Tikal Tour From Flores: A Detailed Review

If you are thinking about going on a Tikal tour from Flores, Guatemala, well, you have come to the right place. So, actually, getting to see the Mayan ruins of Tikal, those ancient cities that seem to pop up out of the jungle, is something special. So, really, what’s it like, though, if you actually go there with a tour that starts in Flores? Basically, I went, I saw, and, certainly, I learned plenty. So, now, I’m here to give you the inside scoop. Seriously, expect lots of history, some walking (comfortable footwear is a must, seriously), and tons of moments when you will think, wow, how did they do that?

Why Take a Tikal Tour from Flores?

So, why Flores? Okay, Flores is a pretty little town, sitting right on an island in Lake Petén Itzá. That makes it super charming. So, very charming. But much more than that, it acts like a handy starting point for trips heading straight toward Tikal. Because the airport’s close by, and tour companies know this is where people begin their adventure, it’s the place to book anything to do with visiting the famous Mayan site. It’s all nice and simple that way. Very simple!

The cool part about hooking up with a tour is, it looks after transport; often, that means from the minute you get off the plane, which can be just great if you aren’t sure what you are doing. Besides the transportation, a tour is going to mean you get a guide who knows what they’re talking about to explain everything from hieroglyphs to how society was way back when. Plus, when you let someone else worry about times and tickets, you get to enjoy seeing all those enormous pyramids without any problems. Just, well, maybe some hot weather – remember that!

Choosing Your Tour: Morning, Sunset, or Sunrise?

Okay, you will soon see there’s more than one option once you start looking at tours. There’s going early to catch the sun rise, hanging around for sunset views, or a straightforward daytime visit. Sunrise sounds wonderful; seeing the jungle wake up from the top of a Mayan temple is, truly, an image. In fact, you will want to be prepared for an early start: it can mean leaving Flores at like, 4 am! Still, folks say hearing those jungle sounds while it’s still night is unforgettable. Seriously unforgettable.

Then there’s sunset. Okay, choosing sunset has something nice too, since things generally become less busy towards the end of the afternoon; in addition, the light softens, which makes those photos even better. Very much better. The only problem is that it may get difficult getting back to Flores afterward; also, sometimes the park closes down certain areas as it gets dark, so just remember this if you want to explore everything.

Don’t worry. Going during the day? Nothing wrong at all! With a regular tour, you will usually set off around 8 am, which is far more civilized. Basically, you have a good few hours to explore. Usually, the temperature isn’t that hot just then, but do remember it could still get quite warm.

What You’ll See: Tikal’s Highlights

So, Temple I, also called the Temple of the Great Jaguar, is a real sight to see. It looks great rising straight up, so you will think about how on earth it was built ages ago, with no tech at all. Very impressive. Getting to the top can take some work. You might be able to do so. Is that you can climb on some of the other temples. The view from up there, where you can see all of the tops of the other buildings sticking out over trees, is just, basically, wow.

Then you have Temple II, or the Temple of the Masks, which sits facing Temple I. Really nice for photos. Because it makes such a nice background. The Central Acropolis. Is that really a group of fancy houses where the well-off used to live? So, you can see how people had their everyday living there back then. Oh, and don’t forget Mundo Perdido – “the Lost World.” So, there is this big pyramid there, so they say that watching the sunset from up there is hard to beat if they permit it.

The Guide Makes All the Difference

Having a nice guide just changes everything. I think I learned more about Mayan history. Seriously. They will tell you what scientists think those carved stones represent and fill you in on every ruler. So, they will point out the little details that really tell the whole story. Like how they figure out the pyramids also worked as gigantic solar calendars. Tours really work best if that person is great. Seriously, they can make or break what you think of the whole visit.

But there’s a lot more. Because a guide can give you info on jungle wildlife, also; if you are fortunate, they might spot monkeys and toucans, and then actually, if you are incredibly fortunate, even a jaguar. A top guide can make you feel like going back in time as you step along the trails. That way, instead of just seeing rocks, you are transported back in time. If you have a chance, ask about how people used to live, about all their rituals. So, listen hard: a guide is your key to knowing what went on in that ancient place.

What to Bring on Your Tikal Tour

So, before you head out, basically pack smartly, since Tikal can be intense regarding weather, bugs, and the walking surfaces you have to negotiate. It’s sensible to put on some cool clothes and bring extra stuff because it might get super sweaty. It may be extremely humid. Very humid. Sturdy shoes are really crucial for all the walking you will do (and sometimes climbing on old rocks). So, a hat is important, to keep sun off; besides, don’t forget that must-have item – bug spray – to beat off the relentless insects.

Think too it might be sensible to bring your own water and snacks, even supposing there is usually somewhere at the site where you are able to buy items. Just by having it along already, there’s never a time you’ll get extremely thirsty or hungry while trekking around. Basically, should you have cameras or phones with you, make certain they have cases. Also, take a power bank; you would hate it for something flat just as a monkey makes an appearance!

Is a Tikal Tour from Flores Worth It?

Okay, wrapping things up, is doing that tour worth your time, basically? Mostly, I’d say absolutely. So, when you get the chance to stroll around this ancient city and let the stories seep in – plus somebody tells you what’s what the whole way round – it gets seriously impressive. By using a tour, mainly from a place nearby such as Flores, means less bother about the logistics too, since you’re then actually able to make the most of all that’s available instead. That way, for those wondering if it is really worth making that journey: trust me when I suggest you should begin arranging things immediately!

And it gives you so much, really. You get that magic moment as day breaks over temples; learning Mayan history on site where everything took place seems way better than just hearing it talked about back at school or seeing videos on TV. It can take a while walking around Tikal in Guatemala. However, most agree being face-to-face is absolutely something they’ll remember, regardless.