Wanderlust Chronicles

Nestled in the heart of Central America, Flores is a charming island town located in the Petén region of Guatemala. Known for its picturesque setting amidst Lake Petén Itzá, Flores serves as the perfect base for exploring the nearby ancient Maya ruins. Steeped in history and culture, Flores captivates visitors with its colourful colonial buildings, cobblestone streets, and vibrant atmosphere. Its strategic location has made it a key hub for trade and travel throughout the centuries. Today, Flores beckons travellers with its blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and warm hospitality, offering an unforgettable experience in the heart of Guatemala.

1. Travel Essentials
2. Exploring the Enchanting Petén: Tikal, Flores, and Beyond
3. Flores & Lake Petén
4. Other Key Locations around Lake Petén & Flores
5. Tikal
6. Yaxha

Travel Essentials

1. Currency: Guatemalan Quetzal (GTQ)
2. How to get to Flores: The closest International Airports is Mundo Maya International Airport in Flores (FRS), located approximately 5 km away. Flores is also easily reachable from Belize, with San Ignacio being just a 2h drive away (3h accounting for the border crossing admin time). Shared buses from San Ignacio, Belize, are available (~16$). Flights are a good option from Guatemala City (~1h).
3. Main Means of Transport in Flores: In Flores, taxis, tuk-tuks, and rental cars are popular means of transport. Boats are also available for navigating Lake Petén Itzá.
4. Best Time to Go: The dry season from November to April offers the most favourable weather for exploring Guatemala, with mild temperatures and minimal rainfall. Conversely, the wet season typically occurs from May to October, characterised by increased rainfall and occasional thunderstorms. However, it’s worth noting that weather patterns can vary, and even during the wet season, travellers may experience periods of clear skies and pleasant conditions – as I did, in August!

Exploring the Enchanting Petén: Tikal, Flores, and Beyond

Flores & Lake Petén

Flores, affectionately known as the “Gateway to Tikal” (see Tikal section below), boasts a wealth of attractions, including its charming colonial architecture and bustling markets. This island town serves as the perfect home base for exploring the surrounding area and the ancient Maya ruins nearby. Visitors can stroll along the colourful streets, sample delicious Guatemalan cuisine at local eateries, or simply relax by the tranquil shores of Lake Petén Itzá. Main sightseeing spots include the historic Santa Elena Fortress and the enchanting Flores Cathedral, offering panoramic views of the town and the lake.

The allure of Flores is further enhanced by its stunning setting on the shores of Lake Petén Itzá. This shimmering body of water provides not only a picturesque backdrop for the town but also a myriad of recreational opportunities for visitors. Travellers can indulge in water activities such as swimming, kayaking, or paddle-boarding, immersing themselves in the tranquility of the lake’s crystal-clear waters. As the sun dips below the horizon, the shores of Lake Petén Itzá come alive with vibrant hues, offering breathtaking sunset views that are sure to leave a lasting impression.

How long to stay: to have the time to explore the surrounding mayan ruins, while enjoying the sights and activities around Lake Petén, you should plan in minimum 2 nights, but ideally at least 3 full days.
Where to stay: I had the most wonderful stay at Hotel Petén, right on the lake boardwalk, with great lake views, and perfectly located in Flores. Los Amigos Hostel is also a crowd-favourite in Flores.

Top Picks in Flores

1. Eat, drink and repeat!
Flores offers a culinary journey like no other, inviting visitors to savour the vibrant flavours of Guatemalan cuisine! Sample traditional dishes such as pepián, kak’ik, or rellenitos, and don’t miss the opportunity to taste local delicacies like pupusas or tamales. Don’t forget to try the renowned Guatemalan rum, such as Zacapa, considered among the best in the world!
Here my top picks: Raices Restaurant, Bistro Puertas del Cielo, La Danta Restaurante, Maple & Tocino (best brunch & breakfast!), Sky Bar (best rooftop in town!).

2. Explore the Charming Streets of Flores
Lose yourself in the enchanting maze of cobblestone streets and colourful buildings that make up the picturesque town of Flores. Wander through the historic centre, where colonial architecture blends seamlessly with Mayan influences, creating a unique ambiance that captivates visitors at every turn. Browse artisanal shops, admire vibrant murals, and soak up the lively atmosphere of the bustling mercado.

3. Take a Refreshing Dip in the Lake
Escape the heat and dive into the crystal-clear waters of Lake Petén Itzá for a refreshing swim. Whether you prefer to bask in the sun on one of the lakeside beaches or town piers, or venture out for a leisurely boat ride, the tranquil beauty of the lake offers the perfect setting, especially at sunset!

Other Key Locations around Lake Petén & Flores

Lake Petén Itzá is surrounded by picturesque villages and natural wonders waiting to be discovered. One such spot is the peaceful village of El Remate, known for its stunning sunsets and vibrant birdlife.
Another must-visit destination is the eco-friendly community of San José, where visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture and enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and birdwatching.

Additionally, don’t miss the opportunity to visit the breathtaking Crater Azul (Blue Crater), a hidden gem, 1.5h from Flores by car, nestled amidst the verdant landscape of the Guatemalan jungle. This stunning natural wonder offers a tranquil oasis for swimming, picnicking, and soaking in the serene beauty of Guatemala’s Petén region.

Top Picks around Lake Petén & Flores

1. Marvel at and take a refreshing dip in the Crater Azul
You will find multiple travel agencies and hotels offering a day trip to the Crater Azul (Blue Crater), 1.5h driving outside of Flores. In case you want to secure your spot, you can book online this GetYourGuide Crater Azul Private Tour or this Full-Day Tour from Flores.

2. Enjoy a boat ride on the Lake Petén Itzá
You can ask your hotel to arrange you a 2/4-hours or a day boat tour that would take you to the different corners of the lake and let you explore this natural wonder. Jorge’s Rope Swing is a famous spot for a dive or just for some chill time on the lake. Playa Chechenal and Playa Blanca are other popular beach spots on. Lake Petén!
You can also book a private all-day tour around Lake Petén Itzá and to El Chechenal Beach.

Tikal

Tikal, the crown jewel of ancient Maya civilisation, beckons travellers with its towering pyramids, majestic temples, and rich history. As one of the largest and most significant archaeological sites in Meso-America, Tikal offers a mesmerising journey back in time to the height of Maya civilisation. Nestled within the dense rainforests of the Maya Biosphere Reserve, Tikal served as a thriving urban centre and political powerhouse for over a millennium.

Tikal flourished from approximately 200 to 900 AD, reaching its peak during the Classic Period. At its height, Tikal was home to an estimated population of 50,000 to 100,000 people, making it one of the largest urban centres in the Maya world.

The site boasts over 3,000 structures spread across an area of approximately 16 square km, including towering pyramids, royal palaces, and ball courts. Temple IV, the tallest structure in Tikal, was built around 741 AD and stands at an impressive height of over 70 meters. It offers panoramic views of the surrounding jungle canopy and nearby temples. From this vantage point, you can witness the majesty of Tikal’s skyline punctuated by towering pyramids and lush greenery stretching as far as the eye can see.

Visitors to Tikal can explore the site’s vast network of plazas, palaces, and ceremonial complexes, each offering a glimpse into the architectural and artistic achievements of the ancient Maya. The Great Plaza, with its iconic Temple I and Temple II flanking the central acropolis, stands as the heart of Tikal and once served as the focal point for religious and political ceremonies.

Beyond its impressive architecture, Tikal is also home to a diverse array of wildlife, including howler monkeys, toucans, and colourful parrots. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the opportunity to explore the site’s network of trails, which wind through the rainforest and offer encounters with exotic flora and fauna.

As the sun sets over the ancient city, Tikal takes on a magical atmosphere, with the sound of howler monkeys echoing through the jungle and the ruins illuminated by the soft glow of twilight.

Make sure to book a tour!
Not only will you gain deeper insights into the Mayan settlement and its rich history, but you’ll also learn more about the breathtaking natural wonders of the jungle. A guided tour is also essential for optimising your visit to the key spots in Tikal, as the area is vast and complex. With the expertise of a guide, you can ensure you don’t miss any important sites, and you’ll navigate the jungle safely, avoiding the risk of getting lost like some tourists have in the past.

My top recommendation is this Guided Tour from Flores, where you can opt for different departure times. I would suggest earlier departure times, to beat the crowds and the heat!
If you are looking for a private tour, this Viator Private Day Tour is a highly rated option!

Sunrise or sunset?
Both times of day can be magical in the jungle and visiting these mesmerising Mayan ruins!
You can spend the morning chilling at the lake and depart for Tikal at lunch time to explore the vast settlement and enjoy the ruins at sunset (see this Tikal Sunset Tour). Or you can head out at 4am/4.30am for a breathtaking archeological morning experience with this Tikal Sunrise Tour and reward yourself with a fresh dip in the lake in the afternoon.

Couldn’t make it to Flores but you still want to visit Tikal?
You can find day trips from Guatemala City, flying in and out to explore ones of the best Mayan ruins in Central America. A good option is this Tikal Day Trip by Air from Guatemala City.

Yaxha

Hidden amidst the lush jungles of the Petén region, Yaxha offers travellers a glimpse into the lesser-known side of ancient Maya civilisation. Meaning “green water” in the Maya language, Yaxha served as a significant ceremonial centre and regional capital during the Classic Period, rivalling even Tikal in its heyday, and was inhabited from the Middle Pre-classic Period (around 1000 BC) to the Terminal Classic Period (around 900 AD), with its peak during the Late Classic Period (around 600-900 AD). At its height, Yaxha was home to an estimated population of 20,000 to 40,000 people, making it one of the largest ancient Maya cities in the region!

The site features over 500 structures spread across an area of approximately 30 square kilometres, including temples, palaces, and residential complexes. You can explore the site’s sprawling ruins, which include towering pyramids, stelae, and ball courts, all nestled amidst the dense tropical foliage. The Temple of the Red Hands, named for the red-painted handprints adorning its walls, stands as one of Yaxha’s most iconic structures, offering panoramic views of the surrounding jungle canopy and nearby Lake Yaxha.

One of the highlights of a visit to Yaxha is ascending to the top of the North Acropolis, where travelers can marvel at the breathtaking vistas stretching across the treetops and shimmering waters of Lake Yaxha. As the sun sets over the ancient city, Yaxha takes on a mystical aura, with the ruins bathed in golden light and the sounds of the jungle coming alive with the promise of nightfall.

In addition to its archaeological wonders, Yaxha is also home to a diverse array of wildlife, including howler monkeys, coatis, and colourful bird species. Nature lovers will delight in exploring the site’s network of trails, which wind through the rainforest and offer opportunities for birdwatching, wildlife spotting, and immersive nature experiences.

Visit at sunset!
Yaxha is an incredible settlement set around a picturesque lake, with an enchanting island at its center that you can navigate to. The expansive jungle surroundings are rich with diverse wildlife, offering a true immersion in nature. The site is home to impressive structures that you can climb, providing stunning vantage points to admire the lush jungle canopy. These panoramic views make Yaxha the perfect spot to enjoy a breathtaking sunset!
You can hop on this Shared 7-hour Sunset Tour from Flores, that will bring you back to town in time for dinner! You can also find Private Tour options.

In Guatemala, ancient ruins and serene lakes beckon travelers to uncover the secrets of this captivating country. From the charming island town of Flores to the majestic ruins of Tikal and Yaxha, Guatemala offers a journey through time and nature. So pack your bags, embark on an adventure, and discover the magic of Guatemala for yourself.

Looking for travel inspiration to the neighbouring Belize?
Check out my post on the Top Spots for your Belizean Adventure!