Xunantunich Mayan Ruins

xunantunich

Xunantunich Mayan Ruins in Belize

Pronounced shoo-na-too-nitch by most people, this ancient Maya site is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Belize. With an interactive museum on site, visitors can learn about this majestic city that was once a luxury residence for Maya elites. Today, visitors approach the site by crossing the Mopan River using a hand-cranked ferry and then climbing to the top of one of the site’s fabulous temples to be rewarded with an amazingly panoramic view of the countryside.

About Xunantunich

In modern Belize, Xunantunich is located just a short distance from the town of San Ignacio in Cayo District and one mile north of the border with Guatemala at Benque Viejo. Built on a natural limestone ridge, the site was constructed to serve elite nobles and their retinue during the Classic Period.

With a central area measuring just 300 square meters (3,230 square feet) in size, Xunantunich isn’t the largest Maya ruin in Belize, but it’s unique residential structures and ceremonial center make the site one of the top attractions in the country. One of the first lost cities rediscovered in the modern era (excavations first began in 1892), archeological renovations at Xunantunich have revealed three ceremonial plazas, houses, and a large palace decorated with friezes and masks.

The most famous building in Xunantunich is “El Castillo” (The Castle), a pyramid soaring 130 feet above the main plaza. El Castillo was the tallest man-made structure in the country until the Sky Temple at the Maya site of Caracol was discovered a few decades ago. El Castillo is remarkable due to its large stucco frieze on its eastern side that details stories of the gods and stories from Maya creationist myths. Xunantunich was heavily populated until an abrupt event in the Classic Period that left the top of “El Castillo” partially damaged.

Although no one knows the original name of the city, today the site is called the “Stone Lady” (Xunatunich in modern Mayan) due to persistent stories of a woman in white that haunted the original British archeologists and has been regularly seen even up until modern times.

Chabil Mar in Placencia Belize & Xunantunich

The lovely Chabil Mar resort on the Placencia Peninsula is close to all of the most exciting mainland destinations in Belize. Guests of the resort can include a visit to Xunantunich as part of one of Chabil Mar’s fantastic Belize Reef & Jungle vacation packages.


Visit our website chabilmarvillas.com for more information on Belize, and don’t hesitate to send us an email, or call US/CAN Toll Free: 1-866-417-2377, Local: (011-501) 523-3606, if you have questions or need help in planning a Belize vacation.

Southern Belize Beckons: Lose Yourself in Placencia Village and Chabil Mar

Lose Yourself in Placencia Village and Chabil Mar

Are you longing for a serene and beautiful vacation destination that perfectly encapsulates the charm of the Caribbean? Look no further. Let’s take a journey to the southernmost part of Belize, a dreamlike region where the natural allure of Central America meets the Caribbean Sea’s serene beauty. Here, away from the thrumming tourist centers, lies the captivating Placencia Village and the enchanting Chabil Mar, the two crowning jewels of southern Belize.

As you venture southward, you’ll discover that Belize is not just a single-note melody of rainforest adventures, but also a symphony of tranquillity and beauty in its coastal regions. This part of Belize is less trodden, but that only adds to its enchantment. As you leave the beaten path, you will find the southern charm of Belize creating unforgettable memories.

Placencia Village – An Oasis of Serenity

Immerse yourself in the dreamy beauty of Placencia Village. This beachfront haven is truly an authentic Belizean experience, a tranquil paradise draped in a slow-paced lifestyle. With its extensive sandy beach renowned as one of Belize’s best coastlines, Placencia invites you to indulge in its laid-back Caribbean charm.

An Oasis of Serenity

As you wander the narrow, enchanting streets of the village, you’ll discover colorful street art, lively bars, and eclectic artisan boutiques. The local culinary scene is an exciting mix of traditional Belizean fare, fresh seafood, and international cuisine. Beyond that, its close proximity to Belize’s top natural attractions such as the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary makes Placencia a dream destination for nature enthusiasts.

Chabil Mar – A Dream Stay

A Dream Stay

The perfect complement to the relaxed vibe of Placencia Village is Chabil Mar, a stunning luxury resort nestled along the Placencia Peninsula. Chabil Mar, meaning “Beautiful Sea” in the local Maya dialect, lives up to its name with gorgeous seaside views and beautifully manicured tropical gardens.

The resort combines the luxury of private villas with the relaxed charm of beachfront living. The spacious accommodations are thoughtfully designed with Belizean artwork and feature modern amenities. With two infinity pools, a private beach, and an on-site restaurant serving delicious local and international cuisine, it provides the ideal base for exploring Placencia and the surrounding area.

The team at Chabil Mar excels at crafting personalized Belize adventures, be it a romantic sunset sail, an exciting snorkeling tour, or an unforgettable rainforest trek. After a day of exploration, relax with a refreshing cocktail while watching the stunning sunset over the Caribbean Sea.

Whether you’re dreaming of pristine beaches, unrivaled outdoor adventures, or simply savoring the tranquillity, southern Belize offers all this and more. If you truly wish to capture the essence of this enchanting region, the charming Placencia Village and the luxurious Chabil Mar are must-visit locations. Here, under the Belizean sun, let the rhythm of the Caribbean captivate your senses and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Visit our website chabilmarvillas.com for more information on Belize, and don’t hesitate to send us an email, or call US/CAN Toll Free: 1-866-417-2377, Local: (011-501) 523-3606, if you have questions or need help in planning a Belize vacation.

Discover Belize: The Perfect Honeymoon Destination for Adventurous Couples

Belize Honeymoon Ideas for Adventure-Chasing Couples

The promise of forever with your significant other is truly a magical event. With so many destinations around the world, planning the perfect honeymoon can seem overwhelming. However, for couples seeking an enchanting getaway infused with nature, adventure, and romance, Belize is an irresistible choice. More specifically, Chabil Mar Villas, a tropical paradise situated along the coastline of Placencia in southern Belize offers the perfect romantic accommodations for a memorable beginning to your forever.

Why Belize?

Discover Belize

With its pristine beaches, azure waters, incredible wildlife, and a rich blend of cultures, Belize is one of the most romantic locations in the Caribbean. The country’s natural beauty and diverse landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for a tranquil and intimate escape. Belize boasts an assortment of experiences – from its barrier reef, the second-largest in the world, to its mysterious ancient Maya ruins hidden within lush rainforests. Moreover, the warm and welcoming nature of Belizean people adds a special charm that enhances every visitor’s experience.

Chabil Mar: The Jewel of Belize

The Jewel of Belize

Nestled amidst a stunning seascape and lush tropical gardens, Chabil Mar is a boutique resort that captures the essence of Belize’s enchanting beauty. Its location in Placencia Village allows couples to indulge in the authentic local lifestyle while still enjoying the exclusivity and luxury that the resort has to offer.

Romantic Accommodations

Romantic Accommodations

Every detail at Chabil Mar is designed to provide a romantic and serene atmosphere. The resort offers luxury villas, each individually decorated and featuring a blend of modern comfort and traditional Belizean style. Each villa boasts a private veranda offering spectacular views of the Caribbean Sea, perfect for intimate sunrise breakfasts or sunset cocktails.

Honeymoon Packages

Honeymoon Packages

Chabil Mar offers specially curated honeymoon packages that ensure a seamless and memorable experience. Packages often include luxury accommodation, romantic candlelit dinners on the pier, couples’ massages, and even exciting tours like snorkeling in the Belize Barrier Reef, exploring the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, or visiting the ancient Maya ruins.

Dining at Chabil Mar

Dining at Chabil Mar

The culinary experience at Chabil Mar is an adventure in itself. The resort’s dining experience is a delightful blend of local and international cuisines, prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. For a more personalized experience, private dining is available on your villa’s veranda, on the beach, or even on the pier under a canopy of stars.

A Focus on Sustainability

Chabil Mar takes pride in its commitment to sustainability. The resort engages in various environmentally friendly practices, including water conservation, recycling programs, and the use of locally sourced and organic produce. This commitment not only enhances the resort’s appeal but also ensures that the beauty of Belize continues to be preserved for future generations.

A Focus on Sustainability

A honeymoon at Chabil Mar is not just about luxury accommodation and stunning views. It’s about experiencing the extraordinary beauty of Belize, creating unforgettable memories with your partner, and starting your forever in an environment that mirrors the tranquility, adventure, and romance of your love. Indeed, Chabil Mar offers the perfect setting to celebrate the beginning of your new life together.

For more information about Belize, feel free to chat with our Concierge at concierge@chabilmarvillas.com or contact our Reservations Manager at reservations@chabilmarvillas.com. Or perhaps you would like to call toll-free from the US or Canada: 1-866-417-2377 or WhatsApp us at +501-633-7547.  

The Maya Mountains of Belize

 

The Maya Mountains are a range of peaks that are primarily located in Belize but also in the eastern part of Guatemala. The Maya Mountains begin in the western part of the country and gently slope eastward until the coast.

The Maya Mountains are a relatively short range of peaks, the highest point being Doyle’s Delight in Cayo District, which measures approximately 3,680 feet (1,124 meters) tall. Doyle’s Delight is named after Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, the author of the Sherlock Holmes mysteries. In 1912, Doyle wrote a book called The Lost World which refers to Belize mountains as beautiful and wild places.

The second-highest peak of the Maya Mountains is Victoria Peak in Stann Creek District in eastern Belize. Victoria Peak measures approximately 3,670 feet (1,120 meters) tall. Victoria Peak is classified as a Natural Monument and is located inside the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary.

While both of the tallest peaks are difficult to reach, the Maya Mountains remain a top attraction in Belize due to their amazing views, unspoiled landscapes, the abundance of wildlife, and the number of waterfalls found in the area. Many of Belize’s national forests and protected conservation areas are found partially or wholly inside the Maya Mountain range.

Anyone considering some Belize travel should definitely consider visiting the Maya Mountains. Belize tours of the area include hiking to the top of 1,000 Foot Falls (actually 1,600 feet high), horseback riding, bird watching, canoeing, and visiting ancient Maya sites such as Lubaantun and Cahal Pech which were built on the periphery of the Maya Mountains. Tikal, in Guatemala, is also located adjacent to the Maya Mountains.

Belize vacations in this region also include activities like caving and cave tubing, the latter a uniquely Belizean activity involving using an inner tube to float down placid underground rivers. The town of San Ignacio is also located adjacent to the Maya Mountains, making it an ideal place to stay for travelers wishing to explore this region. The Maya Mountains can also be seen by car as the Hummingbird Highway crosses through the mountain range between San Ignacio and Dangriga.

If you’d like to explore the Maya Mountains, be sure to book your travels with Chabil Mar, the award-winning luxury Belize resort located on the Placencia Peninsula. Chabil Mar specializes in creating custom Belize vacation packages that include lodging, transportation, meals, and tours of both the Belizean mainland and offshore reef.

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