Tikal - Discovering Guatemala

Travelling to Tikal

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Tikal, a pretty good destination in Guatemala (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Tikal and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Tikal, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Guatemala, here's everything to know about Tikal for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Tikal

Tikal is an ancient Mayan city located in the northern region of Guatemala. It dates back to the 1st century AD and was once a major center of Mayan civilization. The ruins of Tikal include large pyramids, temples, palaces, and other structures that were used for religious and ceremonial purposes. The site covers an area of about 16 square kilometers and is surrounded by a dense jungle, adding to its mystique and allure. Today, Tikal is considered one of the most important and well-preserved archaeological sites in Central America and is a popular destination for tourists and history enthusiasts.

What to visit in Tikal

Here are some tourist attractions of Tikal in Guatemala and some information about them: 1. Temple IV: - Located in the heart of the Tikal archaeological site - It is the tallest and most famous pyramid in Tikal, standing at 70 meters tall - Visitors can climb to the top of the pyramid for a beautiful view of the surrounding jungle and other temples 2. The Great Plaza: - The center of Tikal's city life - Contains many important structures such as the Temple of the Jaguar, Temple of the Masks, and the North and South Acropolis - A great place to take pictures and learn about the history of Tikal 3. Temple III: - Another large pyramid in Tikal, standing at 55 meters tall - Offers a great view of Temple IV and the surrounding jungle - Is close to many other important structures in the Great Plaza 4. Temple I: - One of the largest and most significant pyramids in Tikal, also known as the Temple of the Grand Jaguar - The temple played an important role in Tikal's religious ceremonies - Visitors can climb to the top for a spectacular view of the surrounding jungle and other temples 5. The Lost World: - A complex of temples, pyramids, and plazas located on the outskirts of the main Tikal site - Contains many unique structures and is often less crowded than the main site - A great place to explore and discover some hidden archaeological gems 6. The Tikal Museum: - Contains many artifacts and exhibits related to Tikal's history and archaeology - Offers a great opportunity to learn about the Maya civilization and their way of life - A perfect place to visit before or after exploring the Tikal archaeological site. I hope this information helps, and enjoy your trip to Tikal!
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Guatemala, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Tikal.

When to go on holiday to Tikal

The best time to visit Tikal is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. During this time, you can expect warm and sunny days with lower humidity and little to no rain. If you visit during the wet season, which runs from May to October, you should expect frequent rain showers and high humidity. While this may deter some visitors, the rain can also make the jungle surrounding Tikal lush and green. Keep in mind that Tikal can get very hot and humid year-round, so bring plenty of water and sunscreen regardless of when you go.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Tikal

To get to Tikal, you can follow these steps: 1. Fly to Guatemala City: The easiest and most common way to reach Tikal is to first fly into Guatemala City, which is the capital city of Guatemala.
2. Take a connecting flight to Flores: From Guatemala City, you can take a domestic flight to Flores, which is the nearest city to Tikal. The flight takes around 45 minutes.
3. Hire a car or take a bus: Once you reach Flores, you can either hire a car or take a bus to Tikal, which is around 60 km away. The road from Flores to Tikal is well paved and takes about 1-2 hours by car or bus.
4. Book a shuttle: Alternatively, you can also book a shuttle service from Flores to Tikal. These shuttle services usually depart early in the morning and return in the afternoon.
Note: It is recommended to book your domestic flight and transportation to Tikal in advance, especially during the high season (November to April).
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Tikal, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Tikal

Sure, here are some typical foods of Tikal, Guatemala: 1. Pupusas: These are thick, handmade corn tortillas filled with beans, cheese, and/or pork. They are grilled and often served with a side of cabbage slaw called curtido.
2. Tamales: Tamales are a traditional Mesoamerican dish consisting of dough (usually made from corn) filled with meat, veggies, and/or cheese. The dough is wrapped in a banana leaf or corn husk and steamed.
3. Caldo de Gallina: This is a chicken soup made with vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and corn. It's a hearty, comforting dish that's perfect for cooler weather.
4. Chiles Rellenos: These are stuffed peppers (usually poblano peppers) filled with cheese and/or meat and then battered and fried. They are often served with a tomato sauce.
5. Rellenitos: These are small, sweet tamales made with mashed plantains and filled with black beans and sugar. They are often served as a dessert.
6. Pepian: This is a traditional Guatemalan stew made with chicken or beef and a sauce made from ground roasted sesame seeds, pumpkin seeds, and spices like cumin and coriander.
7. Guacamole: While not necessarily unique to Tikal, guacamole is a staple of many Guatemalan meals. It's made from mashed avocado, tomato, onion, lime juice, and spices, and often served with chips or tortillas.
You can find general info about typical foods in Guatemala here.

Is Tikal an expensive destination for tourists?

Tikal can be considered a bit expensive compared to other destinations in Guatemala. However, the cost of visiting Tikal will depend on your preferred style of travel and budget. In terms of accommodation, there are options ranging from basic hostels to luxury hotels with high rates. Entrance fees to the archaeological site can also be relatively high, especially for non-Guatemalans. That being said, you can still travel to Tikal on a budget by opting for budget-friendly accommodation options, eating at local cafes and street vendors, and avoiding expensive tours. Additionally, prices in Guatemala are generally lower compared to many other countries, so you might find Tikal to be a good value when compared to other global destinations.

Where to find accomodation in Tikal

The best areas to find accommodation when visiting Tikal in Guatemala are the surrounding villages of El Remate and Flores. El Remate is a small village located just 30 minutes by car from Tikal, and it offers a beautiful natural setting with hotels, restaurants and other basic amenities. Flores, on the other hand, is a larger town located about an hour's drive from Tikal, and it has a wider variety of hotels, restaurants, shops and services. Both El Remate and Flores are convenient starting points for visiting Tikal and they offer different types of accommodation options (from budget hostels to luxury hotels) to suit different needs and preferences.
You can check hotel prices at Tikal here:
Booking.com

Is Tikal a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Tikal is generally considered a safe place for tourists. However, like any tourist destination, visitors should exercise caution and take necessary safety precautions. It is advisable to avoid walking alone at night, especially in isolated areas, and to be aware of pickpockets and scams. It is also recommended to follow the advice of local guides and authorities, and to stay informed about current events and potential threats. Overall, Tikal is an incredibly beautiful and fascinating destination that is worth visiting.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Guatemala here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Tikal.

What type of travelers will enjoy Tikal the most?

Tikal National Park in Guatemala is a great destination for all types of travelers, including couples, families, and adventurous young people. However, it is particularly popular among history and culture enthusiasts seeking a unique experience. Tikal is home to impressive Mayan ruins, including massive step pyramids and temples, which date back to over 1,000 years ago. The park is also surrounded by beautiful jungle, making it a great destination for nature lovers and birdwatchers. Families with older children will enjoy exploring the park's many trails, while couples seeking a romantic getaway can spend evenings stargazing and taking in the stunning vistas. Overall, Tikal is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, culture, and nature.

How to get around Tikal

The best way to move around Tikal is by foot or bicycle. The park is a pedestrian-friendly environment and most of the main ruins are located within walking distance of each other. Additionally, there are many bicycles available for rent near the park entrance, which can make getting around quicker and easier. Taxis and guided tours are also available, but they can be more expensive and limit your flexibility.

What to see around Tikal

Here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Tikal: 1. Yaxha: This is a Maya archaeological site located about an hour away from Tikal. It features temples, plazas, and an impressive view of the surrounding jungle.
2. Flores: This picturesque town is located on an island on Lake Peten Itza. It's about 45 minutes away from Tikal and is known for its colorful houses, restaurants, and artisan markets.
3. Ixpanpajul: This nature reserve is located about 30 minutes away from Tikal and has a series of hanging bridges and zip lines that allow visitors to explore the jungle canopy.
4. El Mirador: This is a remote Maya archaeological site located about 4-5 hours away from Tikal. It requires an overnight trek through the jungle, but it's worth it for the incredible views and relatively untouched ruins.
5. Aventura Canopy Tour: This is another zip line adventure located about an hour away from Tikal. It features a series of ziplines and hanging bridges that provide a unique perspective on the jungle.
For every travel information about Guatemala you can click here.

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