Tikal National Park, Central Highlands Travel Guide

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Discover the ancient wonders and vibrant wildlife of Tikal National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Guatemala, where history and nature converge beautifully.

Tikal National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, invites tourists to explore its vast jungles and ancient Mayan ruins. With towering temples and rich biodiversity, Tikal is a must-visit for adventurers and history enthusiasts alike.

A brief summary to Tikal National Park

Monday 6 am-6 pm
Tuesday 6 am-6 pm
Wednesday 6 am-6 pm
Thursday 6 am-6 pm
Friday 6 am-6 pm
Saturday 6 am-6 pm
Sunday 6 am-6 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Tikal National Park.

Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.
Bring plenty of water and wear comfortable hiking shoes for exploring the trails.
Consider hiring a local guide to enrich your understanding of the site's history and ecology.
Don't forget your camera; the views from the temples are breathtaking.
Plan to spend at least half a day to fully explore the park.

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Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

Candelaria Caves

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Parque Central de Antigua Guatemala

Semuc Champey

Convento Santa Clara

Explore Tikal National Park on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Tikal National Park, mapped for you.

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Tikal Mayan Adventure - 1 Day Tour

$660.00

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Getting There

Car

If you are driving, start your journey from the town of Flores, which is approximately 65 kilometers away from Tikal National Park. From Flores, take the CA-9 highway and follow the signs for Tikal. The drive will take about 1.5 hours. Upon reaching the entrance of Tikal National Park, you will need to pay an entrance fee, which is approximately 150 Q (Guatemalan Quetzals) for adults and 75 Q for children. Make sure to keep your ticket, as it is required for re-entry.
Public Transportation

To reach Tikal National Park via public transportation, start by taking a bus from Flores to Tikal. Buses leave from the main bus terminal in Flores and typically cost around 50 Q. The journey takes about 1.5 hours. Once you arrive at the Tikal entrance, you will need to pay the entrance fee of 150 Q for adults and 75 Q for children. Buses generally operate daily, but it's advisable to check the latest schedules before your trip.
Shuttle Service

Another option is to book a shuttle service from Flores directly to Tikal. Many tour operators in Flores offer this service, and prices range from 100 to 150 Q per person. The shuttle will drop you off at the park entrance. Make sure to confirm the departure times and book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Guided Tours

For a more comprehensive experience, consider joining a guided tour from Flores that includes transportation to Tikal. These tours typically start early in the morning and include a knowledgeable guide to enhance your visit. Prices vary but usually start around 400 Q per person, which includes transportation, entrance fees, and sometimes lunch.

Discover more about Tikal National Park

Tikal National Park is one of the most iconic and breathtaking destinations in Guatemala, drawing visitors from around the globe into its lush landscapes and ancient history. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this national park is renowned for its impressive Mayan ruins, including towering temples and palaces that date back to the height of the Mayan civilization. Covering over 220 square miles of tropical rainforest, Tikal is not just a historical treasure but also a haven for biodiversity, home to a variety of wildlife, including howler monkeys, toucans, and jaguars. The park's main temple, Temple I, rises majestically above the surrounding jungle, providing stunning views and a sense of the grandeur of the ancient Mayan world. As you wander through the park, the sounds of the jungle create an enchanting atmosphere that transports you back in time.Visitors to Tikal can enjoy a range of activities, from guided tours that delve into the rich history and architecture of the Mayan civilization to hiking through the lush trails that wind through the rainforest. The best time to visit is early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the heat and witness the park at its most magical. With multiple entry points and well-marked paths, Tikal is accessible for both the casual traveler and the serious adventurer. Whether you are climbing the steep steps of ancient temples or observing the vibrant wildlife, Tikal National Park offers an unforgettable experience, merging nature with history in a way that few places on earth can match.