How to Visit Tikal National Park in Guatemala? 

Everything you need to know before visiting Tikal National Park

Is Tikal National Park worth visiting?

Tikal National Park is a bucket-list destination for anyone visiting Guatemala. Even if history isn’t your thing, the sheer size of Tikal’s ruins, paired with the natural beauty of the jungle, makes it one of the most remarkable places in Central America. 

If you’re curious about ancient civilizations, Tikal offers fascinating insights into the Maya empire’s genius, from their stunning architecture to their understanding of astronomy and society.

So yes, Tikal National Park is absolutely worth visiting! However, if you still have doubts, make sure you read this Tikal travel guide and check the photos of all the beauty that can be found at the Tikal National Park.

History of Tikal

Tikal was one of the largest and most powerful cities in the ancient Maya world. It dates back to around 400 BCE but reached its peak during the Classic Period (200–900 CE). During this time, Tikal was a political, economic, and military center.

Its architecture is a perfect example of Maya engineering, with massive temples, palaces, and ceremonial complexes. One of the highlights is Temple I, which is a 47-meter pyramid constructed to honor the great ruler Jasaw Chan K’awiil I. 

Tikal’s decline began around the 10th century, and the city was eventually abandoned. Rediscovered in the 19th century, it has since been the focus of numerous archaeological expeditions that have unearthed a wealth of knowledge about the Maya civilization. 

Today, Tikal stands as a symbol of the mystery of the Maya and it is one of the most beautiful places in Guatemala.

Where is Tikal National Park?

Tikal National Park is located in the northern part of Guatemala, in the Petén region, about 64 kilometers from the town of Flores. The park covers an area of over 575 square kilometers and sits in the heart of tropical jungles of the Maya Biosphere Reserve. 

Its remote location adds to its charm! I am sure you will travel back in time as you walk around ancient ruins and climb up to the Mayan temples. At least that was a feeling that I had when I stepped inside Tikal National Park.

How to reach Tikal National Park?

If you are visiting Guatemala, the fastest and most convenient way to reach Tikal is by flying into Flores, the nearest city to the park. Flights from Guatemala City to Flores take about an hour. The bus takes almost 10 hours and it is not recommended.

Flores is located approximately a 2-hour drive away from Tikal National Park. Once you land in Flores, you can reach Tikal by shuttle service, guided tour, taxi, car rental, or colectivo. 

Colectivo is the cheapest (maximum 5 USD), but the least comfortable option as it takes a longer time to reach Tikal. However, if you are on a budget, head to the Santa Elena bus terminal and take a colectivo from there.

Shuttle service is a great alternative if you don’t want to do a guided tour. In Flores, you will find several companies, and prices vary between 15 to 20 USD one way. Here is just one of the options, but you can inquire at your hotel as well.

A guided tour is the best way to visit Tikal National Park from Flores. First, you will have arranged transportation that offers a smooth ride to the park and, second, you will have a guide, who will share the historical importance of Tikal.

Here are some top-rated tours to visit Tikal National Park:

• Tikal Sunrise, Archeological Focus, and Wildlife Spotting
• Tikal Full Day with Dedicated Exploration of the Archaeological Monuments
• Tikal VIP Exclusive Tour from Flores (Private)
• Tikal SUNSET, Archeological focus and Wildlife Spotting Tour

A lot of visitors come from San Ignacio in Belize, and it takes about 2.5 to 3 hours to reach Tikal, depending on border crossing times. However, I have no experience with this option, so I can’t share any additional insights.

Tikal National Park Opening Times

Tikal National Park is open every day from 6 am to 6 pm, while Tikal Museum is open from 8 am to 6 pm. However, you can access Tikal National Park from 4 am to 6 am and from 6 pm to 8 pm with special tickets that we will discuss in a moment.

Tikal National Park Tickets

You will need to purchase an entrance ticket (Entrada al parque (Extranjeros)) for Q150. If you want to experience Tikal National Park during sunrise or sunset, you will need to purchase Boleto amanecer (Extranjeros) or Boleto atardecer (Extranjeros) for an additional Q100.

Kids under the age of 10 can visit Tikal National Park for free.

How to buy tickets for Tikal National Park?

You can buy tickets at the entrance of the park (technically you can pay by card, but there is a big chance that machines won’t work), BANTRAB AND BANRURAL agencies (cash only), or purchase your tickets online. Bring your ID or a copy of your ID.

At the time of our visit, we tried to purchase our tickets online, however, there was an announcement that foreign cards wouldn’t be accepted. Our hotel tried to purchase the tickets with a local card, but that didn’t work either, so I wouldn’t rely on this option.

Is the sunrise or sunset tour of Tikal worth it?

Before going to Tikal, I did my research and every single person was raving about the sunrise tour, so we decided to go for that option as well. 

To experience sunrise at Tikal National Park, you need to book a guided tour (private or shared) and purchase your tickets at least one day before, because the ticket booth won’t be open before 6 am.

But as I shared above, the online system wasn’t working, so we were left without tickets. It was also a late arrival in Flores, so eventually we gave up the idea and booked another tour with a 7 am entry.

And I am glad we did because after we departed from Flores, it was so foggy that our driver couldn’t see the road. Even after our arrival around 7 am, the weather was pretty bad, but it cleared up around 8 am.

Our guide said that fog is around all year round and there is a very small chance of actually seeing the sunrise from Tikal National Park. I believe if you are one of the lucky ones, this is an incredible experience, but I personally wouldn’t risk it.

If you are visiting with a group, you have a path to follow and you won’t be able to go back once it clears up. In this case, I would recommend the private sunrise tour, so you can adjust your plan at any time.

I didn’t find many reviews of sunset tours, however, we stayed in Antigua for almost 2 months from August to September, which is considered the rainy season. From our experience, you would get a clear sky in the morning and rain in the afternoon, so that was not even an option.

Can you visit Tikal National Park without a tour?

Yes, you can visit Tikal from 6 am to 6 pm without a guided tour. If you want to do a sunrise or sunset tour, a guided tour is mandatory.

In my opinion, trying to explore Tikal National Park without a guide can make things more challenging, especially given the park’s vast size. Plus, if you want to truly understand the history and significance of what you’re seeing, a guide is a must.

Even if you enjoy exploring places on your own, I’d still suggest hiring a guide for Tikal. Personally, I like having the freedom to go at my own pace, so group tours aren’t usually my thing. Luckily, private tours are available, which is a great solution!

When is the best time to visit Tikal National Park?

The best time to visit Tikal National Park is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. During this time, you’ll experience sunny, warm weather and fewer chances of rain. 

The wet season, from May to October, has more frequent rainfall, but the park is also less crowded, and the jungle appears more lush and vibrant.

As I shared above, we visited Tikal during the rainy season and luckily had some sun shining guiding our visit. Especially when the morning fog cleared up.

How long does it take to visit Tikal National Park?

A full visit to Tikal typically takes around 6–8 hours. However, if you’re on a tight schedule, it’s possible to see the highlights of the park in about 3–4 hours.

Either way, I would plan an entire day for Tikal National Park. No matter how long it takes, I am pretty sure you will be exhausted after the visit, so don’t make any plans for later on.

While staying in Antigua, I have seen some tour companies offering day trips from Antigua to Tikal, which is totally doable, but not recommended. If you are someone who can sleep on the plane or bus, it could work, but it was already exhausting from Flores. 

Imagine adding a drive from Antigua to Guatemala City, 1 one-hour flight to Flores, and then the same return journey after a 6-8 hour tour to get back to Antigua. It’s basically 24 hours on the road… not fun, right?

What to bring to Tikal National Park?

First and foremost, comfortable walking shoes are a must. Light, breathable clothing is also essential because the jungle heat can be intense all year around.

Insect repellent is another critical item to bring with you and sunscreen & a hat are non-negotiable. You will also want to stay hydrated, so bring your own water for the road and buy more at the entrance. Some tours provide water as well.

When it comes to food, there is a restaurant at the Tikal National Park. Some tours include lunch, some offer breakfast on the go. If you don’t have these options included, bring some snacks and plan a meal at the restaurant.

Last, but not least, bring enough cash. There are no ATMs at the Tikal National Park and you might end up paying an entrance fee in cash, so make sure you have enough, especially if you want to have a meal at the restaurant.

Where should you stay to visit Tikal National Park?

Flores town is located less than a 2-hour drive away from Tikal and it is one of the best places to stay to visit Tikal National Park.

• Las Lagunas Boutique Hotel – amazing luxury hotel in Flores
• Villa Maya – top rated mid-range accommodation
• Hotel Casa Turquesa – great affordable hotel in Flores

If you are looking for a unique experience, consider staying at the Hotel Jungle Lodge Tikal, which is located inside the Tikal National Park.

In conclusion…

This is the end of the Tikal travel guide and I am sure you know how to visit Tikal National Park. I hope I helped you to tick off this bucket list experience in Guatemala.

I would love to hear your thoughts, so if you have any feedback or additional tips, leave a comment below. Also, check out my Instagram for regular travel videos and travel inspiration. Or explore other destinations on this travel blog.

Pin it for later and save how to visit Tikal National Park in Guatemala!