How to Plan Your San Ignacio Tour: From San Ignacio: Tikal Maya Site Day-Trip with Local Lunch

Planning your next tour can be challenging especially when you’re visiting a new country. San Ignacio offers numerous exciting tours that guarantee to give you the best experience of the region. One such trip is the From San Ignacio: Tikal Maya Site Day-Trip with Local Lunch. In this blog post, we will guide you on how to plan your tour successfully.

Overview of the Tour

The Tikal Maya Site Day-Trip is a popular and thrilling tour that offers visitors the chance to explore one of the largest archaeological sites and urban centers of the pre-Columbian Mayan civilization. The tour guarantees an opportunity to discover the highlights of a UNESCO World Heritage Site with ease. To help you with the travel process, a professional guide will assist you in crossing the border to Guatemala.

Tour Inclusions

The tour package offers the following amenities:

• Pick-up from San Ignacio at 7:00 AM
• 15-minute drive to Guatemalan border with assistance from the guide
• 2-hour journey to Tikal
• Guided tour of the main sights of the complex
• Lunch at a local restaurant

Experience and Highlights

The highlights of the tour include:

• A visit to one of the largest archaeological sites and urban centers of the pre-Colombian Mayan civilization.
• A chance to discover the highlights of a UNESCO World Heritage Site with ease.
• A professional guide to assist you in crossing the border to Guatemala.
• An opportunity to see an abundance of wildlife surrounding the temples
• A guided tour of the main sights of the complex
• A chance to learn how the Mayan civilization built inspiring temples and cities that formed a vast complex of religious, social, and political power.
• A delicious local lunch

Full Tour Description

The tour begins at 7:00 AM with pick-up from San Ignacio. You will be driven to the border town, where your guide will assist you with the border crossing process. Afterward, you will continue the journey to Tikal, which takes approximately two hours. Upon arrival at the national park, you will see an abundance of wildlife surrounding the temples. Tikal is considered to be one of the most spiritual locations on earth. The Mayans built an inspiring city that formed a vast complex of religious, social, and political power. You will start your guided tour of the main sights of the complex, which is estimated to have over 3000 structures, including palaces, temples, ceremonial platforms, ball courts, terraces, plazas, causeways, and reservoirs. Your guide will ensure that you experience the best views and capture the most memorable moments of this excellent and unmissable destination. Then, you will take a break for a delicious local lunch. The local restaurant serves authentic Guatemalan food, and you will have a chance to try some traditional dishes. Afterward, you will resume your guided tour of the Mayan ruins. At the end of the tour, you will be driven back to San Ignacio.

How to Book

Ready to experience the scenic landscapes, ancient temples, and Guatemalan cuisine? You can book the tour here book here and start planning your tour from San Ignacio today.

Frequently Asked Questions about San Ignacio

San Ignacio is a beautiful city in western Belize that is known for its rich culture and history, as well as its stunning natural beauty. If you are planning a trip to San Ignacio, you may have some questions about the city, so we have put together this FAQ to help you out.

1. What is the best time of year to visit San Ignacio?

The best time to visit San Ignacio is during the dry season, which runs from December to April. During this time, you can enjoy sunny weather and avoid the rain, which can be heavy during other times of the year. Additionally, the dry season is the peak tourist season, so there are typically more events and activities taking place during this time.

2. Can I fly to San Ignacio?

While San Ignacio does not have its own airport, you can fly into the Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport in Belize City and then take a domestic flight, a bus, or a private transfer to San Ignacio. The trip takes approximately two hours.

3. What are some popular things to do in San Ignacio?

San Ignacio has many popular attractions that you can enjoy during your visit, including:

• Exploring the Mayan ruins of Xunantunich and Cahal Pech
• Swimming and tubing in the clear waters of the Macal River
• Hiking and horseback riding in the nearby jungle
• Visiting the San Ignacio Market to shop for local goods and crafts
• Taking a tour of the Green Iguana Conservation Project

4. Is it safe to travel to San Ignacio?

San Ignacio is generally a safe city, but like any place, it is important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings. If you are traveling alone or at night, it is best to take a taxi rather than walk, and you should avoid carrying large sums of cash or expensive items with you. Additionally, be sure to drink plenty of bottled water to stay hydrated, as the weather can be hot and humid.

5. What is the official language of San Ignacio?

The official language of Belize, including San Ignacio, is English. However, many locals also speak Spanish and Kriol, a Creole language that is unique to Belize.

6. What are some traditional foods to try in San Ignacio?

San Ignacio is known for its delicious cuisine, which is heavily influenced by both the Mayan and Garifuna cultures. Some popular dishes to try include:

• Fry jacks, a fried dough pastry that is typically served for breakfast with eggs and beans
• Cochinita pibil, a slow-roasted pork dish that is marinated in orange juice and achiote paste
• Rice and beans, a staple dish in Belizean cuisine that consists of coconut rice and red beans
• Tamales, a traditional Mayan dish made of masa (corn dough) filled with meat, vegetables, and spices
• Dukunu, a Garifuna dish made of ground corn and coconut milk wrapped in a banana leaf

7. Are there any cultural events or festivals in San Ignacio?

San Ignacio hosts several cultural events and festivals throughout the year, including:

• The San Ignacio Agriculture and Trade Show, which takes place every April and features livestock shows, live music, and food vendors
• The Benque Viejo del Carmen Fiesta, a celebration of the town’s patron saint held in July, with parades, fireworks, and traditional dancing
• Garifuna Settlement Day, which takes place on November 19th and celebrates the arrival of the Garifuna people to Belize in 1832

8. What are some good places to stay in San Ignacio?

San Ignacio has a range of accommodations to suit all budgets and preferences, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Some popular options include:

• Ka’ana Resort and Spa
• The Lodge at Chaa Creek
• Casa Blanca Guest House
• Treasure Cave
• Maya Bella Accommodations

Book Your Tour Now

San Ignacio is a wonderful city to visit if you are interested in history, culture, and nature. With its stunning landscape, friendly locals, and delicious cuisine, San Ignacio is sure to offer something for everyone. We hope this FAQ has been helpful in answering some of your questions about this beautiful city. Safe travels!

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in San Ignacio

San Ignacio is a small and charming town in western Belize that serves as the gateway to some of the country’s most impressive natural attractions. From Maya ruins to caves and waterfalls, there is no shortage of things to see and do in and around San Ignacio. Here are some tips on how to spend your time as a tourist in this beautiful part of Belize.

1. Visit the Maya ruins of Xunantunich and Cahal Pech

One of the main draws of San Ignacio is its proximity to several important Maya ruins. Xunantunich, located just a few miles from town, is one of the largest and most impressive Maya sites in Belize. Here you can climb to the top of El Castillo, the tallest structure on the site, for panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys. Another must-see Maya ruin is Cahal Pech, which is located right in San Ignacio. This small but fascinating site dates back more than 1,000 years and features several well-preserved plazas, temples, and other structures. Guided tours are available at both Xunantunich and Cahal Pech.

2. Take a dip in the Blue Hole National Park

Located about 12 miles from San Ignacio is the Blue Hole National Park, which gets its name from the deep, blue sinkhole that is the centerpiece of the park. Visitors can take a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear water or hike the trails that wind through the park’s lush jungle landscape.

3. Explore the caves of Actun Tunichil Muknal

For a truly unique experience, take a guided tour of the Actun Tunichil Muknal cave system located in the Tapir Mountain Nature Reserve. This cave system served as a sacred site for the ancient Maya and is home to numerous artifacts and skeletal remains. Note that the tour involves some swimming and climbing and is not suitable for those who are claustrophobic.

4. Go waterfall hopping in the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve

The Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve is a vast protected area of pine forests, rivers, and waterfalls located about an hour’s drive from San Ignacio. Some of the most popular waterfalls to visit here include Rio on Pools, Big Rock Falls, and Thousand Foot Falls.

5. Sample the local cuisine

Belizean cuisine is a delicious blend of Caribbean, Central American, and Maya influences. Some of the must-try dishes in San Ignacio include fry jacks (a type of fried dough), rice and beans, and ceviche (a seafood dish marinated in lime juice and spices). You can find great food at local restaurants and street vendors throughout the town.

6. Shop for local crafts at the San Ignacio Market

The San Ignacio Market is a lively and colorful place to pick up souvenirs and local crafts. You can find everything from handmade jewelry to traditional woven textiles to wooden carvings. The market is located in the center of town and is open daily.

7. Relax and unwind at a local spa

After days of touring and exploring, take some time to pamper yourself at one of the local spas in San Ignacio. Many offer relaxing massages, facials, and other treatments using natural ingredients like aloe vera and coconut oil. Great options include the Maya Mountain Lodge & Spa and the Ka’ana Resort & Spa.

Book Your Tour Now

San Ignacio is a fantastic destination for travelers who want to experience the rich culture and natural beauty of Belize. From exploring Maya ruins to swimming in waterfalls to sampling delicious local cuisine, there is something here for everyone. Use this guide to plan your perfect itinerary and make the most of your time in San Ignacio.