GT
Tikal
Maya temples rising above the Petén rainforest, with monkeys, toucans and sunrise views
Maya temples rising above the Petén rainforest, with monkeys, toucans and sunrise views
The ceremonial heart of the city is framed by Temple I, built around 727 CE as the tomb of the ruler Jasaw Chan K’awiil and standing roughly 45–50m tall, and Temple II opposite. The North and Central Acropolis complexes flank the plaza.
Temple I cannot be climbed, but Temple II has stairs with views over the plaza.
Photo: Gary Todd, CC0
The tallest structure at Tikal, about 65–70m high, built in the mid-8th century. Wooden stairs lead to the top, where the roof combs of other temples poke above a sea of forest — a view that appeared in the first Star Wars film.
The classic sunrise spot; check current access rules for early entry.
Photo: Simon Burchell, CC BY-SA 4.0
The “Lost World” complex contains one of the oldest pyramids at Tikal, a large stepped platform that can be climbed for sunset views.
Photo: Gary Todd, CC0
The national park protects tropical forest with spider and howler monkeys, coatis, ocellated turkeys, toucans and parrots. Early morning and late afternoon are best for animals and birdsong.
Do not feed the coatis.
Photo: Charles J. Sharp, CC BY-SA 4.0
The colourful island town on Lake Petén Itzá, about an hour’s drive from Tikal, is the main base for visitors, with hotels, restaurants and lakeside sunsets.
Photo: Edgouno, CC BY-SA 4.0
Most visitors eat in Flores, where restaurants serve Guatemalan dishes, fresh lake fish and international food. Try pepián (a spiced stew), tamales and Guatemalan coffee.
Inside the park, a few simple restaurants near the entrance serve meals; bring water and snacks for the site.
Mundo Maya International Airport near Flores has flights from Guatemala City and some international routes. Shuttles and tours run from Flores to Tikal, a journey of about an hour; buses also come from Belize via the border.
The site is large; expect to walk several kilometres on forest trails between temples.
Guatemala uses the quetzal (GTQ). Park entry is charged separately for foreign visitors, with extra fees for sunrise or sunset access; check current prices.
A guide helps you understand the site and spot wildlife.
Staying near the park allows the earliest starts.
Two days lets you see the ruins at a relaxed pace and enjoy Flores.
Arrive early for the Great Plaza, Temple IV and the North Acropolis, then Mundo Perdido. Return to Flores in the afternoon.
Bring water, sunscreen and insect repellent.
Explore Flores, take a boat on the lake or visit viewpoints.
Mornings are cooler and best for wildlife.
Use repellent and wear long sleeves.
Carry plenty of water.
Check current entry procedures and fees before you go.
Quick answers for planning time in Tikal.
By shuttle, tour or taxi; the drive takes about an hour.
About 65–70m, the tallest structure at Tikal.
Some, such as Temple IV and Temple II, have stairs; Temple I cannot be climbed.
The dry season, from November to April.
Yes, since 1979.
Planning a wider trip? Our Guatemala travel guide covers getting there, costs, when to go and more.