How to Plan Your Mayan Ruins and Cave Tubing Tour in Placencia

If you’re looking for an exciting and adventurous way to explore the ancient history of Belize, look no further than the Mayan Ruins and Cave Tubing tour in Placencia. This full-day excursion takes you to the stunning Xunantunich archaeological site where you can climb one of the largest Mayan temples in the country, followed by an exhilarating cave tubing experience. Here’s everything you need to know to plan your trip.

Overview

The Mayan Ruins and Cave Tubing tour in Placencia offers a unique blend of adventure and history. You’ll begin your day with a scenic drive through the hills of Belize before arriving at Xunantunich, where you can explore the ancient ruins and climb El Castillo, the towering Mayan temple. After your visit to Xunantunich, you’ll head to the nearby caves for a thrilling cave tubing experience.

What’s Included

The tour includes all taxes, fees, and handling charges, as well as landing and facility fees and local taxes. Lunch is also included in the tour, but alcoholic drinks are available for purchase. Gratuities are not included, so be sure to bring cash to tip your guide and driver.

Meeting and Pickup

Hotel pickup and drop-off are provided, so you don’t have to worry about getting to the starting point of the tour. The pickup time is at 7:00 AM, so be sure to set your alarm and have breakfast before the tour.

What to Expect

The tour lasts for approximately 8 hours, so be prepared for a full day of adventure. You’ll be exploring the Xunantunich ruins and climbing the temple, so wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water for hydration. You’ll also need to bring a change of clothes and a towel for the cave tubing portion of the tour.

Xunantunich

Xunantunich is one of the most popular and important archaeological sites in Belize. “El Castillo,” the largest Mayan temple in the country, is the main attraction of the site, and it offers breathtaking views of Belize and neighboring Guatemala from the top. You’ll have the opportunity to climb to the top of the temple and take in the panoramic views of the surrounding area. But Xunantunich is not just about the temple. The site features a variety of other structures, plazas, and ball courts, and you can explore at your own pace or with a knowledgeable guide. Be sure to check out the Stela Plaza, where you can see a number of ancient Mayan carvings and inscriptions.

Cave Tubing

After your visit to Xunantunich, you’ll head to the nearby caves for a thrilling cave tubing experience. You’ll be provided with a life jacket and a helmet with a headlamp, and you’ll float down the gentle rapids of the underground river system in the caves. The caves are filled with stunning rock formations and ancient artifacts, and your guide will provide interesting facts and information about the history and geology of the caves.

Additional Info

The Mayan Ruins and Cave Tubing tour in Placencia is suitable for most people, but it is not wheelchair accessible. Confirmation of your booking will be received at the time of booking, unless you book within 48 hours of travel, in which case confirmation will be subject to availability.

Book the Tour Here

Book your Mayan Ruins and Cave Tubing tour in Placencia today through Viator, and get ready for a day of adventure and exploration in the heart of Belize.

FAQ about Placencia

1. Where is Placencia located?

Placencia is a small seaside town located in the Stann Creek District of Belize, Central America. It is situated on the southern tip of a peninsula that juts out into the Caribbean Sea and is about 140 km south of Belize City.

2. Is Placencia safe?

Placencia is a very safe place to visit, with low crime rates and friendly locals who are always happy to help. However, as with any destination, it’s always a good idea to take basic safety precautions such as staying aware of your surroundings, avoiding walking alone at night, and keeping valuables locked up in your hotel room.

3. What are the best things to do in Placencia?

There are plenty of fun and exciting things to do in Placencia, including:

1. Explore the beaches:

Placencia is known for its stunning white sand beaches and crystal clear waters, so be sure to spend some time lounging on the sand, swimming, or even trying out some water sports like snorkeling or paddleboarding.

2. Take a boat tour:

Join a boat tour to explore nearby mangroves or the Belize Barrier Reef, the second-largest coral reef system in the world.

3. Visit the Placencia Lagoon:

Explore the Placencia Lagoon, which is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including manatees, dolphins, and exotic birds.

4. Go fishing:

Placencia is renowned for its fantastic fishing opportunities, so don’t forget to bring your fishing gear along with you.

4. When is the best time to visit Placencia?

The best time to visit Placencia is between November and April, which is the dry season. During this time, you can expect sunny skies and warm temperatures, making it perfect for beach vacation.

5. How do I get to Placencia?

You can reach Placencia by domestic flight, bus or car. You can fly from Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport in Belize City to Placencia Airstrip, which takes only an hour. Alternatively, you can take a bus from Belize City to Placencia, which takes around 4-5 hours. Driving is also an excellent option as it provides scenic views of the countryside.

6. What is the local currency in Placencia?

The official currency of Belize is the Belizean dollar (BZD), but US dollars are commonly accepted in Placencia.

7. What is the local language in Placencia?

English is the official language of Belize and is widely spoken and understood in Placencia. Spanish is also spoken in some areas.

8. Do I need a visa to visit Placencia?

If you’re a US or Canadian citizen, you do not need a visa to visit Belize for up to 30 days. However, if you plan on staying longer than 30 days or visiting for reasons other than tourism, you may need to apply for a visa.

9. What is the food like in Placencia?

The food in Placencia is diverse, reflecting the different cultures that make up Belize. Some must-try dishes include rice and beans, fried fish or chicken, and Belizean stewed chicken.

10. What is the weather like in Placencia?

Placencia has a tropical climate, with average temperatures around 27 °C (81 °F) all year round. The rainy season runs from May to October, while the dry season is from November to April.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Placencia

Placencia is a beautiful and peaceful village located in the southern region of Belize. It is known for its stunning beaches, crystal clear water, delicious seafood, and friendly locals. If you’re planning a trip to Placencia, then you’re in for a treat. In this guide, we’ll give you the rundown on how to maximize your time in Placencia.

Explore the Beaches

Placencia is blessed with several stunning beaches that are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing. The top beaches include Maya Beach, Seine Bight Beach, and Placencia Village Beach. Here are some tips for making the most of your time at these beaches:

Maya Beach

Maya Beach is a scenic and serene beach that is perfect for couples and families. The beach is lined with coconut trees and crystal clear water, and it is not crowded. Here are some things you can do at Maya Beach:

• Take a long walk on the beach
• Go swimming
• Try some water sports like kayaking or snorkeling

Seine Bight Beach

Seine Bight Beach is a popular beach that is known for its bustling atmosphere and fun activities. Here are some things you can do at Seine Bight Beach:

• Play beach volleyball
• Try some local seafood at nearby restaurants
• Relax under a beach umbrella

Placencia Village Beach

Placencia Village Beach is a long and picturesque beach that is perfect for families and groups of friends. It has plenty of space for everyone, and there’s always a friendly crowd. Here are some things you can do at Placencia Village Beach:

• Swim in the crystal clear water
• Take a boat ride to explore nearby islands
• Go for a bike ride along the beach

Experience Belizean Culture

Belize is home to many different cultures, including Garifuna, Creole, Maya, and Mestizo. Placencia is no exception and is the perfect place to experience the unique culture of Belize. Here are some things you can do to immerse yourself in Belizean culture:

Visit a Local Village

There are several local villages near Placencia that offer visitors the opportunity to experience the traditional culture of Belize. Some of the most popular villages include Hopkins, Seine Bight, and Silk Grass. Here are some things you can do when visiting a local village:

• Learn how to make cassava bread, a traditional Belizean food
• Dance to the beat of the Garifuna drums
• Shop for handmade crafts and souvenirs

Try Authentic Belizean Cuisine

Belizean cuisine is a blend of African, Caribbean, and Latin American flavors. It is known for being spicy, flavorful, and delicious. When in Placencia, you must try some of the local seafood and traditional dishes. Here are some must-try dishes:

• Fry Jacks – fried dough served with beans, eggs, and cheese
• Ceviche – raw fish marinated in lime juice and mixed with herbs and vegetables
• Lobster – a Placencia specialty, often served with garlic butter and rice

Discover the Local Wildlife

Belize is home to an amazing array of wildlife, including manatees, dolphins, monkeys, and birds. Here are some ways to discover the local wildlife:

Snorkeling or Scuba Diving

Placencia is home to the second largest barrier reef in the world, making it the perfect place to go snorkeling or scuba diving. You can explore the beautiful coral and see an amazing variety of fish and other sea creatures. Here are some popular spots for snorkeling and scuba diving:

• Laughing Bird Caye National Park
• Silk Cayes Marine Reserve
• Glover’s Reef Atoll

Bird Watching

Belize is home to over 500 species of birds, making it a bird watcher’s paradise. Placencia has several bird watching tours where you can see exotic birds such as toucans, parrots, and hummingbirds. Some popular bird watching spots near Placencia include:

• Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary
• Monkey River
• Wildtracks

Book Your Tour Now

Placencia offers visitors a unique blend of culture, beach life, wildlife, and delicious food. By following this guide, you can make sure you make the most of your time in Placencia. From its gorgeous beaches to its rich cultural heritage, Placencia is the perfect destination for a relaxing and exciting vacation.