Petén’s top tours center on its magnificent Mayan ruins, with practical options for every traveler. The sunrise tour at Tikal stands out as our favorite – you’ll catch the jungle awakening while ancient temples emerge from the morning mist. We especially love the Belize-based day trips for their efficiency and the spectacular helicopter tours to El Mirador for adventurous types. Each tour includes the essentials: knowledgeable guides, meals, entry fees, and transfers. While some climbing is required, these archaeological excursions deliver incredible value. Let’s explore the best tours in Petén.
Key Points
-
The Tikal Sunrise, Archeological Focus, and Wildlife Spotting Tour offers an early-morning small-group guided experience in exploring the iconic Tikal archaeological site.
-
The El Mirador Helicopter Tour provides a scenic helicopter ride to the remote archaeological site of El Mirador, with a guided hike through the site’s highlights.
-
The Tikal Day Tour From San Ignacio Belize, operated by U-Go Tours, includes air-conditioned transportation, lunch, and a knowledgeable guide to the Tikal UNESCO World Heritage site.
-
The Tikal VIP Exclusive Full Day Tour From Belize Border is a private tour with meet-and-greet pickup, private transport, and a guided tour of Tikal with lunch and drinks included.
-
The Private Tour of Tikal From Belize Western Border, operated by Maya Adventure Travel, offers an air-conditioned vehicle, lunch, and a knowledgeable guide who assists with immigration formalities.
Tikal Sunrise, Archeological Focus and Wildlife Spotting Tour (North and West)
Although Tikal is renowned for its impressive ancient ruins, the Tikal Sunrise, Archeological Focus and Wildlife Spotting Tour offers visitors a multifaceted experience. This early-morning, small-group guided tour from Flores promises to deliver an unforgettable journey.
Guests can climb a pyramid temple to witness the jungle come to life at sunrise, spot wildlife like coatimundi, howler monkeys, and tropical birds, and learn about Mayan history from knowledgeable guides.
The tour includes hotel pickup, transportation, a bilingual guide, a Tikal map, mosquito repellent, and water refills. Breakfast is served atop Temple IV, and lunch is provided at the Jaguar Inn Restaurant with gluten-free and vegan options.
With a maximum group size of 9 travelers, the tour ensures a personalized experience. Praised for their professionalism, friendliness, and depth of knowledge, the guides Marlon and Henry make this tour a must-do for anyone visiting the Peten region.
Read our full review: Tikal Sunrise, Archeological Focus and Wildlife Spotting Tour (North and West) Review
Book now: Check availability
El Mirador Helicopter Tour
The El Mirador Helicopter Tour offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the remote archaeological site of El Mirador from the air and on foot. This highly-rated tour, with 41 reviews and a 4.9 rating, takes travelers on a scenic helicopter ride from Flores to the ancient Mayan city believed to be built around 2,600 years ago.
During the flight, guests can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding jungle and ruins.
Once on the ground, a guided hike through the site allows travelers to experience the impressive ruins with minimal crowds. Highlights include climbing La Danta, one of the largest ancient pyramids in the world, and the chance to spot wildlife like spider monkeys.
The tour includes the helicopter ride, guide, park tickets, a box lunch, and beverages. Pickup is available from hotels in the Flores area, and the tour starts at 8:00 am with a maximum of 5 travelers per group.
Read our full review: El Mirador Helicopter Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Tikal Day Tour From San Ignacio Belize
Operated by U-Go Tours, the Tikal Day Tour from San Ignacio, Belize offers travelers a chance to explore the ancient Mayan ruins of Tikal.
With a 100% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence, this tour provides an air-conditioned vehicle, lunch, and a knowledgeable guide to lead the way. For $145.00 per person, visitors can enjoy a comfortable drive with an easy border crossing and have opportunities to see wildlife like spider monkeys, toucans, and coatimundi.
The tour includes the Tikal entrance fee and allows time for exploration, including the chance to climb Temple IV. Reviewers praise the guides’ expertise and friendliness, and suggest dressing lightly and bringing water and sunscreen.
With a maximum of 15 travelers and the option to reserve now and pay later, this tour is an excellent choice for those seeking to experience the rich history and natural wonders of Tikal.
Read our full review: Tikal Day Tour From San Ignacio Belize Review
Book now: Check availability
Tikal VIP Exclusive Full Day Tour From Belize Border
For those seeking a more exclusive and personalized experience at the ancient Mayan ruins of Tikal, the Tikal VIP Exclusive Full Day Tour from the Belize border is an excellent choice.
Recommended by 100% of travelers and boasting a 5.0 rating, this private tour eliminates the stress of organizing public transport or unreliable taxis.
The tour includes a meet-and-greet pickup at the Belize border, private transport to and from Tikal in an air-conditioned vehicle, and a guided tour of the UNESCO World Heritage site.
Lunch, drinks, and even alcoholic beverages are included, ensuring a comfortable and carefree experience.
With a flexible departure time and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour offers unparalleled convenience and value, starting at $199 per person.
Whether you’re interested in the rich history, stunning wildlife, or jungle-clad ruins, this VIP tour provides an immersive and exclusive way to explore the ancient wonder of Tikal.
Read our full review: Tikal VIP Exclusive Full Day Tour From Belize Border Review
Book now: Check availability
Private Tour of Tikal From Belize Western Border
Embarking on a private tour of Tikal from the Belize Western border, travelers can expect a comprehensive and immersive experience at this renowned UNESCO World Heritage site.
Operated by Maya Adventure Travel, the tour boasts a 96% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence, ensuring a high-quality experience. Priced from $209 per person, the tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle, mosquito repellent, and a delectable lunch with various dietary options.
Guests are met at the Immigration SAT Melchor De Mencos, Guatemala, where the guide assists with immigration formalities. The tour duration and pace are tailored to ensure a thorough understanding of the Mayan civilization and Tikal’s significance.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, shared transportation is provided for those with difficulty walking. With an overall rating of 4.9 out of 25 reviews, the tour is praised for the guide’s exceptional knowledge and the educational, friendly experience.
Read our full review: Private Tour of Tikal From Belize Western Border Review
Book now: Check availability
Tikal and Yaxha Exclusive Private Tour From Flores
This exclusive private tour from Flores takes travelers on a captivating journey to the ancient Mayan sites of Tikal and Yaxha.
Travelers will enjoy private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle accompanied by a specialized guide in archaeology. Lunch at a restaurant within Tikal National Park and snacks and dinner are included, ensuring a seamless experience.
The tour offers flexible pickup options, with hotel pickups available in Flores and El Remate, as well as airport pickup upon flight time notification. The activity ends at the meeting point, providing convenience for travelers.
The tour starts at 7:00 am and requires a minimum of 2 travelers. Travelers can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, infant seats are available. A moderate physical fitness level is required, and the tour is subject to weather conditions, with alternate dates or refunds offered if canceled due to bad weather.
Positive reviews highlight the guide’s extensive knowledge of Mayan culture and wildlife, making this tour highly recommended.
Read our full review: Tikal and Yaxha Exclusive Private Tour From Flores Review
Book now: Check availability
Tikal Private Tour All Inclusive From Flores
Discover the ancient wonders of Tikal on this private tour from Flores, Petén, Guatemala. This full-day guided adventure includes exploring Tikal National Park, climbing ancient temples, and learning about the Mayan civilization’s history and mysteries.
The tour includes private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, a specialized archaeological guide, lunch, bottled water, and snacks, as well as the archaeological entrance fee and WiFi on board.
Pickup is available from 6 AM to 7 AM, Monday to Sunday, with the option to select your preferred pickup point or request a pickup. The tour is wheelchair accessible and suitable for most travelers, though good weather is necessary.
Cancellations due to weather allow rescheduling or full refunds, and a minimum of 2 travelers is required for the tour to proceed.
Priced at $190 per person, this private tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience, allowing for flexibility in your planning.
With a 5.0 rating based on 2 reviews, this tour promises a satisfying exploration of Tikal’s ancient wonders.
Read our full review: Tikal Private Tour All Inclusive From Flores Review
Book now: Check availability
Helicopter Tour El Mirador La Danta From Flores
Visitors can soar above the dense Petén jungle on a thrilling helicopter tour that unveils the ancient wonders of El Mirador and La Danta from Flores. The tour departs at 8:00 am and accommodates up to 6 travelers, with transport from hotels in Flores Island, Santa Elena, Tikal, and El Remate available upon request.
The journey includes a boxed lunch, bottled water, and a knowledgeable Spanish/English guide.
Participants will explore one of the oldest Mayan cities in the region, marveling at the largest pyramid in the Mayan world. They’ll discover ancient pathways, walls, and the impressive size of the La Danta and El Tigre structures.
This tour requires a moderate level of physical fitness and isn’t recommended for those with back problems or serious medical conditions.
With a perfect 5.0/5 rating based on 5 reviews, this helicopter tour offers an unforgettable opportunity to experience the grandeur of Petén’s ancient Mayan heritage from the air.
However, please note that the tour is non-refundable, and no cancellations are allowed.
Read our full review: Helicopter Tour El Mirador La Danta From Flores Review
Book now: Check availability
Helicopter Tour to El Mirador and Its Monumental Pyramids
Soaring above the lush Petén jungle, travelers embark on a thrilling helicopter tour that unveils the ancient grandeur of El Mirador and its monumental pyramids. Rated 5.0 out of 5 stars, this immersive experience showcases the UNESCO-recognized archaeological site from a unique aerial perspective.
The tour includes round-trip transportation from the meeting point at Hotel Maya Internacional, as well as a helicopter ride and a box lunch with vegetarian and vegan options.
Adventurers should note the weight limit of 221 lbs per passenger and the requirement of moderate physical fitness, as the site isn’t wheelchair accessible.
Priced from $667 per person, this excursion offers free cancellation up to 24 hours prior to the start time. Confirmation is subject to availability, especially for last-minute bookings.
With its unparalleled views and comprehensive inclusions, the Helicopter Tour to El Mirador is a must-do for those seeking to explore the rich cultural heritage of Petén, Guatemala.
Read our full review: Helicopter Tour to El Mirador and Its Monumental Pyramids Review
Book now: Check availability
Recap
The Peten region of Guatemala offers a variety of tours that allow visitors to explore ancient Mayan ruins, spot wildlife, and experience the region’s natural beauty. From guided tours of Tikal to helicopter excursions to El Mirador, there are options to suit different interests and budgets. Visitors can choose from group tours or private experiences, ensuring they have a memorable and personalized adventure in this stunning Guatemalan destination.