Discover the Wonders of Tikal Guatemala Ruins: Your Complete Guide to Visiting Tikal National Park

Tikal Guatemala Ruins: Map & How To Visit Tikal National Park

Tikal, situated in northern Guatemala, is one of the most renowned Mayan cities in the world. Enveloped by a verdant jungle, the archeological site of Tikal was primarily occupied by the Maya civilization from as early as the 4th century BC until the 10th century AD. With an area of more than 576 square kilometers, it is one of the largest urban centers of the ancient Maya civilization. Tikal National Park is now a UNESCO protected site and a significant tourist attraction. Here's a guide on how to visit the Tikal Ruins, including tips on navigating the park and a map to help you plan your itinerary.

Tikal National Park – A Brief Overview

Tikal National Park consists of ancient Mayan ruins set amidst a lush jungle. Tikal covers over 200 square miles and includes various structures, ranging from temples to ball-courts. The park is home to various flora and fauna, including jaguars and monkeys. It is one of the most important assets of Guatemala and a significant contribution to world heritage sites.

Map of Tikal National Park

Before visiting any park or attraction, it's essential to have a guide or a map to navigate. Tikal National Park is a vast area, and it's effortless to get lost, which easily ruins your experience. With a map, you can explore the ruins and make your way to various attractions and sights. There are several essential parts of the park, including the Great Plaza, Temple of the Grand Jaguar, Temple of the Mask, and the Plaza of the Seven Temples, among others. With a map, you can easily mark out the areas you want to explore and create an itinerary. The park authorities provide maps, so you don't have to purchase one before your visit.

When To Visit

Tikal National Park is open throughout the year. However, you may want to avoid visiting Tikal in the rainy season. The rain usually begins in May and continues through to November, with the heaviest rainfall in September and October. The best time to visit Tikal National Park is during the dry season from December to April, with January, February, and March being the coolest months.

How To Get There

Tikal National Park is located in northern Guatemala, approximately 30 miles (an hour and a half drive) from the town of Flores. The closest airport is in Flores, and you'd have to fly there first. Several airlines operate regular flights to Flores from Guatemala City, which is about a four-hour drive from Tikal National Park. You can also take a bus or drive to Flores, depending on your preferences. Once you're in Flores, there are several options on how to get to Tikal National Park:

1. Shuttle – There are several tour companies in Flores that offer shuttle services to Tikal National Park. This option is the easiest and the most convenient way to get to the park.

2. Public Bus – You can get on the public bus at Santa Elena and take it to Tikal National Park. However, the public bus isn't very frequent, and the journey is quite long.

3. Taxi – You can hire a taxi to take you to Tikal National Park. However, this option is quite expensive and not very reliable.

Ticket Prices

To visit Tikal National Park, you must purchase a ticket at the entrance gate. Tickets are available in Quetzales or US dollars, and the price varies depending on your nationality. Guatemalan citizens pay Q80 (about $10) per person, while foreigners pay $25 per person. Kids aged 12 and under can enter the park for free. Note that the ticket price includes admission to the park, but doesn't include a guide.

Guided Tours

While it's possible to visit Tikal National Park on your own, it's advisable to take a guided tour, especially if it's your first time visiting. A guide can provide you with detailed information about the ruins, their history, and the Mayan civilization. You'll also learn about the flora and fauna of the park.

Conclusion

Visiting Tikal National Park is an unforgettable experience. The ancient Mayan ruins set amidst the lush jungle are awe-inspiring and breathtaking. With a map and a guide, you can explore the ruins and learn about the history of the Mayan civilization. Don't forget to bring plenty of water, comfortable walking shoes, and sunscreen, as the park can get quite hot and humid. Whether you decide to visit the Tikal Ruins on your own or with a guided tour, it's an experience you won't forget.