Xunantunich Belize Shore Excursion Guide: What to Expect From the Cruise Port
Xunantunich is one of the most popular Belize shore excursions for cruise passengers, especially those sailing Princess, Carnival, and Royal Caribbean. Located about 90 minutes from the Belize City cruise port, this Mayan archaeological site offers climbable ruins, incredible jungle views, and a deep dive into Belize’s history. If you're deciding whether the Xunantunich Belize shore excursion is worth it — especially with kids — this guide covers exactly what to expect, travel time, safety, tips, and our real experience visiting from a cruise.
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Is Xunantunich worth it on a cruise?
Yes — Xunantunich is absolutely worth it on a cruise, especially if you want a shore excursion that feels unique, cultural, and memorable. Unlike many Caribbean port days that revolve around beaches or shopping, Xunantunich gives you something you can’t get anywhere else on your itinerary: climbable Mayan ruins with sweeping jungle views.
⭐ Why It’s Worth It
You can climb the main temple (El Castillo) — one of the few climbable ruins left in the region.
The views are incredible — you can see Guatemala from the top on a clear day.
It’s deeply historical — perfect for kids learning about ancient civilizations or adults who want more than a beach day.
Guides are excellent — most excursions include a knowledgeable local guide who brings the site to life.
It feels like a real adventure — river crossing, jungle setting, wildlife, and ruins all in one.
⭐ Who Will Love It
Families with school‑age kids
History lovers
Active travelers
Anyone who wants a “bucket list” port day
Cruisers who prefer experiences over beach clubs
⭐ Who Might Not Love It
Travelers who dislike long bus rides (it’s about 90 minutes each way)
Anyone with mobility limitations (there are uneven steps and steep climbs)
People who prefer a low‑effort beach day
You do not like the heat. It was 104 degrees in early May
⭐ Bottom Line
If you want a memorable, cultural, and adventure‑filled Belize shore excursion, Xunantunich is one of the best choices you can make. The travel time is absolutely worth it for the experience you get at the top of the ruins.
What to Bring to Xunantunich
Lightweight daypack
Cooling towel
Electrolyte packets
Reef‑safe sunscreen
Bug spray
Comfortable walking sandals (Teva / Chaco)
Portable fan
Refillable water bottle
Find all these on my Essentials for Xunantunich list at Amazon
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.
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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.
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