Tikal: Explore this Ancient Mayan City
Why visit Tikal?
Tikal offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the grandeur and mystery of one of the most significant ancient Mayan cities. Located within the Guatemalan rainforest, is the UNESCO World Heritage site of Tikal. The awe-inspiring pyramids, temples, and plazas, such as the towering Temple IV and the expansive Great Plaza, provide a fascinating glimpse into the past. Exploring Tikal allows you to walk in the footsteps of ancient rulers, experience the serenity of centuries-old structures, and connect with the natural beauty of the jungle. So make sure to include Tikal on your buck-it-list!
How to travel to Tikal?
If you want to travel to Tikal the local way then the best way is to take a public bus to El Cruce, then walk to El Remate and take another public bus to Tikal. This journey will cost around ($5-7). I honestly think it is a better idea to book a tour and just take the transport option as this is only around $12 for both ways and saves you the hassle of trying to get there yourself.
Should you take a tour to Tikal Mayan Ruins?
Taking a tour can be the cheapest way to travel to Tikal and the easiest way. The tours will pick you up in Flores. The tour will include the cost of transport there and back and for an additional cost you can have a guide to take you around and give you information about the site. The downside is you will not be able to see a lot of the ancient ruins on the site whereas if you wander round by yourself then it is possible to see everything.
You can take different kind of tours, ones at sunrise or sunset or simply ones just in the day. A tour without a guide will usually cost 100 GTQ ($12.80). Entrance to the park will cost 150 GTQ ($19.20).
Top Things to Do
1. The Great Plaza
The Great Plaza in Tikal is located in the heart of the ancient Mayan city in present-day Guatemala. This expansive public square has the towering Temple I (Temple of the Great Jaguar) to the east and Temple II (Temple of the Masks) to the west. It served as the ceremonial and social hub of Tikal. The plaza’s vast open space was used for religious rituals, public gatherings, and market activities. Surrounding the plaza are other significant structures, including the North Acropolis and Central Acropolis, which contain royal tombs and administrative buildings.
2. Plaza of Seven Temples
The Plaza of the Seven Temples is an architectural complex situated to the south of the Great Plaza. This expansive area is named after the seven nearly identical temples that line its eastern and western sides. The plaza also features other significant structures, including ball courts and smaller buildings, which likely served various religious and administrative functions.
3. Temple IV
Temple IV, also known as the Temple of the Two-Headed Serpent, is the tallest and one of the most impressive structures. It was erected around 741 AD during the reign of Yik’in Chan K’awiil. This temple stands at an astonishing height of approximately 70 meters making it one of the tallest pre-Columbian structures in the Americas. Temple IV was constructed to commemorate Yik’in Chan K’awiil’s military victories and to honour his lineage, serving both as a political and religious monument. The temple’s summit offers a panoramic view of the Tikal complex and the surrounding rainforest, so don’t forget to climb the stairs!
4. Temple V
Temple V is located to the south of the Central Acropolis and dates to around 700 AD. It is the second-tallest structure in Tikal, rising to approximately 57 meters. This impressive pyramid is believed to have been built during the reign of an unidentified ruler, possibly connected to the later phases of Tikal’s dynastic history. Excavations have revealed that Temple V played a significant role in religious and ceremonial activities, likely serving as a site for important rituals and possibly as a tomb for a high-ranking individual.
5. Palace of Groves
The Palace of the Groves consists of a series of interconnected structures and courtyards, reflecting a highly organised and planned design. The Palace of the Groves is characterised by its intricate decorations, vaulted rooms, and multiple levels, indicating it was likely the residence of a high-ranking noble or royal family.
Where should you stay?
Budget – Hotel Tikal Inn – offers a perfect blend of comfort and convenience, providing you with close proximity to the majestic ruins of Tikal
Medium – Hotel Jaguar Inn – provides you with a rustic yet comfortable stay, offering easy access to the ancient ruins and a great price for 3-star accommodation!
High – Hotel Jungle Lodge – combines a modern experience with a unique jungle experience, this hotel will not disappoint you during your stay!
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