Tikal National Park (Parque Nacional Tikal)

The basics

Tikal National Park (Parque Nacional Tikal) stands apart from other sites of Mayan ruins due to its location deep in the jungle and its easy access, as the roads leading to one of the most popular attractions in Central America are well-maintained. Tikal National Park (Parque Nacional Tikal) tours make it seamless to reach the area via bus, shuttle, or airplane, from as near as Flores or as far as Antigua or Guatemala City, or across the border from San Ignacio, Belize—even on a day trip.

Those who want to stay longer can take an overnight tour or book a hostel or campsite for the night, which offers the opportunity to watch the sunrise from the top of an ancient pyramid in the ancient Mayan civilization. You’ll likely wake up to the sound of howler monkeys in this Maya Biosphere Reserve.

Things to know before you go

• It’s best to book a tour of the Mayan site with round-trip transportation or plan to stay the night, as Tikal is in a somewhat remote location.

• Some of the not-to-miss highlights include the Temple of the Grand Jaguar, the Northern Acropolis, and the Temple of Inscriptions.

• Visitors can explore an on-site museum to learn more about the ruins’ history and rediscovery.

• Lodging and camping are available outside the park.

• Tikal National Park (Parque Nacional Tikal) tickets bought after 3pm are valid for the following day, too.

How to get there

As one of the most popular attractions in the region, Tikal is easy to access. The ruins are located in El Petén, and regular shuttles run from Guatemala City, Antigua, Lake Atitlán, and Belize. Flights help you make the most of your time, as the shuttle rides can last upwards of 12 hours. Many guided tours include worry-free transportation.

When to get there

The rainy season, generally May through October, is the time of the fewest crowds (though visitors should come prepared with rain gear). Park hours are early morning to early evening, and are strictly enforced.

Lord of Chocolate

In the deep past, Tikal served as a center for trade and economy, growing to a population of almost 100,000 before its decline. Some of its more noteworthy figures included Jasaw Chan K'awiil I, also known as Ah Cacao (Lord Chocolate!), who conquered the chief rival Mayan state of Calakmul around AD 695.

Ways to explore

Tikal National Park stands apart from other Maya ruins due to its location deep in the jungle, but tours make it seamless to reach the area via bus, shuttle, or airplane, from as near as Flores or as far afield as Antigua or Guatemala City. You can even visit on a day trip from San Ignacio, Belize. Sunrise and sunset tours are popular with those who also want to appreciate the site’s natural surroundings, while overnight tours offer the opportunity to watch the sunrise, too. Note that additional ticket costs apply for sunrise tours.

Accessibility

There is a shuttle service for travelers with disabilities to the Plaza Mayor, but tough terrain and lots of steps put much of the park and archaeological site out of reach for those with mobility issues.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Sunscreen, insect repellent, a water bottle, and a hat are your jungle essentials. Bring cash, too, as there are no ATMs.

What to wear

The Maya ruins sprawl over a large area and involve a lot of steps, so comfortable shoes are a must.

Not allowed

Do not feed the animals; it distorts their natural behavior.

Amenities

Restrooms, eateries, souvenir stalls

Address 

Tikal National Park is located in Petén in northeast Guatemala, about a 40-mile (64-kilometer) drive north of Flores, or around a 2.5-hour drive west of San Ignacio, Belize.

Driving

From Flores, take CA-13 to RD-PET-3 and follow it north. The park is well signposted.

Public transportation

Both public minibuses and tourist shuttles run from Flores to Tikal. Travelers from Belize City or San Ignacio can usually pick up transport at the border.

Best times to visit

The national park is open 6am–6pm daily, with the museums open 8am–6pm. Come at opening time to beat the crowds and the heat, and to take in the magical sunrise.

Best days to visit

There’s no better or worse day to visit Tikal National Park, so long as you show up early in the morning.

Best months to visit

To avoid the crowds, try visiting during the rainy season, (May–October), so long as you don’t mind bundling up in rain gear. The dry season (November–April) will have better weather, though.

Special events

NONE