Travel Packages All Inclusive from our Advisors
We recognize that vacations are not just an investment, but often the highlights of our lives, and we take that responsibility seriously. We want to ensure you have the best vacation experience. Interested in a job in travel? Click here to learn: How to Become a Travel Agent
Tikal, Guatemala, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and undoubtedly one of the most impressive archaeological sites in the Americas. Although totally different in architecture and setting from the Inca ruins of Machu Picchu in Peru, it is arguably just as spectacular. Situated in the jungle of northern Guatemala, the ruins are part of the much larger Tikal National Park. The Maya structures occupy a large area (approximately 10 sq mi/25 sq km). So far, more than 3,120 palaces, temples, shrines, ceremonial platforms, ball courts, plazas and residences have been mapped, and many more remain uncharted.
A tour of Tikal starts at the visitors center, where there are also two small museums and some quaint places to eat. A 1-mi/1.6-km walk will take you to the Great Plaza, one of the most meticulously excavated areas. There, Temple I, known as the Temple of the Giant Jaguar, rises to 144 ft/44 m. The stairs to the top are no longer open after a number of travelers fell to their deaths while making the climb. The tallest standing temple in Tikal and the second highest in the Maya world (after El Tigre at El Mirador) is Temple IV: 212 ft/64 m high.
Because this is a jungle area, it is usually hot and humid, although not unbearable. Wear a hat and lightweight clothing and take along insect repellent. Wear shoes with nonslip soles for climbing the stone steps and watch your footing on the uneven paths. Be aware of all park warnings, and resist the urge to wander off to more desolate areas of the park. Despite increased security, armed robberies and rapes do occur, albeit with less frequency than in the past.
If possible, plan to spend at least one night either in the park or in the vicinity. Seeing the ruins on a day trip doesn't do them justice. Lodges in the park are small, basic and frequently filled with archaeologists, so book early. For more luxurious accommodations, there's the Westin Camino Real hotel on Lake Peten Itza, about 35 mi/55 km from the park. Flores also makes an excellent base for exploring Tikal. This pleasant town on an island (reached by a causeway) in Lake Peten Itza has comfortable hotels and good restaurants. Launches can be rented in Flores for tours around the lake. One of the most popular trips is to the unexcavated pre-Hispanic ruins of Tayasal, where there is a lookout with superb views of Flores and Lake Peten Itza.
A paved highway from Guatemala City to Flores means the driving time for the 305-mi/488-km trip is less than nine hours during the dry season. However, driving through the department of Peten, as well as other parts of Guatemala, can be very dangerous, especially at night. We recommend flying into the airport at Flores and then taking a minibus or taxi to Tikal, 40 mi/65 km away. Another option is to take a deluxe bus from Guatemala City, or to book a tour in Guatemala City or Antigua.
Vincent Vacations - Authorized Tikal Natl Park Vacation Planner
Questions? Call us at
1 (888) 976-0061
For Groups of 10
or more rooms, or 8 or more Cabins, please use of Group Form
Click Here for our Group Department
Click on a location below to learn more. We recognize that vacations are not just an investment, but often the highlights of our lives, and we take that responsibility seriously. We want to ensure you have the best experience.
All of these are signs that you are a great fit to become an independent travel agent, and turn your love of travel from passion into profit!
Learn MoreOur motto at Vincent Vacations is, we go so you know! We want to ensure you have the BEST experience, whether it's a river cruise, or a corporate group incentive trip, we want to ensure your vacation is a success.
We serve customers all across the USA
Debt free and in business since 2013. Vincent Vacations has agents in Dallas, Kansas City, Houston, Shreveport, Little Rock, Roswell, Oklahoma City and more locations.
Travel agents can help save time and stress by doing the research and handling all your bookings for you. An experience travel agent is best at finding great deals and packages, as well as providing you with helpful information and tips. They can also help you plan special activities and experiences that you may not have thought of on your own. All in all, using a travel agent can be a great way to make sure you get the most out of your trip.
In travel since 2002, and in business since 2013, our travel team serves clients all over the US! Planning a vacation away from home takes a great team. We have taken the time to build a team of dedicated, smart, hard-working personnel who are each committed to excellence and service. We work side-by-side, creating and ensuring INCREDIBLE vacation experiences for you and your group. Our store front in-office team, and our travel consultant independent contractors, work all around the US.
In business since 2013, we are your #1 source for travel!
Free Vacation Package Quote