Top San Ignacio Cultural Tours

Get an intimate glimpse into the coves and crevices of Belize’s intricate cave network during a private canoeing tour of Barton Creek Cave. Opting for a private canoe tour allows you to set the pace of your paddling as you listen to tales of Mayan history and culture from your guide. Plus, hotel pickup and drop-off allow you to skip the hassle of hiring a car and finding a meeting point.

Journey into the heart of the Mayan underworld at the Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM) cave. Departing from San Ignacio, this guided, action-packed 9-hour tour kicks off with a 45-minute, physically intense jungle hike through the Tapir Nature Reserve to the entrance of the cave. Swim, climb, and spelunk your way through astonishing caverns into the depths of the cave, where you’ll get an up-close look at artifacts and offerings used in ancient Mayan ceremonies. Round-trip transport and riverside lunch are included. Please note this tour isn't recommended for those with a fear of enclosed spaces or heights.

Awaken your inner archaeologist as you explore the sprawling Mayan ruins of Caracol. Departing from San Ignacio, you’ll journey deep into the jungles of Belize to the Chiquibul Forest Reserve — home to one of the largest Mayan sites in the country. Your expert guide will illuminate the fascinating history of Caracol, which was once a mighty city and a rival of neighboring Tikal in Guatemala. Explore magnificent plazas, temples, palaces, and an observatory while learning about the social and religious practices of the ancient Mayans. Round-trip transport from your San Ignacio hotel is included on this full-day tour.

Walk in the footsteps of Mayan royalty at Belize’s magnificent Altun Ha ruins on this day trip from San Ignacio. A professional guide will lead you through the archaeological remnants of this ancient city, which was an important center of trade and religion during the Classic Mayan period. Among the complex of more than 500 excavated structures, you’ll visit grand plazas and ceremonial temples, including the discovery site of a famous carved jade figure of the Mayan sun god Kinich Ahau. Round-trip hotel transport is included. 

Uncover the ancient mysteries of archaeological sites, Xunantunich and Cahal Pech, on an enriching tour from San Ignacio. Travel deep into the Belizean jungle with a guide and discover Mayan structures and exotic flora and fauna. At Xunantunich, gaze at spectacular views of the lush forest from El Castillo, Belize’s second highest man-made structure, and marvel at the intriguing limestone structures of Cahal Pech. Gain fascinating insight into the history and culture of the Maya empire from your expert guide on this educational tour.

Combine three experiences in one day during this comprehensive excursion ideal for travelers on a time budget. See more of the region than you could alone—including a stop at the Xunantich archaeological site for a tour from a local guide—without the hassle of arranging your own transport. Then, sample several typical Belizean foods and learn to make chocolate the Mayan way.

Ride a horse through the Belizean countryside on this small-group, 1.5-hour riding tour from San Ignacio. Spot birds and wildlife as you follow your guide along a gentle trail, and pass tropical fruit trees and lush vegetation. Enjoy your time away from the crowds and just admire the beautiful trail ride: open savannah, jungle & river trails.

Experience two Belizean cultures on a full-day trip from San Ignacio to a Maya village and Barton Creek, a conservative Mennonite community. Browse local handicrafts at a trio of women’s collectives, learn about Maya farming techniques, and enjoy a traditional local lunch. Continue to Barton Creek, where the Mennonites maintain a simple way of life using horse-drawn buggies, conservative religious clothing and few modern amenities. Learn the stories behind this German-speaking tropical culture, and get an insider’s look at Belize’s remarkable diversity.   

Head deep into the jungles of Belize and discover the Actun Tunichil Muknal Cave, ATM for short, during this full-day excursion. Join a small group and depart San Ignacio in search of the impressive underground cave that was once sacred to the ancient Mayans. Admire the various geological formations inside and see sacred burial remains.

Explore the largest Mayan site in Central America: Tikal. Your tour guide will pick you up from your hotel in San Ignacio to begin your day trip. You’ll be able to explore the thousands of structures around the temple complex as you learn about the history of the Maya civilization from your guide. Spend the full day snapping photos and soaking up the beauty of each temple structure.

Discover Tikal, an ancient Mayan site located on the border of Guatemala, on this two-day excursion from San Ignacio. On the overnight trip, you’ll be able to enjoy this popular attraction including experiencing the sunrise and sunset. Listen to the jungle come alive during the early morning tour when howler monkeys, coatimundi, wild pigs, foxes, and jaguars are active.

Welcome to the lost city! A place far, far away from home. Caracol Sits in the heart of the Chiquibul rainforest. It is known to be one of the largest Maya cities in Belize. Dominating the centre of this important community is the massive structure known as Caana, “Sky Place.” This immense complex of palaces and temples remains today the tallest human-made construction in Belize. Are you ready for a bumpy ride? Join us as we travel deep into the green dense forest of Belize. Off we go on a three-hour drive to one of Belize’s most prestigious jewels. Up and down, side to side as we drive up the dirt road. Looking through the window and witnessing how the broadleaf forest transitions into a pine Forest then back into the broadleaf forest is alluring. This is quite astonishing as both hold different ambient and different species of wildlife. “Come on, Vamonos!” says Dora La Exploradora, as Belize awaits you.

Go on an adventure to a ceremonial cave near San Ignacio. On this day tour, you’ll be taken by a guide through a cave system that was once believed to be the entrance to the underworld. Learn about the ceremonies and sacrifices that occurred during the Maya civilization inside the caves, with old relics left behind for you to see. Enjoy a delicious and filling lunch after your hike and cave exploration.

With a professional guide, you will visit the most charming places in the city. You will have a chance to explore the city while hearing fascinating facts and legends. The tiny capital of Belize is the smallest capital city in all the Americas by population as well as the newest. What was the tragic reason for relocating Belize’s capital to Belmopan in 1970? You will be surprised how many stories are hidden in the streets, buildings, and corners of Belmopan. Your charming guide will tell you what is special and unique about living in this city. Perfect for those who are visiting the city for the first time and want to get the most out of it!

Mayan Caves and Temples With our ultimate Belizean adventure—the Xunantunich and Barton Creek Cave package—set out on an exhilarating journey! Discover the mysteries of the past Maya at Xunantunich, a place where imposing pyramids and ethereal tales come to life. As you explore this amazing archaeological site, experience the rush! After that, get ready for an exhilarating journey into Barton Creek Cave, a subterranean world of glistening waters and breathtaking rock formations. Take a thrilling canoe ride through the enigmatic passages, guided by geological and historical tales. Not just a trip, but an incredible exploration of Belize's hidden treasures is what this thrilling expedition promises. Book now for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure and seize the excitement!

Discover the romance of San Ignacio on this unforgettable tour. Start your journey by strolling through the bustling stalls of the San Ignacio Market, filled with vibrant colors, smells, and sounds that will awaken your senses. Next, admire the stunning “A Painted Conversation” mural, where a beautiful love story unfolds before your eyes. Take a break in Columbus Park, surrounded by lush greenery and gorgeous views of the town. Finally, step back in time and visit the ancient Cahal Pech Mayan Ruin, a mysterious place steeped in history and legend. Enjoy a quiet moment in this peaceful setting, surrounded by the beauty and wonder of the past. This romantic tour is perfect for couples looking to create lasting memories in one of the most charming and picturesque destinations in the world.

Experience the rich history and culture of Belmopan on this romantic tour. Immerse yourself in the charming atmosphere of the city and learn about the fascinating love stories that have taken place there. Get ready to be captivated by tales of heartbreak, tragedy, humor, and spice as you explore the city’s streets, buildings, and parks. You will explore the city’s rich Belmopan Market Plaza, the National Assembly Building of Belize, and The Olmec Head. Additionally, you’ll visit the Orchid Garden: A picturesque paradise showcasing a diverse collection of stunning orchids. This tour is perfect for couples looking to create memories, or for those simply searching for a unique and romantic experience. Book now for a truly unforgettable adventure in Belize.

Our Tikal Sunset Tour starts at 12:00 p.m. from San Ignacio Town toward the Western Border in Benque Viejo Town. Guests are assisted with safely crossing the border into Guatemala where they are greeted with by a fluent English-speaking tour guide. The guide will then drive 1.5 hours through beautiful scenery. Explore the Tikal National Park and learn of the daily life and practices of the ancient Mayas and appreciate the jungle from the top of a Mayan pyramid. After you traverse the Tikal Par, your guide will take you to Temple IV to have the best view of one of the most amazing sunset you will ever experience. As the day ends, the green Maya jungle gently turns to darkness and the noises of wildlife, turns into music until the new day. After the tour, you will enjoy a meal at a local restaurant which offers a vary of cuisine and you will have a chance to shop for souvenirs before heading back across the border of Belize. Minimum Requirement: Two persons

This guided tour takes you into the jungles of Belize to explore the Lamanai ruins, the site of an ancient Maya city. Begin your journey with a scenic cruise down the New River to reach the entrance to the archaeological site, and then explore the excavated temples, plazas, and royal palaces with your guide.

Tikal National Park covers 575 square kilometers of jungle and thousands of structures in ruins. Only the central part of the old city contains 3,000 buildings and covers about 16 square kilometers. Tikal is also part of the Mayan Biosphere Reserve of one million hectares created in 1990 to protect the dense forests of Petén, which began to disappear at an alarming rate due to population pressures, illegal logging and agricultural practices of felling and burning. Archaeologists estimate that the Maya settled in the area now known as Tikal in approximately 900 BC.

The best way to explore Tikal is with this private guided tour. Our local expert will provide the best experience on your visit. Our Local expert will take you through jungle trails to see Tikal's flora and fauna and you will understand Tikal history and culture. You will be able to climb many of the temples and pyramids at Tikal.