Flores

Flores, a small island town in northern Guatemala, rests on Lake Petén Itzá. This former Mayan capital now acts as a gateway to ancient sites like Tikal. Visitors can wander through colorful streets, enjoy lakeside views, and embark on jungle adventures. Climb ancient pyramids, kayak on the lake, or trek through nearby nature parks.

Geography and Layout of Flores

Flores occupies a small island in Lake Petén Itzá, connected to the mainland by a causeway. The island measures about 1 km across and takes around 15-20 minutes to walk around. Across the causeway lie the larger towns of Santa Elena and San Benito, which form part of the greater Flores area. The island's compact size makes it easy to explore on foot, with most hotels, restaurants, and shops concentrated in a small area.

Exploring Tikal National Park

Tikal National Park, located about 65 km from Flores, contains one of the largest and most important Mayan archaeological sites. The ruins include five main temples, the tallest of which, Temple IV, reaches 65 meters. You can climb some of the temples for views over the jungle canopy. Early morning tours allow you to watch the sunrise from atop Temple IV, often accompanied by the sounds of howler monkeys. The park also contains a museum with artifacts and information about Mayan culture.

Activities on Lake Petén Itzá

Lake Petén Itzá is ideal for swimming, kayaking, and boat tours. You can rent kayaks from several places along the shore to explore the lake at your own pace. Boat tours often include stops at points of interest around the lake, such as Jorge's Rope Swing, a popular spot for jumping into the water. In the evenings, the lakefront comes alive with food stalls and craft markets, where you can try local dishes and buy souvenirs.

Local Food and Restaurants

Flores has a range of dining options, from street food to sit-down restaurants. Try pupusas, thick corn tortillas stuffed with cheese, beans, or meat, often sold by street vendors. For a meal with a view, head to one of the rooftop restaurants. Sky Bar has panoramic views of the lake and serves a mix of Guatemalan and international dishes. Café Yaxha, located on the ground floor, is known for its coffee and breakfast options.

Getting to and Around Flores

Mundo Maya International Airport, located in Santa Elena, receives flights from Guatemala City and some international destinations. From the airport, taxis and shuttles run to Flores island. Many visitors arrive by bus from other parts of Guatemala or neighboring countries. Once in Flores, walking is the primary mode of transportation on the island. For trips to nearby sites, you can use tuk-tuks, taxis, or arrange tours through local agencies.

Day Trips from Flores

Besides Tikal, several other Mayan sites are accessible from Flores. Uaxactún, about 23 km north of Tikal, is known for its astronomical complex. Yaxha, the third-largest Mayan site in Guatemala, is less crowded than Tikal and overlooks a lake. For nature lovers, Ixpanpajul Nature Park, about 15 minutes from Flores, has hiking trails and zip lines through the jungle canopy. You can also visit ARCAS Wildlife Rescue Center to see local animals being rehabilitated.

Climate and When to Visit

Flores has a tropical climate with high temperatures year-round. The dry season, from November to April, is generally considered the best time to visit. During these months, you'll experience less rainfall and humidity, making outdoor exploration more comfortable. However, this is also the busiest tourist season. The wet season, from May to October, sees frequent afternoon showers but fewer crowds and lower prices. Regardless of when you visit, be prepared for heat and humidity.