Ultimate Guide to Exploring Tikal Ruins in Guatemala with Map

A Guide to Tikal, Guatemala

A visit to the Mayan ruins of Tikal Guatemala is undoubtedly one of the most spectacular experiences in Central America. These ancient temples were once the largest capital of the Mayan civilization, resembling a scene straight from an adventure film.

If you have visited the iconic pyramid of Chichen Itza in Mexico, Tikal offers a similar yet arguably superior experience. Tikal National Park is rich in wildlife, and many temples provide opportunities for climbing, where visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding jungle!

Moreover, Tikal (pronounced ‘tee-kahl’) is relatively easy and affordable to access on a day trip from Flores in Guatemala or by overland travel from nearby Belize.

Consequently, this is a bucket list experience for any traveler in Belize or Guatemala. Star Wars enthusiasts will also recognize Tikal as a filming location for ‘A New Hope.’

This comprehensive Tikal travel guide will cover crucial information, including the park’s location (including a Tikal map), transportation options from Guatemala or Belize, hours and entrance fees, safety tips, and the best tour packages available.

Where To Stay In Flores

Best Tikal Tours

Tikal Guatemala is best experienced through a guided tour, especially on your first visit. This option provides convenient transportation to the ruins, and an English-speaking guide enhances your understanding by sharing insights and taking memorable photos.

GetYourGuide offers Tikal day tours from Flores in Guatemala, as well as day tours from San Ignacio, Belize. Many of these tours even include lunch and hotel pickup for added convenience.

We have consistently utilized GetYourGuide for many tours worldwide and have found them to be highly reliable and recommended.

Explore: Tikal Tour From Flores / From Belize

Where Is Tikal?

Tikal is situated in northern Guatemala, specifically in the Peten department. The nearest town is Flores, offering numerous tourist-friendly hotels and restaurants. Visitors can also access Tikal overland from San Ignacio in Belize.

Temple V is one of the most noteworthy temple ruins in Tikal.

How To Get To Tikal Guatemala

• From Guatemala

The closest airport to Tikal is the Mundo Maya International Airport (FRS) in Flores. Alternatively, you can take a bus from Guatemala City, though it is slower (approximately 10 hours) yet more budget-friendly.

Daily nonstop flights are available from Guatemala City or Cancun, Mexico, ideally operated by Avianca for reputable safety and flexible baggage options. Flights to Flores from Guatemala City take just 45 minutes and may be as low as 400 Quetzales ($50 USD). You can compare flights using Skyscanner.

Upon arrival in Flores, the subsequent step is traveling to Tikal, approximately a 1.5-hour drive from Flores town. The simplest method is through a shared bus tour from Flores, which offers affordability.

If you prefer to explore Tikal independently, you may rent a car or take a shuttle from Flores; however, this may not significantly reduce costs compared to a tour, and having a knowledgeable guide can enhance your experience.

Temple I presents one of the most epic views in Tikal National Park!

• From Belize

Travelers from Belize should first reach San Ignacio, located near the Guatemala border. The drive from Belize City to San Ignacio takes about 2 to 2.5 hours and can be made by car (taxi), bus, or shuttle, with the shuttle being the most recommended option.

Occasionally, flights from Belize City to the small airport in San Ignacio are available; however, these are limited. You may inquire with Tropic Air or Maya Island Air.

Upon arrival in San Ignacio, it’s a further 2 to 2.5 hours drive to Tikal. The ideal choice is a day tour package with organized transportation.

While navigating border crossings may add some complexity, it is manageable. If preferred, you may also rent a car or take a shuttle from San Ignacio to Tikal.

Visiting Tikal Guatemala: What To Expect

The Tikal ruins cover a vast area but remain walkable. The paths are flat and manageable, although climbing some temples can be strenuous. Climbing restrictions are in place for certain temples, so it’s advisable to check signage beforehand. Information is provided in both English and Spanish.

Tikal National Park is home to hundreds of animal species, enhancing the wildlife viewing opportunities. During our visit, we encountered spider monkeys, coatimundis, turkeys, and other fascinating wildlife. Spotting tarantulas, toucans, and occasionally pumas or jaguars is also possible!

You can explore Tikal’s highlights within a few hours; thus, one full-day trip suffices for most visitors. However, photographers may wish to linger longer for ideal shots. Several hotels at Tikal offer direct park access if you decide to extend your stay.

Tikal Map (Guatemala)

Here’s a helpful 3D Tikal map for planning your visit to Guatemala. A paper map can also be purchased at the national park entrance, proving to be beneficial for navigating the temples and trails within the park.

This map illustrates the locations of bathroom facilities and identifies the park entrance marked as ‘9 Ingreso,’ your entry point for starting the tour.

Click to enlarge this Tikal map (© Mapas De Guatemala)

Best Tikal Temples & Ruins

This isn’t an exhaustive list, but here are some of the most distinguished temples in Tikal:

• Temple I

Known as the ‘Temple of the Great Jaguar,’ it’s arguably the most beautiful and iconic temple ruin in Tikal Guatemala, and also one of the tallest.

Though climbing Temple I isn’t permitted, visitors can ascend the nearby Temple II for an excellent vantage point, offering impressive photo opportunities of Temple I. This temple served as the burial site for Mayan king Jasaw Chan K’awiil I and features multiple photogenic spots in the Great Plaza.

This is a renowned view of Temple I taken from the top of Temple II.

• Temple II

Referred to as the ‘Temple of the Masks,’ Temple II is captivating in its own right but stands out for its accessibility for climbing, offering stunning vistas of Temple I and the adjacent Great Plaza.

This temple reaches a height of 38 meters (125 feet), with a wooden staircase at the back, allowing visitors to reach the summit within minutes, making the effort entirely worthwhile!

• Temple IV

Temple IV is the tallest structure in Tikal, standing at 65 meters (212 feet), making it one of the tallest Mayan buildings globally.

Visitors can climb to the top using a wooden staircase with almost 200 steps, providing an extensive workout. Often referred to as the ‘Star Wars temple,’ it notably featured in the filming of the jungle planet Yavin 4 in Star Wars: A New Hope.

Here’s the iconic view from the top of Temple IV.

• Temple V

Finally, don’t miss Temple V, a grand moss-covered structure located near the Central Acropolis of Tikal National Park. Standing 57 meters tall (187 feet), it ranks as the second tallest in Tikal after Temple IV.

Although climbing Temple V is not allowed, its grandeur makes it an impressive photo opportunity. While the function of Temple V remains uncertain, it is believed to have served as a mortuary temple for one of Tikal’s ancient rulers.

Tikal In Star Wars

Star Wars fans will recognize Temple IV as the location where a Rebel guard observes the Millennium Falcon landing on the jungle planet Yavin 4 in ‘A New Hope.’

This iconic movie scene was filmed atop Temple IV, showcasing Temples I, II, and III rising above the jungle canopy in the background.

You can view a screenshot from the Star Wars scene below.

The Star Wars movie scene at Temple IV (© 20th Century Fox)

Interestingly, the filming occurred in 1977 during the Guatemalan civil war, and according to a Reuters article, George Lucas’s crew transported bulky camera gear to the temple using a pulley system.

Moreover, the film crew employed a local security guard with six-packs of beer to safeguard the equipment over four nights!

As a Star Wars enthusiast myself, visiting this location in reality was an incredible experience!

Entrance Fees At Tikal National Park

Since 2023, purchasing Tikal tickets online has become possible through the official website at https://boletos.culturaguate.com. Entrance fees can be paid with a foreign Mastercard or Visa credit card, with current fees listed online.

Ensure you select the foreigner ticket, not the Guatemalan domestic ticket, which is exclusively for local citizens. If attending a sunrise or sunset tour, you’ll need to buy both a day ticket and a special ticket for those experiences. Children under 12 can enter Tikal free of charge.

If online purchasing proves challenging, tickets can also be bought directly at the entrance gate or up to 30 days in advance at Banrural bank agencies in Guatemala. Bring adequate cash in local currency, as they do not accept credit cards on-site and there is no ATM at Tikal.

IMPORTANT: A passport is required for purchasing Tikal tickets in person. Tickets cannot be issued without presenting a passport for each individual. Photocopies of passports are often accepted.

Opening Hours At Tikal National Park

Tikal National Park is officially open daily from 6 AM to 5 PM, though entry is allowed outside these hours for sunrise or sunset tours.

Other Tips For Tikal Guatemala

• What To Wear: Comfortable shoes are essential if you plan to climb temples, as some terrain can be tricky in sandals. A hat and summer clothing are advisable, as Tikal can be quite hot!
• What To Bring: Bringing water and snacks is highly recommended. While available within the park, prices may be steep.
• Guides: If you haven’t pre-arranged a guide, one can be hired at the park entrance. However, consider booking a guide in advance to ensure quality experiences.
• Facilities: Tikal features several small cafes serving snacks and drinks, along with maps, bathrooms, picnic areas, and shops at the park entrance. Currently, there are no ATMs available at Tikal.
• Credit Cards: Transactions throughout Tikal are cash only, encompassing entrance tickets, cafes, and souvenir shops.
• Mosquitoes: Some mosquitoes are present; hence it’s wise to use bug spray containing DEET. While malaria cases are rare in Tikal, it’s still advisable to take preventive measures.
• Cell Service: Limited cell service may be available in Tikal, so it’s best to send any important communications before entering.
• Drones: The use of drones is prohibited within Tikal National Park to avoid disturbing wildlife.

History Of Tikal

Tikal emerged as a significant city for the ancient Mayan civilization, once featuring over 3,000 buildings and a population reaching 100,000! Several rulers lie buried within the temples visible today.

From the 6th to the 7th centuries, Tikal’s history was marred by conflict with rival Mayan factions, experiencing defeat in the 6th century yet regaining power by the 7th century under the rule of Jasaw Chan K’awiil I.

For reasons unknown, the Mayan civilization, including Tikal, began to decline in the 9th century, with the city being entirely abandoned by the 10th century.

Subsequently, Tikal was claimed by jungle foliage, disappearing for nearly 1,000 years until its rediscovery in 1848 by the governor of Peten Guatemala, who hiked through the rainforest for several days to reach the site. Over time, archaeologists restored the ruins to their current state.

Today, Tikal is a recognized UNESCO World Heritage site acknowledged for its artistry, heritage, and the rich biodiversity of the rainforest surrounding it. It is a premier destination in Guatemala, attracting over a million visitors annually.

Best Time To Visit Tikal Guatemala

When to visit Tikal depends on personal preferences; however, year-round visitation is possible.

The dry season lasts from December to April, characterized by sunny weather with reduced rainfall and milder temperatures. This is generally regarded as the optimal time for visiting Tikal.

Conversely, the wet season from May to November features increased rainfall and cloud cover; visits are still feasible during this period, but a poncho may come in handy for inclement weather.

The morning hours are the best time to experience Tikal, as early visits allow avoidance of heat and crowds. Sunrise opportunities also unveil the vibrant awakening of the Mayan jungle.

If photography is a priority, it’s advisable to avoid weekends and holidays when local visitors are present, although Tikal’s vast area generally accommodates crowds quite effectively!

Is Tikal Guatemala Safe?

It’s common knowledge that Guatemala faces safety challenges, with some past incidents of armed robbery at Tikal. However, safety has improved remarkably, and no such crimes have been reported in recent years.

To gain added peace of mind, consider utilizing a hidden travel belt (like this one) for valuables such as cash and credit cards.

Our group enjoyed our visit to Tikal without encountering any safety issues. Despite Guatemala’s reputation, significant enhancements have occurred over the past two decades.

Is Tikal Worth It?

Absolutely! Tikal ranks among the best attractions in Central America or South America.

The breathtaking Tikal pyramids are even more impressive in person, offering a rare opportunity to witness wildlife. A trip to Guatemala is incomplete without experiencing this remarkable site.

Flores Hotels

Hotel Santana

Los Amigos Hostel

Bolontiku Boutique

Hotel Peten

More Guatemala Travel Tips

Thank you for reading! I hope this Tikal travel guide and map for visiting the Mayan ruins proves helpful for your day trip from Belize or Guatemala.

For those seeking epic hikes in Guatemala, don’t miss my guide for the Acatenango Volcano Hike!

Happy travels!