Xunantunich

Xunantunich is an ancient Maya ruin in the Cayo District of Belize, close to the border with Guatemala. The site rises on several levels across a limestone ridge and features paved plazas ringed by stone structures with steep stairways.

The city flourished between the 7th and 9th centuries AD before being abandoned. Researchers began clearing and documenting the overgrown buildings in the late 19th century.

The name comes from the Maya language and means „Stone Woman

A small ferry takes visitors across the river, then a path leads uphill to the grounds. Sturdy footwear helps when climbing the steps, and early morning hours offer cooler temperatures for exploring.

Relief carvings on the east side of the largest pyramid show figures and symbols still visible after centuries of tropical rain. Additional chambers continue to be uncovered, with new finds coming to light regularly in recent years.

Location: Cayo District

Elevation above the sea: 152 m

GPS coordinates: 17.08389,-89.13389

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:53