San Ignacio horseback ride and Xunantunich Maya site tour

Two hours on horseback through open savannah and jungle, then climbing the stone structures at Xunantunich.

A morning tour from San Ignacio combining a guided horseback ride across a family farm's private trails with a short drive to the Xunantunich Maya site for a guided exploration of the ruins. The ride lasts roughly two hours on trained horses suitable for novice and experienced riders alike. Afterward, a guide leads you through the archaeological site and up its stone structures for views across the landscape. Pickup and drop-off from San Ignacio hotels are included, along with bottled water and entrance fees. Maximum group size is ten people. Weight limit is 260 pounds per rider.

Step-by-step itinerary

Horse ride and Xunantunich tour

• Ride horses on family farm trails
• Drive to Xunantunich Maya site
• Guided tour and climb Mayan site

The experience

The ride starts early at 7:30am from your San Ignacio hotel and heads to a family farm where you'll spend about two hours on horseback. The trails wind through open savannah, along the riverside, and into jungle sections where you're likely to spot parrots, kiskadees, herons and seasonal fruit trees. The horses are trained for all levels, from first-time riders to experienced ones, and the pace is relaxed enough that you can take in the sights and sounds without rushing. Wear long pants and sturdy closed-toe shoes. Long sleeves are recommended for sun and brush protection.

After you dismount, a short drive takes you to Xunantunich, one of Belize's largest Maya archaeological sites. Your guide walks you through the ruins and leads climbs up the stone structures, pointing out details of the site's layout and history while you take in views of the surrounding landscape from the top. The whole experience (ride, drive, and guided tour) fits into a morning, with pickup and drop-off handled from your hotel in town.

What’s included

• Driver and guide in English or Spanish.
• pickup and drop-off from your San Ignacio hotel.
• bottled water.
• entrance fee to Xunantunich.
• transport by air-conditioned vehicle to the Maya site.

Before you book

Days and timesMonday to SaturdayDeparts at 08:00

Book up to4h before

AgesAdult (17 to 65 years) · Senior (66 to 82 years) · Youth (10 to 16 years) · Child (4 to 9 years) · Infant (2 to 3 years)

GroupUp to 13

Live guideEnglish and Spanish

Meeting point and pickupHotel pickup included.You can choose from 12 pickup points.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated 14 days ago

Good to know

Moderate physical levelInfant seats availablePublic transport nearbyNot for pregnant travelersNot for heart conditionsNot for back problems

Operated by St Leonard's Tours

Is this one for you?The ride lasts roughly two hours at a relaxed pace suitable for novice riders, and the whole tour fits into a morning departure, so it works well if you want a horseback experience without a full-day commitment or if you're new to riding.

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Top questions

What languages is the guide in?

Live guide in English and Spanish.

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Youth (10 to 16 years); Child (4 to 9 years); Infant (2 to 3 years).

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

What's the riding experience like if I've never been on a horse before?

The farm ride is designed for novice riders on trained horses at a relaxed pace through open trails and jungle sections. You'll spend roughly two hours in the saddle across private farm paths, so the speed and terrain are manageable for first-timers.

How much climbing is involved at Xunantunich?

Xunantunich has stone structures you can climb with your guide, who will show you the site's layout and history from the top. The climbing is part of the guided tour, and you set your own pace through the ruins.

What birds and wildlife might I see on the farm trails?

Parrots, kiskadees, and herons are common sightings along the riverside and jungle sections of the farm. You'll also pass seasonal fruit trees and open savannah where wildlife is visible from horseback.

Is there a weight limit for riders?

The weight limit is 260 pounds per rider. This is a firm requirement for the safety of both rider and horse.

What's included in the price, and what should I bring?

Pickup and drop-off from San Ignacio hotels, the guide, bottled water, and entrance to Xunantunich are all included. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and wear long pants and closed-toe shoes. Long sleeves protect against sun and brush.