Where is Tikal Guatemala<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\nTikal is located in the Department of El Peten in the Pete Basin in Northern Guatemala.\u00a0 Tikal is 66.5km from\u00a0 Flores, 527 km from Guatemala City and 228 km from Belize City.<\/p>\n
Map of The Location of Tikal National Park in Guatemala (Tikal Parque Nacional)<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n![\"Map](\"https:\/\/www.totraveltoo.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/03\/Untitled-design.jpg\")
Tikal Location in Guatemala<\/figcaption><\/figure>\nTikal Map<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n <\/p>\n![\"Map](\"https:\/\/www.totraveltoo.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/03\/Untitled-design-1.jpg\")
Tikal Guatemala Map – Ruins<\/figcaption><\/figure>\nMayan Ruins Guatemala<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\nThe Tikal Ruins is one of the largest pre-Columbian Maya civilisations and in 1979 was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.\u00a0 It was believed to be once called Yax Mutal. The site dates back to the 4th Century.<\/p>\n
Tikal meaning<\/strong>:\u00a0 ‘at the waterhole’. Tikal was the adopted name given after it was discovered during the 1840s. Tikal covers 16 sq km and has over 3,000 structures. Tikal National Park covers an area of 570 sq km.<\/p>\nOur Top Tips To Visit Tikal<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\nThere are two options on visiting Tikal.<\/p>\n
First Option: Day Tour from Flores – Shuttle Bus Transport Only<\/strong><\/p>\nSpend a day exploring the sights of Tikal without worrying about transport and missing the shuttle bus home with this return private transfer from Flores. Perfect for squeezing in a quick visit to Tikal or enjoying a full day of self-guided discovery around the historic Mayan city, your private driver will pick you up at your accommodation at a time of your choosing, drop you at Tikal, and wait until you are ready to return home.<\/p>\n
Enjoy a relaxed journey out to Tikal with a pre-booked return transfer Door-to-door service from your accommodation in Flores to Tikal and back Discover Tikal archaeological site on your own and at your own pace Suitable for private groups of up to three people<\/p>\n
Book here<\/strong><\/span><\/a><\/p>\nOption #2 Late Midday Departure from Flores and Overnight Stay<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\nIf you are visiting Tikal from Flores and would like to stay overnight we would recommend organising a shuttle bus that leaves after lunch.\u00a0 There are many travel agencies in Flores that will assist you in booking local transport. You can pre-purchase Tikal National Park tickets after 3 which allows you to book into your hotel and visit parts of the Park itself.<\/p>\n
We can recommend staying at the Hotel de la Isla Casona<\/strong><\/span><\/a> in Flores prior to visiting or ending your journey to Tikal. Hotel de la Isla Casona is centrally located in Flores with a pool. We loved our stay here.<\/p>\nHere what others have said about Hotel de la Isla Casona:<\/p>\n
“This place is amazing! We enjoyed the pool and the view! The room was clean and has everything you need.”<\/p>\n
Click here for the latest prices.\u00a0<\/strong><\/span><\/a><\/p>\nWe arranged a tour with one of the local guides who had lived all his life in and around the park and knew every detail of the Tikal ruins. He was standing around at the entrance just after our arrival at 3 pm.\u00a0 We like to be able to support local guides when we travel.<\/p>\n
When we did a\u00a0sunrise Angkor Wat tour<\/a> <\/strong><\/span>we also chose a local guide who had lived in and around the complex. Not only are they experienced but we are giving back to the local community.<\/p>\nTo pre-book a day tour from Flores to Tikal with lunch click here for more information<\/strong>.<\/a><\/span><\/p>\nTo Travel Too Tip<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\nWe organised a sunrise tour to the Tikal Temples and in the afternoon completed the sunset tour before heading back to Flores.\u00a0 We got the best of both worlds.\u00a0 It can get hot during the day so we would recommend considering either the sunrise or sunset or even both if you have the time.<\/p>\n
Our Tikal Sunrise Tour<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\nOur alarm was set at 3.30 am and by 4.00 am we were waiting outside the Jaguar Inn\u00a0in Tikal<\/span><\/a>.<\/strong><\/span> \u00a0In the cool of the morning and in pitch darkness our guide Alberto arrived. He is a local park guide and does not need a torchlight to find his way through the jungle, his home. \u00a0Alberto was insistent that we meet at 4 a.m., he wanted us to be the first at Temple IV to view the sunrise and to experience the jungle around us waking up before many other groups arrive.<\/p>\nFor more details and the latest prices for the Jaguar Inn in Tikal click here<\/strong><\/span><\/a><\/p>\nRead what other guests have said about the Jaguar Inn here:<\/p>\n
“Close to park entry, great settings\/environment, no internet in the rooms (was nice to disconnect), superfriendly staff.”<\/p>\n
Good to know:<\/strong> Electricity is on during certain hours of the day only.<\/p>\nOff We Head Into the Tikal Jungle<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\nAlberto arrived promptly at 4.00 a.m. and produced a small torch for us and off we went following in his footsteps, sidestepping a poisonous black snake within minutes. \u00a0It was really eerie, not knowing where you were walking or where you were putting your foot as you took off into the blackness of the jungle.<\/p>\n
He instructed us to turn our torch lights off as we approached the “Great Pyramid Plaza” or “Lost World” to view the shadows it makes on the surrounding landscape. The shadows were large and creepy and we were so pleased we had Alberto with us guiding us through these ancient monuments.<\/p>\n
Suddenly from out of nowhere howling and screeching could be heard in front of us, and we jumped. \u00a0Alberto chuckled as he enlightened us that it was the Howler Monkeys as they were awakening and calling for their mates.<\/p>\n
Alberto stopped abruptly, moved his head ever so slightly to the right, and put his finger to his mouth signalling us to be quiet, there was a jaguar quietly calling out to his mate in the jungle to our right. What had we let ourselves into!<\/p>\n
We arrived at Temple IV and climbed the rickety wooden staircase to the top to take a prime position. \u00a0Alberto did not come with us, he wanted us to experience the waking up of the jungle first before he joined us.<\/p>\n![\"Guatemala](\"https:\/\/www.totraveltoo.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/03\/P1110171.jpg\")
Alberto listening to the jungle awaken<\/figcaption><\/figure>\nThe mist shrouds the other temples in the darkness. \u00a0There is one other person already seated on the Temple steps setting up his tripod in time for the sunrise. \u00a0We greeted one another quietly and listened to the sounds evolving around us.<\/p>\n
The Howler monkeys continued screeching around us in the darkness and the mist, there seemed like hundreds of them from the noise that they were making. \u00a0Birds started to wake and we heard their many varied calls amongst the trees and bushes close by. \u00a0The mist started to clear and we could view Temple III in the distance, then the mist enclosed the temple once more and we sat in near darkness.<\/p>\n
Now others had arrived and their chatter was as loud as the Howler monkeys. \u00a0Alberto appeared silently and with authority said “Ssshhh listen, just listen’. There was silence at last.<\/p>\n
The sun tried to break through the mist, and as it did we managed an occasional glimpse of the other Tikal temples. It became clear that a stunning sunrise was not going to happen that morning for us.<\/p>\n
As we were just about to leave Temple IV, \u00a0Macaw birds were sighted on the trees below us, their colourful vibrant plumage showing through the trees whilst their loud calls and screams echoed through the jungle. \u00a0It was only now that the mist cleared and we were able to get a clearer view of the temples in front of us.<\/p>\n![\"Guatemala](\"https:\/\/www.totraveltoo.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/03\/IMG_1457.jpg\")
Temple III at sunrise<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n <\/p>\n![\"Guatemala](\"https:\/\/www.totraveltoo.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/03\/IMG_1463.jpg\")
Temple III<\/figcaption><\/figure>\nWe left Temple IV with Alberto to have a private tour through the Temple grounds, before heading back to the Jaguar Inn<\/strong><\/span><\/a> for breakfast at 8 am.<\/p>\nOptional Tikal Tours<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n<\/div>\n
Tikal Map<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n <\/p>\nTikal Guatemala Map – Ruins<\/figcaption><\/figure>\nMayan Ruins Guatemala<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\nThe Tikal Ruins is one of the largest pre-Columbian Maya civilisations and in 1979 was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.\u00a0 It was believed to be once called Yax Mutal. The site dates back to the 4th Century.<\/p>\n
Tikal meaning<\/strong>:\u00a0 ‘at the waterhole’. Tikal was the adopted name given after it was discovered during the 1840s. Tikal covers 16 sq km and has over 3,000 structures. Tikal National Park covers an area of 570 sq km.<\/p>\nOur Top Tips To Visit Tikal<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\nThere are two options on visiting Tikal.<\/p>\n
First Option: Day Tour from Flores – Shuttle Bus Transport Only<\/strong><\/p>\nSpend a day exploring the sights of Tikal without worrying about transport and missing the shuttle bus home with this return private transfer from Flores. Perfect for squeezing in a quick visit to Tikal or enjoying a full day of self-guided discovery around the historic Mayan city, your private driver will pick you up at your accommodation at a time of your choosing, drop you at Tikal, and wait until you are ready to return home.<\/p>\n
Enjoy a relaxed journey out to Tikal with a pre-booked return transfer Door-to-door service from your accommodation in Flores to Tikal and back Discover Tikal archaeological site on your own and at your own pace Suitable for private groups of up to three people<\/p>\n
Book here<\/strong><\/span><\/a><\/p>\nOption #2 Late Midday Departure from Flores and Overnight Stay<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\nIf you are visiting Tikal from Flores and would like to stay overnight we would recommend organising a shuttle bus that leaves after lunch.\u00a0 There are many travel agencies in Flores that will assist you in booking local transport. You can pre-purchase Tikal National Park tickets after 3 which allows you to book into your hotel and visit parts of the Park itself.<\/p>\n
We can recommend staying at the Hotel de la Isla Casona<\/strong><\/span><\/a> in Flores prior to visiting or ending your journey to Tikal. Hotel de la Isla Casona is centrally located in Flores with a pool. We loved our stay here.<\/p>\nHere what others have said about Hotel de la Isla Casona:<\/p>\n
“This place is amazing! We enjoyed the pool and the view! The room was clean and has everything you need.”<\/p>\n
Click here for the latest prices.\u00a0<\/strong><\/span><\/a><\/p>\nWe arranged a tour with one of the local guides who had lived all his life in and around the park and knew every detail of the Tikal ruins. He was standing around at the entrance just after our arrival at 3 pm.\u00a0 We like to be able to support local guides when we travel.<\/p>\n
When we did a\u00a0sunrise Angkor Wat tour<\/a> <\/strong><\/span>we also chose a local guide who had lived in and around the complex. Not only are they experienced but we are giving back to the local community.<\/p>\nTo pre-book a day tour from Flores to Tikal with lunch click here for more information<\/strong>.<\/a><\/span><\/p>\nTo Travel Too Tip<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\nWe organised a sunrise tour to the Tikal Temples and in the afternoon completed the sunset tour before heading back to Flores.\u00a0 We got the best of both worlds.\u00a0 It can get hot during the day so we would recommend considering either the sunrise or sunset or even both if you have the time.<\/p>\n
Our Tikal Sunrise Tour<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\nOur alarm was set at 3.30 am and by 4.00 am we were waiting outside the Jaguar Inn\u00a0in Tikal<\/span><\/a>.<\/strong><\/span> \u00a0In the cool of the morning and in pitch darkness our guide Alberto arrived. He is a local park guide and does not need a torchlight to find his way through the jungle, his home. \u00a0Alberto was insistent that we meet at 4 a.m., he wanted us to be the first at Temple IV to view the sunrise and to experience the jungle around us waking up before many other groups arrive.<\/p>\nFor more details and the latest prices for the Jaguar Inn in Tikal click here<\/strong><\/span><\/a><\/p>\nRead what other guests have said about the Jaguar Inn here:<\/p>\n
“Close to park entry, great settings\/environment, no internet in the rooms (was nice to disconnect), superfriendly staff.”<\/p>\n
Good to know:<\/strong> Electricity is on during certain hours of the day only.<\/p>\nOff We Head Into the Tikal Jungle<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\nAlberto arrived promptly at 4.00 a.m. and produced a small torch for us and off we went following in his footsteps, sidestepping a poisonous black snake within minutes. \u00a0It was really eerie, not knowing where you were walking or where you were putting your foot as you took off into the blackness of the jungle.<\/p>\n
He instructed us to turn our torch lights off as we approached the “Great Pyramid Plaza” or “Lost World” to view the shadows it makes on the surrounding landscape. The shadows were large and creepy and we were so pleased we had Alberto with us guiding us through these ancient monuments.<\/p>\n
Suddenly from out of nowhere howling and screeching could be heard in front of us, and we jumped. \u00a0Alberto chuckled as he enlightened us that it was the Howler Monkeys as they were awakening and calling for their mates.<\/p>\n
Alberto stopped abruptly, moved his head ever so slightly to the right, and put his finger to his mouth signalling us to be quiet, there was a jaguar quietly calling out to his mate in the jungle to our right. What had we let ourselves into!<\/p>\n
We arrived at Temple IV and climbed the rickety wooden staircase to the top to take a prime position. \u00a0Alberto did not come with us, he wanted us to experience the waking up of the jungle first before he joined us.<\/p>\nAlberto listening to the jungle awaken<\/figcaption><\/figure>\nThe mist shrouds the other temples in the darkness. \u00a0There is one other person already seated on the Temple steps setting up his tripod in time for the sunrise. \u00a0We greeted one another quietly and listened to the sounds evolving around us.<\/p>\n
The Howler monkeys continued screeching around us in the darkness and the mist, there seemed like hundreds of them from the noise that they were making. \u00a0Birds started to wake and we heard their many varied calls amongst the trees and bushes close by. \u00a0The mist started to clear and we could view Temple III in the distance, then the mist enclosed the temple once more and we sat in near darkness.<\/p>\n
Now others had arrived and their chatter was as loud as the Howler monkeys. \u00a0Alberto appeared silently and with authority said “Ssshhh listen, just listen’. There was silence at last.<\/p>\n
The sun tried to break through the mist, and as it did we managed an occasional glimpse of the other Tikal temples. It became clear that a stunning sunrise was not going to happen that morning for us.<\/p>\n
As we were just about to leave Temple IV, \u00a0Macaw birds were sighted on the trees below us, their colourful vibrant plumage showing through the trees whilst their loud calls and screams echoed through the jungle. \u00a0It was only now that the mist cleared and we were able to get a clearer view of the temples in front of us.<\/p>\nTemple III at sunrise<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n <\/p>\nTemple III<\/figcaption><\/figure>\nWe left Temple IV with Alberto to have a private tour through the Temple grounds, before heading back to the Jaguar Inn<\/strong><\/span><\/a> for breakfast at 8 am.<\/p>\nOptional Tikal Tours<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n<\/div>\n
Mayan Ruins Guatemala<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\nThe Tikal Ruins is one of the largest pre-Columbian Maya civilisations and in 1979 was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.\u00a0 It was believed to be once called Yax Mutal. The site dates back to the 4th Century.<\/p>\n
Tikal meaning<\/strong>:\u00a0 ‘at the waterhole’. Tikal was the adopted name given after it was discovered during the 1840s. Tikal covers 16 sq km and has over 3,000 structures. Tikal National Park covers an area of 570 sq km.<\/p>\nOur Top Tips To Visit Tikal<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\nThere are two options on visiting Tikal.<\/p>\n
First Option: Day Tour from Flores – Shuttle Bus Transport Only<\/strong><\/p>\nSpend a day exploring the sights of Tikal without worrying about transport and missing the shuttle bus home with this return private transfer from Flores. Perfect for squeezing in a quick visit to Tikal or enjoying a full day of self-guided discovery around the historic Mayan city, your private driver will pick you up at your accommodation at a time of your choosing, drop you at Tikal, and wait until you are ready to return home.<\/p>\n
Enjoy a relaxed journey out to Tikal with a pre-booked return transfer Door-to-door service from your accommodation in Flores to Tikal and back Discover Tikal archaeological site on your own and at your own pace Suitable for private groups of up to three people<\/p>\n
Book here<\/strong><\/span><\/a><\/p>\nOption #2 Late Midday Departure from Flores and Overnight Stay<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\nIf you are visiting Tikal from Flores and would like to stay overnight we would recommend organising a shuttle bus that leaves after lunch.\u00a0 There are many travel agencies in Flores that will assist you in booking local transport. You can pre-purchase Tikal National Park tickets after 3 which allows you to book into your hotel and visit parts of the Park itself.<\/p>\n
We can recommend staying at the Hotel de la Isla Casona<\/strong><\/span><\/a> in Flores prior to visiting or ending your journey to Tikal. Hotel de la Isla Casona is centrally located in Flores with a pool. We loved our stay here.<\/p>\nHere what others have said about Hotel de la Isla Casona:<\/p>\n
“This place is amazing! We enjoyed the pool and the view! The room was clean and has everything you need.”<\/p>\n
Click here for the latest prices.\u00a0<\/strong><\/span><\/a><\/p>\nWe arranged a tour with one of the local guides who had lived all his life in and around the park and knew every detail of the Tikal ruins. He was standing around at the entrance just after our arrival at 3 pm.\u00a0 We like to be able to support local guides when we travel.<\/p>\n
When we did a\u00a0sunrise Angkor Wat tour<\/a> <\/strong><\/span>we also chose a local guide who had lived in and around the complex. Not only are they experienced but we are giving back to the local community.<\/p>\nTo pre-book a day tour from Flores to Tikal with lunch click here for more information<\/strong>.<\/a><\/span><\/p>\nTo Travel Too Tip<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\nWe organised a sunrise tour to the Tikal Temples and in the afternoon completed the sunset tour before heading back to Flores.\u00a0 We got the best of both worlds.\u00a0 It can get hot during the day so we would recommend considering either the sunrise or sunset or even both if you have the time.<\/p>\n
Our Tikal Sunrise Tour<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\nOur alarm was set at 3.30 am and by 4.00 am we were waiting outside the Jaguar Inn\u00a0in Tikal<\/span><\/a>.<\/strong><\/span> \u00a0In the cool of the morning and in pitch darkness our guide Alberto arrived. He is a local park guide and does not need a torchlight to find his way through the jungle, his home. \u00a0Alberto was insistent that we meet at 4 a.m., he wanted us to be the first at Temple IV to view the sunrise and to experience the jungle around us waking up before many other groups arrive.<\/p>\nFor more details and the latest prices for the Jaguar Inn in Tikal click here<\/strong><\/span><\/a><\/p>\nRead what other guests have said about the Jaguar Inn here:<\/p>\n
“Close to park entry, great settings\/environment, no internet in the rooms (was nice to disconnect), superfriendly staff.”<\/p>\n
Good to know:<\/strong> Electricity is on during certain hours of the day only.<\/p>\nOff We Head Into the Tikal Jungle<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\nAlberto arrived promptly at 4.00 a.m. and produced a small torch for us and off we went following in his footsteps, sidestepping a poisonous black snake within minutes. \u00a0It was really eerie, not knowing where you were walking or where you were putting your foot as you took off into the blackness of the jungle.<\/p>\n
He instructed us to turn our torch lights off as we approached the “Great Pyramid Plaza” or “Lost World” to view the shadows it makes on the surrounding landscape. The shadows were large and creepy and we were so pleased we had Alberto with us guiding us through these ancient monuments.<\/p>\n
Suddenly from out of nowhere howling and screeching could be heard in front of us, and we jumped. \u00a0Alberto chuckled as he enlightened us that it was the Howler Monkeys as they were awakening and calling for their mates.<\/p>\n
Alberto stopped abruptly, moved his head ever so slightly to the right, and put his finger to his mouth signalling us to be quiet, there was a jaguar quietly calling out to his mate in the jungle to our right. What had we let ourselves into!<\/p>\n
We arrived at Temple IV and climbed the rickety wooden staircase to the top to take a prime position. \u00a0Alberto did not come with us, he wanted us to experience the waking up of the jungle first before he joined us.<\/p>\nAlberto listening to the jungle awaken<\/figcaption><\/figure>\nThe mist shrouds the other temples in the darkness. \u00a0There is one other person already seated on the Temple steps setting up his tripod in time for the sunrise. \u00a0We greeted one another quietly and listened to the sounds evolving around us.<\/p>\n
The Howler monkeys continued screeching around us in the darkness and the mist, there seemed like hundreds of them from the noise that they were making. \u00a0Birds started to wake and we heard their many varied calls amongst the trees and bushes close by. \u00a0The mist started to clear and we could view Temple III in the distance, then the mist enclosed the temple once more and we sat in near darkness.<\/p>\n
Now others had arrived and their chatter was as loud as the Howler monkeys. \u00a0Alberto appeared silently and with authority said “Ssshhh listen, just listen’. There was silence at last.<\/p>\n
The sun tried to break through the mist, and as it did we managed an occasional glimpse of the other Tikal temples. It became clear that a stunning sunrise was not going to happen that morning for us.<\/p>\n
As we were just about to leave Temple IV, \u00a0Macaw birds were sighted on the trees below us, their colourful vibrant plumage showing through the trees whilst their loud calls and screams echoed through the jungle. \u00a0It was only now that the mist cleared and we were able to get a clearer view of the temples in front of us.<\/p>\nTemple III at sunrise<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n <\/p>\nTemple III<\/figcaption><\/figure>\nWe left Temple IV with Alberto to have a private tour through the Temple grounds, before heading back to the Jaguar Inn<\/strong><\/span><\/a> for breakfast at 8 am.<\/p>\nOptional Tikal Tours<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n<\/div>\n
Our Top Tips To Visit Tikal<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\nThere are two options on visiting Tikal.<\/p>\n
First Option: Day Tour from Flores – Shuttle Bus Transport Only<\/strong><\/p>\nSpend a day exploring the sights of Tikal without worrying about transport and missing the shuttle bus home with this return private transfer from Flores. Perfect for squeezing in a quick visit to Tikal or enjoying a full day of self-guided discovery around the historic Mayan city, your private driver will pick you up at your accommodation at a time of your choosing, drop you at Tikal, and wait until you are ready to return home.<\/p>\n
Enjoy a relaxed journey out to Tikal with a pre-booked return transfer Door-to-door service from your accommodation in Flores to Tikal and back Discover Tikal archaeological site on your own and at your own pace Suitable for private groups of up to three people<\/p>\n
Book here<\/strong><\/span><\/a><\/p>\nOption #2 Late Midday Departure from Flores and Overnight Stay<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\nIf you are visiting Tikal from Flores and would like to stay overnight we would recommend organising a shuttle bus that leaves after lunch.\u00a0 There are many travel agencies in Flores that will assist you in booking local transport. You can pre-purchase Tikal National Park tickets after 3 which allows you to book into your hotel and visit parts of the Park itself.<\/p>\n
We can recommend staying at the Hotel de la Isla Casona<\/strong><\/span><\/a> in Flores prior to visiting or ending your journey to Tikal. Hotel de la Isla Casona is centrally located in Flores with a pool. We loved our stay here.<\/p>\nHere what others have said about Hotel de la Isla Casona:<\/p>\n
“This place is amazing! We enjoyed the pool and the view! The room was clean and has everything you need.”<\/p>\n
Click here for the latest prices.\u00a0<\/strong><\/span><\/a><\/p>\nWe arranged a tour with one of the local guides who had lived all his life in and around the park and knew every detail of the Tikal ruins. He was standing around at the entrance just after our arrival at 3 pm.\u00a0 We like to be able to support local guides when we travel.<\/p>\n
When we did a\u00a0sunrise Angkor Wat tour<\/a> <\/strong><\/span>we also chose a local guide who had lived in and around the complex. Not only are they experienced but we are giving back to the local community.<\/p>\nTo pre-book a day tour from Flores to Tikal with lunch click here for more information<\/strong>.<\/a><\/span><\/p>\nTo Travel Too Tip<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\nWe organised a sunrise tour to the Tikal Temples and in the afternoon completed the sunset tour before heading back to Flores.\u00a0 We got the best of both worlds.\u00a0 It can get hot during the day so we would recommend considering either the sunrise or sunset or even both if you have the time.<\/p>\n
Our Tikal Sunrise Tour<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\nOur alarm was set at 3.30 am and by 4.00 am we were waiting outside the Jaguar Inn\u00a0in Tikal<\/span><\/a>.<\/strong><\/span> \u00a0In the cool of the morning and in pitch darkness our guide Alberto arrived. He is a local park guide and does not need a torchlight to find his way through the jungle, his home. \u00a0Alberto was insistent that we meet at 4 a.m., he wanted us to be the first at Temple IV to view the sunrise and to experience the jungle around us waking up before many other groups arrive.<\/p>\nFor more details and the latest prices for the Jaguar Inn in Tikal click here<\/strong><\/span><\/a><\/p>\nRead what other guests have said about the Jaguar Inn here:<\/p>\n
“Close to park entry, great settings\/environment, no internet in the rooms (was nice to disconnect), superfriendly staff.”<\/p>\n
Good to know:<\/strong> Electricity is on during certain hours of the day only.<\/p>\nOff We Head Into the Tikal Jungle<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\nAlberto arrived promptly at 4.00 a.m. and produced a small torch for us and off we went following in his footsteps, sidestepping a poisonous black snake within minutes. \u00a0It was really eerie, not knowing where you were walking or where you were putting your foot as you took off into the blackness of the jungle.<\/p>\n
He instructed us to turn our torch lights off as we approached the “Great Pyramid Plaza” or “Lost World” to view the shadows it makes on the surrounding landscape. The shadows were large and creepy and we were so pleased we had Alberto with us guiding us through these ancient monuments.<\/p>\n
Suddenly from out of nowhere howling and screeching could be heard in front of us, and we jumped. \u00a0Alberto chuckled as he enlightened us that it was the Howler Monkeys as they were awakening and calling for their mates.<\/p>\n
Alberto stopped abruptly, moved his head ever so slightly to the right, and put his finger to his mouth signalling us to be quiet, there was a jaguar quietly calling out to his mate in the jungle to our right. What had we let ourselves into!<\/p>\n
We arrived at Temple IV and climbed the rickety wooden staircase to the top to take a prime position. \u00a0Alberto did not come with us, he wanted us to experience the waking up of the jungle first before he joined us.<\/p>\nAlberto listening to the jungle awaken<\/figcaption><\/figure>\nThe mist shrouds the other temples in the darkness. \u00a0There is one other person already seated on the Temple steps setting up his tripod in time for the sunrise. \u00a0We greeted one another quietly and listened to the sounds evolving around us.<\/p>\n
The Howler monkeys continued screeching around us in the darkness and the mist, there seemed like hundreds of them from the noise that they were making. \u00a0Birds started to wake and we heard their many varied calls amongst the trees and bushes close by. \u00a0The mist started to clear and we could view Temple III in the distance, then the mist enclosed the temple once more and we sat in near darkness.<\/p>\n
Now others had arrived and their chatter was as loud as the Howler monkeys. \u00a0Alberto appeared silently and with authority said “Ssshhh listen, just listen’. There was silence at last.<\/p>\n
The sun tried to break through the mist, and as it did we managed an occasional glimpse of the other Tikal temples. It became clear that a stunning sunrise was not going to happen that morning for us.<\/p>\n
As we were just about to leave Temple IV, \u00a0Macaw birds were sighted on the trees below us, their colourful vibrant plumage showing through the trees whilst their loud calls and screams echoed through the jungle. \u00a0It was only now that the mist cleared and we were able to get a clearer view of the temples in front of us.<\/p>\nTemple III at sunrise<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n <\/p>\nTemple III<\/figcaption><\/figure>\nWe left Temple IV with Alberto to have a private tour through the Temple grounds, before heading back to the Jaguar Inn<\/strong><\/span><\/a> for breakfast at 8 am.<\/p>\nOptional Tikal Tours<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n<\/div>\n
Spend a day exploring the sights of Tikal without worrying about transport and missing the shuttle bus home with this return private transfer from Flores. Perfect for squeezing in a quick visit to Tikal or enjoying a full day of self-guided discovery around the historic Mayan city, your private driver will pick you up at your accommodation at a time of your choosing, drop you at Tikal, and wait until you are ready to return home.<\/p>\n
Enjoy a relaxed journey out to Tikal with a pre-booked return transfer Door-to-door service from your accommodation in Flores to Tikal and back Discover Tikal archaeological site on your own and at your own pace Suitable for private groups of up to three people<\/p>\n
Book here<\/strong><\/span><\/a><\/p>\n Option #2 Late Midday Departure from Flores and Overnight Stay<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n If you are visiting Tikal from Flores and would like to stay overnight we would recommend organising a shuttle bus that leaves after lunch.\u00a0 There are many travel agencies in Flores that will assist you in booking local transport. You can pre-purchase Tikal National Park tickets after 3 which allows you to book into your hotel and visit parts of the Park itself.<\/p>\n We can recommend staying at the Hotel de la Isla Casona<\/strong><\/span><\/a> in Flores prior to visiting or ending your journey to Tikal. Hotel de la Isla Casona is centrally located in Flores with a pool. We loved our stay here.<\/p>\n Here what others have said about Hotel de la Isla Casona:<\/p>\n “This place is amazing! We enjoyed the pool and the view! The room was clean and has everything you need.”<\/p>\n Click here for the latest prices.\u00a0<\/strong><\/span><\/a><\/p>\n We arranged a tour with one of the local guides who had lived all his life in and around the park and knew every detail of the Tikal ruins. He was standing around at the entrance just after our arrival at 3 pm.\u00a0 We like to be able to support local guides when we travel.<\/p>\n When we did a\u00a0sunrise Angkor Wat tour<\/a> <\/strong><\/span>we also chose a local guide who had lived in and around the complex. Not only are they experienced but we are giving back to the local community.<\/p>\n To pre-book a day tour from Flores to Tikal with lunch click here for more information<\/strong>.<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n We organised a sunrise tour to the Tikal Temples and in the afternoon completed the sunset tour before heading back to Flores.\u00a0 We got the best of both worlds.\u00a0 It can get hot during the day so we would recommend considering either the sunrise or sunset or even both if you have the time.<\/p>\n Our alarm was set at 3.30 am and by 4.00 am we were waiting outside the Jaguar Inn\u00a0in Tikal<\/span><\/a>.<\/strong><\/span> \u00a0In the cool of the morning and in pitch darkness our guide Alberto arrived. He is a local park guide and does not need a torchlight to find his way through the jungle, his home. \u00a0Alberto was insistent that we meet at 4 a.m., he wanted us to be the first at Temple IV to view the sunrise and to experience the jungle around us waking up before many other groups arrive.<\/p>\n For more details and the latest prices for the Jaguar Inn in Tikal click here<\/strong><\/span><\/a><\/p>\n Read what other guests have said about the Jaguar Inn here:<\/p>\n “Close to park entry, great settings\/environment, no internet in the rooms (was nice to disconnect), superfriendly staff.”<\/p>\n Good to know:<\/strong> Electricity is on during certain hours of the day only.<\/p>\n Alberto arrived promptly at 4.00 a.m. and produced a small torch for us and off we went following in his footsteps, sidestepping a poisonous black snake within minutes. \u00a0It was really eerie, not knowing where you were walking or where you were putting your foot as you took off into the blackness of the jungle.<\/p>\n He instructed us to turn our torch lights off as we approached the “Great Pyramid Plaza” or “Lost World” to view the shadows it makes on the surrounding landscape. The shadows were large and creepy and we were so pleased we had Alberto with us guiding us through these ancient monuments.<\/p>\n Suddenly from out of nowhere howling and screeching could be heard in front of us, and we jumped. \u00a0Alberto chuckled as he enlightened us that it was the Howler Monkeys as they were awakening and calling for their mates.<\/p>\n Alberto stopped abruptly, moved his head ever so slightly to the right, and put his finger to his mouth signalling us to be quiet, there was a jaguar quietly calling out to his mate in the jungle to our right. What had we let ourselves into!<\/p>\n We arrived at Temple IV and climbed the rickety wooden staircase to the top to take a prime position. \u00a0Alberto did not come with us, he wanted us to experience the waking up of the jungle first before he joined us.<\/p>\n The mist shrouds the other temples in the darkness. \u00a0There is one other person already seated on the Temple steps setting up his tripod in time for the sunrise. \u00a0We greeted one another quietly and listened to the sounds evolving around us.<\/p>\n The Howler monkeys continued screeching around us in the darkness and the mist, there seemed like hundreds of them from the noise that they were making. \u00a0Birds started to wake and we heard their many varied calls amongst the trees and bushes close by. \u00a0The mist started to clear and we could view Temple III in the distance, then the mist enclosed the temple once more and we sat in near darkness.<\/p>\n Now others had arrived and their chatter was as loud as the Howler monkeys. \u00a0Alberto appeared silently and with authority said “Ssshhh listen, just listen’. There was silence at last.<\/p>\n The sun tried to break through the mist, and as it did we managed an occasional glimpse of the other Tikal temples. It became clear that a stunning sunrise was not going to happen that morning for us.<\/p>\n As we were just about to leave Temple IV, \u00a0Macaw birds were sighted on the trees below us, their colourful vibrant plumage showing through the trees whilst their loud calls and screams echoed through the jungle. \u00a0It was only now that the mist cleared and we were able to get a clearer view of the temples in front of us.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n We left Temple IV with Alberto to have a private tour through the Temple grounds, before heading back to the Jaguar Inn<\/strong><\/span><\/a> for breakfast at 8 am.<\/p>\nTo Travel Too Tip<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n
Our Tikal Sunrise Tour<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n
Off We Head Into the Tikal Jungle<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n
Optional Tikal Tours<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n