Exploring Xunantunich - Cayo District, Belize

Junantinich is one of Belize's most accessible Mayan ruins. Getting there is only a short trip from nearby San Ignacio, followed by a ride across the Mopan river on a hand-cranked ferry. From there, it's up the hill to Junantinich. El Castillo. At 130 feet, this massive structure is the second tallest building in Belize, topped only by Cana at Caracol. The frieze adorning El Castillo's eastern face is a magnificent sight to behold. El Castillo certainly lives up to its name. Climbing this imposing ruin feels like you're ascending some mighty castle up into the clouds. So Tikal, Caracol, Junantinich, 55 miles apart each. It's amazing. Onward to some of Junantinich's other wonders. These are the only pillars like this in all of Belize. Poisonwood. You've heard a lot about it. Gives you a rash if you touch it. But in nature, the cure for it always grows right next to it. This is gumbo limbo. It heals the rashes from that tree. In 2016, a major tomb was unearthed here. This tablet, recording the death of Lady Batsak of Calakmul, was found within, alongside the remains of a man believed to have been Maya royalty. Obviously, Randy didn't live here in the time of the Mayans. This is where they've sealed off some parts of Junantinich. Because of people vandalizing it. Not good. Two months ago. From June, July, Arizona, Blackstone. Oh, this is new. Thank you. With our tour of the ruins finished, it was time for a final stop at the visitor center. Junantinich was the last Mayan ruin we visited during our time in Belize. And if you ever get the chance to go there, it is totally worth the trip.