Guatemala must be one of the most beautiful countries in the world. To this day, it blows my mind how simply crossing the border from Mexico or Belize grants you access to architecture and landscapes that feel otherworldly; yet are far less explored than the famed sites of Mexico. This is where the traveller gains an edge over the holidaymaker.
I have yet to experience a view as exhilarating and surreal as Tikal National Park at sunrise. Standing deep within the Guatemalan rainforest, surrounded by a symphony of wildlife, you glimpse the ancient temples peeking back at you through the mist. This space feels untamed, uncharted, as if you’re stumbling upon it for the very first time. Temples rise from the ground like mythical beings, hidden among trees with trunks so vast and ancient they seem to share a kinship with the Mayan masterpieces. The site stretches endlessly, with narrow pathways guiding you from one structure to the next. Walking through this vast, timeless environment alone, you feel both small and vulnerable; but in the most exciting way imaginable.
Above, howler monkeys leap between the emerald canopy. Birds flit from tree to tree, their calls filling the air. Below, insects scurry purposefully, absorbed in the hum of rainforest life. Here, you are vastly outnumbered by the wildlife, a mere stranger in a world that belongs to nature.
But this little corner of Guatemala was once mastered by humans. It was a thriving metropolis, where people lived, worked, worshipped, and played much as we do today. Abandoned centuries ago, Tikal was reclaimed by Mother Nature, leaving behind a hauntingly beautiful scene, like something from a dystopian film where humanity has long since disappeared. Standing in this space, deep within the jungle, it’s hard to fathom how such a vast city ever existed here. But it did.
In this blog, I want to take you deep into the essence of Tikal (that’s me over there, by the way; I’m Jack, a backpacking architect 👋🏻). While I’ll cover the practicalities for you adventurers eager to visit; how to get there, where to stay; my main aim is to go beyond the surface. Let’s explore the history and architecture of Tikal, the beating heart of its story. After all, it’s architecture built for something greater than ourselves. It is architecture born from devotion: temples aligned with the stars, built with reverence for gods and the afterlife.
Imagine standing in a planning room today and proposing a city designed around the cosmos. The poetry of such an idea has long since faded from modern urban planning. It’s something I dream of doing, though I’d likely be met with raised eyebrows and a psychological evaluation. But I digress! Grab a warm drink, settle in, and let’s explore the wonders of Tikal together.
I covered the history of Guatemala and touch on Tikal in the Where's Next? Guatemala podcast episode, its only 30 minutes long so if you want a quick listen one afternoon then please check it out also.
CONTENT LINKS
CHAPTER 01 - VISITING
CHAPTER 02 - DISCOVER TIKAL
CHAPTER 01
The Best Time To Visit Tikal
Tikal’s awe-inspiring temples and lush jungle setting can be explored year-round, but the experience varies depending on the season. The dry season, which runs from November to April, is the most popular time to visit. During this period, the trails are dry, the weather is more predictable, and the days are warm with cooler nights. It’s the perfect time to climb the temples, enjoy panoramic views, and immerse yourself in the history of this ancient metropolis. However, the dry season also brings larger crowds, particularly around December and Easter.
For those seeking a quieter and more immersive experience, the wet season from May to October has its own charm. Afternoon rain showers bring the jungle to life, with vibrant greenery and fewer tourists around the site. The downside is the potential for muddy trails and occasional downpours, but the dramatic atmosphere and lower accommodation prices can make it worthwhile. The best months to visit are November and May, when you can enjoy the benefits of the shoulder season: pleasant weather, smaller crowds, and reasonable costs.
QUICK FACT: Tikal was abandoned before the arrival of the Spanish. During the Spanish conquest, explorers would march straight past Tikal and never discover it! It would not be found again until the 19th century when the Guatemalan government would send an exhibition to the area to explore 1848!
Getting To Guatemala
Reaching Guatemala is straightforward, with most international flights landing in Guatemala City at La Aurora International Airport. From there, the quickest route to Tikal is via a domestic flight to Flores, the nearest town to the park. Airlines like TAG Airlines operate regular flights, and the journey takes just over an hour. For those already travelling in Central America, land crossings are also possible. From Belize (the most common path), you can cross the border at San Ignacio and take a shuttle or bus to Flores. Travellers coming from Mexico can journey south from Chetumal or Palenque to reach Flores by road, the border crossing is super easy this way. My personal journey was via the land border at El Ceibo with two friends Ben and Will. We took a night bus from Bacalar in Mexico to get to Tenosique, then taxied to the border. Crossing into Guatemala we jumped onto a bus to get to Flores. One of the hottest and most cramp local buses on planet earth, non the less we got to Flores!
Where To Stay
Flores, a picturesque island town on Lake Petén Itzá, is the main hub for travellers visiting Tikal. With its cobblestone streets, colourful buildings, and relaxed vibe, it’s a perfect base for backpackers. Popular accommodations include Los Amigos Hostel, known for its social atmosphere, and Green World Hotel, which offers budget-friendly private rooms with stunning lake views.
Family rooms from US$92.00
Mixed dorms from US$24.67
Family rooms from US$80.84
Mixed dorms from US$18.30
For those wanting early access to Tikal’s sunrise tours, staying closer to the park is a great option. Accommodations like Tikal Jungle Lodge and Hotel Jaguar Inn are basic but convenient, located just minutes from the park entrance. These lodges often include sunrise or sunset tour packages, making them ideal for travellers eager to experience Tikal’s temples at their most magical. You will also be immersed in all the sounds of the rainforest making it a trip you will never forget. If you are looking to have a bit of time away from dorm life or if that just not your thing then booking into one of these options is a must.
Double rooms from US$83.00
Double rooms from US$99.00
Family rooms from US$184.00
There are also option just outside of Flores, one I highly recommend but I will leave the to our Backpacking Guatemala Travel Guide page where you can find a treasure trove of hints and tips for backpackers and explorers in general. Ok lets get to Tikal.
How To Get To Tikal National Park
Getting to Tikal from Flores is simple and affordable. Shuttle buses, the most common option, cost around $10–$15 USD for a round trip and take about 90 minutes. These shuttles leave as early as 4:30 AM for sunrise tours. This is the option we took and I highly recommend it. As they say the early bird catches the worm and, Ok, we did not do this in peak tourist season visiting at the end if February, however it felt like we were some of the only people there! This is part of the reason I enjoyed the visit so much, it truly felt like we were discovering this place for the first time! I put a Youtube short up of it which you can find here. It was not the perfect sunrise, in fact it was rather foggy but it added to the atmosphere in its own unique way!
Generally there are midday shuttles and sunset shuttles giving you the option of morning noon or evening, however if you are at either Jaguar Inn or the Jungle Lodge Tikal, the park is literally on your doorstep meaning you will not have to worry about a shuttle.
For a more budget-friendly option, public buses or colectivos run less frequently and cost about $5 USD, but they can be slower and less reliable. If you’re travelling from Guatemala City, flying to Flores and then taking a shuttle is the most efficient way to reach the park.
There are of course a plethora of tour options for this wonderful site so lets look at those now.
Tour Options at Tikal: Sunrise, Midday, or Sunset?
Choosing the right time of day to explore Tikal can make a huge difference in your experience. Sunrise tours whilst feeling sparse of people, are among the most popular, and for good reason. Arriving before dawn, you’ll climb Temple IV to witness the jungle awakening below. As mist rises from the canopy, the sounds of birds and howler monkeys create an ethereal atmosphere that feels otherworldly. Sunrise tours are perfect for photographers and early risers, and the cooler temperatures make exploring more comfortable. However, they require either staying near the park or waking up very early in Flores.
If you prefer more flexibility, a midday visit allows you to explore Tikal at your own pace. You’ll have more time to wander the Great Plaza, admire the temples, and soak in the history. Keep in mind, though, that midday is the hottest part of the day, so pack plenty of water and sunscreen. Sunset tours offer another unforgettable experience, as the golden light bathes the temples in a warm glow. Watching the sun dip into the jungle from atop Temple IV is a serene and romantic way to end the day, but the return trip to Flores after dark might feel less safe for solo travellers.
For the ultimate experience, sunrise or sunset tours are highly recommended. Guided tours also provide fascinating insights into Tikal’s history, culture, and architectural significance, ensuring you don’t miss key landmarks. If it was to do my time here again, I would look to stay near the site and do both a sunrise and sunset viewing, but maybe I am just greedy!?
If you want a super easy solution and a guided tour then as mentioned about there are a plethora of options, one of the easiest ways to explore Tikal's National Park and get a great level of depth is via a tour from Get your guide. Naturally they do all times of day but my personal choice would be a Sunrise Tikal Tour with a historian/ archaeologist
If you take this tour on ... Or any at all, let your fellow explorers know how you got on in the comments below👇.
Essential Packing List for Exploring Tikal
Exploring Tikal’s ancient temples and jungle paths requires thoughtful packing to make the most of your visit. Lightweight, breathable clothing is a must, especially during the hotter midday hours. Comfortable hiking shoes or sturdy trainers will help you navigate uneven trails, while a good hat and sunglasses are essential for sun protection, make sure you have suncream as well, once that fog lifts it gets HOT quickly!
Be sure to bring a reusable water bottle, as hydration is key in Tikal’s tropical climate. Insect repellent (preferably DEET-based) will keep pesky mosquitoes at bay, and a lightweight rain jacket is useful if you’re visiting during the wet season. For those interested in birdwatching and wildlife spotting, binoculars are highly recommended. Don’t forget snacks like nuts or protein bars for energy, as there are limited food options in the park. A camera or smartphone is naturally a must to capture the stunning views, and a small daypack will keep all your essentials organised.
One top tip here/ for visiting Guatemala or countries generally is to get yourself an airalo for Guatemala. This is a sim card that will help your with data and getting around for maps etc and will save you money on roaming charges, although when you are deep in the rainforest do not expect too much signal even if you have an airalo sim. Make sure you either have a hard copy of the map (which you should receive on entry) or make sure you have downloaded one before heading into the rainforest. Speak of heading into the rainforest, lets actually get into the site and discover Tikal National Park and all that is has to offer.
CHAPTER 02
Tikal On The Map
The Early Days of Tikal
Tikal’s story begins around 1000 BCE when it was first settled by early Maya groups. Its location within the fertile Petén Basin offered access to natural resources, such as water reservoirs and limestone for construction, laying the groundwork for what would become one of the greatest Maya cities.
By the Preclassic Period (2000 BCE – 250 CE), Tikal had developed into a modest ceremonial centre. Early structures were primarily built from packed earth and later replaced with limestone. The city’s first temples and plazas emerged during this period, reflecting the growing importance of ritual in Maya society.
The turning point came in the Classic Period (250 CE – 900 CE), when Tikal rapidly expanded into a political and cultural powerhouse. Under the rule of influential kings, Tikal’s population swelled to an estimated 100,000 people, with sprawling residential complexes and monumental temples built to demonstrate the city’s wealth and divine authority.
Cultural Practices: Life in the Heart of Tikal
Agriculture and Daily Life
The Maya of Tikal were skilled agriculturalists who relied on the cultivation of maize, beans, and squash, staples of their diet. To support their growing population, they developed advanced farming techniques such as terracing and irrigation systems. The city’s reservoirs, some of which are still visible today, were vital for storing water during the dry season.
Tikal was also a hub of trade, connecting it to other Maya cities and regions beyond. Obsidian, jade, ceramics, and textiles were commonly exchanged, often arriving via long trade routes that extended into modern-day Mexico and Honduras. The city’s prosperity was deeply tied to its ability to control and influence these networks.
Ceremonial Life
Rituals and ceremonies were central to Maya culture. Public plazas, such as the Great Plaza, served as gathering spaces where residents would witness religious performances, dances, and bloodletting ceremonies conducted by the elite. These events were designed to maintain cosmic balance and honour the gods, who were believed to influence every aspect of life.
Music and incense played a vital role in these rituals. Archaeological evidence suggests the use of drums, flutes, and conch shells to create an atmosphere of reverence and connection to the divine. You can hear some of the sounds scapes in the podcast episode on Guatemala above.
The Hierarchical Structure of Tikal
Tikal’s society was rigidly hierarchical, with power concentrated at the top and cascading down through various levels of society. This structure was reflected in the city’s design, where monumental buildings symbolised the authority of the ruling class.
The Divine Rulers
At the pinnacle of Tikal’s hierarchy were its kings, who were considered divine intermediaries between the gods and the people. These rulers often claimed descent from deities, solidifying their legitimacy and control. Among Tikal’s most famous kings was Jasaw Chan K’awiil I, who ruled during the 8th century CE. His reign marked a period of military victories and monumental construction, including the iconic Temple I (Temple of the Great Jaguar), which served as his funerary pyramid.
The Noble Elite
Below the king, a class of nobles and priests wielded significant influence. They were responsible for conducting rituals, maintaining calendars, and overseeing the administration of the city. Their residences, often located near the acropolis or major temples, reflected their elevated status with intricate carvings and decorative elements.
Artisans and Commoners
Artisans, scribes, and craftspeople formed a vital part of Tikal’s economy, creating goods for trade and religious ceremonies. Meanwhile, the majority of the population were commoners who worked as farmers, labourers, or builders. Despite their lower status, they played an essential role in the city’s construction and upkeep. Unfortunately you will not see much in the way of homes or the architecture of this class of people as it has all been taken back by rainforest.
Religious Beliefs and Architectural Design
For the Maya, architecture was more than a functional necessity; it was a physical manifestation of their cosmology and beliefs. Tikal’s temples, plazas, and acropolises were meticulously designed to reflect their understanding of the universe.
Cosmology and City Layout
The Maya believed in a three-tiered universe: the heavens, the earthly realm, and the underworld (Xibalba). Temples were built to symbolise sacred mountains, which connected these realms. The towering pyramids of Tikal, such as Temple IV (Temple of the Two-Headed Serpent), were not only political statements but also spiritual beacons linking the earthly plane to the heavens. You cannot see the crypts below these wonderful temples however believe me, they are there anchoring the architecture into that underworld.
The city’s layout was aligned with astronomical events. For instance, buildings in the Lost World Complex (Mundo Perdido) were arranged to track solstices and equinoxes, highlighting the Maya’s advanced knowledge of astronomy.
Temples and Ritual Spaces
Each of Tikal’s major temples had specific religious and political functions. The Great Plaza served as the ceremonial heart of the city, flanked by Temple I and Temple II. These towering structures symbolised the balance between life and death, the sun’s movement, and the interplay of male and female energies.
Temples were often adorned with carvings and sculptures depicting gods, rulers, and mythological events. The stelae found throughout Tikal’s plazas are intricate records of historical events, including victories, alliances, and royal ceremonies.
Rituals and Offerings
Religious ceremonies often involved offerings of food, jade, and incense, as well as human sacrifices to appease the gods. Bloodletting rituals, performed by kings and priests, were seen as a way to communicate with deities and ensure the city’s prosperity.
Model
Below the fantastic point cloud model by ryanfb showing the central plaza of Tikal. You are able to see from the model the two main temples facing each other and the Acropolis Norte, behind this and not shown in this point cloud is the central acropolis which you can also explore.
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Decline and Rediscovery
Despite its grandeur, Tikal’s dominance began to wane in the 9th century CE. A combination of factors, including environmental degradation, overpopulation, and political strife, likely contributed to its decline. By the 10th century, the city was abandoned, its towering temples swallowed by the encroaching jungle.
Tikal remained hidden for centuries until explorers rediscovered it in the 19th century. Since then, extensive excavations and conservation efforts have revealed the magnificence of this ancient city, allowing us to marvel at the achievements of the Maya civilisation.
A Journey Through Time
Tikal is far more than an archaeological site; it is a portal to another time, a testament to the brilliance, resilience, and spirituality of the Maya people. For backpackers with a love for history and architecture, it offers an experience that feels almost otherworldly. Here, the lines between culture and nature blur as ancient temples rise above the rainforest canopy and centuries-old plazas hum with the sounds of wildlife.
Climbing its towering temples, you feel the echoes of past rituals, the connection to gods and stars that guided its creators. Wandering its expansive plazas, the sheer scale of this once-thriving metropolis is humbling, a reminder of how deeply human creativity and devotion can shape the world.
Whether you’re an adventurer chasing the thrill of discovery, a history enthusiast eager to step into the past, or a soul seeking to connect with something greater than yourself, Tikal welcomes you. It invites you to stand in awe, to listen to the whispers of the trees, and to lose yourself in the magic of this ancient Maya masterpiece.
Make sure to subscribe on the home page as I will be writing a post on how to read the architecture of the temples very soon, if you have been to Tikal then please let us know what you loved about it and any tips for fellow travellers. If you found this guide useful please consider buying me a coffee below, it keeps me typing 😉.
Until the next one take care
Jack
For the curious explorer
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