Deep in Guatemala’s lush jungle, where the calls of exotic wildlife bring the stillness to life, lies a world of mystery and secrets from the past.
The place in question is Tikal National Park, where ancient pyramids and temples rise majestically from the greenery, bearing witness to the impressive civilisation of the Maya.
Read on as we explore this archaeological wonder and gain a unique insight into the rich cultural heritage that has shaped Guatemala into the country it is today.
What is Tikal National Park known for?
Tikal National Park is a lush natural gem in northern Guatemala. The park is home to the iconic city ruins of Tikal, once one of the largest and most influential centres of power of the Maya civilisation.
During the golden age of the Maya, between AD 200 and 900, the city expanded dramatically and at one point was home to as many as 90,000 people. Around AD 900, it collapsed for reasons unknown and was abandoned by the Maya. Over time, the dense jungle reclaimed the structures, hiding the once-mighty city for centuries until it was officially rediscovered in 1848.
Today, Tikal is an archaeological ruin and is regarded as one of the most important archaeological sites left by the Maya civilisation. Since 1979, Tikal National Park has been on the UNESCO world heritage list, underscoring its unique historical and cultural significance.
Beyond its extraordinary architecture, Tikal National Park is also famous for featuring in the Star Wars film Episode IV: A New Hope, where it stands in for the planet Yavin 4. This appearance has not only brought the park international attention but has also made it a popular destination for Star Wars fans the world over.
What can you experience in Tikal National Park?
Tikal National Park is an archaeological treasure trove, home to a fascinating cultural heritage that reaches back to the time of the Maya. In addition, its scenic landscapes are home to remarkable flora and fauna.
Below, you can get an overview of some of the magnificent experiences that await you in Tikal National Park.
Majestic temples and ruins
What undoubtedly draws most visitors to Tikal National Park is the archaeological site of Tikal, once one of the most powerful cities of the Maya civilisation.
The site spans 16 square kilometres and contains more than 3,000 structures. The ruins for which Tikal National Park is especially renowned are its six pyramid-shaped temples, which rise magnificently above the lush jungle landscape and stand as an extraordinary testament to the heyday of the Maya civilisation.
Despite being Guatemala’s largest archaeological Maya site, many of the temples in Tikal National Park remain unexcavated. It’s estimated that only around 30% of the temples have been excavated, so a significant part of Tikal still awaits discovery.
Although Tikal long ago secured its place as one of the most impressive Maya ruins in all of Central America, it continues to fascinate as each new excavation brings fresh insights into Maya culture and history.
Nature and wildlife in a class of their own
Tikal National Park offers nature that is as diverse as it is breathtaking. Here, lush rainforests stretch as far as the eye can see, beautifully broken up by open savannah grasslands and tranquil wetlands, which together create a varied and magnificent landscape.
The beautiful natural landscape that unfolds here is more than just a breathtaking sight. Among the towering mahogany trees and lianas, you’ll also find a rich and diverse array of wildlife that makes the park thrum with life.
In Tikal National Park, you might be lucky enough to spot more than 50 species of mammals, including inquisitive monkeys playfully swinging through the canopy and shy tapirs moving silently through the undergrowth.
With more than 300 different bird species, Tikal National Park is a true mecca for bird lovers. Among the green treetops, colourful toucans and parrots glide happily about, while graceful songbirds warble in the distance. The park is also home to unique species such as the rare orange-breasted falcon (Falco deiroleucus).
Practical information about your visit
It can often be helpful to know a few practical details before you set off on an adventure in Tikal National Park.
So we’ve gathered answers to some of the most frequently asked questions below, ensuring you’re well prepared to explore the Maya’s remarkable cultural heritage.
Location and opening times
Tikal National Park lies at the heart of a vast forested area in northern Guatemala. This forest, often called the Maya Forest, stretches across Guatemala, Belize, and southern Mexico.
You can explore Tikal National Park year round between 06:00-17:00. Most visitors prefer to come during Guatemala’s dry season from November to April. During these months, the weather typically brings less rain and more pleasant temperatures, making it ideal for exploring the park.
There are, however, plenty of benefits to visiting Tikal in Guatemala’s rainy season from May to October. The weather is usually warmer and more humid, so the landscape is at its most lush. You’ll also find fewer visitors outside the peak season, giving you more space to explore the many ruins.
Safety and rules
Tikal National Park is generally a safe place to visit as a traveller. To get the most out of your visit, we recommend that you always follow the park’s official rules and guidance, stay on the marked trails, and take care of your personal belongings.
For example, you must not climb on any ruins marked “no climbing”, and littering in the park is not permitted. To help maintain a healthy ecosystem, visitors are expected to show respect for the wildlife. For this reason, touching animals or flying drones in the park is prohibited, as it can disturb their natural behaviour.
At TourCompass, we also do our utmost to ensure you feel safe throughout your tour. If you need assistance or have any questions, you can always get in touch with our local partners and experienced travel specialists via our emergency hotline, staffed 24/7.
Would you like to experience Tikal National Park?
Whether you’re drawn to ancient ruins or captivated by the fascinating wildlife hidden within the lush landscape, Tikal National Park is an absolute must on a tour to Guatemala.
If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with our experienced travel specialists, who are ready to help you set off on your next big adventure.
Embark on an adventurous tour where you’ll discover Guatemala’s colonial charm in Antigua, cruise across the stunning Lake Atitlán, explore the majestic Mayan ruins of Tikal, and soak up the tranquillity of the Bacalar lagoon – before rounding off your holiday with blissful days on the Caribbean beaches of Playa del Carmen.
Embark on an adventurous tour where you’ll discover Guatemala’s colonial charm in Antigua, cruise across the stunning Lake Atitlán, explore the majestic Mayan ruins of Tikal, and soak up the tranquillity of the Bacalar lagoon – before rounding off your holiday with blissful days on the Caribbean beaches of Playa del Carmen.
...16 daysFrom £%s
General Info
Latest articles
Tikal National Park: an archaeological wonder in the heart of the jungle
