November 28 – November 29: San Ignacio

San Ignacio is a lively little town on the west side of Belize, close to the border with Guatemala. Its main attraction is the Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM) cave, a renowned archaeological site featuring ancient Mayan artifacts and skeletons. The area also boasts Mayan ruins such as Cahal Pech, located within the town, and Xunantunich, just a short drive away. San Ignacio is also a hub for outdoor activities, including river tubing, jungle treks, and visits to nearby nature reserves.

The town is small andd walkable. In the centre you find a few restaurants and tour operators where you can comfortably book your trips as well as a shuttle to your next destination.

From Caye Caulker to San Ignacio

Take the ferry back to Belize City and join a shuttle to San Ignacio. It seems you can book one at several times, but unless you have a large party sharing the cost, it is best to join the fixed shuttle, which departs at noon and reaches San Ignacio around 3 pm. You can book your seat in Caye Caulker or San Pedro.

Actun Tunichil Muknal Cave

The Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM) cave is one of Belize’s most famous attractions, offering a thrilling and immersive experience. The tour costs around 250 BZD (approximately 125 €) and includes a hike through the jungle and several river crossings. You’ll wade and swim through water-filled chambers and climb over rocks to explore its stunning formations. The highlights are ancient Mayan artifacts and the famous “Crystal Maiden,” a fully intact skeleton of a Mayan sacrifice victim, preserved for centuries. Electronics are not allowed on the trip, but the tour company provided free-to-use pictures, a few of which I’ve included in the gallery at the end of this page.

Xunantunich

The Xunantunich Maya ruins are set about 10 km west of San Ignacio. You could book a tour, but I highly recommend doing this on your own as it is very easy and saves a lot of money. Catch a bus headed towards Benque from the main road in San Ignacio (just stand on the street and wave it down as it approaches). This costs 2.50 BZD one way (about 1.25 €). Get off at the first bus stop in Benque, close to the ferry crossing over the Mopan River. After the short (and free) ferry ride, walk another 1.5 km to the ruins (there is no alternative to this anyway) and enjoy these Maya ruins. Allocate about 2.5 – 3 hours for this excursion, including transport time.

San Ignacio picutre gallery :