Where to begin?!?!?! The whole group of people are exceptional! Luis was our server.... our drinks never ran dry! He was attentive, funny, perfect! Axel and Andi (the bartenders) mixed delicious drinks! They catered to our tastes and provided perfect recommendations. David was a great host and made us feel welcome! Hands down, our favorite person was Julie! She made us feel like family!
Our day was amazing! We ate our fill, drank to our hearts were content, relaxed in the comfy loungers and beach bed. We were so impressed that we have already secured our reservation for December 2024! You are missing out if you don't visit this slice of heaven!
topaz t — Google review
This is such a hidden gem. The staff are amazing and professional. We will be back! The ride to get to it is half the fun! They did let us know due to being on the other side the water right near the beach is not as clear as at the Port. They keep it natural. This was not a problem for us the water felt amazing! If you go to Costa Maya check out this place! The food alone is worth the money!
Sara Fulton — Google review
Amazing! So peaceful, beautiful, and serene. The water is gorgeous and pristine. The beach is picture perfect. They have everything you could possibly want for the perfect day in the ocean. They bring you drinks, chips, guacamole, and pico when you enter. They then bring you all the drinks you could possibly drink. The Mayan lunch was soooo good! The wait staff and owners were so kind and welcoming. It is a little bit of a drive but so worth it. Don't miss this place!
Andrew Dunsworth — Google review
We were a group of 18. They picked us up at the pyramid at Costa Maya and drove us to the beach. Greeted us with drinks when we arrived and took us to our cabana. Service and food was excellent. Brought drinks to you in the water. Everyone had a great time. At the end of the day they returned us to the port. Everyone loved the place and had a great time. Only downside is the water was tea colored as there is a river just north of the beach and the current moved the dark water south.
Leonard Gude — Google review
What a treasure! Best vacation day of my adult life, seriously. Small and family owned, all inclusive. The food was amazing, it wasn’t over crowded, every single person was attentive and accommodating. We felt so pampered! I will absolutely go back the first chance I get. I cannot brag on this experience enough, we just enjoyed every second of our day. Thank you to the owners and staff, we just love your crew and the way you make your guests feel at home.
Jennifer Jones — Google review
We just returned from visiting Maya Chan over spring break and had an amazing time. This is the PERFECT way to spend a day in port in Costa Maya. The team did a fantastic job from transportation, to check in at the resort, to impeccable service throughout the day. The location is the perfect location of rustic, with charm and a great view. The owner was onsite and checked in regularly. I highly recommend this to anyone visiting the port who wants something a little more authentic and more charming than staying in the port for shopping and the large pool area.
Patricia Jones — Google review
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5.0
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Carretera Mahahual - Xcalak Km. 6.5, 77976 Mahahual, Q.R., Mexico
Mahahual Beach is a vibrant coastal town with an array of small dining establishments and bars along the shoreline. This beach offers snorkeling expeditions where visitors can observe turtles and coral reefs. It is located in close proximity to Costa Maya, Mexico making it a convenient destination for tourists. The area provides inexpensive beer and food, making it an excellent place to spend the day on the strip.
Water was very clear, warm and in nice tones of blue and light green. Sand was great as well. U can find a lot of restaurants, souvenir shops and small coffee bars on the beach also.
Milos Grujic — Google review
Closest beach to Costa Maya, Mexico. Excellent place to spend the day on the strip with super cheap beer and food. Good for scuba right on the shore, no boats needed.
A Jekov — Google review
Great beach. Lots of choices of restaurants, shops, and services. It is a $4 cab ride from the cruise terminal. Shop for a good spot on the beach when you get there. They are all right next to each other.
Rob Harrison — Google review
Loved cruise port! Free pool with swim up bar. Easy free beach access. The air walk aviary was awesome. Was only $15 per adult to do. The Mayan air acrobats were very cool as well.
Anne Davis — Google review
The beach is vary dirty and full of seaweed.
Because there are lots of seaweed, the locals fence off the beach and then there are like small, shallow pools in the sea.
We did not enjoy this beach. The shops on the sidewalk are cool and fun to walk around there.
Lior Bless — Google review
10% of this beach is accessible and it cost to be the boss. Federal pere is the place you can access for free. Don't waist the ride up ocean because it's all Funky seaweed.
King Kwa Zulu — Google review
This beach has so much potential but it has been commercialized. You'll be frequently approached by people wanting you to go to one of the private restaurants. Most of the beach is gated to keep the sargusm seaweed away.
Stephanie Rodriguez — Google review
The people are like mosquitoes and won’t leave you alone. Always trying to sell you trinkets/junk. Water and view is nice. Nice strip of shops. Prices comparable to America so don’t expect to get a good deal on anything.
Travis zuidmulder — Google review
Did this “excursion” Costa Maya tours from ship $65 USD for shuttle to and from beach (return is by taxi but they wait till it’s full before it will return) snorkel was guided- they attempt to show you marine life- they offer life jackets for inexperienced swimmers. Reef is grey-bleached in many spots. Offered kayaking and “free drinks” after snorkelling.
Beach chairs provided.
Lots of paid food options and lots and lots of people coming around to sell you bags, bracelets and flowers made of green straw.
Not as relaxing as I would have liked.
jackie burke — Google review
Very Beautiful Village. Great for families, couples and friends. You can practice aquatic sports, fishing or just swim and lay down eating ceviche and having a drink. they have great seafood. make sure to try lobster!!!!
Karen Vargas — Google review
Mahahual is a small fishing village converted in a tourist place.
You can find nice easy scuba diving reefs, with a lot of experienced guides.
It has some sargazo but you can enjoy a pleasant stay.
Ricardo Rodriguez — Google review
Nice beach, but the restaurants took over the place. There are chairs and tables everywhere
Patricio — Google review
The beach is not big and don’t have much sand. All of it is occupied by thousands of tables/sunbeds so you can’t really escape paying for a place to stay. The sea is very shallow and full of nets… Closer to the lighthouse is better. During the day it is full with people from cruises but after they leave it’s very quiet. The best part is the little town, with little shops all along the coast.
Catalina Bello — Google review
Mahahual Beach was amazing. The water was crystal clear and so clean. The beach was well maintained with lots of seating. Our excursion offered us an open bar and clean restrooms maintained by the employees. Make sure to bring cash with you as there are a ton of local street vendors with lots of yummy fruit and street tacos and corn cups. Bartering is a big thing with the vendors so be aware.
We went via taxi from Costa Maya (Carnival Cruise), only $35/person instead of over $100 per for the excursion. Taxi ride and tour was FANTASTIC!!! The ruins are very impressive. The locals were very nice and easy to communicate with. The monkeys in the trees was a really cool bonus. Even though it was extremely hot, would highly recommend this!!!
Tim Caldwell — Google review
We visited the Mayan ruins with a group from pre-purchased tickets through our cruise trip. From the cruise port, it took an hour but our host made the trip seem shorter as he gave lots of great information. We rode in a comfy air conditioned bus with lots of room. Getting to the ruins, there was a little shopping center. Walking through the park was nice and not crowded. We saw spider monkeys walking about and were able to climb some of the ruins. I would recommend anyone interested to visit at least once!
Esmeralda ?Esmi? Contreras — Google review
Nice Mayan ruins city. Tour is active and beautiful to experience. Wear sneakers, no exceptions. Be ready to climb!
Kirsten Alford — Google review
A historical/ancient site to definitely visit in Honduras. A tour guide will make the experience better and educational. The place could have some info-panels for tourists.
Stavros Katsikadis — Google review
We did an excursion through Norwegian Cruise Line. Worth every penny. Our guide was Morales. He was knowledgeable and very funny. This was our first tour of Mayan ruins so we don’t have anything to compare too but it exceeded our expectations. The monkeys were especially entertaining.
Alexis Laub — Google review
Great place to visit! There are not many tourists so it is a really great experience to visit the ruins and have them basically for yourself. Temples are really impressive so it is definitely worth visiting.
We even saw some spider monkeys there so it was a very good experience for us.
Andrea Miskovicova — Google review
Such a beautiful site. The paths were easy to walk, but there is some steep climbing up pyramid steps at points. We saw wild monkeys in the trees on our walk. The scenery is amazing. We used native choice as our tour guide and they were amazing.
Ryan Nowlin — Google review
Beautiful site and outstanding views. The guides are great and very informative. Cute little shop stalls that we got some cool souvenirs from. If you want to get the full experience, be prepared for some moderate physical exertion to climb the numerous steps.
steven campbell — Google review
What an amazing place! Such incredible history! All covered by jungle until 1972...
Original mortar holding these massive pyramids in place is mind boggling. Note if climbing the stairs on these pyramids that they are uneven and of varying heights...it is easy to fall ( which I did) so be careful!!! Great jungle vegetation and a spider monkey in the trees!
Allison Batchelor — Google review
Visited these Mayan ruins while on a Carnival cruise which stopped in Costa Maya. These were the largest ruins I had seen at the time, and they were very impressive. The tour guide was extremely knowledgeable and very engaging. This was a great alternative to the other excursions from the cruise, and the whole family loved it.
Tim Kitchen — Google review
Amazing place. Good to learn the history of the Mayan people. Only complaint is the shop, I didn’t see any prices on things and you had to ask. Makes you think they charge whatever they want depending on who you are.
Josh Dundon — Google review
Probably the most up-close ruins experience on the planet. There is no hands off rule. We had an excellent guide, Carlos, from Toucan tours. Book online and save 50%, over ship sponsored excursions. Plus the gift shop was extensive without the pressure.
Carlos asked us if we wanted to try some street tacos on the way back to port and everyone was in. Great, but simple food, at a fantastic price. My Bride and I each had a beer and 3 tacos for $5!
Bill Tomko — Google review
We really enjoyed this trip! We saw several Mayan temples, one of which we were able to climb to the top. We walked through the ruins of the Mayan village and saw some spider monkeys zipping through the jungle canopy! Our guide, Dennis, was very knowledgeable of Mayan history and language! He also gave us two tidbits of potentially life changing advice, "If you see a Jaguar, don't try to touch it!" and "When viewing monkeys up in the canopy overhead, keep your mouth closed! The trails can be slippery and a little muddy in some areas, so wear sturdy walking shoes that can handle rocks and light mud. A hat, cool clothing and insect repellent is a good idea. Also I noticed a few wise travelers had small folding fans that helped hold the heat and humidity at bay. The Yucatan peninsula can be rather warm. Overall, a great trip!
Jack Adkisson — Google review
A beautiful piece of history that was easy to get to from our cruise port. Everyone we encountered during our visit was friendly, kind, and talkative. I'd love to spend more time here.
Vincent Esposito — Google review
It is a fantastic place to visit, right in the middle of the forest and close to the Belize border. It takes 45 minutes driving from Mahahual. The site has 5 main buildings and many more still to bring to light. It is said to have a total of around 200. Local guides are available. The tour takes about 1 hour and in order to take pictures or film you need to pay a 4 dollars fee. To be honest, I didn't see anyone checking it, although I have paid for the permit. The site is mostly accessible. However, the main building is at the top of the hill, and you have to climb some steps. Not accessible to everyone.
At the entrance there is a small café, a souvenir shop and toilets. If you enjoy chewing gum, I advise you to buy a pack of the original one. Produced locally and organic. It's completely different from the nowadays ones. If you visit the place in the rainy season, I advise you to use mosquitoes repellent.
ana tavares — Google review
Chacchoben Ruins are a must-see if you want to explore without feeling overwhelmed in the cruise port, I booked through cruise line, and it was an hour trip to and back. Bring cash, and don't be afraid to negotiate for souvenirs. And be prepared to walk, pack water, sunblock, and a portable fan.
Alma Fawcett — Google review
This was amazing to me, We took the tour and it did not disappoint. The Tour Guide we had was very knowledgeable about the site as she also had Mayan ancestry in her. She explained the Language, Medicinal Plants used, the different Pyramid uses. There are still new pyramids being found on the site.
Papa Victor — Google review
Great views of the Mayan ruins. There is some walking involved as well as climbing at the last stop. Best to wear appropriate shoes.
Even in the hot weather, nice n cool under the trees.
Gerhard J — Google review
Chacchoben is a very nice and accessible Mayan ruins site. We visited as part of a cruise excursion. Only an hour from the port of Costa Maya. These temples are not huge but they are still very cool to see.
Randy Barsch — Google review
Out of all the Mayan Ruins that I have visited, this is the best. Ruins still covered by jungle overgrowth as well as many that have been restored.
Be sure to bring bug spray/Off, after the month of March.
Todd A — Google review
Chaccoben Mayan Ruins: A Journey through History and Culture
Nestled off the coast of Costa Maya lies a hidden gem that captivates the hearts and minds of all who visit - the Chaccoben Mayan Ruins. My experience exploring this ancient site during a Norwegian Cruise excursion left an indelible mark, revealing a rich tapestry of history, architecture, and cultural connections that transcends time and borders.
As our 12 group embarked on the journey to Chaccoben, excitement permeated the air. The anticipation of unraveling the mysteries of this ancient civilization was palpable. Little did we know that what awaited us would far surpass our expectations.
Upon arrival, the grandeur of the Mayan ruins unfolded before our eyes. Towering pyramids, intricate stone carvings, and sprawling temple complexes painted a vivid picture of a once-thriving civilization. Surprisingly, the architecture and religious symbolism bore striking resemblances to structures found in South India, a testament to the interconnectedness of human history and the universality of human expression.
Guided by the knowledgeable Fabiola, we embarked on a journey through time, delving into the rituals, beliefs, and daily life of the ancient Mayan people. Fabiola's insights illuminated the significance of each structure, from the towering temples dedicated to deities to the humble dwellings of the common folk. As we explored the sanctums and ceremonial plazas, it became evident that every stone told a story, every carving a testament to a bygone era.
One aspect that added an element of adventure to our exploration was the presence of wildlife, particularly snakes. Thankfully we had appropriate footwear and stayed vigilant as we navigated the site. Despite the couple of sightings, the allure of the ruins remained undiminished, a testament to the resilience of nature and the enduring spirit of the Mayan civilization.
As we traversed the ruins, the importance of preparation became apparent. The journey from the port to Chaccoben took approximately 1.5 hours, followed by an equally enriching 1.5-hour tour of the site. Our presence of mind to carry water, sunshades, caps, and sunscreen proved invaluable, ensuring that we remained comfortable and hydrated throughout our expedition.
Each step we took was a testament to the awe-inspiring legacy of the Mayan civilization. From the intricate carvings adorning the temples to the verdant jungle that embraced the ruins, Chaccoben offered a glimpse into a world shrouded in mystery and wonder.
In conclusion, my visit to the Chaccoben Mayan Ruins was an unforgettable journey through history and culture. From the awe-inspiring architecture to the spiritual significance of the site, every moment was a testament to the ingenuity and resilience of the ancient Mayan people. As I reflect on my experience, I am reminded of the profound connections that unite humanity across time and space (continents), reaffirming the importance of preserving our shared heritage for future generations to cherish and explore.
Satya Aluru — Google review
What to expect: An hour ride from the cruise drop off point, an hour and a half of walking around the ruins, and an hour ride back.
Some walking, and some shopping at the temple site with limited food options (get the tamales if you can!)
An incredible excursion for any cruise stop - I highly suggest it!
Cameron Yoder — Google review
4.8
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4.5
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Carretera Federal, 307 Via Carta Mérida, Pedro Antonio Santos - Chunhuhub, Chetumal, Q.R., Mexico
Located at the southern end of the Riviera Maya, the Sian Kaan Biosphere Reserve is a protected jungle preserve that offers guided boat tours, wildlife sightings, walkways and Mayan ruins. This natural treasure has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO due to its diverse flora and fauna both on land and in the sea. The area comprises of various ecosystems including a rich coastline of the Mexican Caribbean.
Absolutely one of the most beautiful places on earth. Here you have the opportunity to see lots of wildlife like crocodiles, manatees, dolphins, turtles and more then 300 different species of birds. The turcoise water around Punta Allen is absolutely stunning!! Highly recommended visiting Sian Ka'an.
Matthijs van veen — Google review
We went there with a tour organized by the local community. The staff was super friendly and open to share thoughts.
On our boat trip we stopped on a beach that was full of littering. When talking with the tour guides they said that the place was completely abandoned by the administration. Even though they do their best to preserve it, it is only that much they can do.
I hope everyone who visits this place reports it to put some pressure on the admin. 🙏🏽
Irene Jim?nez — Google review
Give yourself a day to explore The Biosphere Reserve of Sian Ka'an. Be forewarned that the dirt road/path is full of potholes. It takes a while to drive through the dirt road envelope by a heavy tropical forest, mangroves, lagoons, and marshes. There are many beaches to find and wildlifes to see.
Some areas are privately owned, but we found a little nice beach area that we were able to enjoy.
The drive to this reserve was 2 hours from Cancun, but we spent nearly a whole day here exploring and driving through the area and back.
Noreen Roberson — Google review
Amazing beautiful place. The drive to the pick up place (where we met our captains) is hell. 10 km by the most rocky jungle road took us around an hour but it’s so worth it. The nature is stunning. We saw 3 dolphins playing for 20 minutes! Lots of birds! No crocodiles or turtles for us but still amazing!!!
Scott Landon — Google review
This place is only for extremely patient people, that's for sure. To get there you need to either drive or go on a tour, but either way the trip is very long due to the fact that the road is not paved and it's EXTREMELY bumpy. So the driver is forced to go super slowly while the vehicle is shaking for 3 hours on the way there and 3 on the way back (from playa del carmen , a little les from tulum). It's worth doing it at least once though, because the lagoon is spectacular. You can see dolphins, turtles and manatees with their babies, in their natural habitat!
Danila Massara — Google review
You can skip it! 100 pesos entrance fee for a bad road which is mainly closed on both sites. Everything is private and the beaches plus the nature is full of plastic. I think mexicos beautiful nature is close to be past thing. Its sad but when you see what you can buy here in the supermarkets its not a surprise. Plus most of the people here just only think on profit and don't care about their nature.
Alexander Kiesche — Google review
Today 22 April 2023 it was world's earth day and we did a beach clean up in the Reserva Sian Ka'an.
We first stopped at the narrowest part, where at one side was the mangrove and at the other side the sea & beach.
Here we saw a crocodile and a manatee. As all volunteers came together we went to the actual place where the clean up was.
There were a lot of volunteers participating. We went with 7 persons of Infinity2diving from Tulum.
We gathered all together a lot of plastic garbage.
Petra (Pitch) — Google review
This is an amazing natural reserve area where there is an abundance of wildlife, including manatee, dolphins, crocodiles and many species of birds. Among the birds that were present during the dry season, when we visited, were frigates, egrets, osprey, and pink spoonbills which were nesting at the time. Fauna include of course the mangrove (red and black), air plants and banana orchids (not in bloom but still interesting) This is a must see and even though the tours are expensive at around 150 usd per person, you will get more out of it with a guide. Theoretically having that guide would mean that the tour would be more eco friendly and cause less stress to the animals. There is an unfortunate tendency for the boat drivers to surround the animals, which must cause stress. Luckily right now there are a limited number of boats but sometimes they many arrive at once and there were a few times when i wanted to leave to give the animal more space. The Mexican government needs more oversight on the Form of rangers to curb some of the less desirable behaviours before it gets more out of hand.
Paul Taylor — Google review
Really sad to be giving this one star. The road here is absolutely ridiculous. Really. This is not hyperbole. You'll be lucky to get back with your car intact. But even if you do, it's 4 intensely nervous hours of driving through potholes that you will never get back. Even with a jeep it's just not worth it. And that's 4 hours just to get nowhere and back. Seriously, just say no. Plenty of other places to explore.
Arnon Cahen — Google review
A wonderful park which definitely deserves a visit. Make sure you get a good tour that takes you snorkelling to the reef
Elena Macciò — Google review
We love visiting the Sian Ka'an and have returned multiple times. Luis, Mirian and Daniel in the buffet restaurants take very good care of you and are attentive. Victor on the animation team leads very goof aqua gym sessions, paying attention to any injuries and giving advice rather than pushing you. Love this hotel!
Tony B — Google review
Turtles, crabs, dolphins, crocodiles and Coral reef. Bird Islands (mangrove Islands) and lots of beautiful scenery. I fully recommend visiting.
Marketa Koulova — Google review
2.5 stars. this is a conflicted review.
we had an amazing guide/captain who took care of us and tried his best to show us the marine animals in the lagoon. we saw a manatee, a stingray, a lot of birds, an underground cenote,and learned a lot of interesting facts. the floating river in the middle of the mangrove forest was amazing, especially because we were the only people there. overall, it’s a beautiful place to see and i would recommend a visit.
shame about all the plastic trash washed up on the otherwise beautiful beach. i didn’t understand why they’re even showing this to tourists. our guide told us that the trash comes from the island of cozumel and washes up on this side. they don’t clean it up and just leave it there while also maintaining an image of an ecological and protected biospheric reserve that doesn’t even have functioning toilets. there should be stricter laws regarding trash and pollution in the whole of yucatan, not just in e.g. tulum where they don’t allow plastic bottles anymore. but most of all, the constant development and construction of tourist resorts and hotels needs to stop. the road leading to the mayan ruins and sian ka’an was lined with half-finished construction zones. they should never have allowed cozumel or riviera maya to become the tourist hotspot it is today.
Eli Hythova — Google review
The road is serious business, not for whiners or delicate day trippers. It has protected this area by keeping out those people who don't appreciate life's journeys.
Danette Day — Google review
Amazing view, great spot for dolphins. Boat goes fast
Samuel Colassin — Google review
Absolutely beautiful place, we saw lots of animals.
Charlie Zhang — Google review
Amazing place, simply amazing. Brilliant management plan for tourism, fingers crossed that doesn't change. Pepe was an awesome guide, very knowledgeable and had an addictive level of enthusiasm. Would love to return in 20 years to see any changes
Adam Locker — Google review
The views are amazing but not that different from those you see in Tulum public beaches, but the road is in terrible conditions. You'd average 10-15 kmph and you're lucky if you don't get motion sickness...
Ancient Mayan site with temple ruins & artifacts dating from 300 BCE to 1500 CE.
I really enjoyed visiting here over Tulum as it was a lot quieter and shaded. It's much smaller but the towers are much taller and impressive. Beautiful architecture on the rest of the pyramid. It costs about 65 pesos and has a free toilet facility.
Luke Barnaby — Google review
Fantastic ruins and a park that’s small enough to get through in the couple hours with the boat tour. Bring bug spray.
The lagoon boat tour was wonderful as you have the opportunity to “swim” in the natural canal. It’s “swimming” because the current is so strong it feels like a lazy river! Enjoyed the whole experience a lot.
Sarah Candee — Google review
So beautiful and you can walk about 10 min to the back of the site and continue to the biological sanctuary, which is then another 20 min walk to the beach.
There is a platform on the way that you can climb for about 5 stories and get a fantastic view!
Michelle Lin — Google review
This was great! Would do again just for the lazy river part! Be prepared to walk a-bit on some wooden plank walkways! Definitely well worth the trip! Completely incredible to see what they could create back then with what they had! Definitely wish could have a guided tour to know
More about the history!
J McCracken — Google review
Must see!!! One of the earliest and longest inhabited ancient Maya sites on the eastern coast of the Yucatan peninsula. It's an easy drive from Tulum. Around $3.50 to enter.
Brian Lawson — Google review
70 pesos per person to enter. Plus 50 pesos for drones or (professional) camera equipment. Plus 50 pesos to walk the wooden path from the ruins to the lagoon.
Well worth the entry fee and a few hours exploring. We did see a snake whilst walking along the path, can you spot it in my photo?
The park has written signs in three languages so you don’t need a tour guide, although they do work the area.
Parking is free at the entrance and there is a refreshment place and souvenirs across the road.
Jourdain W — Google review
Definitely add on the boat tour. It was 1,000 pesos when you buy it from the park. It's so worth it to see that part. There is another smaller ruin they take you to, and the view of the biosphere is amazing. You get to float a section of it, which is refreshing after you walk the ruins and the path through the park. They don't allow sunscreen or big repelant if you are going on the boat tour. There are definitely mosquitoes during the walk through the trail.
Kristiana Spehr — Google review
Fantastic place. Simple, silent, you feel the nature. When you go inside, you'll find a wooden door where you can go to a lagoon through forests and costs you extra 50 pesos. Definitely go there. It's an amazing adventure to walk there. You feel like in jungle 😍
Alexandru Tomuz — Google review
Cool little historical spot to check out for a couple hours. Not a hugely popular spot so you'll have a relatively private time. There are a few different ruins, some nice wooded trails with great trail maintenance. Then there is also a lagoon you can walk to using a wood plank path that's about 1km long. Fun little day trip with multiple street taco spots nearby.
Alex Trimpe — Google review
I really enjoy bringing people here. It is smaller than other Maya ruins but in some ways more approachable. There is ongoing restoration and the setting is very jungle like. Less commercialization and fewer people.
Diana Harris — Google review
Incredible sights. Would recommend using bug spray! Make sure you also book the boat tour through the laguna and lazy river, as that was the absolute best bit!
Pablo Orlando — Google review
Super cool if you’re into historical sites. Definitely recommend going on the earlier side and bring bug spray. You can pay on site to enter its about 70 pesos. If you would like to explore the wooden bridge that takes you to the lagoon it’s about another 50 pesos to enter that part and another 50 or so if you want to take a boat ride on the lagoon. There’s also a cool wooden tower you can climb along the way!
Jordan Watson (Ace King) — Google review
This is a really cozy site! There is a jungle walk possible after seeing the ruins. And thereafter there's a boat tour on the lagoon that you could take.
The ruin entrance costs $70, the jungle walk is $50, and the boat tour $160.
Sofia T A — Google review
Amazing. Vast in thr jungle with some bright colors and relifs. Caves and affordable. Monkey's can be heard. No wifi. It links yo an amazing walk and boat tour where manatee and turtles are. Check out the full review on tiktok annastravels and on ig annastravelsnyc
Anna Hess — Google review
I drove and used google maps to get to the office. Talked to one of the guys inside the booth to purchase the ticket and also the boat ride to the lagoons. Ticket price is 70 mx for the ruins and additional 50 if you proceeded to take the pathway at the back of the ruin. If you’re not going to take the boat ride, I suggest to only purchase the ticket for the ruins. There’s not much to do aside from the sketchy tower that you can climb when you’re close to the dock where they take you to the lagoon if you purchase the boat ride. The best is if you take the boat ride. It’s 1000 mx per person. They’ll take you to the 2 lagoons then lastly to the shallow canal where they let you float around for almost an hour.
Donald Harvey — Google review
Cost for Ruins = 75 MXN per person.
Cost for Bridge and Walk to Lagoon (chance to see wildlife) = 50 MXN per person.
Cost for Lagoon Exploration Ride = 1000 MXN per person. (1 hr, swim in lagoon).
We only did the first two. Would recommend the first, but not the second, unless you intend on the lagoon excursion. If not, save your pesos, the walk is too long for little ROI.
We met a father/daughter who said the Lagoon excursion was worth it.
Ali V — Google review
The tour for the site at the time we arrived was $70MXN. There is an additional cost to walk the trail that leads from the end of the archeological site down to the lagoon behind it and the cost was $50MXN. We highly recommend the trail; it takes you through the jungle and you can see a few very small cenotes (not swimmable) and wild life. Also, if you can, book the lagoon tour with them directly. They sell it for a third of the cost of third party tour operators and the money goes towards the Mayan community in the area that protects the site. Raul was our tour guide and provided us with a great experience. The cost of that tour is $1000MXN.
Gabriela Carrillo — Google review
As an explorer, here's my spin... I would have never found this on my own on how to get here unless you take an inflated tour. Found some travelers that has gone here before and tagged along for the adventure. Went to the local bus station ADO and found the bus that was heading that direction, paid 35pesos directly to the bus driver was what we were told at the ticketing booth. The Arqueologica de Muyil (75pesos) was being rebuilt on most of the ruins, the paths were not marked out properly, but it was not too big a site. The strangest extra 50 pesos to walk on a shabby not well maintained boardwalk through the jungle was simply a scam, a rickety tower that is downright dangerous and really the view on top was not worth it. We took the boat tour to the lagoon river (you get to float in the river for about half hour in crystal clear water) was pretty good but pricey, good for the experience.
Eddie Wong — Google review
Pretty good time at the ruins overall. It’s a small park; the ruins are for sure the highlight for me, and you can explore them all within about an hour and a half. Reasonable price and there are quite a few good food/drink options for such a rural area. But in my G-d’s honest opinion… don’t waste your money on the rest of the park. The lagoon is nice or whatever but unless you’re going to spend $800+ per person (not per boat) to go farther across the lagoon, it’s not worth it… but the ruins were great, and I did enjoy the walk and the view! We just couldn’t justify paying $1600p for a two hour boat tour, and we weren’t allowed to just rent our own kayaks. And as you can see, they are speed boats, so it isn’t like the guy would have to be rowing extra weight to justify the cost (we are both very thin anyhow).
The hardest part for us was getting home. You can catch the ADO bus from the cement parada but Lord only knows when it’s coming, and if it will stop! We ended up hitching a ride back to Tulum with a random van driver. (NOTE: This is NOT recommended for people who don’t speak Spanish or women traveling alone!) If I were alone I wouldn’t do that, but I do speak Spanish and was with my boyfriend. We were fine, BH, but please be aware that if you didn’t drive, getting home can be a challenge (regardless of whether or not you bought round-trip ADO Bus tickets!)
Gorgeous ruins though, A+
Shark Bolan — Google review
4.6
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4.5
(336)
Reforma Agraria-Puerto Juárez km 25, 77710 Chunyaxché, Q.R., Mexico
Descent through a cave to an underground swimming hole popular for snorkeling & jumping from rocks.
Nice cenote with really deep water. It's almost uncomfortable to swim above the depth sometimes, even though you can still almost see the bottom - or maybe that's why :) It's one of the bigger ones, so it's very easy to swim in. What's unique about it are the two jumping platforms from which you can dive into the water. However, being wimps, we didn't jump in.
There are very few people in it, we were alone most of the time, so you can fully enjoy the majesty of the cave. Entrance was still 100 pesos and vests were optional.
Jakub Chramosta — Google review
Fun cave cenote. Entrance fee is 100 pesos per person. Worth it I think! It’s dark inside but with the artificial light you can see something. Not that many stalactites and such, but they have two places to jump down into the water (both are quite high).
Tanja Swinkels — Google review
I was genuinely scared because this place feels very spooky but after 30 min or so, I started loving it. Super calm and quiet Cenote, we were mostly alone (1 other couples) however when tour bus arrives , it gets super crowded. Shower and toilet in place but no lockers. The entrance is 100 MXP and if you want life jackets that is 50 pesos extra.
mahoor rz — Google review
Absolutely gorgeous! Crystal clear water and fishes galore. 2 diving spots at 15ft and 30ft. Steep stairs. Recommend to take a dry bag, towels and water shoes.
Nathalie Ramirez — Google review
The Cenote is beautiful inside, water has a 4 mt. depht and has a temperature of around 17°C.
Life jackets are not mandatory but I think they should because you can easily fall in the water.
There is a small and narrow ladder and down in the Cenote the space is limited.
Sara Casarin — Google review
This was our favourite of the 3 cenotes. It was quiet. We were there in the afternoon and only saw one other group (that was just leaving). We had the entire place to ourselves.
It is very small but fun because of the jumping platforms.
Firelight Leadership — Google review
Super awesome fun, cool. It's a perfect temperature deep pool full of crystal clear water. In a cave. With two different heights to jump from.
Adam Habig — Google review
Crystal clear water; cool and refreshing after a day of visiting ruins. There are two platforms if you date to do some high dives. The lower one is around 15 ft, and the upper one approaches 25 ft. The water is more than deep enough for either dive.
Nate Swiss — Google review
We loved this cenote. We went there and it was empty. The stairs are a little bit old and you feel the dense air but the ater… wow! So clear. It’s really beautiful and purifying .
Iris Carvalho — Google review
The best out of the “three cenotes” in the area with the 3m and 5m jumps. Great way to continue the day after visiting Cobá. The cost is 100MXN per person. Life vests are optional at no charge. You have to shower before using the cenote. We were there on Monday around 3pm and it was quite busy, but it was a very fun crowd 😁 recommend visiting “El Ranchito” restaurant after.
Orkhan B. — Google review
Fabulous and affordable cenote near Coba. (100 pesos) The water was so clear and peaceful. It’s in a cave with an incredibly high dome. Very few people. We had fun jumping off the two platforms. This one is a lot like the other cenote, Multun-Ha across the main road. No jumping platforms at Multun but it’s just as beautiful and refreshing.
Andria Martin — Google review
One of a kind experience of jumping off crazy high platforms into a cool cave! Best cenote in the area! Not much crowds there too! (We went midday on Tuesday) The road is mostly drive able for any car but still drive at your own risk. (It is a dirt road) I recommend this cenote!
Dripthany — Google review
This is a must visit cenote! We drive from Tulum and it was so worth it! 100 peso per person. Giant cave with super clear and deep water. Two jumping platforms. We had so much fun we didn’t want to leave!
Will Smithey — Google review
Worth a swim after wandering Coba ruins. It's entirely enclosed but well lit with light and ventilation. There are many steep steps down which could be an issue for some people, but worth it if you're able. There's a jumping platform at 10m and then 5m. The water is clear and cool with fish swimming around. It's quite a unique experience that I would highly recommend.
Neil N — Google review
Just go. You won’t be sorry. Steep steps to walk down but clean and not slippery with sturdy handrails. Water is cool, clean and crystal clear. Mot mots and bats flying around. Well lit and well ventilated.
Karen Giles — Google review
Fantastic experience! Spiral staircase to descend is a little dated, but sturdy. The view and water is stunning. The water is extremely clear. Was told the depth of the cenote is about 45 feet. Very much worth the stop.
They have bathroom changing areas as well, and life jackets to rent.
Cenote Xkeken is a stunning cave with a breathtaking natural swimming pool and remarkable stalactites. Despite the pandemic, they offer various facilities except for food. It is compulsory to wear a life jacket while swimming in the crystal-clear and refreshing water. The cave boasts an impressive array of fish that give you an added bonus of a pedicure if you remain still. Overall, this picturesque cavern is an amazing tourist attraction that offers great services and unforgettable experiences.
It was open in December; a magical place easy to reach from Valladolid, 15 minutes away by car. I used a shared van to go at 40 pesos per passenger. To return, a cab from the entrance at 140 pesos because the van was all ours. There are 2 amazing cenotes that share the admission entrance. Both amazing and different. The access to the water is by a system of stairs, these are caves. There are ropes and railing in good condition so just make sure you have good shoes, it is wet. There are bathrooms and lockers. I carried my small bag and left it on a bench. Most people did the same. There are guides that offer some storytelling at the entrance and inside, if you want more details. There are clothing and souvenir vendors too. Not crowded, cool refreshing water and a beautiful setting. Credit cards accepted.
Indy Villagarcia — Google review
Hello walking wallet.
Be aware you may have to pay for pretty much everything over here and you'll be overloaded with all kinds of offers.
It's a nice cenote, but there are definitely more beautiful natural experiences
Pat 13 — Google review
Super nice experience. It is so beautiful and peace inside. Moreover it is not touristic !! There was only 5 people inside at 2.30pm.
Javid 95 — Google review
Este cenote como el de Samula, se pueden visitar por el mismo precio. Lo impactante de este cenote es que tiene unas estalactitas y estalacmitas que dan la forma de un mamut. Muy bonito!
(Translated by Google)
This cenote, like the one in Samula, can be visited for the same price. The impressive thing about this cenote is that it has some stalactites and stalacmites that give the shape of a mammoth. Beautiful!
Víctor Alejandro Hernández — Google review
Magical place!!! I could have stayed forever. When I was there, I was almost alone. The ticket includes both Cenotes (Xkeken, Samula). Both very different and about a 10 min walk apart. Visit both, come with time to enjoy. I got there by bike from Valladolid, which was really great, there is an extra lane for bikes.
Jana R. Reinel — Google review
Visiting Cenote Xkeken was a delightful experience! This hidden gem offers two stunning cenotes for one entrance fee. The water is incredibly clear, and the surroundings are simply beautiful. Best of all, it wasn’t crowded, allowing for a peaceful and enjoyable visit.
Rashid Raza — Google review
It was OK - we arrived early, before the hawkers had set up their stalls, so nice and peaceful. The cenote itself was pretty cool to see and there were only a couple of people swimming. Mind your head as you walk down the steps to the cenote, if you're taller than 1.75m/5ft10". If you want to swim, a life-vest is compulsory and an extra charge - MXN25...
Keith Webb — Google review
Wonderful experience. It is a Cenote in a Cave and the light enters Cenote through a hole on the top of the cenote which makes it more beautiful... not crowded on weekdays.. one of the best cenotes I've visited!
Samson Bonthu — Google review
Los cenotes están muy bonitos (visitas 2 por el mismo precio). Las instalaciones están viejas pero limpias.
No me gusto que un señor se nos acercó y sin preguntar nada nos llevó al primer cenote, sin embargó nunca aclaro que era un "guía", su explicación fué muy sencilla y al final exigió su pago. El problema no es pagarles, si no que no te avisan que es plan con maña... También te toman fotos que puedes comprar como recuerdo.:)
(Translated by Google)
The cenotes are very beautiful (2 visits for the same price). The facilities are old but clean.
I did not like that a man approached us and without asking anything he took us to the first cenote, however, he never clarified that he was a "guide", his explanation was very simple and in the end he demanded payment. The problem is not paying them, but that they don't let you know that it's a clever plan... They also take photos of you that you can buy as souvenirs.:)
Tatiana L-Viesca — Google review
Can't lie, it's a little run down there but great value as you get access to 2 cenotes both of which are well worth visiting. My wife and I rode our bikes there from Vallodolid, it took less than 30 mins and there's a bike track running parallel to the main road, super easy for all levels of riders. Entry to both cenotes is $235 pesos per person.
Darron Mcmillan — Google review
Der hier bei Google angegebene Preis ist falsch. Es sind MXN 226 pro Person für beide Cenoten inkl. Schwimmweste und Parkplatz. Der Besuch von nur einer Cenote ist nicht möglich.
Wir waren um kurz nach 8:00 Uhr morgens da, eigentlich sollten die Cenoten um 8:00 Uhr öffnen. Als sich um 8:30 Uhr immer noch niemand für das Kassenhäuschen zuständig fühlte und ich einen der vielen Mitarbeiter fragte, ging alles auf einmal ganz schnell und um kurz vor 9:00 Uhr erhielten wir unser Bändchen. Scheinbar war der Ticketverkäufer zu spät dran gewesen.
Um diese Uhrzeit waren wir unter der Woche die einzigen Besucher und hatten die Cenoten für die 1,5 Stunden für uns allein. Atemberaubend, wenn man so etwas noch nie gesehen und erlebt hat. Es war schon recht dunkel, gerade, wenn draußen die Sonne noch nicht so knallt. Wenn sich die Augen an das Licht gewöhnt haben und man sich ins Wasser traut, weiß man gar nicht, wohin man zuerst gucken soll.
Und hat es so sehr gefallen, vor allem, weil wir so früh am Morgen die einzigen Gäste waren.
(Translated by Google)
The price given here on Google is incorrect. It's MXN 226 per person for both cenotes including life jacket and parking. Visiting just one cenote is not possible.
We were there shortly after 8:00 a.m., the cenotes were actually supposed to open at 8:00 a.m. When at 8:30 a.m. there was still no one in charge of the ticket booth and I asked one of the many employees, everything suddenly happened very quickly and shortly before 9:00 a.m. we received our wristband. Apparently the ticket seller was late.
At this time during the week we were the only visitors and had the cenotes to ourselves for the 1.5 hours. Breathtaking if you have never seen or experienced anything like it. It was already quite dark, especially when the sun wasn't shining brightly outside. When your eyes get used to the light and you dare to go into the water, you don't know where to look first.
And enjoyed it so much, especially since we were the only guests so early in the morning.
Jenni — Google review
They have all services, except food because the pandemic. Cenotes are awesome and you must wear life jacket if you want to swim. Water is clean and cool. The cave is amazing! Full of fish and they make you a pedicure every time you are still.
Karla Dominguez — Google review
A good place to visit on a rainy day as they're mostly enclosed. Easy to get to from town with a taxi or car. Worth paying for both. Lifejackets not included.
Michael Messenger — Google review
Es precioso de hecho son 2 cenotes la gente es muy amable las artesanías en el cenote son 50% más baratas que en el mercadito y la plaza.
El agua de los cenotes es preciosa y muy fresca, recomendable llevar suficiente tiempo para disfrutar de ambos cenotes.
(Translated by Google)
It is beautiful in fact there are 2 cenotes the people are very friendly the crafts in the cenote are 50% cheaper than in the little market and the plaza.
The water of the cenotes is precious and very fresh, it is advisable to take enough time to enjoy both cenotes.
patricia calderon — Google review
It’s nice.. but there are more beautiful cenotes.
It’s located conveniently next to another cenote. One which in my opinion is more beautiful than this one. But both come for the same price so still might take a look.
Be prepared to walk past some market stalls
With souvenirs… Once or twice if you get lost.
Do respect the rules of the owners and pay close attention to it.
Ernst ‘t Hart — Google review
This location actually has two Cenotes: Xkeken and Samula. I recall the price being around $220 pesos per person, which lets you get into both. There is a 10 minute walk between the two and you have to cross the street to get from one to the other.
From the parking lot a helpful employee guided us to the ticket sales and then to the entrance of the Samula cenote which he recommended visiting first as the place to pick up and drop off your lifejacket is right next to the entrance of the Xkeken cenote. Unfortunately, just before we wanted to enter the cenote the helpful employee wanted to get a tip from us, which was a bit annoying.
The cenotes are beautiful and both of them are cave cenotes. The water was a bit cold (since it is in a cave) so we didn't stay for very long. It was not crowded and a nice intimate experience.
Andreas V — Google review
Beautiful Place. Just make sure you bring water shoes, the stairs to go down the cenote are solid rock and slippery. The use of a life saver is mandatory you can rent one for $4.
Elizabeh Marin — Google review
Great location, 2 cenotes in one ticket and these are much quieter and relaxing than some others we went to. Highly recommend!
Kaenat seth — Google review
It was great! Both cenotes are beautiful, water was nice, not over crowded, not as expensive as others, showers and bathrooms reasonable. We had a very nice experience and would definitely recommend it!
Barbara Maier — Google review
Great stop. You are able to see two cenotes in one place. The price is 220 pesos for foreigners, which includes a mandatory life jacket. It’s better to swim in the more open one as there are a lot of bats in the other. Went in the late morning on a week day and there were only a few other people there. The massive parking lot was basically empty. The guides alleged to be pushy were not bad at all and left us alone when we said we just wanted to explore on our own. The buildings are a bit sad and run down, but really what you are going for is the caves which are amazing.
Logan Aitken — Google review
Ticket includes entrance to 2 cenotes. They are 5 mins away walking from each other. Cenotes are great. If you are lucky to be there when the sun rays come in through the hole in the ceiling you are in for a test. It looks stunning. The light reflects in a rock underwater and it seems as if there is a sun at the bottom of the cenote. Life vests are included in the ticket price.
Nikko — Google review
Beautiful cenote, we went early on a Saturday morning and not too busy. Two cenotes included in the entry price
Jade Orpwood — Google review
The ticket price is 226 pesos, not 5$. I was pretty angry after it was told on maps that is cheap. Although I didn't regret it. The cenote is beautiful! Stay there for 2 hours to meditate. Annoying shops, no infrastructure or low quality, for this price in Europe you get something at least. The cenote is there anyway. Coco's can be bought for 40 pesos if you bargain well.
Thomas Pekar — Google review
Away from Chichen Itza these cenotes are calmer to visit. They are managed by the township so money raised is shared back to the community and the running if the cenote. The underground aspect of the cenotes make them different to the other open ones. The water is a refreshing 24 degrees Celsius. There are ropes to allow non-swimmers to enjoy the experience also.
Nilesh Tailor — Google review
Wery interesting and beautifull place. It is like an underground cave with stalactites and you can swim. Only have one minus -there is no place to change clothes.
This museum is packed with colorful Mexican folk art collected by Dorianne and John Venators. The private collection includes pieces dating back to the 16th century, and is interesting in that objects are displayed in an actual private house, instead of being displayed in glass cases. With your donation, the museum has the opportunity to benefit local communities through a variety of programs.
Great experience! They do tours at 10am so be there on time. I think there might be more tours but I’m not sure how exactly it works. The tour lasts about 1 hour and is walking around somebody’s house with loads and loads of Mexican art and souvenirs. It really is worth it!
Agata Majka — Google review
Amazing unique art gallery / museum / home.
We had such an interesting tour by Sergio. The house is beautiful and the art throughout every room is stunning. Hearing about the art, the house, and the owners along the way was great too.
Really recommend it. They have guided tours most days at 10:00 11:30 13:00 14:00 and 15:00. Just ring the bell and they'll let you in.
Tam Finlay — Google review
It’s a private house with guided tours multiple times per day. There’s a 100pesos donation for I don’t remember exactly which cause. You have to arrive on time for the tour, no need for reservations. We went to the 2PM one there’s some in AM and later 3PM as well.
The guide was very informative and answered all our “non house related” questions. It was even better than expected.
Fei C — Google review
Whether you enjoy art or not, this is a great experience to learn not only the art history of the Yucatán and nearby regions but also general history of these areas all while getting to walk around a spectacular home! Really love the fact that all donations go to local charities in the community as well. A must visit! They have a few tours that run throughout the day and take about an hour to complete.
Phoenix Wilkins — Google review
A personal elaborate art collection in the elaborate personal house opposite the main square. It is very interesting even though I am no culture vulture. There are personal tours normally 10 am, 11.30, etc, in English and Spanish. The 100 peso charge is given to the local community. Ring the bell, and they will confirm the next time. As is next to the main square and church, there is plenty to see and do(drinks,snacks) if there is a slight delay
Fred Flintstone — Google review
Miguel gave us an amazing tour of this spectacular house full of Mexican folk art. We arrived 2 minutes before 10am and joined a group that was already waiting in the lobby. He was a very knowledgeable and enthusiastic guide. He walked us through most of the rooms in the house and explained the history behind several different pieces of art and the different themes of each room. Visiting the Casa de los Venados was a last minute decision, but it turned out to be one of the absolute highlights of our trip!
Samuel Engelen — Google review
Really enjoyed visiting this amazing private house and museum. We had a very good tour, informative and friendly. The guide was a voluntary contribution which is to raise funds for local charities!
Lucie Gledhill — Google review
This really is amazing. Not only b/c of the folk art, but due to that this is a private house where the owner, Doug, just opens up his home for tourists to flood through and touch his stuff. He even comes out to greet most tours. The suggested donation all goes to local charities and not to the owner or guides. I gave a tip to our guide and my wife noticed that he went to the charities jar and put it into their instead of his pocket. This tells me that the owner really takes care of his tour guide staff.
Brandon Smith — Google review
An amazing opportunity to view a private residence in the middle of the city with a ton of Mexican art. Best of all, the donations you give at the end of 100% to local charities! The tour guide Miguel was phenomenal! We got there right at 10am and the tour started within 5 minutes after! I highly recommend you visit here! It's well worth it, and they are doing great things for the local community.
Zachary Smith — Google review
Imagine a place full of beautiful Mexican arts, crafts, sculptures, paintings where all donations given by clientele go entirely to local causes and those in need.
Whilst the website offers guided tours at 10 am, there are actually about 4 a day, giving many more people the opportunity to view these treasures.
By the way, the tour by our guide David was interesting and entertaining.
Highly recommended.
Liz Hawksbee — Google review
So cool! Very neat collection of art from two American collectors who resettled in Mexico. The home is amazing, the house dog is adorable. Very fortunate to see John "Deer" and his wife's home. Amazing piñatas, costumes, and hand painted furniture, and a super cool bit of history on the significance of skulls in Mexican art. We also learned the meaning of "Yucatan" in Mayan! Highly recommended.
Naomi Goff — Google review
If you have an appreciation for art, architecture and capturing stories visit this museum. The guided tours are from 10:00 11:30 13:00 14:00 and 15:00. Just ring the bell during this time or wait outside until this time. They will open the door and let you inside. Once inside you'll be given a 45-50 min tour about how an American couple purchased their retirement home and rebuilt the house over the course of several 10 years to what it is today. Their story is inspirational and their art collection is of artists all around Mexico over the course of their lives. 100p is a suggested donation and it goes directly to many local charities in the area.
Bobbi M — Google review
Highly recommend. Great collection of contemporary folk art from across Mexico. Beautifully restored hacienda. Guide, Sergio, was brilliant - super knowledgeable about the collection and multilingual. $100 recommended donation well worth it. They offer tours x5/day at 10am, 11.30am, 1pm, 3pm and 4pm(?). Ignore what it says on the website, you just turn up and ring the doorbell ahead of whichever time slot.
Ruby Manson — Google review
Not to miss in Valladolid! More Mexican folk art than you would see in a museum, this is a private house right in the centre. Donations of $100 mxn support local charities for the disadvantaged. David us an excellent guide & if you’re lucky the owner might be there to explain further. Recommended
Jane Jagger — Google review
wonderful house. It's worth coming to see. Sergio is a great guide. We were pleasantly surprised by how he tried trito connect with the visitors and learn a few words of our language.
Tanja — Google review
DO NOT MISS THIS PLACE. "Modern Art" may not be your thing, but you do not want to miss this. The "museum" is a private home that is open for public tours a few times a day. We went to the 1 pm tour. There was another planned for 3 pm. Not sure what other times are scheduled. It was a little confusing because you walk up and ring the doorbell if no one is at the door, but the building is well-marked. If you ring the doorbell and it isn't a tour time, a person will answer and tell you the time for the next tour.
On to the tour itself: the owners of the house made it their lives' mission to collect handcrafted Mexican folk art. When they moved to Valladolid in retirement, they bought an old colonial-era building and renovated it to modern standards. It's a great tour for both the art and the architecture. Our tour guide was a quadrilingual professional who seemed to know about everything in the house. He's fun and gives a lot of valuable information about the culture and the city while talking about the art. He explained the treatment of skeletons in Mexican art and the treatment of death in modern Mayan religious philosophy, both of which helped us understand the art better. The building is a beautiful hacienda and the art will give you insight into the culture around you.
There's a donation box at the end. Proceeds go to a local charity. Tips can be handed directly to the guide at the end.
Megan Elder-Taylor — Google review
FANTASTIC find in Valladolid! I highly recommend a visit❤️ This is my third trip to Valladolid, and I finally made it to this beautiful home today- so worth the wait. This is a private residence chock full of amazing Mexican folk art, with guided tours for the public which start each day at 10am, 11:30am, and then a couple of afternoon times, too. It's an optional $100 pesos donation at the end, money which goes to various charities in the city. Be sure to tip your tour guide, too😁👍
Julia L. — Google review
It's really worth spending some time to visit this private house/museum. The guide is very passionate about the collection and will answer all your questions. The tour lasts about one hour and it is just with a really small group so it is very enjoyable.
lisa borrelli — Google review
Defintelly pay a visit to this house. The first tour starts at 10.00am and the second tour is at 11.30am. You can just ring the doorbell a few minutes before the tour starts and someone will open the door. The tour is very nice and especially the tour guide knows a lot and is very friendly.
Gertjan De Regt — Google review
4.8
(751)
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5.0
(1147)
Calle 40 Local 204 X 41, Centro, 97780 Valladolid, Yuc., Mexico
Love this cenote. Great people. Rappelling into the water was awesome. We all really enjoyed the shaman and the blessing before the lunch. We’ll done.
David Hoy — Google review
I am so surprised by this place. I am waiting to download my photos to post them but I will post the outside ones here. The cenote gives you the option to walk down or rappel down. I recommend you rappel. It looks and sound scary but someone is controlling you from the bottom to prevent a free fall. The food was phenomenal there! This place is impressive. Mind you, the water is very cold but refreshing.
Joseph Powell — Google review
Best cenote we visited (& we visited 8)
It was high season but we arrived as soon as it open, so we had the whole place for ourselves There is rappel, Ziplines, kayaking, lockers, bathrooms, showers. It was a lot of fun!! Just be mindful it is not as accessible (narrow roads to get there) but it is worthy.
Raquel Resendiz — Google review
Beautiful place, with very good food, the cenote is incredible and is the largest I have seen in my life, the rappelling is very fun along with the zip lines and large green areas to walk, highly recommended
Hilda Perez — Google review
We visited 4 cenotes and this was the most expensive by far (like $30 to $40 USD per person more) but if you’re looking for rappelling, zip-lining over and into the water, 2 high jumps,inner tube swimming, then you might not mind paying $39 USD (or $49 USD with food). It took 3 tries to pay with a credit card. You must leave everything in a locker - no cameras allowed (probably bad for the cenote to have a bunch of cellphones sitting forever at the bottom). The facilities were excellent and we did not go with a tour and that did not matter - each staff member spoke English and were fun and upbeat. Afterwards, we wandered the paths, which were lovely, and accidentally wound up at the parking lot (I had wanted to see if the pictures were worth buying). A friendly tour guide named Vincente was at the parking lot pagoda and heard me and offered to take us back through a different path to the photo lodge. He explained a lot of the plants along the way and even grabbed us a small portion of the chicken to taste to demonstrate the annote spice (the chicken was melt-in-your mouth delicious). We paid $30 USD for 36 photos from another person in the hut, which is outrageously expensive, but Vincente was wonderful and walked us back to the parking lot and refused a tip. Classy.
kali shang — Google review
This was my first time visiting a cenote. It was such a great experience!
I booked a tour at my hotel, which included a visit to this cenote. Upon arrival, we were invited to a dining hall, and they served us Mayan food. It was delicious! They also mentioned that we could have multiple servings if we wanted.
Afterwards, we went to the cenote to swim. As expected, the water was very cold since it is in a cave. However, it feels so great! It's truly different than swimming in the beach. I don't know how to describe the feeling.
It's unfortunate that we weren't allowed to bring anything with us inside the cave, including cellphones and cameras. Which is why I don't have any pictures of the place.
I can't compare this cenote to the others since it was my first time visiting one. If you never visited a cenote before, then you will surely have a great experience here! Especially since there are very few tourists visiting this place.
Tony, le Lavallois — Google review
I recently had the pleasure of going on a private tour to Chichen Itza and Cenote Maya with Alltournative, and it was an absolutely incredible experience! From start to finish, every aspect of the tour exceeded my expectations.
Our tour guide, Rafael, was simply outstanding. His knowledge and passion for the Mayan culture and history brought the entire journey to life. He was friendly, approachable, and went above and beyond to ensure that we had a memorable time. Rafael's storytelling skills and attention to detail made the tour informative and engaging. We learned so much about the fascinating Mayan civilization and its architectural wonders.
Chichen Itza itself was awe-inspiring. The iconic pyramid, El Castillo, left me speechless. Standing before such a magnificent structure was a humbling experience. Rafael guided us through the site, explaining the intricate details and the significance of each structure we encountered. The rich history and remarkable architecture of Chichen Itza truly came alive under his guidance.
Next, we visited Cenote Maya, a natural wonder that took my breath away. The crystal-clear waters were inviting, and swimming in the cenote was an unforgettable adventure. Alltournative ensured our safety and provided all the necessary equipment for a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
One of the highlights of the tour was the authentic lunch at the Mayan village. The food was delicious, and being able to interact with the local community was a heartwarming experience. The hospitality and warmth we received made us feel like part of the Mayan family.
I highly recommend Alltournative for anyone seeking an extraordinary adventure in Mexico. Their commitment to sustainable tourism practices and their knowledgeable guides, like Rafael, make them stand out from the rest. The memories I made on this tour will stay with me forever, and I can't thank Alltournative enough for the exceptional service they provided.
Thank you, Rafael, and the entire Alltournative team, for an unforgettable journey!
Anuj Sethi — Google review
This cenote is absolutely worth a visit. We came in low season and had the cenote with its fun activities to ourselves for around an hour. If you enjoy an adrenaline kick, the Rappel from approx. 20m is a fun thing to do. There is also a zip line and different platforms to jump from. The staff was super helpful and friendly. During our stay they were building another zip line for kids. The fact that there were no hammocks as promoted and no restaurant service did not bother us much as we enjoyed the tranquility which you find there compared to other very busy cenotes.
Pedro Videira — Google review
This place is amazing, best part of trip! try to get Markus as your tour guide this guy is awesome!
Feras Abutaha — Google review
The best day of our entire trip was visiting this cenote! Repelling into the water was amazing, the staff were wonderful, the food was great - everything was awesome!
Amaya Daley — Google review
We happened upon this Cenote the day after hurricane Grace blew through and fortunately they were open. Between the zip line, rappelling, and snorkeling in the Cenote, I think I enjoyed rappelling down into the Cenote the best.
Eddy Schuh — Google review
Amazing calm Cenote. Please avoid the large, bacteria kind Cenote like Chichikan. Horrible ! It"s an industry !
Bala Bala — Google review
Beautiful cenote turned into a bit of a Disneyland type attraction. $49 US to enter (includes rappelling into it, zip lining inside and food, $39US without food). No cameras allowed so you will pay $30US to $60US to get the pictures they take of you inside. If you want the same type cenote without rappelling and zip line for $5US (100 pesos) go to cenote X’ux Ha. You can take all the pictures you want there.