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Snorkeling, caves, ruins, ziplining, and sailing: browse hundreds of bookable Belize tours, filtered by what you want to do.
ATM Cave leads Belize's inland demand by a wide margin, followed by easier cave options for travelers who want the atmosphere without the same physical commitment. San Ignacio is the practical base for nearly all of them.
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Live tours and activities across Belize, bookable through our Viator partnership. Filter by activity, sort by what matters, and load more as you plan.
The 15 best things to do in Belize, organized by base: the reef and cayes, Cayo's caves and ruins, and the Garifuna south.
Things to Do in Belize
Most reef-planning questions circle around Hol Chan, Shark Ray Alley, Blue Hole dives, and whether island or southern departures make more sense. The right answer usually depends on your base, budget, and confidence in the water.
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see all storiesATM Cave is Actun Tunichil Muknal, Belize's most repeatedly recommended inland tour. It combines hiking, river crossings, swimming, and archaeological interpretation inside a ceremonial Maya cave. Travelers ask about it constantly because it takes real effort and planning, but it is also one of the tours most often described as the highlight of a Belize trip. If you are basing in San Ignacio, it is one of the clearest must-plan-ahead experiences.
Book the high-demand experiences first: ATM Cave, Blue Hole dives, Hol Chan and Shark Ray Alley snorkel days, and any small-group transfer-linked trips during busy travel windows. Easier add-on activities like local boat trips, some ruins, and casual beach excursions usually offer more flexibility once you are in Belize.
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5h · From $165
5.0(35)
7:30am - 8am pickup from hotels in SAN IGNACIO Town for 2 great Maya sites: Cahal Pech & Xunantunich, unique places to get yourselves familiar with Maya history. Climb, explore and fascinate yourselves with extraordinary structures built by mysterious Mayan people who continue to captivate our full attention and never ending questions as to who, where and what happened to them. Let yourself be pampered by the cool jungle settings, towering structures, let the Maya land whisper to you many of its secrets through your knowledgeable local guide, let time come to a standstill, while you admire breathtaking views of the forest-covered neighboring sites of Actuncan and San Lorenzo Valley before enjoying lunch at a local Restaurant. TOUR STARTS from SAN IGNACIO town UNLESS arrangements are made with local provider PRIOR to tour date. SPECIAL DIETS or ALLERGIES must be informed at time of booking. EXTRA FEE (payable cash at pickup time) for any pickups & drop offs OUTSIDE SAN IGNACIO TOWN.
9h · From $195
5.0(23)
This is a private day tour, meaning only your group will participate. Travel from San Ignacio Belize to Tikal with full border assistance, explore the site at a relaxed, personalized pace, and enjoy a private local expert guide who leads you through jungle trails, shares Tikal’s history and culture, helps spot wildlife, and takes you to the best viewpoints. The experience is completed with an included lunch and personalized attention throughout the journey.
5h · From $250
5.0(22)
Just under a hour outside of Placencia Village, we’ll arrive at Mayan King. We’ll enjoy seven 7 zip Lines and a couple bridges, enjoying the views from as high as 400 feet into the tree tops. The longest line is 1300 feet. The lines crisscross over the river and valley below. This tour is easy for all ages. Children are welcome but may need to go tandem with another rider or guide. Then we’ll take a short hike down to the river. We’ll ride the river for about 45 minutes through mostly calm waters, with a few quick rapids along the way. For safety, life jackets and helmets are provided. We’ll also have two guides – one at the beginning and one at the end of our group – to help navigate the waters. Finally, we take a short drive to the waterfall – enjoy the pristine beauty and tranquil atmosphere of the natural waterfall. If you’re feeling adventurous, we’ll hike up to the second falls or you can relax by the pool (or even take a dip if you’re up to it!).
8h · From $180
5.0(19)
Welcome to the lost city! A place far, far away from home. Caracol Sits in the heart of the Chiquibul rainforest. It is known to be one of the largest Maya cities in Belize. Dominating the centre of this important community is the massive structure known as Caana, “Sky Place.” This immense complex of palaces and temples remains today the tallest human-made construction in Belize. Are you ready for a bumpy ride? Join us as we travel deep into the green dense forest of Belize. Off we go on a three-hour drive to one of Belize’s most prestigious jewels. Up and down, side to side as we drive up the dirt road. Looking through the window and witnessing how the broadleaf forest transitions into a pine Forest then back into the broadleaf forest is alluring. This is quite astonishing as both hold different ambient and different species of wildlife. “Come on, Vamonos!” says Dora La Exploradora, as Belize awaits you.
8h · From $155
5.0(16)
Step back in time with the legendary Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM) Cave, named the #1 Sacred Cave in the world by National Geographic. On this full-day adventure from San Ignacio, trek jungle trails, cross rivers, and swim into underground passageways where history and nature meet. Guided by our expert, licensed guides, you’ll uncover glittering stalactites, ceremonial pottery, stone tools, and human remains, preserved in their original resting places for over a thousand years. An unforgettable mix of adventure and culture, this journey uncovers the Maya’s sacred rituals — ideal for adventurers, history buffs, and families Highlights - Hike, cross rivers, and swim into the cave entrance - See Maya artifacts and the Crystal Maiden skeleton - Knowledgeable guides, small groups, and personal attention - Transport, safety gear, hearty Belizean lunch, and all fees included - Your booking supports local community focused programs in Belize - Woman-owned local operator
7h · From $190
5.0(13)
Depart for a day of Mayan historical adventure to see some of the finest Maya Ruins in Belize. Xunantunich is located in the Cayo District across from Benque Viejo Road near the village of San Jose Succotz just a few miles from Belize’s western border with Guatemala. At the village of San Jose Succotz, we cross over the Mopan River using a hand-cranked ferry. From the other side of the river, it’s a mile uphill to the site, which can be accessed on foot or in a vehicle. Xunantunich Mayan ruin, also known as the “Maiden of the Rock” is the second tallest Mayan ruin in Belize. The largest pyramid, El Castillo stands 130 feet high above the main plaza and offers an impressive panoramic view of the Cayo District, Guatemala, and the Mopan River. The site has been largely excavated and has a well-appointed educational museum. Experience an authentic Belizean lunch in the immediate area of the ruins.
8h · From $215
5.0(10)
Let our guides take you back in time, explore the impressive underworld of the ATM Cave and enjoy one of the most enlightening experiences of your life. When you venture into the hour glass shaped entrance you will be welcomed by clear blue waters from the perennial stream that flows throughout the cave. Along the way you will see ancient tools, pots and pieces and learn the history of the Mayan Civilization. As you travel deeper into the cave you will meet sacred burials and the Crystal Maiden complete and intact female remains covered in sparkling mineral deposits. Her death is sacrificial ritual for agricultural fertility.
9h · From $280
5.0(10)
Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM) is one of the most popular and impressive Maya ceremonial caves ever found. ATM was in use during the early classic period, which dates to around 300-600AD. The caving part of the tour, takes you through a subterranean river, over (and under) more than a few rocks and into the main chamber. The ATM Cave is a wet cave – you swim into the mouth and then wade through ankle to chest high water before climbing to a intricate passageways of dry chambers which lead to the cathedral-like main hall, a towering chamber 350 metres in length and 50mteres wide and filled with artefacts and sacrificial remains. After this another climb takes you to the stone chamber where the Crystal Maiden lies, this is the skeleton of a teenage girl who was sacrificed and left in the cave. Over thousands of years her remains have been covered by a layer of diamond like limestone. The Mayas sacrificed humans in the hopes of appeasing the gods and bringing fertility to the land.
48h · From $700
5.0(4)
Tikal is a world heritage site and its a must do when in the area. The best was to full enjoy this mysterious place is the spend as much time as possible at the site. We offer that possibility in short period by using the time wisely.
6h · From $440
5.0(4)
As the elevation increases from Belize City to Xunantunich you will get to see the Maya Mountains from a distance and the change in vegetation from savanna to tropical jungle. The drive takes approximately 2.5 hours in which we get to venture through the Twin Towns of San Ignacio and Elena as we make our way closer to the hand crank ferry. Once, we arrive to the ferry we will be hand cranked across the beautiful green Mopan river which we then drive for another 5 minutes to our destination. You will have the opportunity to climb the El Castillo temple which is approximately 130 feet tall. From here you will be able to see Guatemala the one of the neighboring countries with Belize. As you trek along the site you might run into some wildlife as this site is surrounding by jungle. You might get a glimpse of monkeys, birds, spiders and much more. After we finish the site tour, we will enjoy a picnic of local cuisine and then make our way back to Belize city.
2m · From $56
5.0(4)
Float through ancient caves and crystal-clear waters on a one-of-a-kind tubing adventure. See stunning rock formations! Professional Guides that will take you through a unique experience and will share very special history of the Mayas and geology of the caves. This is a great family getaway tour. It does not require for you to be completely physically fit, since its an easy 10 minutes walk to the cave under the canopy of the majestic forest and surrounded by mountains.
12h · From $335
5.0(3)
One of the best Mayan sites in Belize, Caracol, is deep in the heart of the Chiquibul Forest Reserve. The reserve is located at the base of the Maya Mountains in the Cayo District in Western Belize. Covering an area of nearly 25,000 acres, Caracol is one of the largest Mayan sites. Impressive not only in size, it also has an immense agricultural field system and elaborate city planning. Caracol is one of the most pristine and well-kept Maya sites in Belize. If you want to see an incredible piece of our history, head to Caracol in Belize. Numerous carved monuments establish that Caracol was a major player in the geopolitics of the Maya civilization. Caracol was an ally of Calakmul in Campeche, Mexico and engaged in several wars with neighboring polities, such as Tikal, Naranjo and Ucanal in Guatemala.
9h · From $195
5.0(2)
Visit the hidden Mayan city of Lamanai and discover the ruins of Belize’s most fascinating archeological site. Your guided day trip from San Ignacio takes you deep into the rainforest where monkeys and tropical birds inhabit hillside structures like the Mask Temple, Jaguar Temple and High Temple. Named ‘submerged crocodile’ in Mayan for the remains that have not been entirely uncovered, the remote site of Lamanai is reached by riverboat across New River (Rio Nuevo), followed by a short hike. Round-trip hotel transport is included.
11h · From $285
5.0(1)
This private Tikal Archaeological & Sunset Tour is designed for travelers of all ages, making it suitable for families with children as well as adults. Departing from San Ignacio, Belize, the tour offers a smooth, stress-free experience with full border-crossing assistance, private transportation, and a licensed, English-speaking guide. Enjoy a relaxed pace, wildlife encounters, and Tikal’s most iconic temples, finishing with a safe and unforgettable sunset experience inside Tikal National Park.
9h · From $240
5.0(28)
Depart for a day of Mayan historical adventure to see one of the finest Maya Ruins in Belize. Xunantunich Mayan ruin, also known as the “Maiden of the Rock” is the second tallest Mayan ruin in Belize. The largest pyramid, El Castillo stands 130 feet high above the main plaza and offers an impressive panoramic view of the Cayo District, Guatemala, and the Mopan River. The site has been largely excavated and has a well-appointed educational museum. Experience an authentic Belizean lunch in the immediate area of the ruins. Now we make our way to Cave Tubing @ St. Herman's Cave. This is a combination of cave exploration and cave tubing to explore this incredible river cave system. Imagine the excitement as you drift downriver, your body tucked in an inflated inner tube, your fingers trailing in the crisp clear river and up head is the vine-draped opening of mysterious cave.
4h · From $95
5.0(25)
Experience the essence of a meditative ambiance as you glide on a canoe through an underground cave system as the sound of the paddle on the peaceful waters harmonizes with your heartbeat. While canoeing through the cave see large crystalline formations, skeletal remains and other cultural artifacts.
3h · From $85
4.9(158)
Small groups for a personalized experience. Convenient pick up and drop off at your hotel within 10km of San Ignacio town. Xunantunich Maya Temple means “Maiden of the Rock," and it is located only 30 minutes south-west of San Ignacio Town, in the beautiful village of San Jose Succotz. This makes this site one of the most accessible Maya Temples in the area. To gain access to this magnificent site one must cross the Mopan River on a hand-cranked ferry. This is also a great place to pick up souvenirs and popular gift items like hand-made hammocks, slate carvings, jewelry, etc.
8h · From $180
4.9(40)
Come to visit the most important city Maya in Guatemala Tikal. We pick you up from your hotel in San Ignacio help you in boarder procedures and show you the spectacular city of Tikal. We can manage the schedule once you booked since the tour is only for you. We like do it private ITINERARY 7 am We pick you up 9.30 am We get to Tikal 1.30 pm Guatemalan lunch (5 options meal) 4.30 pm Back to San Ignacio WHAT IS INCLUDED Transportation + Entrances + Guide + Lunch + Visit Guatemala
10h · From $250
4.9(141)
We will visit one of the most impressive Mayan Ruins in Belize, Xunantunich! Float through mysterious limestone archways beckoning you into the mouths of centuries-old caves, holding untold stories of Maya rituals. Explore the many breathtaking formations designed by only nature and learn about the ancient rituals and ceremonies that are a part of their mystique and magic.
10h · From $260
4.9(44)
We will visit one of the most impressive Mayan Ruins in Belize, Xunantunich! Float through mysterious limestone archways beckoning you into the mouths of centuries-old caves, holding untold stories of Maya rituals. Explore the many breathtaking formations designed by only nature and learn about the ancient rituals and ceremonies that are a part of their mystique and magic.
4h 30m · From $100
4.9(9)
Welcome to the adventure of a lifetime! Are you ready to explore the vibrant culture and rich history of Belize City with a local guide? Our exclusive tour through Belize City and at Altun Ha will take you on an unforgettable journey through ancient Mayan ruins, one of Mesoamerica's most enchanting Cities.
10h · From $135
4.8(41)
Belize Family Adventure offers more than a quick photo stop at Caracol. Our 3-hour guided tour gives ample time to explore Belize's largest Maya city — climbing temples and learning about ancient rituals and discoveries. The scenic drive through Chiquibul Forest Reserve becomes part of the adventure, with chances to spot wildlife along the way. Our guides bring the history to life with engaging storytelling for the whole family. We round out the day with a stop at Rio Frio Cave, a local lunch, and a refreshing swim at Rio On Pools or Big Rock Waterfalls — a complete, well-paced adventure rather than a single-stop excursion.
9h · From $175
4.8(86)
Xunantunich is one of the largest ancient Maya cities ever built, the rulers of Xunantunich clashes with other powerful rivals in the area, including Tikal. In 2016, the largest Maya royal tomb ever discovered was excavated in Xunantunich, and the site remains an impressive display of pyramids, palaces, and other grandiose buildings.
8h · From $200
4.8(16)
Our Mayan Ruins and Inland Blue Hole tour starts off with a scenic drive from Hopkins to San Jose Succotz in Cayo District. This 2 hours drive will take you on the famous Hummingbird Highway, through the capital city Belmopan and San Igancio Town, then on to San Jose Succotz, where we will be crossing over a river on a hand-cranked ferry to access Xunantunich Site. After the Xunantunich Site, your guide/driver will take you to experience an authentic Belizean lunch at Hode's Place in San Ignacio Town. After lunch, we will head to the Blue Hole National Park for a refreshing swim in the Blue Hole cenote, a one-hour drive from San Ignacio. Your guide/driver will also give you the option to stop at gift shops near the ruins and stop at Country Barn Ice-cream on the Hummingbird Highway. Tour Duration Time 8 to 9 hours: Travel Time (round-trip) - 4 hours Xunantunich Mayan Ruins - 2 hours Hode's Place (lunch) - 1 hour Blue Hole National Park - 1 hour
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Belize-based operators published in our directory. These are direct relationships, not aggregator listings.
Cayo District · Adventure · Waterfall Tours
A family-run jungle adventure lodge near Benque Viejo offering signature pontoon waterfall tours and horseback riding experiences through the wild side of western Belize.
Stann Creek · Horseback Riding · Wildlife
Horseback riding tours led by expert cowboy guide Sherman, with hands-on nature and Mayan history storytelling along the scenic Hummingbird Highway.
Corozal · Cave Tubing · Zip Lining
Based at Orchid Bay Resort in northern Belize, Tradewinds Hospitality runs guided day trips across the country — all-inclusive, fully organised, and departing right from the resort dock.
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Showing 4 operators.
Cayo District · Adventure · Waterfall Tours
A family-run jungle adventure lodge near Benque Viejo offering signature pontoon waterfall tours and horseback riding experiences through the wild side of western Belize.
Stann Creek · Horseback Riding · Wildlife
Horseback riding tours led by expert cowboy guide Sherman, with hands-on nature and Mayan history storytelling along the scenic Hummingbird Highway.
Corozal · Cave Tubing · Zip Lining
Based at Orchid Bay Resort in northern Belize, Tradewinds Hospitality runs guided day trips across the country — all-inclusive, fully organised, and departing right from the resort dock.
Ambergris Caye · Diving · Snorkeling
White Sands Dive Shop is a BTB-licensed tour operator based in Ambergris Caye, offering diving and snorkeling tours for travelers looking to explore Belize’s marine life and reef experiences
Many are, but Belize tours vary a lot by age and fitness. Snorkeling, gentler boat days, wildlife outings, and many ruins visits work well for families. ATM Cave and some cave tubing, hiking, and diving experiences have stronger swimming, age, or endurance requirements, so check each operator before you build the itinerary around them. Family trip planning usually works better when the days stay simple and do not bounce around too much.
Ask the operator directly because requirements can vary by company and by guide. The practical move is to verify age, swimming comfort, and any size limits before you lock the day in, especially if you are traveling with kids or with anyone who is unsure about tight cave sections and water crossings.
The best plan is usually an early guided departure from San Ignacio with enough time built in for the hike in, the river crossings, and the cave itself. Travelers keep asking this because ATM Cave is not a casual add on, it is a real day trip that works best when you treat it as one of the main anchors of the inland part of the trip.
That question splits fairly evenly. For divers, the Blue Hole is a genuine must-do, the stalactites at depth and the shark sightings are hard to find anywhere else. For snorkelers, the visibility from the surface is impressive but the reef action is in the shallow water around the atoll, not over the sinkhole itself. Many operators include Half Moon Caye Wall and Long Caye as part of the same day trip, which gives non-divers much more to see. If you are debating the one-hour scenic flight versus a full boat day, the flight is a strong choice if budget is the main concern.
ATM Cave is the more demanding and more memorable experience. Cave tubing at Nohoch Che'en is easier, more accessible for mixed groups and families, and requires no swimming, while ATM Cave involves hiking, river crossings, and swimming through active passages. If you have one inland day and reasonable fitness, ATM Cave wins. If you are traveling with kids, older guests, or anyone with limited mobility, cave tubing is the better fit.
Lock in the days that are hardest to replace first. Blue Hole dive trips, private charter snorkel days, and any fishing or sailing charter you specifically want should be booked before you arrive, especially during peak season. Hol Chan and Shark Ray Alley tours usually have more flexibility but can fill up. Casual island boat trips and most reef snorkel add-ons are generally bookable with short notice once you are on the ground.
Night snorkeling is available from Hopkins, Caye Caulker, and some Placencia operators. It is one of those niche questions that comes up repeatedly because the reef at night is a genuinely different experience, bioluminescence, octopus, lobster, and nocturnal reef fish are active in a way they are not during the day. Ask specifically because not all operators advertise it prominently and availability depends on season and conditions.
Gladden Spit, offshore from Placencia, is the main whale shark site in Belize. The best sightings happen around full moon periods from March through June when snappers and groupers spawn and whale sharks gather to feed. April and May full moons tend to produce the most reliable encounters. Outside that window the site is still excellent diving and snorkeling. Book well in advance if your trip dates align with the season.
