El Castillo: A Glimpse into Ancient Mayan Civilization
Discover the majestic El Castillo in Xunantunich, a breathtaking Mayan ruin offering stunning views and rich historical significance for travelers.
El Castillo, located in Xunantunich, is an awe-inspiring Mayan ruin that captures the imagination of tourists with its majestic architecture and breathtaking views. As one of the most significant archaeological sites in Belize, it offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the remnants of a once-thriving civilization. Climbing to the top of this ancient structure rewards you with panoramic vistas of the surrounding jungle and the distant Guatemalan hills. With its rich historical significance and stunning scenery, El Castillo is a must-visit for any traveler seeking to immerse themselves in the wonders of the Mayan world.
A brief summary to El Castillo
- Xunantunich 40 Park Street, BZ
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.
- Bring a hat and sunscreen as there is limited shade on the climb.
- Hire a local guide to gain deeper insights into the history and significance of the site.
- Wear sturdy shoes suitable for climbing and walking on uneven surfaces.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving from San Ignacio, head west on the George Price Highway (also known as the Western Highway). After about 6 miles, turn left onto the road to Xunantunich. Follow this road until you reach the ferry crossing at the Mopan River. Take the ferry (cost: approximately $5 BZD per person) across the river. Once on the other side, continue straight for about 1 mile until you see the entrance to Xunantunich. Park your car and walk about half a mile to the entrance of El Castillo, which is part of the Xunantunich archaeological site.
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Public Transportation
From San Ignacio, you can take a local bus or a shared taxi (also known as a 'collectivo') to Xunantunich. Buses leave from the San Ignacio bus terminal and typically cost around $2 BZD. Ask the driver to drop you off at the ferry crossing. Once you arrive at the ferry ($5 BZD per person for a round trip), take the ferry across the Mopan River. After crossing, you can either walk or wait for a local taxi to take you the remaining mile to the entrance of Xunantunich. From the entrance, it's a short walk to El Castillo.
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Taxi
If you prefer a more direct option, you can hire a taxi from San Ignacio to take you to El Castillo. This will be more expensive, typically costing around $25-$30 BZD for a one-way trip. The driver will take you to the ferry crossing, where you'll take the ferry ($5 BZD per person) across the river, then continue to the entrance of Xunantunich. The taxi will wait for you while you explore El Castillo and the surrounding site.
Discover more about El Castillo
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