10 Top Things to Do in Flores, Guatemala
Are you planning a trip to Tikal National Park and wondering what are the best things to do in Flores? I am here to help you!
Flores is a small island town that feels like a hidden gem in the heart of Central America. Located on Lake Petén Itzá, Flores is full of charm, with its cobblestone streets, colorful colonial buildings, and amazing natural surroundings.
Though small in size, Flores is packed with unique activities, delicious food, and incredible views. From exploring ancient Mayan sites to relaxing by the lake, this town has something for everyone.
In this Flores guide, we’ll explore the 10 best things to do in Flores, showing you why this charming island town is a must-visit on your Guatemalan journey. We will also cover Tikal National Park, so you are fully prepared for your visit!
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10 things to do in Flores and beyond
1. Visit Tikal National Park
Visiting the Tikal National Park is probably the most popular and one of the best things to do in Flores and all of Guatemala. it is one of the most incredible archeological sites I have ever visited in my entire life (and I have visited many!).
Spanning 576 km², Tikal National Park is home to one of the most remarkable sites in Guatemala. Once a thriving city in the heart of the Guatemalan rainforest, Tikal was a major urban center of the pre-Columbian Maya civilization.
The park features six towering pyramids, named Temples I through VI, with Temple IV standing the tallest at 70 meters. While some of these ancient structures can be climbed, the access to others is off-limits to help preserve them. There are also several other pyramids.
I went to Flores right after visiting Chichen Itza in Mexico. While the Mexican site has a better preservation of the whole site, Tikal felt much more adventurous and authentic.
Also, can we talk about wildlife at the Tikal National Park for a moment? It’s common to encounter monkeys and toucans, while the luckiest visitors might even spot jaguars and crocodiles.
Practical information about visiting Tikal National Park
⏰ It takes approximately 2 hours to reach Tikal from Flores and 4-6 hours to visit the entire site. I highly recommend planning an entire day in Flores to visit Tikal. On top of that, it will be a busy day with a lot of walking.
🎟 A Foreign entry ticket costs Q150. If you want to visit the park at sunrise or sunset, you will need to get an additional ticket for Q100. You can buy an entrance ticket at the ticket office, but if you want sunrise or sunset access, you need to purchase your ticket here.
🚌 You can visit Tikal National Park on your own, however, a guided tour with transportation makes it easier and more educational. 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
If you still have doubts, make sure you read this detailed guide on how to visit Tikal National Park.
2. Explore the islands of Flores
The tiny and colorful island of Flores is located in the middle of Lake Peten Itza and is connected to the mainland through a bridge and several boats. Despite its small size, there are some fun things to do on Flores Island.
The island is known for its lively atmosphere, with numerous restaurants and cafes lining the cobblestone streets. These inviting spots are perfect for relaxing, sipping on Guatemalan coffee, or sampling local cuisine.
One of Flores’ standout attractions is the Cathedral of Our Lady of Los Remedios, which proudly stands as the tallest building on the island. Its white facade and unique location make it a must-see landmark and it is easily recognizable from all the surroundings.
From the top of the hill where the cathedral is located, you can enjoy views of the colorful rooftops and the lake surrounding the island.
Another unique feature of Flores is its vibrant doors, painted in bright colors that pop against the pastel-toned buildings. These doors have become iconic symbols of the island, so you will want to snap a picture with one of those colorful doors.
And finally, the lake’s promenade that surrounds the island is perfect for a romantic stroll at any time of the day or night.
3. Take a boat tour to discover the secrets of Peten Itza Lake
Taking a typical boat to navigate Lake Peten Itza is one of the top things to do in Flores. There are plenty of boats that offer guided tours or just a taxi service to bring you to the towns around the lake.
It is a fantastic way to relax in the nature of the lake and admire panoramic views of Flores Island. The experience lets you see the island and surrounding landscapes from a unique perspective.
The guided tours often include stops at some of the smaller, lesser-known islands that are so tiny they don’t even appear on Google Maps. One of these hidden gems lies between Flores and Tayasal, where I came across a beautifully carved wooden Maya sculpture.
It’s these little surprises that make a boat tour on Lake Petén Itzá so memorable for me. So I had to include it on the list of the best things to do in Flores.
Aside from the pretty scenery, a boat trip also provides a chance to spot local wildlife. As I cruised the lake, I was lucky enough to see a turtle swimming and several local bird species along the water’s edge.
If the weather promises to be good, I recommend you take the tour and sunset and enjoy the magic of the sun setting on the lake. For almost two hours of the tour, I paid Q200. You probably can get a better deal if you negotiate.
4. Climb to Miradouro Mirador Rey Canek
If you are looking for a unique place to take beautiful photos, head to the Mirador Rey Canek. This stunning viewpoint gives you a privileged view of the island of Flores and the climb is considered one of the best things to do around Flores.
There are two routes to reach the viewpoint. The first is a scenic 30-minute hike from Tayasal. Alternatively, you can take a shorter 10-minute hike starting near Las Luciérnagas Hotel. Both routes are relatively easy, but I recommend wearing comfortable shoes.
Upon arriving at the Mirador Rey Canek checkpoint, you’ll need to register your name. While entry to the viewpoint is free, a small donation is appreciated to help with its upkeep.
5. Adventure to Parque Nacional Yaxhá-Nakum-Naranjo
While Tikal often steals the spotlight, the Yaxhá-Nakum-Naranjo archaeological sites offer a lesser-known but equally enriching experience. This “Cultural Triangle” is a must-visit, making it one of the best things to do in Flores.
The area covers around 1,200 square kilometers, and though it doesn’t draw as many visitors as Tikal, it is filled with significant ruins from the Maya civilization.
Among these, Yaxhá stands out as Guatemala’s third-largest Mayan site, with over 500 structures hidden within the dense rainforest. The site’s well-preserved pyramid is a highlight, rivaling even some of Tikal’s more famous structures.
Nakum and Naranjo are equally impressive, offering numerous ruins, temples, and ceremonial platforms. Tucked deep within the forest, these sites provide a quieter, more peaceful experience than Tikal.
Aside from its rich history, Parque Nacional Yaxhá-Nakum-Naranjo is also a sanctuary for wildlife lovers. The rainforest is alive with flora and fauna.
The combination of archaeological wonders and natural beauty creates a unique atmosphere that few other places can match.
Practical information about visiting Parque Nacional Yaxhá-Nakum-Naranjo
⏰ The park is open daily from 8 am to 5 pm. To fully explore the Yaxhá-Nakum-Naranjo complex, a full day is recommended.
🎟 A Foreign entry ticket costs Q80 and Q40 for locals.
—> Book Yaxha Archaeological Focus Day Tour with Monkeys Spotting
👆🏻Given the natural terrain and the density of the forest, it is highly recommended to wear comfortable shoes and bring mosquito repellent.
6. Take a picture of Yo Amo Petén
When you cross the bridge from mainland Flores to the charming island, one of the first things you’ll see is the colorful “Yo Amo Petén” sign. The sign sits by the lake, with big letters painted in bright colors and decorated with a Mayan design.
This spot is perfect for taking a fun picture and is one of the simple but enjoyable things to do in Flores. Note that some Tikal tours include a stop at this sign, so you could easily combine these places.
7. Visit Tayasal and Museo Regional del Mundo Maya
If you take a walk along the “Malecón” of Flores, the first town you’ll notice across the lake is Tayasal. Curious about this lesser-known spot, I decided to venture out and see what Tayasal has to offer.
Unlike Flores, which sees a steady stream of tourists, Tayasal is a quiet, local town where you’ll mostly encounter residents going about their day. This tranquility offers a refreshing contrast and makes Tayasal feel like a hidden gem.
From its lakeside, you can enjoy one of the best views of Flores Island, perfect for those who don’t have the time to make the hike up to Mirador Rey Canek. To reach Tayasal, there is a convenient boat service from Flores that costs Q10.
If you want to learn more about the Maya culture, you can go to the Museo Regional del Mundo Maya in town. The museum is free and is a great stop for anyone interested in history.
Currently, Tayasal is also a site of ongoing archaeological exploration. Researchers are slowly uncovering treasures that have been hidden for over 500 years. The site, which spans about 6 square kilometers, is still in the early stages of excavation.
While not much is visible yet, visiting now offers a chance to witness history as it’s being uncovered. You can walk among ancient ruins and be one of the first to see this part of Maya civilization come to light.
8. Relax at the Playa Chechenal Peten or Playa Tres Naciones
The shores of Lake Petén Itzá might not be widely recognized as a beach destination, but some of the best things to do around Flores involve discovering its hidden, peaceful beaches nestled in the rainforest.
One of the most popular beaches to visit is Playa Chechenal, just a quick 15-minute trip away from Flores. This part of the lake boasts some of the calmest waters, making it perfect for a relaxing swim.
You’ll find a few basic amenities here, such as sun umbrellas, a spot for barbecuing, and a bar that serves refreshing cold drinks. The water is so crystal clear that you can easily spot fish swimming around.
For those seeking a more adventurous experience, head further out to Playa Tres Naciones, a beautiful and peaceful beach about a 30-minute drive along the La Ponderosa route. This untouched beach is a bit more off-the-beaten path but worth the journey.
The beach is known for its unique shoreline covered with small snails and its stunning turquoise waters. Although it’s a remote location, there is a small store in the nearby village where you can buy soft drinks, sweets, and beers if you need any last-minute supplies.
Both of these places have an entrance fee, but it is just Q10 per person.
9. Explore the turquoise lagoons around the area
If you are a nature lover, one of the best day trips from Flores is exploring the beautiful lagoons around the lake. There are several small lakes and lagoons, some easily reachable, while others require a hike.
If you are into hiking, you have to discover the outstanding Cráter Azul. It is hard to give justice to this place as the water is so crystal clear that you can see an aquatic garden underwater. The nature is so unspoiled and the atmosphere is perfect for relaxing and reconnecting.
Foreigners pay Q10 to access Cráter Azul.
Are you looking for a luxurious experience instead? Las Lagunas Boutique Hotel is one best places to be. This quiet and private hotel is perfect for couples or honeymooners wanting a peaceful getaway.
The hotel’s modern design blends beautifully with the surrounding rainforest, and the rooms offer stunning views of a calm lagoon. Every detail of the hotel is carefully planned, making it a great place for those who love both style and nature.
10. Have dinner or spend a night with a lake view
Flores and Lake Peten Itza haven’t been touched by mass tourism. This means fewer restaurants and accommodations to choose from, but it also adds a layer of authenticity and intimacy that is hard to find elsewhere.
For a special dining experience, check out Restaurante Raíces del Lago. You can reach this exclusive lakeside spot by taking a private boat from Flores Island. It’s a great place to try Central American dishes in a quiet and elegant setting.
Another option is Restaurante Raíces, known for its fresh food and great lakeside views. If you’re looking for a casual spot for coffee or brunch, Maple & Tocino is a local favorite with a relaxed vibe.
For accommodations, there are some amazing choices. Luciernagas Hotel Boutique offers cabins right on the water, giving you a stunning view of the lake. Another option is Bolontiku Boutique Hotel & Spa, where you can relax in luxury.
In conclusion…
This is the end of the best things to do in Flores and I am sure you are ready to explore Tikal National Park as well as discover beyond this popular sight 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.
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