Things to do in Placencia, Stann Creek: The Best Historical & Heritage Tours

August 26, 2021 Emerita Lamoureux

Once a sleepy fishing village, Placencia has emerged as an increasingly popular eco-destination on the Caribbean. For those who enjoy outdoor adventure, the Stann Creek region offers a host of activities: hiking through mountainous rain forests, kayaking, deep sea fishing, diving and exploring Mayan ruins. The peninsula boasts 16 miles of tranquil beaches, with a lagoon to the west and the Caribbean to the east and lots of peace and quiet in the middle. Tour guides and dive centers offer a variety of excursions, with boat rides to the outer cayes an ongoing favorite. Also popular are guided land tours to Mayan Ruins or trekking the jungle trails of Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, where the first Jaguar Reserve in the world was established.
Restaurants in Placencia

1. Xunantunich Mayan Ruin and Cave Tubing from Placencia

Placencia, Placencia, Stann Creek Private Belize Adventure
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5.0 based on 3 reviews

It’s going to be an eventful day so be sure to wear comfortable clothing and shoes. This tour will start with a journey from your Placencia accommodation. Our guides will be waiting on-site for you before heading off in air-conditioned transport to Xunantunich. Xunantunich is a national treasure that fills its visitors with a sense of time travel. It sits close to Belize’s western border and is a must-visit. Local souvenirs, hammocks, and blankets are available from the many vendors waiting alongside the river at the entrance to the hand-cranked ferry that has carried many thousands to and from the calm beauty of this Maya Temple. The panoramic views of the Cayo District and nearby Guatemala from atop ‘El Castillo’ are stupendous! Come with an open heart to experience simplicity and visiting another world for a few hours before heading off to Jaguar Paw for cave tubing .

Inclusions: Professional guide, Local guide, Hotel pickup and drop-off

Exclusions: Souvenir photos (available to purchase), Gratuities, Lunch

Reviewed By saiofrelief

Our tour guide Paul notified us in advance to his arrival. Our Airbnb address was incorrect but he was still able to locate our lodging . Our guide Paul was extremely personable, relatable, knowledgeable about historical and contemporary facts about Belize and provided us with exemplary service and an unforgettable experience. During the drive he pointed out local landmarks, historical sites, answered our endless assortment of questions and brought us up to speed on contemporary matters pertaining to the country. When we arrived at Xuantunich Paul took us to each of structure offering insight as to its significance and purpose. He also assisted us with taking photos and answering any questions that we had on the archaeological site. Cave tubing was extremely fun and Paul ensured that we were safe, having a good time as well as gave us a history lesson on caves in Belize and how they related to the ancient Mayan civilization. After tubing my sister and I enjoyed a beverage we purchased from a local vendor who placed rum, coconut milk, fresh juice and melon into a half pineapple. Paul was kind enough to let us stop at a grocery store within close proximity to our AirBnb. He also provided us with restaurant recommendations and familiarized us with the general area that we stayed in. Private Belize Adventure provided an excellent tour and an overall amazing experience. Please request Paul as he will certainly show you a great time along with educating you.

2. Xunantunich and Inland Blue Hole Tour

Untame Belize Tours & Transfers
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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.

Inclusions: Lunch, Air-conditioned vehicle, All Fees and Taxes, Entry/Admission fee to Site

Exclusions: Gratuities

Reviewed By ChelsMbrown

Our guide Wilson was so knowledgeable about the various things in the hiking trails and took his time to stop and show us the various plants and even wildlife at the Jaguar Preserve. At the end of the hike we arrived at a beautiful and refreshing waterfall that we enjoyed so much. In the afternoon we had a local maya lunch followed by this culture teaching us how they make delicious savory chocolate directly from the fruit. This was definitely an adventurous day in Belize I will never forget. Definitely a must do tour with Untame Belize from Placencia.

3. Cave Tubing & Xunantunich (Mayan Ruins) From Placencia

Truly Wild Belize
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5.0 based on 7 reviews

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.

Inclusions: Helmets, Head lights & life Jackets, Air-conditioned vehicle, Lunch, Parking Fees

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Reviewed By SLGallegos

Israel and Jason were amazing. They put together a customer itinerary for us that included everything we were hoping to do. Prompt pick up, great information on the tour, and excellent customer service. I recommend them highly!

4. Spice Farm + Chocolate Making + Waterfall

Truly Wild Belize
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Come and enjoy the sights and scents of Southern Belize on this great adventure. Once at the Spice Farm A trolley train that takes around the property, making stops at the more interesting sites. Next up we head down to Ixcacao Chocolate, a small-indoors chocolate facility, here you will experience how to make your own chocolate on traditional grinding stones just like the ancient Mayans did. Choose between visiting a smaller Southern Mayan Ruins or a nearby popular waterfal

Inclusions: Air-conditioned vehicle, Lunch, Parking Fees, Chocolate Samples, Fresh Juice

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Reviewed By SLGallegos

Israel and Jason were amazing. They put together a customer itinerary for us that included everything we were hoping to do. Prompt pick up, great information on the tour, and excellent customer service. I recommend them highly!

Truly Wild Belize
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5.0 based on 3 reviews

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.

Inclusions: Lunch, Helmets, Head lights & life Jackets, Parking Fees, Air-conditioned vehicle

Exclusions:

Reviewed By SLGallegos

Israel and Jason were amazing. They put together a customer itinerary for us that included everything we were hoping to do. Prompt pick up, great information on the tour, and excellent customer service. I recommend them highly!

6. Explore Xunantunich Maya Ruin & Take a Dip at St Herman Blue Hole Private Tour

Splash Dive Centre, 2287 Placencia Peninsula Road, Placencia 00000, Placencia, Belize Splash Dive Shop
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Xunantunich is a spectacular ruin perched atop a hill overlooking the Mopan River and the Cayo District, near the border with Guatemala. Cross the Mopan River west of San Ignacio on a ferry to reach Xunantunich or Maiden of the Rock. The main pyramid known as El Castillo is one of the tallest buildings in Belize rising 130' above the jungle canopy. The reward for climbing to the top with your licensed guide is a spectacular view of the Cayo District and Petén Guatemala.

Inclusions: Pick Up and Drop Off in Placencia Village., Transport., Park Fees., Tour Guide., Lunch

Exclusions: Pick Up and Drop Off Outside of Placencia Village (can arrange), Gratuities., Alcoholic drinks.

Reviewed By Greta2516

Jason Williams was our guide, he is a resident of the Monkey River village. He is very knowledgeable and we saw a variety of wildlife (birds, Howler monkeys, Manatees, Crocodile, Snakes and a Tarantula). Lunch was eaten at the village cafe, the special was fresh Snook. Absolutely delicious!!

7. Nim li Punit Mayan Ruin and The Living Maya Experience from Plancencia

Private Belize Adventure

The Living Maya Experience offers visitors hugely enjoyable, learning visits to two English-speaking Mayan homes in Big Falls village. The Chicas make hammocks, palm fans, textiles and other crafts. The Cals present a traditional Mayan home, furnished with all natural materials; from balsa wood benches to beds of tree bark. Food is cooked and stored in the traditional way.

Inclusions: Beverages, Food tasting, Transport by air-conditioned minivan, Bottled water

Exclusions: Gratuities, Transfer From harvest Caye

Reviewed By saiofrelief

Our tour guide Paul notified us in advance to his arrival. Our Airbnb address was incorrect but he was still able to locate our lodging . Our guide Paul was extremely personable, relatable, knowledgeable about historical and contemporary facts about Belize and provided us with exemplary service and an unforgettable experience. During the drive he pointed out local landmarks, historical sites, answered our endless assortment of questions and brought us up to speed on contemporary matters pertaining to the country. When we arrived at Xuantunich Paul took us to each of structure offering insight as to its significance and purpose. He also assisted us with taking photos and answering any questions that we had on the archaeological site. Cave tubing was extremely fun and Paul ensured that we were safe, having a good time as well as gave us a history lesson on caves in Belize and how they related to the ancient Mayan civilization. After tubing my sister and I enjoyed a beverage we purchased from a local vendor who placed rum, coconut milk, fresh juice and melon into a half pineapple. Paul was kind enough to let us stop at a grocery store within close proximity to our AirBnb. He also provided us with restaurant recommendations and familiarized us with the general area that we stayed in. Private Belize Adventure provided an excellent tour and an overall amazing experience. Please request Paul as he will certainly show you a great time along with educating you.

8. Garifuna Cultural Experience: History, cooking and music class

Barefoot Rental and Services

The Garifuna people make up just four percent of Belize’s population, but they are one of the country’s most iconic cultures. An Afro-Caribbean people, the Garifuna are renowned for their traditional drumming, iconic foods, and music. This tour includes a trip to the Garifuna village of Seine Bight in Placencia or the Garifuna village of Hopkins located on the Caribbean coast. Participants will enjoy authentic, home-cooked Garifuna foods while enjoying a live performance of traditional Garifuna drumming. An introductory Garifuna drumming lesson is also included.

Inclusions: All taxes, fees and handling charges, GST (Goods and Services Tax), Bottled water, Food tasting, Lunch, Driver/guide, Hotel pickup and drop-off, Transport by air-conditioned vehicle

Exclusions: Gratuities

Reviewed By lindawH5150DL

Looking for a tour for elderly couple who can not walk a lot but still want to enjoy waterfall, tubing and beautiful scenery. Any suggestions?

9. Private Cave Tubing Adventure from Placencia with local lunch

Royal Belizean Adventures

Be prepared for one of the most scenic days of your life. From the moment you leave, your guide will be more than happy to take photos of you in the many picture perfect locations. Enjoy the tranquility of the cave systems and the beauty of its famous "cenotes".

Inclusions: Bottled water, Lunch, Helmets, Tubes, Life Jackets, Headlamps , Air-conditioned vehicle, Fuel surcharge, GST (Goods and Services Tax)

Exclusions: Gratuities (recommended)

Reviewed By Robbie W

Booked for the zipline and rum factory but had the most memorable time at the cave tubing experience. Percy is the Man!! learned so much about Belize from him. Landscape, cultural history etc. The guy is great and you are in great hands when you book with him. Royal Belize Adventures is the way to go. I got what i paid for and then some. Percy drove me around Belize City as an added feature and it was great. Overall a fantastic day with a friendly, accomodating, and cool guide. Whatever activity you wanna do, they got you! thanks again!

10. Xunantunich Half-Day Tour from Placencia with Lunch

Placencia Road, Placencia Rd, Placencia, Belize Private Belize Adventure

A must-visit, even when on the shortest stays in our beautiful country. Xunantunich is a national treasure that fills its visitors with a sense of time travel. You’ll depart from your Hopkins where our guides will meet you before your drive to this temple. You'll know you're arriving when you spot the little falls of the Mopan River winding alongside the road through the village of San Jose Succotz. You're hit with how green and lush everything is. Some visitors will get to see a group of women doing laundry in the river while their children swim nearby.The temples are nestled in between lush rain forest whose trees may bloom vibrant red, yellow, orange, or pink in season. Bring along a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, along with an open heart to experience simplicity and visiting another world for a few hours. Join us on this half-day tour towards Xunantunich Maya Ruins with lunch and hotel pick up included from Placencia.

Inclusions: Entrance Fee, Lunch, Private Guide, Transportation, Water, Soda and Juices

Exclusions: Gratuities

Reviewed By saiofrelief

Our tour guide Paul notified us in advance to his arrival. Our Airbnb address was incorrect but he was still able to locate our lodging . Our guide Paul was extremely personable, relatable, knowledgeable about historical and contemporary facts about Belize and provided us with exemplary service and an unforgettable experience. During the drive he pointed out local landmarks, historical sites, answered our endless assortment of questions and brought us up to speed on contemporary matters pertaining to the country. When we arrived at Xuantunich Paul took us to each of structure offering insight as to its significance and purpose. He also assisted us with taking photos and answering any questions that we had on the archaeological site. Cave tubing was extremely fun and Paul ensured that we were safe, having a good time as well as gave us a history lesson on caves in Belize and how they related to the ancient Mayan civilization. After tubing my sister and I enjoyed a beverage we purchased from a local vendor who placed rum, coconut milk, fresh juice and melon into a half pineapple. Paul was kind enough to let us stop at a grocery store within close proximity to our AirBnb. He also provided us with restaurant recommendations and familiarized us with the general area that we stayed in. Private Belize Adventure provided an excellent tour and an overall amazing experience. Please request Paul as he will certainly show you a great time along with educating you.

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