Journey to the Heart of the Mayan World

As a seasoned traveler and surfer, I’ve always been drawn to the ocean’s rhythm, but this time, I decided to swap the surfboard for a journey into the heart of Belize’s Mayan history. The allure of the ancient ruins and the promise of an underground adventure were too tempting to resist. My wife and I embarked on this journey with Wilder Adventures, a name that came highly recommended by fellow travelers.

Our day began in the early morning light of Placencia, a quaint beach town that has become a favorite stop on our Central American surf circuit. We were greeted by Wilder, our guide for the day, whose knowledge of Belize and the Mayan civilization was as vast as the ocean itself. The drive to Xunantunich was a scenic 2.5-hour journey through lush landscapes, a perfect prelude to the adventure that awaited us.

Upon arrival, we crossed the river on a charming hand-cranked ferry, a delightful throwback to simpler times. The short hike up the hill led us to the majestic ruins of Xunantunich. Standing atop the largest pyramid, El Castillo, I felt like the “True King Of The Mayan World,” with panoramic views stretching into the horizon. Wilder’s stories brought the ancient stones to life, painting vivid pictures of the Mayan world that once thrived here.

A Taste of Belize

After soaking in the history and the views, we descended from the ruins and made our way back across the river. Our next stop was a local restaurant, where we indulged in Belizean cuisine that was as rich and flavorful as the culture itself. The meal was a delightful interlude, a chance to savor the local flavors and recharge for the next leg of our adventure.

The journey continued as we drove to the Nohoch Che’en Caves Branch Archaeological Reserve. Here, we changed into our “get wet” clothes, ready for the cave tubing experience. The anticipation was palpable as we donned life jackets and helmets equipped with headlamps, ready to explore the mysterious underworld of the ancient Maya.

The walk to the cave entrance was an adventure in itself, crossing rivers and winding through the jungle. The path was well-maintained, a testament to the care taken to preserve this natural wonder. As we floated through the caves, Wilder’s voice echoed off the limestone walls, weaving tales of Mayan rituals and ceremonies. The mineral formations were hauntingly beautiful, a reminder of the timelessness of nature.

Drifting Through Time

The river was low, but the experience was anything but. We drifted lazily through the caves, the gentle current carrying us through the darkness and into the light. There were moments of laughter and “butts up” calls as we navigated the shallow spots, adding a touch of humor to the mystical journey.

Emerging from the caves, we floated down the open river, the sun warming our faces as we basked in the afterglow of the adventure. The day had been a perfect blend of history, nature, and camaraderie, a reminder of why we choose this nomadic lifestyle.

As we made our way back to Placencia, I reflected on the day’s experiences. The Mayan Caves & Xunantunich tour had been more than just a day trip; it was a journey through time, a connection to a world long past but still very much alive in the stories and landscapes of Belize. For those seeking a break from the waves and a dive into history, this adventure is a must-do. Mayan Caves & Xunantunich