Xunantunich & Cave Tubing: Belize Day Tour with Lunch

Summary

Explore ancient Xunantunich then float Belize’s caves with a guide

You’ll climb ancient Maya temples at Xunantunich with a local guide who brings history to life, then float through Belize’s cool cave rivers by tube. Expect small surprises along the way (maybe even fresh tamales), plus lunch and all gear included. There’s something quietly unforgettable about seeing Guatemala from atop El Castillo or drifting in darkness listening to echoes.

What’s the experience like?

“You ever climbed a pyramid before?” That’s what our guide, Luis, asked as we pulled up to Xunantunich. I just laughed — I mean, not unless you count playgrounds as a kid. The air was thick and warm, and there was this earthy smell everywhere, almost like rain on old stone. Luis had this way of weaving stories about the Maya that made the ruins feel alive — he pointed out carvings I’d have missed, and when we finally reached the top of El Castillo (my legs were jelly), he just grinned and said, “Now look — that’s Guatemala.” You could actually see farms across the border. Kind of wild.

The drive from Placencia wasn’t short, but it went by fast with all the little stops Luis made — fruit stands, a quick detour for tamales (not officially part of the tour but honestly, worth it). After wandering through Xunantunich, we headed for the caves. I didn’t expect how cool and quiet it’d be inside; you can hear water echoing off the walls while your tube bumps along in the dark. The headlamp light caught these weird rock shapes overhead — some looked like faces if you squinted right. At one point someone behind us started singing softly and it echoed forever. It was kind of magical but also sort of funny because nobody knew all the words.

Lunch was simple but good — rice, beans, chicken — nothing fancy but after climbing temples and floating caves it tasted perfect. The guides kept checking everyone had water and gear sorted; they really seemed to care people were comfortable (and not lost in the jungle). On the way back to Placencia I dozed off for a bit. Still think about that view from El Castillo sometimes — standing up there with wind in my face, feeling tiny but weirdly connected to everything around me.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Mayan City and Cave Tubing

• Visit Xunantunich Ruins
• Go cave tubing adventure

Top questions

How long is the day trip from Placencia to Xunantunich?

The tour lasts most of the day including travel time between Placencia, Xunantunich ruins, and cave tubing sites.

Is lunch included on this Xunantunich & cave tubing tour?

Yes, lunch is included as part of your day trip experience.

Are entrance fees covered for both attractions?

All entry fees are included in your booking price.

What should I bring for cave tubing in Belize?

All necessary gear like tubes, helmets, life jackets, and headlamps are provided; just bring comfortable clothes.

Is hotel pickup available from Placencia?

Yes, pickup from your accommodation in Placencia is included.

Can children join this tour?

The tour is suitable for all ages but not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with certain health conditions.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup from your hotel in Placencia, all entry fees for both Xunantunich ruins and cave tubing adventures, bottled water throughout the trip, a hearty local lunch after exploring, plus all safety equipment—helmets, tubes, life jackets, and headlamps—so you don’t have to worry about bringing anything extra except maybe dry clothes for later.