Xunantunich Cave Tubing & Zipline Day Trip from Belize City
Experience Xunantunich’s towering El Castillo, drift through limestone caves on an inner tube, and soar above Belizean canopy on a multi-line zipline—all in a single full-day outing from Belize City. Practical tips and local insights help you plan for river crossings, cave conditions, and canopy exposure.
The Experience
Before You Go
Wear quick-dry, closed-toe shoes
Streams and cave floors are slippery—choose footwear that drains, grips, and protects toes.
Bring a small dry bag
Keep camera, phone, and extra clothes dry during river crossings and tubing sections.
Start early
Morning departures avoid heat and reduce the chance of afternoon thunderstorms affecting river levels and zipline operations.
Respect cave formations
Do not touch stalactites or stalagmites; oils from skin halt growth and damage fragile features.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Cross the hand-cranked ferry to browse hammock and textile stalls—vendors often have locally woven goods not sold elsewhere.
- •Climb El Castillo late morning for clearer light into the forest and fewer mosquitoes on the plaza.
Wildlife
- •Howler monkeys
- •Keel-billed toucan
Conservation Note
Cave systems and forest canopy are sensitive—avoid touching formations, pack out trash, and use reef- and wildlife-safe sunscreen to protect aquatic and subterranean ecosystems.
Xunantunich was a significant Late and Terminal Classic Maya center; El Castillo was a ceremonial and administrative hub visible from miles across the valley.
What to Bring
Quick-dry hiking shoes or water shoesEssential
Grip and drainage for stream crossings, cave floors, and trail sections.
Small waterproof dry bagEssential
Protect electronics and spare clothes from river spray and tubing splashes.
Insect repellent with DEET or picaridinEssential
Mosquitoes and biting insects are common in forested, river-adjacent areas.
Light long-sleeve sun shirt
Provides sun protection on exposed pyramid viewpoints and cooler mornings.
Common Questions
How long is the tour and what is included?
The full-day trip runs about 7–8 hours and typically includes transportation, entrance fees, a private guide, cave tubing equipment and a multi-line zipline circuit; confirm specifics with your operator.
Is this suitable for non-swimmers or children?
Participants should be comfortable in water and able to float; operators supply lifejackets and guides, but pregnant travelers and those with serious heart or spinal conditions are usually advised not to join.
What should I wear and bring?
Quick-dry clothes, closed-toe water-friendly shoes, a small dry bag, sunscreen, insect repellent, water, and a camera you can stow safely are recommended.
How does weather affect the trip?
Heavy rain can raise river levels and make cave tubing or zipline operations unsafe; many tours cancel in bad weather and offer refunds if conditions force cancellation.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
7–8 hours
Location
San Ignacio, Cayo District
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness: comfortable with short hikes, wading through knee-deep streams, climbing stairs and handling brief physical exertion during ziplines.
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