Tikal Tours from Flores

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In an average year, over 300,000 travelers from nations across the globe visit Belize and Guatemala. That might not be a surprise; there’s a lot to love about these vibrant coastal nations!

In addition to the scenic beaches, reefs, and tropical wildlife, Guatemala is also home to a vital site of one of the most extraordinary ancient civilizations on Earth: Tikal.

Tikal was once the heart of the Maya Kingdom. What does it mean to explore the echoes of that ancient city through its ruins?

For many visitors, it means the adventure of a lifetime.

Historical and Cultural Importance of Tikal

The earliest structures of Tikal were built in the year 4 B.C. The site grew in vastness and political importance for centuries, until, between 200 – 900 A.D., it reached the height of its power. In that era (known as the Classical Period), Tikal was the capital and central heart of one of the strongest kingdoms in the history of Maya civilization.

The Heart of a Powerful Maya Kingdom

In this era, Tikal was both a hub and dominant political force across the Mesoamerican continent. It was a center of trade among peoples as distant as Teotihuacan in the Valley of Mexico, and Conan in what is now Western Honduras.

Tikal also held court, festivals, and even the seats of royal dynasties vital to ancient Maya culture.

Extraordinary History: Yax Mutal, Then and Now

Contemporary historians believe the Tikal site was called “Yax Mutal” by those who lived there. As an ancient city, it thrived for thousands of years, sometimes allying with or being taken by different ancient nations.

Around 900-950 A.D., the population of Tikal started declining. By 1100 A.D., the site had been entirely abandoned. The rainforest began to grow over the buildings and the ruins.

The ruins were rediscovered in 1848. But, they were almost entirely covered. It wasn’t until 1956 that archeologists from Guatemala and the University of Pennsylvania in the U.S. started excavating them.

The Tikal site as we know it today was finally drawn out and restored by the mid-1970s. In 1979, it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Today, the influence of ancient Maya civilization is felt across Guatemalan culture. From the Guatemalan people’s syncretic spirituality, to the arts, architecture, and food, Tikal matters to modern Guatemala more than ever before.

What to Expect on a Guided Tour of Tikal

Get Ready To Walk (or Ride) Far

Tikal National Park, the UNESCO World Heritage Site that preserves the Tikal ruins, covers a little over 222 square miles of land. It encompasses such a broad swath of diverse habitats, ecosystems, and wildlife, it can’t be explored in its entirety in a single day.

Most guided tours of Tikal either drive or bike to the ruins’ site, then tour the ruins themselves on foot. For most people, a Tikal tour involves 6 miles of walking and hiking. Typical tours are paced to be completed from 6 – 8 hours, with some breaks.

For those who cannot walk the distance, Tikal National Park allows visitors to explore the ground level of the ruins and the park with motorized scooters. This can still be enjoyable, although narrow or rocky paths wouldn’t be accessible. It’s also important that any bikes and scooters be appropriate for the terrain.

Experience Breathtaking Sights

There are too many extraordinary buildings and structures among the Tikal ruins to visit them all. Most tours emphasize some of the most spectacular, including:

  • The North Acropolis
    • This series of 12 tombs house generations of Maya royalty
      • Each tomb is connected to its intricately decorated temple
  • The Grand Plaza
    • This central court has a dramatic sunset view
      • Sports, spiritual rituals, and royal events were conducted here
  • Temple of The Great Jaguar
    • This nine-level pyramid symbolized the levels of the underworld
      • It culminates in a royal tomb—a resting place filled with hieroglyphics, jade mosaics, and carved portraiture
  • Temple IV
    • This is the tallest pyramid on the site
      • When they climb it, visitors can see the entire park.
  • The Temple of Masks
    • This shorter pyramid offers beautiful views of the rainforest
      • Its inscription shows it was dedicated to a queen

Climb (Some) of the Pyramids

The pyramids of Tikal are often open to climbing. However, authorities may close specific pyramids to climbers (or entirely) for safety or restoration.

The Temple of Masks (Temple II) and Temple IV are the most frequently available to travelers to want to make their way to the top.

The Temple of The Great Jaguar is often also climbable, although it has been recently closed for repairs.

Wildlife and Flora You’ll Encounter in Tikal National Park

Tiklal’s extraordinary biodiversity is part of the reason Tikal National Park was selected as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

According to UNESCO, the protected preserve is home to an extraordinary range of flora and fauna, including over 330 identified bird species, 200 species of trees, 100 species of reptiles, “…over 60 species of bat.”

Walking through the tropics, travelers take in beautiful orchids, bromeliads, and rainforest canopies dotted with monkeys.

Keen-eyed visitors might catch sight of soft-footed ocelots and jaguars, a rare Great Curassow, or an endangered Central American River Turtle.

Tips for Preparing for a Tikal Tour (Clothing, Weather, and More)

Wear Lightweight, Protective Clothing, Strong Shoes

Insects like mosquitos, frequent bouts of rain, and the tropical heat, are all part and parcel of the environment in Guatemala. When exploring Tikal, it’s important to wear waterproof or water-resistant boots and outerwear, as well as fabrics that can prevent overheating. Clothing treated with insect repellent is a wise choice.

Gear Up To Prevent Injury and Illness

Last but not least, it’s important to take steps to prevent the risk of injury or illness when journeying through Tikal.

Abide by recommendations from the CDC to avoid food-borne and mosquito-borne illnesses. Be proactive against heat stroke as well; take steps to ensure your skin still experiences evaporative cooling in humid weather, and stay hydrated.

Abide By Travel Advisories

Stay alert to any travel advisories issued by your home country throughout every trip. Currently, the United States has issued a Level 3 advisory requesting Americans “Reconsider Travel” to Guatemala.

That said, while traveling to Guatemala as a whole is risky, but the Tikal site itself is highly secure.

How Caravan Tours Enhances the Tikal Experience

Tikal National Park is intriguing no matter how you visit it. Yet, when exploring with an expertly crafted, guided tour, the experience surpasses even the highest expectations.

Stay At Lovely Accommodations

Searching through lodging options to find the right fit for your trip can be frustrating. Fortunately, Caravan’s tours automatically include all accommodations.

When traveling through Belize with Caravan, you’ll stay at Hotel Camino Real Tikal. Guests relax in a room with a private balcony, air-conditioning, Jacuzzi, and even an authentic Mayan-style sauna bath called Temazcal.

Taste Diverse, Curated Guatemalan Meals

Caravan’s tours include meals every day. Tour curators ensure all guests can enjoy the rich culinary options each destination offers.

Safe Transportation Guaranteed

Staying safe on the road (or on boats) isn’t always easy. Yet, Caravan’s guests needn’t stress. 100% of the transit is handled by professionals.

Ancient Tikal Comes To Life With Caravan

Traveling should be fun, not stressful. At Caravan, we do the work for our guests stress-free.

Our guides curate all-inclusive trips with expertise.  Activities, lodgings, and meals are hand-picked and booked well ahead of time. The only thing left for guests to do is enjoy!

If you’re interested in experiencing the best of Tikal in one extraordinary trip, why not check out our weeklong Belize and Tikal Tour?

If you’d like to join in, or just want more information, we invite you to call us toll-free at 1-800-CARAVAN or 1-800-312-321-9800.

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Traveling to Flores, Guatemala? Things to Do, Hotels, and More

Flores, Guatemala is a tropical paradise unlike any other place on Earth. With this guide, plan the trip of a lifetime.

Flores, Petén, Guatemala:  An Island of Deep Time, Heat, & Resilience

Flores is a city encompassing a tropical island on Lake Petén Itzá, as well as two mainland neighborhoods and a suburb-like neighborhood resting on the San Miguel peninsula on the same lake. Lake Petén Itzá is a landlocked, freshwater lake in Flores’ Petén province.

Explore the deceptively peaceful city, and you’ll discover an ancient history of human civilization, human tenacity, and a cultural force still shaping the Americas today.

Where Is Flores, Guatemala Located?

Flores is located on an island, a peninsula, and two coastal outposts on Lake Petén Itzá, in the state of Petén in Guatemala.

Relative Locations of Flores Neighborhoods

The Island of Flores is connected to its mainland neighborhoods, Santa Elena and San Benito, by a single thoroughfare bridge. The bridge is unnamed, called only “el puente” (meaning “the causeway” in English).

While the central city on the Island of Flores is not directly connected to the San Miguel peninsula neighborhood by land, it is easy to reach by boat. Typically, a boat between the Island of Flores and the San Miguel peninsula takes 30 minutes or less.

Climate Zone Location of Flores, Petén, Guatemala

Like most of Guatemala, Flores is located in a tropical climate zone with a long rainy season. The wet season lasts from May to January, and monsoons are commonplace. February is its driest month, and the dry season only lingers two months beyond that.

What Makes Flores Culturally Significant?

The inland island city of Flores is almost the oldest continuously inhabited human settlement on the American continents (second only to Choula).

According to archeological records, people of the Maya Civilization were the first to establish a presence on the island, back in 900 B.C. At some point between 250 – 400 A.D., the Mayas expanded their settlement, building the city of Nojpetén on the island.

This overlapped with the settlement and expansion of the Itza ethnic group within Maya Civilization. At some point between 1000 – 350 B.C., the Itza built Tayasal, an expansion of Nojpetén that crossed Lake Petén Itzá to a nearby peninsula.

As a result, two vital hubs of the Maya Civilization were constructed and maintained in Flores for thousands of years. The city of Nojpetén, including the expansion of Tayasal, was the capital of the Itza Maya Kingdom for over 2000 years, until Itza rulers were overthrown by the Xiu Maya in 1446 A.D.

Resisting Spanish Conquerors

The Maya Kingdom’s Island of Flores resisted Spanish intrusion and invasion for over a century. In 1541, the Maya drove out Hernán Cortés’ first attack on the island.

Flores remained a Maya city until 1697, when it ultimately fell to Spain.

Flores’s Impact on Contemporary Guatemalan Culture

Much of Flores is protected under the Maya Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO designation establishing protection and conservation of both archeological sites and Flores’ delicate tropical rainforest ecosystem.

Even before UNESCO’s designation, descendants of Itzal and Xiu Maya peoples have worked to preserve and restore Maya culture and traditions, grounding them in the great centers of ancient Maya Civilization.

As a result, contemporary culture is infused with Maya traditions and cultural practices of multiple ethnic groups, the history of resistance to (and coordination with) Spanish Colonialism, and modern international influences.

This holds true well beyond the Island itself. Due to Flores’ unique multicultural, historical position, it’s been uniquely able to shape contemporary Guatemalan Culture and the national identity of Guatemalans themselves.

The influences reveal themselves in every aspect of contemporary Guatemalan life: art, music, dance, religion, folklore, craft, and cuisine!

Destinations, Activities, and Attractions in Flores, Guatemala

There’s so much wonder, history, and life to experience in Flores! What might you add to your itinerary?

Nature & Wildlife

Travelers who love the beauty and wildness of nature will find there’s plenty to be had in Flores.

ARCAS (Asociaciòn de Rescate y Conservaciòn de Vida Silvestre)

ARCAS is a world-renowned non-profit organization dedicated to natural habitat protection, rescuing animals from the black market, and wildlife rehabilitation.

At ARCAS Guatemala, visitors can enjoy wildlife tours on the preserve, educational experiences with animals being rehabilitated, mangrove tours, and baby sea turtle release events.

Lake Peten Itza

Lake Peten Itza is a popular lake beside the Tayasal Ruins. Travelers visiting the lake are free to swim, boat, kayak, or explore the ruins independently.

Archeological Sites of Maya Civilization

Ak’tun Kan, La Cueva de la Serpiente

The Cave of the Serpent is a cave system beneath Flores. Visitors can explore the cavern on 45-minute and 2-hour guided tours. Cave formations, fossilized creatures, and preserved ancient pottery can be experienced up close.

Tikal National Park

Tikal National Park is the highlight of Flores for many visitors. Tikal is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, preserving and highlighting the extraordinary Tikal Ruins.

Museums & Cultural Centers

If you want a closer look at preserved and restored artifacts from ancient Maya civilization, you’ll enjoy one of Flores’ popular archeological museums.

The highest-ranked museums in Flores, Guatemala are:

  • Museo Regional del Mundo Maya
  • Museo del Islote Santa Barbara
  • Museo de Jade

If you spend a weekend in Flores, you might have time to catch them all!

Festivals & Celebrations

The people of Flores, Guatemala hold several festivals throughout the year to celebrate and preserve different elements of their unique culture. If you visit, see if you’ll be there in time to join in some of the most popular festivities, including:

  • Fiesta Patronal (Assumption) on August 15th
  • Day of the Dead on November 2nd
  • Dance of the Giants
    • Note: this isn’t a festival itself. Rather, it’s a masked theatrical dance performed in different festivals, including Fiesta Patronal.
  • The Flower Festival and Pageant in November

Best Hotels and Accommodation Options In Flores

There are plenty of affordable, well-reputed places to stay in Flores, Guatemala. You might consider:

  • Las Lagunas Boutique Hotel, a tranquil, serene lodging overlooking the mangrove lagoons
  • Hotel Isla de Flores, a centrally located stay with friendly staff and a rooftop pool
  • Hotel Posada Tayazal, a sweet budget hotel with majestic views

Where to Eat In Flores: Local Cuisine and Must-Try Restaurants

Bistro Puertas del Cielo (formerly Las Puertas)

Bistro Puertas del Cielo, or “Bistro Gates of Heaven” is a raved-about culinary spot in the heart of Flores. The bistro focuses on authentic Guatemalan and fusion dining, regional coffee, and excellent wine. Service and price both earn high marks.

La Danta

Named after the La Danta Pyramid, La Danta Restaurante offers new takes on Guatemalan classics. Affordable, tasty meals are served either indoors, or out on the restaurant’s garden patio.

La Galería del Zot’z

La Galería del Zot’z impresses diners with its gallery’s collection of authentic Mayan art, its lively atmosphere, and its food. Don’t miss the iconic savory tamales.

Experience Flores, Guatemala With Expert Guides

Traveling is fun, but travel planning can be stressful. That’s why at Caravan, we do the work for our guests well ahead of time, so you’re free to relax and enjoy the trip.

If you’re interested in an all-inclusive trip to Flores (and a few other destinations), why not check out our weeklong Belize and Tikal Tour?

If you’d like to join in, or just want more information, we invite you to call us toll-free at 1-800-CARAVAN or 1-800-312-321-9800.

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10 Tips for Touring Guatemala Safely

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It’s a common myth that traveling abroad is unsafe. In truth, traveling abroad might be safer than you think. However, regardless of how safe your destination is, familiarizing yourself with tourism safety is crucial. Here are ten tips surrounding Guatemala tourism safety to help you prepare for your next trip.

1. Research and Planning

Safety starts long before you set foot on Guatemalan soil. It begins in the early phases of planning your trip, involving extensive research to ensure you’re familiar with the safety situation in the area.

As you browse for activities, accommodations, and flights, research the area. Learn more about local customs and culture, read through travel advisories, and find the nearest embassy. As you craft your plan, create a detailed itinerary outlining everything you plan to do and each place you plan to stay.

Share those plans with someone at home when you finish crafting your itinerary. If something changes in your itinerary, notify them immediately to ensure someone knows your plans.

 

2. Choosing Accommodations Wisely

Accommodations are a key part of a vacation. After a long day of lively activities, sun-soaked lounging on the beach, or touring, you’ll need somewhere to rest. As you search for accommodation options in the area you’re visiting, go the extra mile and research that area.

Pick a hotel, motel, or rental in a safe, reputable neighborhood. Evaluate the safety of its location by reading through customer reviews and collecting recommendations from friends and family who have visited the area.

3. Transportation Safety

Guatemala offers numerous transportation options to get tourists from Point A to Point B. Buses, shuttles, boats, rental cars, and taxis are available across the country. However, availability varies based on the city.

Before you go, research transportation options in the area you’re staying. Create a list of possibilities outlining reputable transportation services to ensure you have options when needed. If you plan to rent a car, learn more about driving safety and road conditions in the area you’re staying.

4. Personal Safety Tips

Once you arrive in Guatemala, it’s essential to employ personal safety measures. Blend in with the locals by wearing similar clothing. While more revealing clothing is generally accepted in bigger Guatemalan cities, it’s generally best to stick to more conservative clothing when visiting rural areas.

Avoid wearing flashy jewelry or valuables that could draw attention, and use a money belt or hidden pouch to store essentials, like your phone, credit cards, and accommodation keys. Remain alert and aware of your surroundings at all times to avoid sticky situations.

You’ll likely encounter street vendors or beggars, some of whom aggressively vie for money. If possible, avoid contact with them altogether unless you want to buy something or give them money. If they utilize aggressive tactics, remain calm and polite. Avoid accepting “free products,” and be firm in your answers.

5. Health and Hygiene

Guatemala experiences sweltering summer temperatures well over 100 degrees in the hottest months. When visiting the area, dress to keep cool with breathable fabrics and remain hydrated. Bring plenty of water with you when walking through cities and lounging on beaches.

Carry essential first aid supplies and any vital medications you take to ensure you have them if needed. Additionally, it doesn’t hurt to get a travel health insurance plan for the duration of your trip to ensure any emergency or routine medical services are covered.

6. Cultural Sensitivity

When visiting any country, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with local customs and cultures to practice cultural sensitivity. Keep your interactions with locals respectful and practice cultural sensitivity to local customs and traditions.

You can even learn a few basic Spanish phrases to communicate with the locals, as this is Guatemala’s most widely spoken language.

7. Emergency Preparedness

Preparing for an emergency is an essential part of visiting a foreign country. While you may not experience any semblance of an emergency, it’s best to be prepared. Ensure you know the phone numbers of your emergency contacts in case you lose your phone and need to contact someone.

Carry a photocopy of essential documents in case you lose your luggage or it gets stolen. Familiarize yourself with where the nearest embassy or consulate is based on your accommodations.

If you’re traveling in a group, ensure you create a communication plan in case someone loses their phone.

8. Traveling in Groups

Group traveling is an excellent way to travel through a foreign country safely. Of course, while there’s safety in numbers, it’s still important to be aware of your surroundings. As you progress through your trip and enjoy various activities and entertainment options, ensure you stay connected with your fellow travelers.

Share responsibility by looking out for each other to promote the safety of your entire group.

9. Dealing with Emergencies

While traveling through Guatemala, you may encounter various emergencies. If someone steals your stuff or you lose it, report the incident to the tourist police by calling 1500. If the lost or stolen items contain travel documents, visit your home country’s embassy or consulate for assistance.

If you experience a medical emergency, call 123 or visit your nearest hospital.

10. Returning Home Safely

After you return home, reflect on your travel experiences. Traveling the world is a rewarding venture full of exciting activities, captivating entertainment, and lively companionship. Use your experience in Guatemala to adjust the way you approach travel, revising safety measures as necessary for future trips.

Share your experiences and tips with others who might be looking for answers on online forums, with friends, and with family.

Travel to Guatemala with our Experienced Guides

Safety is a critical consideration regardless of where you travel, although some destinations require more care than others. Learning the ropes and preparing to navigate a trip safely can be daunting, especially without an in-depth knowledge of the destination.

If you want to visit Guatemala but don’t want to worry about finding safe accommodations, transportation, and more, a guided tour might be the perfect fit for you. At Caravan, we offer two Guatemalan tours. The first explores Guatemala, Atitlan, and Antigua, while the second takes you through Guatemala, Tikal, and Rio Dulce. Ready to book a trip? Call us at 1-800-CARAVAN or +1-312-321-9800.

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