Xunantunich & Nohoch Che'en: Cave Kayaking and Zipline Private Tour from San Ignacio
Pair ancient Maya ruins with treetop zips and cave kayaking on a full-day private tour from San Ignacio. Expect long ziplines over the river, waist-deep crossings, and 1–1.5 hours of paddling through limestone caves.
The Experience
Before You Go
Weight & Height Limits
Zipline and single kayak max weight 300 lbs, tandem 500 lbs; children must be at least 40 inches—confirm weights and heights at booking.
Footwear & Grip
Wear sturdy water shoes or closed-toe sandals with good tread for river crossings and wet cave floors.
Hydrate & Pace
Carry a liter of water and pace yourself—tropical heat plus exertion from zips, steps and paddling adds up quickly.
Protect the Caves
Use reef-safe sunscreen and avoid lotions that can contaminate cave pools; follow guide instructions when entering formations.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Small interior waterfall inside the cave systems, great for a quick swim
- •Final zipline platform offers wide views upstream toward the Maya Mountains at sunset
Wildlife
- •Howler monkeys
- •Keel-billed toucans
Conservation Note
Nohoch Che'en is managed to protect fragile cave formations and aquatic habitats—follow guides, use reef-safe products and avoid touching stalactites and flowstone.
Xunantunich, Altun Ha and Cahal Pech are classic Maya sites that were regional centers for trade, ballgames and ceremonial life across the Classic period.
What to Bring
Sturdy water shoesEssential
Protects feet on wet rocks, river crossings and inside caves.
Dry bag (small)Essential
Keeps phone, extra layers and snacks dry during paddling sections.
Reef-safe sunscreen & hatEssential
Protects from strong tropical sun without contaminating cave pools.
Quick-dry clothing & light layer
Dries fast after getting wet and a light layer helps during cool mornings.
Common Questions
How long is the kayaking/tubing portion?
The cave paddling explores up to six cave systems and lasts about 60–90 minutes, plus roughly 10 minutes paddling downstream to exit.
Are children allowed and what are the restrictions?
Children can join but must be at least 40 inches tall; child rates apply when sharing with two paying adults and all children must be supervised.
What is included in the tour price?
Private transport, guide/driver, zipline and cave gear, lunch (Belizean rice & beans with stew chicken), and hotel pickup/drop-off when selected.
What happens in bad weather?
Operators monitor river and weather conditions; the tour may be cancelled for safety (full refund if cancelled 24+ hours before departure).
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
10 hours (full day)
Location
San Ignacio, Cayo District
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness—able to handle short hikes, steps to platforms, waist-deep river crossings and up to 90 minutes paddling.
Ready to Explore San Ignacio?
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