Maya Ruins Tours from Flores
For centuries, Flores, the main settlement in Guatemala’s Petén region, was home to the Maya Itza people. The Itza civilization began here as early as 900 BC, and continued to thrive long after the wider Maya Empire collapsed. Here are some of the most awe-inspiring ancient Maya settlements within reach of Flores.
Located about a 90-minute drive from Flores, UNESCO-listed Tikal is one of the most impressive Maya cities in all of Central America. Tikal’s greatest appeal is its jungle setting, and while some of its ancient plazas have been cleared of trees, several dizzyingly steep temples can still be seen poking through the rainforest canopy. Paths weaving among major sites at Tikal lead through the foliage, offering the chance to spot monkeys, agoutis (large rodents), and other critters.
Hidden away in the far-flung corner of the Petén jungle, this magnificent Maya site is home to the 230-foot (70-meter) high La Danta, one of the world’s largest pyramids. At its height, El Mirador dwarfed Tikal and is thought to have been home to about 200,000 people. Because of its remote jungle setting, El Mirador can only be accessed on foot. Hikes from Flores typically take five days, and most hikers rent mules to help carry their gear.
Set east of Tikal on a hill between Yaxhá Lake and Sacnab Lagoon, Yaxhá is the third-largest Maya site in Guatemala, after Tikal and El Mirador. The ruins of almost 500 structures are scattered around the jungle, and the temple summits offer spectacular views of the surrounding lakes and forest.
Aguateca and Ceibal
Auguatec and Ceibal are two of many Maya archaeological sites found along the Río de la Pasión, a major tributary of the Usumacinta River, which was a major trade route for the Maya Itza people. Both sites can be accessed during boat tours; listen for howling monkeys as you float along the river.
Situated north of Tikal, the smaller Maya city of Uaxactún was once Tikal’s rival and later its subordinate. Its remote setting—along an unpaved road well off the usual tourist trail—means it attracts few crowds.