Guatemala

Tikal and Flores

The great Mayan city among the living jungle —monkeys, toucans, and temples above the canopy— with the Caribbean island of Flores as a colorful base on Lake Petén Itzá.

Suggested routes

Classic Tikal

Researched (not yet visited in person)

The big day: temples over the jungle, monkeys as escorts, and sunset at the Flores waterfront.

full day · 2 stops

  1. 1Tikal National Park330 min
  2. 2Isla de Flores120 min

Flowers Without Rush

Researched (not yet visited in person)

The island at a slow pace: colorful little streets, local museum, and a boat ride at sunset on Lake Petén Itzá.

half day · 2 stops

  1. 1Isla de Flores150 min
  2. 2Museum of Flores Island40 min

Dawn in Tikal

Researched (not yet visited in person)

The jungle waking up from Temple IV: mist, howler monkeys, and the sun over the canopy. For serious early risers.

full day · 2 stops

  1. 1Tikal National Park420 min
  2. 2El Remate and Cerro Cahuí90 min

Petén with Kids

Researched (not yet visited in person)

Family adventure: hanging bridges over the jungle, swimming in the lake, and ice cream on the island.

full day · 3 stops

  1. 1Ixpanpajul Natural Park180 min
  2. 2El Remate and Cerro Cahuí120 min
  3. 3Isla de Flores90 min

Petén Beyond Tikal

Researched (not yet visited in person)

The other side of Petén: Mayan caves, wildlife rescue, and the city that predates Tikal.

full day · 2 stops

  1. 1Actún Kan Caves90 min
  2. 2ARCAS — Wildlife Rescue90 min

Sunset at Yaxhá

Researched (not yet visited in person)

The alternative afternoon: temples between two lagoons and the sun setting from Temple 216, almost in solitude.

half day · 2 stops

  1. 1El Remate and Cerro Cahuí60 min
  2. 2Yaxhá270 min

Places (9)

Yaxhá
Researched (not yet visited in person) Ticket required

Yaxhá

It is a perfect place for nature and history lovers who want to escape the crowds.

~300 minPhotographyAs a couple
Actún Kan Caves
Researched (not yet visited in person) Ticket required

Actún Kan Caves

It is an excellent option for those seeking an adventure in nature with a cultural touch.

~90 minWith childrenRainy day
Uaxactún
Researched (not yet visited in person) Ticket required

Uaxactún

It is a less visited place than Tikal, offering a more intimate experience.

~180 minPhotographyFirst visit

Useful traveler info

You can reach Flores by a ~1 hour flight (or overnight bus). Tikal opens from 6:00 to 18:00; entrance is Q150 for foreigners (purchase in advance at Banrural or online) and the sunrise requires an additional Q100 and a guide. Stay hydrated, bring repellent, a hat, and cash. The drive from Flores to Tikal takes about ~1 hour; tours start at 3:00 for sunrise.