Imagine waking up before dawn to the sounds of the jungle, trekking by moonlight to ancient temples, and witnessing the sun rise over ruins that hold centuries of mystery. In the heart of Guatemala’s Peten region, my family and I embarked on a journey that promised both adventure and discovery. From the quiet anticipation of a sunrise at Tikal to the golden hues of Yaxha at sunset, each moment wove together the enchantment of the Mayan civilization and the thrill of the unknown.
This guide covers it all—from flights and stays to meals and essential tour tips—so you can map out your own adventure to Peten’s extraordinary sites. If you’re ready to explore a world where history, nature, and a touch of fantasy converge, read on to see how you can dive into Guatemala’s legendary past with a little help from our journey.
Whether you’re here for the practical tips or an engaging story, feel free to skip to the Trainer’s Tips section below for detailed recommendations on travel, tours, and stays, or continue reading for an inside look at our experience and the wonders we uncovered along the way
Our 6 am flight from Guatemala City to Peten wasn’t merely a fast mode of transportation; it was the gateway to an otherworldly adventure. The plane bestowed upon us a bird’s-eye view of the dense jungle below—an expansive emerald sea concealing ancient secrets and mythical wonders. As we landed, the mysterious air of the jungle enveloped us, heightened by Peten’s warm tropical climate. The gentle caress of the morning sun added to the excitement, creating an atmosphere of anticipation that resonated not only within myself but also in my partner and family. We were all ready to embark on this thrilling journey, fueled by the warmth of the surroundings and the promise of uncovering the treasures hidden within the heart of Peten’s forest.
Our first destination was Casa Ramona, a welcoming haven in Flores that greeted us with friendly staff and a delightful breakfast. With our eyes fixed on the horizon, we eagerly booked the sunset tour to Yaxha they offered, setting off at midday. The trip was a delight, surrounded by the lush embrace of the jungle and fellow adventurers. Two hours later, we stood before the mystical Yaxha, ready to unveil its ancient aura.
Little did I anticipate that this expedition would not only reveal the secrets of a bygone civilization but also immerse us in the fantastical world of Pokémon. Amidst the mesmerizing structures, a sudden flash of light captured my attention. To my disbelief, a majestic Salamence soared through the sky, perched atop a crumbling temple, surveying the landscape with an otherworldly gaze.
Intrigued, I cautiously approached, only to find that Salamence was not alone. Playful Bagon battled among the ancient stones; it turned out the Mayan ruins were training grounds for many Pokémon, eager to strengthen themselves. As the afternoon waned, we ascended one of the temples for a better view of the sunset. The warm glow cast by the sun over Yaxha’s ruins, the Yaxha Lagoon, and the dense forest created a spectacular scene. As night fell, the ruins took on a magical aura, and Pokémon moved gracefully, their vibrant colors blending harmoniously with the ancient surroundings, as if paying homage to the Mayan gods.
After the enchanting sunset, we returned to Flores for dinner at “Restaurante Tipico,” offering a variety of traditional Guatemalan dishes. It provided the perfect setting to reflect on the day’s extraordinary encounters amidst the ancient wonders of Yaxha.
The next morning, a serene boat ride awaited us to explore the picturesque Lake Peten Itza. The tranquil waters mirrored the lush greenery, and beneath the surface, water Pokémon like Milotic and Spheal added a touch of whimsy to the journey.
The path to Tikal began with a pre-dawn start at 4 am, the darkness enhancing the mystery as we ventured guided only by moonlight and flashlights. The jungle’s silence added intrigue, and suddenly, the Great Jaguar appeared. The mystical Temple glowed under the moonlight with an enchanting allure in the darkness.
Our anticipation heightened, as we approached the fourth temple for the sunrise. As the sun began its ascent, the fantastical world unfolded before our eyes. Some mysteries are best experienced, and this journey was no exception. As the sun painted the sky with gold and pink we could just marvel at the sight filled with the sounds of Pokémon getting ready to start their day.
With the sun’s ascent, the culmination of my journey left me awestruck. Wandering through Tikal, we immersed ourselves in the rich ambiance of its history, savoring every moment it had to offer. As we approached the Great Jaguar Temple, we witnessed the appearance of Legendary Pokémon! Latios and Latias flew above the temple, bridging the realms of mythology and reality.
The quiet grandeur of the ancient Mayan ruins, the symphony of nature awakening, and the profound connection with Pokémon in this mystical setting made this journey an unforgettable experience. Not only did we unravel the mysteries of the Mayan ruins, but it also connected us to a world where the extraordinary and the historical coexisted in perfect harmony. What started as a mere exploration had transformed into a profound appreciation for the marvels of ancient civilizations and their enduring influence on today’s world. From the delicious cuisine in Flores to the peaceful boat ride on Lake Peten Itza and the breathtaking Mayan ruins, this adventure had crafted a sense of enchantment that went beyond the limits of time and imagination.
Trainer’s Tips:
1. How to get there:
There are three main ways to travel from Guatemala City to Flores: by plane, bus, or car. We flew to Flores and returned on an overnight bus.
For flights, Avianca Airlines is a reliable choice—though more expensive, it’s less prone to delays, making it ideal for early departures. Tag Airlines offers a more economical option, but its flights are often delayed, so if sticking to a set schedule is important, Avianca is worth the extra cost.
Our return trip was by overnight bus with Cristobal Colon, which offers two types of buses: Orange and Purple. The trip takes around 8-10 hours, and we opted for the Purple bus due to its reclining seats and gender-specific bathrooms, making it a comfortable choice for a restful overnight journey after our time in Petén.
Driving is also an option if you want flexibility for stops along the way. If you plan to cross the border into Belize, you’ll need a temporary importation permit, which you can obtain at the point of entry.
2. Where to stay:
We chose Casa Ramona on Flores Island for its strategic location, allowing us to easily explore the surroundings. With its laid-back and peaceful ambiance, it was an ideal spot for a retreat. The exceptionally friendly staff made our stay comfortable and memorable, and the option to book tours to attractions around Peten added convenience and enjoyment to our experience—we booked our Yaxha tour directly through them. If Casa Ramona is fully booked, other hotels on Flores Island are also well-located and likely offer daily tours to Tikal and Yaxha.
For our time in Tikal, we opted to stay within the heart of the jungle. Among the three hotels available, we chose Tikal Hotel Lodge for its unique location inside Tikal Park. Staying in the park saved us the need for a 1 am commute from Flores for the sunrise tour; instead, we could start our day at a more comfortable 4 am. The lodge allowed us to fully immerse ourselves in the wilderness, with the added benefit of a park ticket that grants up to four days of access—perfect for a thorough and unhurried exploration of Tikal’s ancient wonders.
3. Yaxha tour:
The Yaxha sunset tour from Casa Ramona costs Q.150 (USD $19) per person, not including the entrance fee, which is Q.80 (USD $10) for foreigners and Q.40 (USD $5) for locals. The shuttle stops along the way to purchase tickets and to grab any last-minute snacks. The tour begins at 1 pm, with a scenic one-hour drive to Yaxha. Once there, you’ll spend around four hours exploring the impressive ruins, concluding at the highest point for a stunning view of the sunset over the Yaxha Lagoon. Afterward, you’ll make your way back to the starting point.
To make the most of this experience, I recommend bringing sunscreen, insect repellent, a hat, a reusable water bottle, and some snacks.
4. Visiting Tikal
When visiting Tikal, you’ll need a park ticket. The entrance fee is Q25 (USD $3) for nationals and Q150 (USD $19) for internationals. You can purchase tickets online at https://boletos.culturaguate.com or at any Banrural bank. There’s a Banrural on the way to the park, but it closes at 5 pm and requires cash. If you’re buying online, it’s best to do so in Flores, as internet reception near the park is limited.
For those interested in special times to visit, we also purchased the sunrise tour ticket, allowing entry between 4:00 and 6:00 am. The sunrise tour starts at 4 am and costs Q20 (USD $2.50) for nationals and Q100 (USD $13) for internationals. A sunset ticket is also available for the same price, granting access from 6:00 to 8:00 pm. Both the sunrise and sunset tickets can only be purchased at Banrural or online.
5. Where to eat
We explored a variety of dining options for lunch and dinner, and two places stood out: Restaurante Tipico and Maracuya. Both offer a delicious selection of Guatemalan cuisine paired with refreshing drinks. Maracuya is especially popular, so if you’re planning to dine there, I recommend calling ahead to reserve a table.
6. Boat tour
There are many activities to enjoy in Peten, and one we loved was the boat ride across Lake Peten Itza. It is a relaxing experience with stops just 10 minutes from Flores. The gentle breeze, iguanas on nearby islands, and expansive views all add to the magic of the journey. Highlights include a visit to ARCAS, a wildlife rehabilitation center where scientists work to rescue and care for injured animals, and the charming village of San Miguel. In San Miguel, you’ll find the Stone Horse monument, a tribute to the Mayan Horse legend and its link to Hernan Cortez. For a stunning panorama, head up to Mirador del Rey Canek, the village’s highest point, where a 360-degree view of the lake awaits. From here, the colors of Flores Island and the neighboring towns of San Jose and San Andres create an unforgettable visual tapestry that lingers long after your visit.