A Guide to Visiting Tikal National Park

Tikal National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the Petén region of northern Guatemala and very remote and hard to get to. This guide to visiting Tikal National Park will help you best plan your trip.  is renowned for its well-preserved Mayan ruins, including towering pyramids, ancient temples, and a lush rainforest setting.

Here’s a guide to help you make the most of your visit to Tikal National Park:

1. Getting There

• Tikal is accessible from the nearby town of Flores, which has an airport with regular flights from Guatemala City.
• You can also reach Tikal by bus or organized tours from other major cities in Guatemala.

2. Park Entrance:

• Upon arrival, you’ll need to pay an entrance fee to access the park. It’s advisable to carry cash for this purpose!

3. Tours: Get A Guide when Visiting Tikal National Park

• Consider hiring a local guide when you enter the park. They can provide valuable insights into the history, culture, and significance of Tikal’s structures.
• Guides can also help you spot wildlife, including howler monkeys, toucans, and coatis, which are abundant in the area.

4. Exploring the Ruins

• The main archaeological sites are spread out across the park, so be prepared for a fair amount of walking.
• Wear comfortable shoes, bring water, and consider a hat and sunscreen for sun protection.
• Major structures to explore include Temple I (El Gran Jaguar), Temple II (El Máscara), and the Central Acropolis.

5. Sunrise or Sunset Tours

• Watching the sunrise or sunset from the top of one of the pyramids is a breathtaking experience. Plan accordingly and check with the park for specific tour times and requirements.

6. Wildlife Viewing

• Keep an eye out for the diverse wildlife in Tikal, including howler monkeys, spider monkeys, toucans, and various reptiles and insects.

7. Respect the Environment

• Tikal is a protected area with fragile ecosystems. Please do not disturb the wildlife or remove any plants or artifacts from the park.
• Follow the “Leave No Trace” principles, and dispose of your trash properly.

8. Food and Water

• There are food vendors and restaurants near the park entrance, but it’s a good idea to carry snacks and water with you as you explore the ruins. Most vendors are cash only.

9. Accommodation

• Flores offers a variety of accommodation options, from budget hostels to mid-range hotels. You can stay there and make day trips to Tikal.

Summary: A Guide to Visiting Tikal National Park

Tikal National Park is an archaeological treasure and a unique natural environment. Exploring the ancient Mayan ruins while surrounded by the sights and sounds of the rainforest is an unforgettable experience for history buffs and nature enthusiasts alike!

If you’re a film location nerd like me too, Star Wars also filmed part of Episode IV here as the planet, Yavin IV.