Top 5 Maya Archaeological Sites Near San Ignacio You Can’t Miss
1. Xunantunich – The Maiden of the Rock
Distance from Las Haciendas: ~15 minutes by car + hand-cranked ferry
Known for “El Castillo,” a 130-foot pyramid with sweeping views across Belize and Guatemala.
Intricate carvings and hieroglyphics make it one of the most photogenic temples.
Perfect for a half-day morning tour before relaxing in your villa pool.
2. Cahal Pech – City of Ticks
Distance from Las Haciendas: ~5 minutes (right in San Ignacio)
One of the oldest Maya sites in Belize, dating back to 1,200 BCE.
Features over 30 structures, including temples, plazas, and ball courts.
Great for guests who want to explore culture without leaving town.
3. Caracol – The Largest Maya Site in Belize
Distance from Las Haciendas: ~2 hours (worth the drive)
Once home to over 120,000 people, larger than Belize City today.
Highlights: Caana, “Sky Palace,” the tallest man-made structure in Belize.
Surrounded by lush jungle — combine with a stop at the Rio on Pools waterfalls for a full-day adventure.
4. Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM Cave) – The Crystal Maiden
Distance from Las Haciendas: ~1 hour and 15 minutes + jungle hike
A living archaeological site where you can explore caves, pottery, and skeletons preserved for centuries.
Famous for the Crystal Maiden, a calcified human remians that sparkles under torchlight.
Must be guided — we can help you arrange your tour.
5. El Pilar – Off the Beaten Path
Distance from Las Haciendas: ~30 minutes
A lesser-known but expansive site with more than 25 plazas and 100 structures.
Still partly unexcavated, giving you the sense of discovering ruins hidden in the jungle.
Ideal for travelers seeking a quiet, authentic experience.
From the towering heights of Caracol to the hidden wonders of the ATM Cave, San Ignacio is a gateway to Belize’s most impressive Maya history. Staying at Las Haciendas means you’re never far from an adventure — and always just minutes away from the comfort of your private villa.
Book your villa today and let us arrange the perfect mix of culture, relaxation, and discovery.
