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The Lost World: Tikal's Ancient Ceremonial Heart

Explore Tikal's Mundo Perdido: Uncover ancient Mayan secrets within the Lost World's towering pyramids and astronomical complex.

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Venture into Mundo Perdido, or the Lost World, Tikal's largest and oldest ceremonial complex dating back to 700 BC. Explore towering pyramids, including the Great Pyramid, and discover the astronomical significance of this captivating site, once a vital hub of Mayan civilization.

A brief summary to The Lost World

  • Monday 8 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-5 pm
  • Friday 8 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 8 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Arrive early or late to avoid crowds and experience the tranquility of the jungle surroundings.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for navigating uneven terrain and climbing temple steps.
  • Bring plenty of water and snacks, as amenities within the park are limited.
  • Consider hiring a local guide to gain deeper insights into the history and significance of the site.
  • Allocate at least half a day to fully explore the Lost World complex and its surrounding areas.
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Getting There

  • Shuttle

    From Flores, frequent shuttle services are available to Tikal National Park. Shuttles can be found near the main plaza in Flores. A round-trip ticket costs approximately Q60. The journey takes about 1 hour. Upon arrival at the park entrance, purchase your entry ticket for Q150. If you are visiting for sunrise, an additional Q100 fee is required. From the park entrance, it's a short walk to the Lost World complex.

  • Walking

    From Tikal's Gran Plaza, head southwest, following signs for Mundo Perdido. The walk is approximately 400 meters on well-maintained paths and takes about 10-15 minutes. The path is mostly flat, but comfortable shoes are recommended. There are no additional costs involved in reaching the Lost World from within the park.

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Discover more about The Lost World

The Lost World (Mundo Perdido) is Tikal's largest Preclassic ceremonial complex. Located southwest of the Great Plaza, this sprawling area comprises 38 structures, dominated by a massive pyramid. The complex offers a glimpse into the early development of Mayan civilization at Tikal. The Great Pyramid (Structure 5C-54) is the centerpiece, rising 31 meters high. Its western stairway, once flanked by giant masks, leads to the summit. Archaeologists have discovered earlier pyramids within the current structure, with the oldest dating back to 700 BC, making it Tikal's oldest Mayan structure. The pyramid served as an astronomical observatory, with its east stairway acting as a platform to view the sun's path relative to three structures on the east platform. These structures marked the sunrise positions during the equinoxes and solstices. Around AD 250-300, the Lost World saw architectural influence from Teotihuacan, including the talud-tablero style. During the Early Classic period, it rivaled the North Acropolis as the city's ceremonial center and may have served as a royal necropolis. Despite Tikal's abandonment, the palace area of Mundo Perdido remained occupied for another century, possibly linked to the nearby water reservoir. Exploring the Lost World offers a unique perspective on Tikal's rich history and the ingenuity of the Mayan people.

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