Exploring Xunantunich: A Belize Adventure with My Son Tanner
Xunantunich
In May 2024, Tanner and I headed out on the Enchanted Princess. We had a port stop in Belize, we decided we needed a shore excursion that would take into Belize’s history. While cruises often promise beaches and shopping, this day was about something different: climbing ancient Mayan ruins at Xunantunich, a site that has stood for centuries near the Guatemala border. This was the perfect excursion for my history-loving son.
Sailing Princess Cruises? Check out my Princess Cruise Guide -> Princess Cruise Guide
This blog contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission (at no additional cost to you). Thanks for supporting NO POINT LEFT BEHIND — it helps me keep sharing savvy travel hacks and family adventures
Getting There
Our excursion began with a long bus ride through Belize’s lush countryside, followed by a short crossing of the Mopan River on a hand-cranked ferry. Tanner loved the novelty of the ferry—it felt like stepping back in time before we even reached the ruins. Please note we get off the bus and take the ferry by foot!
Check out reviews of all the cruise ports I have visited -> Cruise Port Guide
The Ruins
Xunantunich, meaning “Stone Woman” in Maya, is famous for El Castillo, a towering pyramid that rises about 130 feet above the jungle. As we climbed, Tanner raced ahead, eager to conquer the steps. At the top, the view stretched across Belize and into Guatemala—a breathtaking panorama that made the climb worth every step. Not everyone climbed the steps, but I knew Tanner would want to do this. I will say I was nervous coming back down, but I did it! Our guides did a great job of explaining the history and what we were seeing. We had plenty of free time to explore before we headed back to the ship. The ruins were amazing and so worth the bus ride.
History Meets Adventure
The site dates back to the Preclassic to Postclassic periods of the Maya civilization. What struck me most was how well-preserved the stucco friezes are, telling stories of rulers and gods. Tanner was fascinated by the carvings. We both enjoyed exploring this site. We both love history, and this site was amazing.
My son and me at Xunantunich
A Family Memory
Thanks to travel hacking, we have been to so many amazing places. Moments like this—standing with my son on top of a Mayan pyramid—are priceless. It wasn’t just a shore excursion; it was a shared adventure. I picked this set of ruins because I knew Tanner would love climbing them. I was so right! We had the best time on our cruise, and I am so thankful he still wants to travel with me.
Cruise Hack Note
Booking through the cruise line made logistics simple, especially with a child. The excursion included transport, a guide, and plenty of time to explore. For families, it’s a stress-free way to experience Belize’s treasures without worrying about making it back to the ship. I don’t always book my shore excursions through the cruise line, but I did for this one. This was our first time in Belize, and I wanted a stress-free excursion.
Final Thoughts
Xunantunich is more than a ruin—it’s a reminder of the incredible civilizations that shaped Central America. For Tanner and me, it was a highlight of our Enchanted Princess journey, and one of those travel memories that will stay with us forever.
If you enjoy learning how we travel as a family using points, miles, and smart credit card strategies, I’d love for you to follow along:
